The 19th Senatorial District represents Constituents in Canarsie, Cypress Hills, East New York, Brownsville, Lindenwood, Ocean Hill, Starrett City and portions of Howard Beach.

Link to Senate hearings: www.nysenate.gov

Link to the New York State Office for the Prevention of domestic violence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJWVoTGnc0U

Link to the women of the New York State Senate:                                                    https://assembly.state.ny.us/dl/user/ratv/2023/WHM2023.mp4  

To see legislative work and sign up for weekly newsletter go to: 

https://www.nysenate.gov/senators/roxanne-j-persaud

Quote of the Week

More than cleverness, we need kindness and gentleness. 

~Charlie Chaplin

Albany Review

Thanks to the Turkish Cultural Center President Sadri Altonik and Albany Community Center President Taha Bilal Uyar for hosting Senator Persaud and other officials for Iftar.

Ramadan Mubarak.

Senator Persaud attended the Legislative Commission on Rural Resources' Annual Rural Resources Fair and met with Cornell Small Farms, farmers, conservationists and advocates from all over our state. Information was exchanged and even a goat was present that day.

Senator Persaud working in Albany.

SUNY Chancellor Dr. John B. King, Jr. and New York State Office of General Services (OGS) Commissioner Jeanette Moy hosted a Women’s History Month Reception.  Senator Persaud and her colleagues joined Governor Kathy Hochul and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins at the event that celebrated women who broke barriers, blazed trails, and fought hard for progress in New York and nationwide. 

Recent Bills:

Doula Access in the OR S5991 Establishes the right of a pregnant person to have access to their designated doula in the operating room during a cesarean section. It requires all maternal health facilities to post this information electronically and their facilities, in English and the six most common languages spoken in the region. Doula support is linked to positive birth outcomes for both a birthing person and their child, yet lack of awareness and access to this resource contributes to its underuse.

Doula Access in Maternal Facilities S5992 Establishes the right of a pregnant person and their child to have full access to their designated doula throughout a maternal health facility. It also requires maternal health facilities to provide a directory of practicing doulas on their website. The listings must be available in English and the six most common languages spoken in the region. Doulas experience challenges providing care in hospital settings, which can be mitigated by increasing awareness for both hospital staff and patients.

March Resolutions

Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim March 29, 2023, as Vietnam Veterans Day in the State of New York. It is custom of this Legislative Body that those who give
positive definition to the profile and disposition of the American Armed
Forces so profoundly strengthen our shared commitment in conjunction to
the exercise of freedom.

Members of the Armed Forces from the State of New York, who have so honorably served this State and Nation deserve a special salute from this Legislative Body.  In recognition of the men and women who served with dignity and honor during this historic time period, let us remember them and thank them for their service.

Through more than a decade of combat, over air, land, and sea, these proud Americans upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces. The importance of this is to never forget those who serve which is why resolution J466 was adopted.

SAFE Disposal Registration Link: https://forms.gle/UABAVdHK2oCobqjG8

Please RSVP: https://rb/gy/9eprxi

Consumer Assistance Webpage

The Department’s winter preparedness has valuable resources for consumers such as controlling heating costs, consumer protections, energy efficiency and winter safety, as well as links to state and utility financial assistance programs.

www.dps.ny.gov/winter

For more info: https://www.nyc.gov/assets/dsny/site/services/collection-setout-times

            Traffic Advisory NYC

From: Notify NYC

Planned Work Reminder: All NJ-bound lanes of the Holland Tunnel will be closed Sun-Thur nights from 11PM-5:30AM & Fri nights from 11:59PM-9AM through 2025. Use alternate routes.

To find routes go to: https://www.panynj.gov/bridges-tunnels/en/holland-tunnel/ht-sandy-repairs-and-resiliency-improvements.html?fbclid=IwAR1SIFmnchUHyGa96b_G-fTK-m36MP0KAkCLGVWZfA-ESJC0A9Pr-5I3GuE

       New York State Comptroller                            Unclaimed Funds

$17.5 BILLION in Unclaimed Funds
Everyday New York State returns $1.5 million to those who file claims here. Is any yours?
For more info go here: New York State Comptroller

Met Council - SENIOREPAIR      Services

Met Council’s project, SenioRepair, ensures New Yorkers 60 years and older, stay safe at home. Through the program, seniors can request support in installing and repairing bathtub grab bars, light bulbs, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, window locks and screens, and so much more. For more information or to determine eligibility, please call 929-292-9261 or email cmacal@metcouncil.org.

                 FTC Trade Alert 

The FTC provides alerts to consumers regarding various topics. I urge you to review the website for information that can prevent you from being a victim of scammers.

For more information: https://www.ftc.gov/

                         IRS Scams

It's Tax filing season-

The IRS won't text cell phones about refunds!

This is a scam. To report a scam to the FTC go to ReportFraud.ftc.gov

            Nursing Home Advisory

Is your loved one in a Nursing Home?
If your loved one is in a nursing home and you believe they could be at risk, please call the @NewYorkStateAG
Hotline: 1-800-771-7755

New York State Attorney General Letitia James

                     Food Resources

1.  If you or someone you know qualifies, you may apply for SNAP (food stamps), Cash Assistance, and Medicaid renewal all at the same time here.
2. To find the nearest food pantries and community kitchens, call the Emergency Food Hotline at 866-888-8777.
3. WIC2Go is a mobile app for New York State WIC recipients. For more information on WIC support, please visit their site or call 844-540-3031.
4. For seniors aged 60+ NYC Department for the Aging (DFTA)  provides home delivered meals. You can access them online or call 311 for support, you also can call 212-244-6469 to see if you qualify direct delivery.

• If you are not currently receiving any food benefit (such as Meals on Wheels or SNAP), are unable to get to a grocery store, and do not have anyone to help you, you may qualify for NYC Food Delivery Assistance.
• CityHarvest offers free food every other week across NYC, you can find a location near you here.

Sisters with Purpose Inc is Holding an Open Food Pantry                                March 18 & 25 9:00 a.m-10:00 a.m. at the                                                        Brooklyn Sports Club                                                                                              1540 Van Siclen Avenue                                                                                    Brooklyn, NY, 11239                                                                                            visit: www.sisterswithpurpose.net for more information

Lear more and Register online at: JBRPC.ORG/FBF

Traffic Control Study New York City Department of Transportation

The Department recently completed its study regarding the need for additional traffic controls at the intersection of New Lots and Alabama Avenues. We are pleased to inform you that a traffic signal has been approved at this location. Installation will be performed by contract and the work is tentatively scheduled to be completed by May 31, 2023.

Source: Ketih Bray Brooklyn Borough Commissioner                                                             NYC Department of Transportation

The Citi Bike Community Grant application for 2023 is now open! The overarching goal of the program is to extend Lyft’s investment in communities by increasing access to bike share in low-income neighborhoods and underrepresented communities where Citi Bike currently exists and future expansion areas. Community Grants support programs, events, and activities organized by non-profit & community-based organizations that align with Citi Bike’s equity goals.

Register Here

   Temporary Government Assistance

·     Lifeline (phone service)- Lifeline is a federal program that lowers the monthly cost of phone or internet service. Click here to learn more.

·     Housing Choice Voucher Program- The housing choice voucher program provides assistance to very low-income families to afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing. Click here to learn more.

·     Access Pass- The Access Pass permits residents of New York State with disabilities, as defined in the application, free or discounted use of state parks, historic sites, and recreational facilities operated by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Click here to learn more.

·     Amazon Prime Membership Discount- Qualifying EBT and government assistance recipients can save 50% on Prime membership. Click here to learn more.

Call 988 to reach Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

There is hope. Providing 24/7, free and confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. The Lifeline helps thousands of people overcome crisis situations every day.

More information about 988 is available from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services at: www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988

COVID-19 Emotional Support Hotline

NY Project Hope has launched New York’s COVID-19 Emotional Support Helpline.

They can be reached at 1-844-863-9314.

For more information, visit their site here. 

Around SD-19

We're on the Move

On Tuesday March 28, Staffer Jennifer represented Senator Persaud at the NYPD 69th Precinct Council meeting. She encouraged everyone to continue to utilize and share the resources offered to them.  Constituents asked questions to the presenters and raised their concerns. 

On Tuesday March 28, Our Lady of Trust Catholic Academy held a Career Day event. It was wonderful, thought-provoking, and informative. The students were eager to learn and participated fully during the presentations. Staffer Jennifer represented Senator Persaud and had a very lively discussion with the students of grades 4 to 8. 

On Tuesday March 28, in celebration of Women’s History Month Senator Persaud partnered with Digital Girl, Inc. to provide a special coding workshop for the children of SD-19. Chief of Staff Tanequa and Kamla represented Senator Persaud at this event. It is important that everyone continue to cultivate the next generation of STEM leaders. 

On Monday March 27, Staffer Sandy and Kamla represented Senator Persaud at the Rethink Food Networking Event. They celebrated 10 million meals served. Rethink is a nonprofit, dedicated to alleviating food insecurity. They partner with restaurants to deliver nutritious, culturally celebrated meals at no cost to communities. Rethink exists to bridge the gap between excess food and the communities who need it. 

On Saturday March 25, Senator Persaud attended a breakfast hosted by the Canarsie Lions Club and enjoyed performances by the choirs of PS 276, Penn Wortman Senior Center and the Betty Blue Jazz band. Canarsie Lions Club is celebrating 66 years of service. Senator Persaud was presented a certificate for her years of service as a Lion. Congratulations to all club members who received certificates from elected officials. Lions Serve! 

On Saturday March 25, Senator Persaud had the opportunity to be a part of CAMBA Youth Resource Fair under the leadership of CAMBA President Joanne M. Oplustil in partnership with colleague Congressman Hakeem Jeffries. Thank you to the organizations who provided resources to our youth: DYCD, JobCorp, IRS, NYPD, Police Cadet Corp, Brooklyn Public Library, Youth Design Center, Elite Learners Inc, and many more.

On Saturday March 25, Victory Collegiate High School Women's empowerment Summit 2023. The theme was “Women Breaking Barriers.” Senator Persaud attended the Summit where she was delighted to speak to future leaders, encouraging them to support each other.

On Friday March 24, Senator Persaud had a great time speaking to everyone at the New York City Department of Education Community Education Council 18 Women’s History Month Celebrations. The event was a memorable one: Great presentations, sumptuous food and a wonderful atmosphere overall. Staffer Jennifer was also present and distributed resource information. Congratulations to the CEC 18 1st Vice President Veronica Campbell on her well-deserved recognition from the American Debate League.

Thank you to New Yorkers who continue to utilize our e-waste collection. On Friday March 24, Staffers Christine and Joe were on hand at our district office to collect the many TVs, computers and other electronics. Please see the schedule for upcoming collection dates.

Visit Senator Persaud's Facebook page to see more photos from SD19 events. 

First Tech Program 

Virtual Fellowship Program for High School Students

First Tech Fund is recruiting low-income high school students for their virtual fellowship program. Fellows will participate in weekly virtual workshops on careers and foundational digital skills, are eligible to receive free laptop and/or Wi-Fi hotspot and can opt into mentorship with a young professional. Learn more and apply here (Spanish translation available here) by 4/1. 

The Best Summer Jobs are at New York State Parks. 

There are variety of different jobs that parks employees perform during the summer season, including:

Campground assistance
Facility and Trail Maintenance
Historic Site Interpretation
Environmental Education
Golf Course and Pro Shop assistance 
Office work
Patron assistance...and more!

To learn more apply here: https://parks.ny.gov/employment/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

The Fresh Air fund is hiring for Summer Employment opportunities.
For more information go to: FreshAir.org/Camp
call (800)-367-0003 or
email: apply@freshair.org
Applicants must be 18 and over and be up to date on Covid 19 vaccinations.
Apply ASAP as hiring is on a rolling basis.

Summer Worksite Program

Hire youth ages 16-24                                                                                        Foster coaching and mentorship skills in current employees                                Six-week jobs/internships

Deadline May 26, 2023

To apply go to: https://worksitepreapp.nycsyep.com/

 Summer Health Internship Program (SHIP)

Every summer, BQLI-AHEC coordinates the Summer Health Internship Program for junior and senior high school students that are interested in learning more about health careers. SHIP will take place from July 5- August 10, 2023. Students will be placed in internships in a healthcare setting, where they will report to Monday-Wednesday and will have guest speakers/field trips on Thursdays. These sites include Brooklyn Hospital Center, Maimonides Medical Center and Windsor Park Nursing Home. Students also receive a stipend for participating. The updated application due date is April 1, 2023. 

- Here is the application link for SHIP: https://www.bqliahec.org/ship2023/

NYC Parks Lifeguard

For Info on 2024 dates register here:

https://www.nycgovparks.org/opportunities/jobs/lifeguards/information-request

To Rsvp go to: https://2023CanarsieJobFair.eventbrite.com

For more infomation call:                                                                                        69th Precinct Community Council 718-257-6205                                    Congressman Hakeem Jeffries 718-373-0033

New York State Legislative Fellowship

For More info go here: https://www.nysenate.gov/newsroom/articles/2021/new-york-senate-graduate-fellowships

        The Campaign Against Hunger

For more information on this position go to: https://www.nyc.gov/site/nypd/careers/civilians/school-crossing-guard.page

2023 Civil Service Exam

For more info about exams go to: https://www.cs.ny.gov/

Young people aged 14-24 can now apply to DYCD’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP).

SYEP is the nation’s largest youth employment program, connecting NYC youth with career exploration opportunities and paid work experience each summer. Participants have the opportunity to explore their interests and career pathways, develop workplace skills, and engage in learning experiences that help develop their social, civic, and leadership skills.

To apply, visit nyc.gov/syep. Employers can also apply to hire NYC youth through SYEP.

Free tax help: The Food Bank for New York City in partnership with the Brooklyn Public Library will aid in filing taxes.
To make an appointment online go to: https://go.oncehub.com/Brooklynlibraries
or call 646-981-6111

Click the button under each graphic for more information.

The New York State Liberty Medal is the highest civilian honor that can be bestowed by a Member of the New York State Senate upon a resident of New York State. Liberty Medals are adopted by resolution and remain on file in the Secretary of the Senate’s office.  For more information, click here.

The NYS Senate Commendation Award recognizes exceptional people who
have made a lasting contribution to their community.  For more information, click here.

The NYS Senate Empire Award recognizes excellence in business in Senate District 19. For more information, click here.

Senator Persaud would like to hear from you! Press the button to leave any and all inquiries/suggestions you may have. 

For more information, click the logos below for Senator Persaud's official website, Facebook or Twitter.