For details on rain barrels, Rain Barrel Giveaway Program - DEP (nyc.gov)

Quote of the Week

“There is no higher religion than human service. To work for the common good is the greatest creed.”

—Woodrow Wilson

September Resolutions

Did you know that September 2022, is Blood Cancer Awareness Month in the State of New York?

During September, National Blood Cancer Awareness Month sheds light on the cancers that affect the blood and lymphatic systems. By raising awareness, the goal is to inform the public about the causes of blood cancers, how to identify the
symptoms, available treatments, and progress made through research

Senator Persaud sponsored Senate Reso. J1386 because awareness and education are powerful tools in the race to find a cure for blood cancers.

Food Resources

-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.

-To find the nearest food pantries and community kitchens, call the Emergency Food Hotline at 866-888-8777.

-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.

-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

OPEN FOOD PANTRY

Sisters with purpose is hosting an outside grab and go food pantry Saturdays from 9am-10am at Brooklyn Sports Club 1540 Van Siclen Ave Brookylyn, NY 11239.

See below for all upcoming dates:

October: 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

For more information see here or call 646-460-4101.

Office of Child Support Services: Pay It Off Program, Oct 17th- Oct 31st

Pay It Off. From October 17th to 31st, noncustodial parents can pay off their NYC DSS child support arrears twice as fast! OCSS will double the debt reduction when a payment of at least $500 is made toward their DSS arrears during October (up to the amount they owe).

For those with a current support order, the court ordered child support amount must be paid first. Then the Pay It Off payment can reduce the debt by double. In addition, parents may be eligible for additional reductions up to $15,000 over three years. Pay off your principle in full and all of the interest you owe to the DSS will also be eliminated
 
The Pay It Off program has been used by over 3,000 noncustodial parents to reduce $16 million of debt owed to the NYC Department of Social Services (DSS). The average debt reduction per case is $5,558.

Don’t miss this opportunity to lower or eliminate your DSS child support debt!

Learn more at http://nyc.gov/payitoff. Watch a short video here. 

Upcoming Alternate L Line Service
 

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority continues to perform station improvement and track maintenance work along the L line in Brooklyn.

 From 11:30 p.m. Friday until 5:00 a.m. Monday, weekends of October 7-10, 2022:

Fare-free shuttle buses will replace regular L train service between Lorimer Street and Broadway Junction.

 Notifications will be available at www.new.mta.info and in all affected L stations in Brooklyn, including directional signage to the shuttle buses. MTA personnel will be available to direct customers to the shuttle buses.

The deadline to get a REAL ID is May 3, 2023 – after that, a standard license will no longer be accepted to board a plane or enter federal facilities.

With same-day and next-day appointments available at most DMV offices across the state, now is the best time to upgrade and avoid the last-minute rush.

For more information, see here.

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. 

Ever wanted to dispose of something, but wasn't sure about the proper way to do so?

Find and FOLLOW proper disposal info at on.nyc.gov/howtogetridof

Curious about what kinds of scams are in your neck of the woods?

Check it out by state / metro area.

For more information, see here.

As always, report the scam to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Tuesday 9.20, Staffer Christine attended the New Lots Library Community Engagement Renovation Meeting.

The meeting was an open forum style for members of the East NY, community organizations, and elected officials to meet with the design team and vote by way of interactive collage activities, on the look and feel of the project.

The consensus was to find the best way to honor the ancestors and provide information about the history of the African Burial Ground.

After this meeting the votes will implemented in the design process of the space programming project, which is slated to begin in 2023.

Wednesday, 9.21, Senator Persaud joined the Scollo family, elected officials, and the general community in Bergen Beach for the street co-naming in honor of the late Frank Scollo, owner Pizza D'Amore.

There was a great show of support from the many people in attendance of the moving ceremony and every speaker gave fond memories of the genuine person Frank Scollo was.

He indeed lived life his way and gave so much to the community and was very loved for it.

Thanks to the team at @millennieum Development for the great job preparing the street for the event.

Wednesday, 9.21, Staffer Jennifer represented Senator Persaud at the Boulevard Together Management Town Hall-Resident Meeting which addressed key issues including relocation, construction schedules and the availability of the Social Services Team.

Thursday, 9.22, Senator Persaud and staffer Christine attended the Jewish Community of Starrett City's Rosh Hashana celebration. There were lots of food, music, and dancing to bring in the blessings of the new year.

Senator spoke to the attendees wishing them a sweet and prosperous entrance into the New Year.

Thank you to Ms. Nina Gadilova and everyone at Lakeside Adult Day Health Care Center for hosting the event. 

Friday, 9.23, Senator Persaud and staffer Jennifer attended  Met Council’s High Holiday Food Distribution. Senator joined the dynamic team of volunteers which included elected officials and US Army soldiers.

They spent the morning serving holiday staples including honey, chicken, grape juice, rice, beans, fruit and vegetables. Met Council’s Kosher Food Network of 101 pantries is the largest kosher food network in the country and serves all New Yorkers.

Congratulations to Avi Spitzer Director of Special Projects and the entire team on another successful holiday distribution.

Saturday, 9.24, Senator Persaud and staffer Sandy attended the US Cricket Promoters Association and NYC Parks 10th annual Roy Sweeney Memorial Celebrity Cricket match and celebration.

Members of the Sweeney family, Cricket Hall Of Famers, elected officials and community members were in attendance.

Thanks to Brooklyn Parks Commissioner, Marty Maher and his team for all that they did to ensure a successful event and their continued support of the sport.

Saturday, 9.24, Staffer Jennifer brought greetings on behalf of Senator Persaud at the NYCHA DCOP Installation/Celebration for Brooklyn South.

Congratulations to Ms. Barbara Mc Fadden and her entire team on this very important milestone.

Sunday, 9.25,  Senator Persaud presented the SD19 NY State Senate Woman of Distinction award to Dr. Cheryl Barker, Ph.D.

Dr. Barker is the Pastor of Consuming Fire Ministries and former Principal of Thaddeus Stevens P.S. 81 in Brooklyn. She was selected for her dedication to education and her contributions to the Canarsie community.

Senator presented Dr. Barker with her award at her church's 14th-anniversary celebration. To read Dr. Barker's bio, please see here.

Sunday, 9.25,  Senator Persaud presented a certificate of congratulations to Khareen Tomlin on the grand opening of Nuvel Esthetiques Day Spa in Canarsie.

Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce staff were in attendance and presented a framed picture to be displayed. This business is one of the many small businesses being supported by the Chamber. Best wishes for continued success.

Monday, 9.26, Senator Persaud and staffer Jennifer attended a meeting with Resorts World New York City Team. This was an opportunity to tour the recently opened Hyatt Regency Hotel and discuss how the corporation supports the community.

Senator thanks the Vice President of Community Development, Michelle Stoddart, and her team for the opportunity and guided tour.

Tuesday, 9.27, Senator Persaud and staffer Jennifer attended the 69th Precinct Community Council meeting.

Senator joined Chief Michael Kemper, Commanding Officer of Patrol Borough Brooklyn South, colleagues/representatives and other civic leaders to give important updates regarding past and upcoming initiatives.

Congratulations to the police officers who received Cop of the Month awards.

Wednesday, 9.28, Senator Persaud and staffer Jennifer visited the Community Healthcare Network - East New York Health Hub Food Pantry located at 2581 Atlantic Avenue.

Senator was able to tour the site and learn more about the needs of the community and clients. Thank you, Erin Verrier - Manager of Policy & External Affairs, David Chen Food - Pantry Director, Melissa Olson - Director of Nutrition and Wellness, and Darryl M. Johnson- Director for the CHN Health Hub for providing the necessary updates on the first-year operations.

For more information about Community Healthcare Network, see here.

Wednesday, 9.28,  Senator Persaud attended the NYPD 63rd Precinct Community Council meeting. Congratulations to the officers who received Cop of the Month awards.

Wednesday, 9.28, Staffers Jennifer and Sandy represented Senator Persaud and presented a New York State Proclamation to Deputy Inspector Gaby Celiba. Inspector Gaby is the highest ranking Haitian officer in the NYPD.

They joined Chief Kemper - Commanding Officer of Patrol Borough Brooklyn South, members of the clergy, elected officials, and other well-wishers to congratulate Deputy inspector Gaby on his well-deserved success.

Thursday, 9.29, Senator Persaud and staffer Jennifer attend the Founders Day and Inauguration of Dr. Patricia Ramsay, as the Sixth President of Medgar Evers College, CUNY.

In addition to being the Sixth President, Dr. Ramsay is the first woman and scientist to hold this position.

Senator was joined by her colleagues including NYC Mayor Eric Adams and Deputy Borough President Diana Richardson as well as the Delegates in Higher Education, Medgar Evers College staff, students and well-wishers to congratulate Dr. Ramsay on this astounding occasion. A choir of more than 100 members traveled from Maryland to perform at the ceremony.

Thursday, 9.29, Senator Persaud and staffer Sandy attended NYC Department of Education Ps 312 Bergen Beach Welcome Back Family Engagement. There were many activities for students to enjoy including a dunking pool, food, music and raffles.

Many students tried unsuccessfully to dunk Principal Jamie Yoo and NYPD officers were also in attendance guiding children up the rock wall.

Congratulations to the Parent Association for a successful event and thank you to the teachers who were in attendance.

Friday, 9.30, Staffer Christine and Heather represented me and sent greetings on my behalf at the Penn Wortman Older Adult Center PW Voices 23rd Anniversary Celebration.

The event was lovely as attendees listened to the beautiful sounds of the choir while enjoying lunch and desserts.

Thank you to Ms. King for the invitation, it was lovely to see the older adults come together in praise.

Friday, 9.30, Senator Persaud was pleased to join her colleagues and staff at the NYC Department of Education High School Superintendents legislative breakfast and information session.

During the event; hosted at Amarachi Restaurant, many concerns were discussed such as the highlights and needs of schools.

Thank you to Brooklyn North Superintendent Janice Ross and her team.

Friday, 9.30, Senator Persaud and staffer Sandy joined staffer Michael at JASA Starrett City - National Senior Center Month Luncheon where the Senator spoke on issues with the seniors and answered their questions.

Saturday, 10.1, Senator Persaud attended the naming and dedication ceremony of the Breukelen baseball fields in honor of Coach Jose Rosado.

Coach Rosado founded the Latin Souls Baseball program in East New York.
Family, friends, former players, current and former residents of the community came from as far away as Puerto Rico and Georgia to attend this special ceremony coordinated by NYC Parks Brooklyn Borough Commissioner Martin Maher and his team.

Coach Rosado enjoyed having the youth play baseball and he guided them to become mature, responsible leaders. After the ceremony at the fields, there was a street co-naming ceremony also in his honor.

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

Do you have federal student loans? Have you worked in public service (for a government agency, the military, or a non-profit organization)?

If so, find out whether you’re eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Limited Waiver, which expires on October 31, 2022.

Thousands of federal student loan borrowers have used the waiver to get closer to total loan forgiveness.

For more information, see here.

Tenants of NYC:

Did you know that you can get free 1-on-1 help and guidance on housing-related issues, which may include referral to free legal services?

Call 311 and ask for the Tenant Helpline to get connected to a PEU Specialist!

SIGN UP YOUR CHILD FOR  FOR SHSAT TUTORING!

The Aim Project is an organization committed to tackling education inequality among prospective high school students in New York City public schools. It's goal is to increase diversity in Specialized High Schools and ensure that students have an equal opportunity to SHSAT tutoring resources.

The SHSAT gives students a chance to be admitted to some of the top high schools in New York City and the United States. Specialized High Schools give students wonderful academic opportunities and resources.

VISIT THE SITE:

https://sites.google.com/view/theaimproject/home

SIGN UP ONLINE:

Sign up link here.

CONTACT:

manhattanaimproject@gmail.com

For more information see here.

Are you interested in obtaining a Commercial Driver's License (CDL)?

A message from Mark J.F. Schroeder, Commissioner - NYS Department of Motor Vehicles:

With students headed back to school across New York, there is an increased need for qualified school bus drivers to get children to and from school safely.

In an effort to help potential school bus drivers successfully obtain their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), DMV has prepared the attached flyer that includes several online resources for CDL applicants.

Here is a link that may be helpful if you are interested in a CDL

DMV has also reached out to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for additional resources to help applicants better prepare for CDL knowledge tests.

DFTA Bill Payer Program

Do you need help organizing your bills and making sure they are paid on time?

The Bill Payer Program helps adults, 60 years or older, manage their household bills. DFTA has partnered with SilverBills, a financial-technology company, to provide services.

A Bill Payer representative will make a one-time visit to the home to help with budgeting and enrollment. After that, the program will continue to review and process the payment of bills each month and inform the participant of any discrepancies or potential fraud.

For more information, see here.

To register and learn more, please see here.

For more information, please see here.

DFTA Launches Silver Stars Program

In the Department for the Aging's continued efforts to fight ageism and give older adults the opportunity to continue contributing to the workforce, we launched a new program called Silver Stars.

Designed for retired civil servants who want to continue working, this program is an opportunity for them to be hired by a City agency where they can earn up to $35,000 working part-time, while continuing to receive benefits from the City's pension system.

To learn more about this opportunity, you can visit the Older Adult Employment page on our website, email SilverStars@aging.nyc.gov, or call Aging Connect at 212-Aging-NYC (212-244-6469).

CIVIL SERVICE EXAMS

Please see link below for Civil Service exams currently available:

For list see here.

DOWNLOAD APPLICATION HERE

The Safe in the City Grant from the Mayor's Office of Criminal Justice, led by the Office of Neighborhood Safety, offers funding opportunities from $1,500-$10,000 to support community-based actions that will make neighborhoods safer.

For more information, see here.

Community Resources

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. 

As your State Senator in the 19th Senatorial District: Senator Persaud proudly serves constituents in the communities of  Canarsie, East New York, Brownsville, Mill Basin, Sheepshead Bay, Bergen Beach, Marine Park, Flatlands, Mill Island, Georgetown, Ocean Hill and Starrett City.

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