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

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

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

The Senate District 19 lines are different.

Please visit the links below for more information:

Please visit NYS Redistricting 2021-2022 (redistrictingandyou.org), where you can enter your address and see your district information. 

You may also visit New York State Legislative Task Force on Demographic Research and Reapportionment to view the maps.

Quote of the Week

It is through art that we will prevail, and we will endure. It lives on after us and defines us as people.

Rita Moreno

              Updates From Albany

S1192 Sponsored by Senator Persaud

This bill allows for the retention of certified teachers to improve student's education. The teacher's will be provided an incentive who have previously participated in programs such as My Brother's Keeper, Grow Your Own initiatives, or Teacher Opportunity Corps to encourage individuals to enter and remain in the teaching profession. Studies have shown that diversity in teaching leads to great values: higher test scores, higher graduation rates, and a reduction in absenteeism and dropouts. The senator is making this a priority investment into the people who will be molding and shaping the minds of the next generation.

Senator Roxanne J. Persaud said, “Education is a powerful equalizer, and there are more than 250,000 public school teachers working each day with the next generation of New York State’s leaders. Studies have shown that students better identify with teachers with shared experiences that reflect the communities they serve. S. 1192 will help ensure that the percentage of teachers from Communities of Color, currently only twenty percent, will continue to
increase.”

Please read the following press release:

https://www.nysenate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-approves-measures-attract-develop-and-retain-greater-diversity-new

               February Resolutions

Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim February 14, 2023, as Donor Day in the State of New York.

 It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official days that are set aside to increase awareness of serious issues that affect the lives of citizens of New York State and across the Nation.

National Donor Day began in 1998 by Department of Health and Human Services and many nonprofit health organizations to raise awareness for organ, eye, tissue, marrow, platelet, and blood donation.

It is also a day to recognize our loved ones who have given the gift of donation, have received a donation, are currently waiting, or did not receive an organ in time.

Senator Persaud recognizes the need for more donors because of more than 400 New Yorkers dying from no organ becoming available. This is why resolution J227 passed. To help as many lives as possible.

               Tax Talk Thursdays

Upcoming clinic date is February 23. Individuals can log on anytime between 11am and 1pm on the clinic day to speak to an attorney. To register, visit: https://bit.ly/taxtalkthursdays

            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

            FTC Trade Alert: GoodRx

The FTC says GoodRx, a digital health platform that offers virtual doctor visits and lets users get coupons for prescription drugs, broke its promises to users about how it would use and share their personal health information.

The FTC claims GoodRx shared information about users’ health conditions and prescription drugs with digital advertisers like Facebook and Google without users’ permission — and contrary to what it told users in its privacy policy. GoodRx then used that sensitive health information to target its users with health ads on users’ social media feeds.

To read the full article: https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2023/02/goodrxs-not-so-good-privacy-practices-come-light?utm_source=govdelivery

         Federal Trade Commission                        MoneyGram Advisory

Most of the time, if you send money to a scammer with a wire transfer, you don’t get money back. But if you paid a scammer through MoneyGram and filed a refund claim with Gilardi & Co., watch your mailbox. Refund checks worth over $115 million are on the way to almost 39,000 people whose claims were approved.

For more info: https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2023/02/over-115-million-goes-moneygram-users-who-paid-scammers?utm_source=govdelivery

                         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

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

Winter Preparedness Flyer

                     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.

Brooklyn Library Upcoming Events 

February 23: Spring Creek presents Creative Aging: “Sketchbook Journaling: Drawing & Writing” 10:30 a.m.- 12 p.m. virtual program- Link: https://www.bklynlibrary.org/calendar/spring-creek-presents-virtual-20230228

February 23: Mental Health First Aid Workshop (Free Certification Course):   10:00 am. to 5:00 p.m.
To sign up go to:  https://www.bklynlibrary.org/calendar/mental-health-first-aid-new-lots-library-20230223

The Brooklyn Public Library offers many activities for all ages. To find the list of activities and events and your closest library, visit Events Calendar | Brooklyn Public Library Click Here: (bklynlibrary.org)

The deadline to get a REAL ID is May 7, 2025 – 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.

Low-income New York City residents at or below the federal poverty level may qualify for a half-priced transit fare using a Fair Fares MetroCard.

Check your eligibility at nyc.gov/fairfares or call 311 for more information.

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. 

     FDA Unused COVID-19 Test Kit                               Advisory

Do Not Discard Your Unused Covid Test Kits
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a shelf-life extension on COVID-19 at-home test kits.

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

        Senator Persaud On the Move

On Thursday February 16, Staffer Jennifer and Senator Persaud attended an excellent U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness Site Visit and Round Table Event. There were positive and passionate discussions regarding the State of Homelessness in New York City and across the nation.

Special thanks to Christine Quinn, CEO of Women in Need (Win), Jeff Olivet, Executive Director of the U.S. Interagency Council, Chris Mann, Director of Policy and Advocacy (Win), Dwane Messam, Program Director of Junius Residence (Win) and the entire team for making this a successful one.

Win is the largest provider of shelter and supportive housing for New York City's homeless families, especially women and children.

Staffer Jennifer represented Senator Persaud at the Abe Stark Senior Center Valentine’s Day event. She delivered Valentines Day Cards and other pertinent resources from the office.
It’s great to see active adults having a great time.
A highlight of the event was wonderful pan renditions performed by the members.

Staffer Christine represented Senator Persaud at the Valentine’s Day Senior Program at the Bayview Community Center.
The active adults played very intense rounds of bingo for prizes, enjoyed hot drinks with sweet treats, and later a lovely hot meal.
Thank you to Tenant Association President Cheryl Boyce for always showing our seniors love.

On Tuesday February 14, Staffers Joe and Jennifer represented Senator Persaud at the Penn Wortman- Senior Care Event. Treats were placed for later, in addition to dancing by the DJ who provided music.

On Sunday February 12, Staffer Jennifer represented Senator Persaud at the rally organized by the Flossy Organization.
She gave insights about legislation and also about key initiatives that were funded to help reduce the scourge of gun violence.
In attendance were Elected Officials/representatives as well as community leaders and families affected by gun violence.
Senator Persaud will continue to work with her colleagues aiming towards the goal of eliminating gun violence in our communities.

On February 11 Senator Persaud and Staffer Sandy stopped by the PS/IS 109 Community Wellness Fair where many participants teamed up to offer services to the community.

On Saturday February 12, The NYPD 69th Precinct Community Affairs and Precinct Council hosted an enjoyable pre-Valentine "Older Adults Touch of Elegance Dinner" for the community.
There was lots to eat and drink including delicious deserts. The DJ kept the event lively with the music selection.
Everyone received an SD19 Valentine's Day card, a bag compliment of VNS Health and other giveaways.

On Friday February 10, The Coalition for Community Advancement hosted an informative elected official's roundtable discussion about funding and the improvement of the area around the Broadway Junction transit hub. The MTA is committed to working with all parties to upgrade the area including making the area in compliance with the ADA (American with Disabilities Act).

On Friday February 10, Staffer Sandy attended the Kings County District Attorney's Annual Legislative Briefing held at the Brooklyn Law School.
It was an opportunity for District Attorney Eric Gonzalez and his team to provide updates on boroughwide crime statistics and policies. There has been unprecedented collaboration with the community as the DA's office employs a multipronged approach to reducing violence.
The DA's office continues to innovate by investing in restorative justice programs.

On Friday February 10, Senator Persaud teamed up with (NYLAG) New York Legal Assistance Group to offer Free Civil Legal Services. Thanks to all constituents who attended. And never forget you deserve to be served.

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

New York State Legislative Fellowship

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

NYC Department of Education School Survey

                    due March 31

Schools Chancellor David C. Banks launched the 17th annual NYC School Survey, a critical tool in New York City Public Schools’ efforts to engage members of our school communities and strengthen the connection with our educators and families. The updated survey provides new insight into what families and students think about their school, aligned with Chancellor Banks’ focus on engaging families as true partners in their child’s education.

 The feedback captured by the NYC School Survey helps school leaders understand what members of their community think about the learning environment in their school and informs improvements to schools and programs.

Families can take the survey by logging on to their NYC Schools Account (NYCSA) Portal, where they can also see their student’s grades, test scores, and more. https://www.schoolsaccount.nyc/.

The survey is available online in 10 languages, and it is open until March 31 to all families and teachers, as well as students in grades 6-12. Families can also request a hard copy of the survey from their school.

      Education Council Application                          Deadline Extended

The deadline to apply to run for a seat on an Education Council has been extended! Submit your application by Thursday, February 23 at 11:59 PM. 

To apply for a council seat and make your voice heard, just log into your NYC Schools Account at schoolsaccount.nyc. 

Don’t have an NYC Schools Account? Sign up for one now at schoolsaccount.nyc and contact your parent coordinator to complete the process. For more information about the NYC Schools account, visit schools.nyc.gov/nycsa.

As a Community or Citywide Education Council member, you can help make a direct impact on your child’s education. Community Education Councils host Town Halls with the Chancellor, collaborate with Superintendents to raise student achievement, and propose improvements to school buildings. Citywide Education Councils advocate for the student populations they represent. 

Learn more about what Education Councils do and how to run for a seat at schools.nyc.gov/elections2023.  

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.

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.

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 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).

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

To register visit: NYPDRECRUIT.COM

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/

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, Cypress Hills, East New York, Brownsville, Ocean Hill, Starrett City, Lindenwood, Howard Beach & City Line.

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