Ombudsperson Call Center

Did you know that if you are not happy with NYCHA’s response to your mold or leak complaint, a court-appointed independent Ombudsperson Call Center (“OCC”) is available to help. To learn more about the OCC, visit ombnyc.com or Call 1-888-341-7152.

 

Housing Community Workshop

Bronx Community Board 11 Youth Leadership Award
The Office of Bronx Community Board 11 (CB11) is pleased to inform CD11 residents that CB11’s Education, Culture & Youth Services Committee will select a number of deserving local youth with the opportunity to receive the 2022 New York Yankees Community Council Youth Leadership Award.

The Youth Leadership Award currently provides a $750.00 stipend to five (5) youth leaders who are preliminary selected by the Education, Culture & Youth Services Committee. Additionally, youth leaders may be recognized during a ceremony at
Yankee Stadium on Bronx Community Board 11 Day.*

*The award, stipend…and Community Board 11 Day at Yankee Stadium are contingent upon the New York Yankees, and not on the Community Board. Click here for more information.

 

New Law on Rats

New York City Mayor Eric Adams signed a new set of bills on Friday, Nov. 18, that will create rat mitigation zones and put into law new trash set-out times to reduce the amount of time trash bags sit out on city curbs. For more information, click here.

Complaint Process for Heat or Hot Water 

They encourage residents to contact your building super or landlord before filing a NYC 311 complaint. They said this is the easiest, and often fastest way to resolve housing quality issues.

Children’s Coat Giveaway 

Know a child that is in need of a warm winter coat? Join Councilman Rafael Salamanca Jr. on Saturday, Dec. 10, at 10 a.m. for the annual Children’s Coat Giveaway in partnership with Urban Health Plan, Inc., Southern Boulevard Business Improvement District, Ponce Bank and the 41st Precinct Community Council. This is a free event. First come, first served, while supplies last. Children must be present.

OMNI Cards

OMNY CARDS ALLOW New York City riders to tap and go. See attached flier below for more information.

Muggings in Van Cortlandt Park

VCP Alliance officials advised the public in a Nov. 15 social media post that they had learned about a series of muggings that had happened along the southern end of the Putnam Greenway near Van Cortlandt Golf Course in the park. “Please be extra cautious when out in the park, especially as the days get shorter,” they wrote.

 

A Reminder of Minimum Heat Temperatures during the Winter Season 

 

 

NYCHA Heating Complaints

NYCHA officials say the agency remains committed to providing residents with the critical services of heat and hot water. As part of its efforts to improve heating services, NYCHA officials say the agency is modernizing heating controls to prevent overheating, under-heating, and to save energy. They ask NYCHA residents to call the “CCC” at (718) 707-7771 or to use MyNYCHA to report any issues with heat or hot water.

 

Uncovering the Mysteries of Dyslexia 

In this Montefiore Nyack Community Chat, panelists discuss the visual spatial learning style (the dyslexic mind) and how this way of thinking is misunderstood in society.

In this Montefiore Nyack Community Chat, panelists discuss the visual spatial learning style (the dyslexic mind) and how this wonderful way of thinking is so misunderstood in our society. Video courtesy of Montefiore Nyack Community Chat via YouTube

 

 

Myths & Truths of Diabetes 

In this Montefiore Nyack Community Chat, panelists discuss the holidays and mood.

In this Montefiore Nyack Community Chat, panelists discuss holidays and mood.  Video courtesy of Montefiore Nyack Community Chat via YouTube

 

Community Holiday Toy Drive 

 

Scammers are always finding new ways of appearing official — to steal your money.

Check out this tip about one common scam.

And, if you think you’ve been the victim of a scam, call 646-610-SCAM. pic.twitter.com/AMTcnJ0fME

— NYPD 52nd Precinct (@NYPD52Pct) November 21, 2022

 

Farmers’ Market Resiliency Grant Program

The New York State Agriculture Commission announced that $700,000 is available to New York’s farmers’ markets through the Farmers’ Market Resiliency Grant Program. Grant funding will help farmers strengthen their markets and make local food more accessible to consumers by establishing online sales, improving infrastructure, and enhancing marketing and promotion efforts. For more information on the program and how to apply, visit here. The deadline for proposals is Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022 at 4 p.m. Applications for funding must conform to the format provided in the Grants Gateway. A webinar with program information took place on Nov. 17.

 

Contracting with the City

NYC Mayor’s Office of Contract Services has shared a new resource, explaining how interested parties can contract with the City: Your Path to Contracting with the City. Your Path to Contracting with the City is a visual representation of a vendor’s typical roadmap to contracting with the City of New York. Click on the link to be taken to a new resource page with information and links to select learning resources.

 

Domestic Workers Rights 

The New York City Commission on Human Rights announced that, effective March 12, 2022, New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL) employment protections will apply to all domestic workers, including nannies, home care workers, housecleaners, and any other worker who is employed in a home providing childcare, eldercare, companionship, or housekeeping services in New York City. Most full-time and part-time workers are covered. The commission provided a list of frequently asked questions for workers and their employers, covering different areas of employment and how the new protections affect them. For more information, click here.

Van Cortlandt Park Nature Center is open every Saturday and Sunday. See attached flier below for more information.

Stop & Shop’s Thanksgiving Hours

• On Thanksgiving Day, New Jersey and New York stores will be open until 3 p.m.
• Pick-up will be available on Thanksgiving Day at Stop & Shop stores in New York and New Jersey until 2 p.m.
• All Stop & Shop pharmacies will be closed on Thanksgiving Day.

 

Social Security Increase 

The U.S. Social Security Administration has announced an 8.7 percent benefit increase for 2023. See attached flier below for more information.

 

The Path Higher Education Workshops

“The Path,” a series of virtual live and on-demand events, hosted by NYS Higher Education Services Corp (HESC), are designed to help New York’s students on their path toward a higher education. Students and their families can get advice about accessing and financing a college education from higher education (multilingual) experts by attending these events from the comfort of their homes. Browse upcoming events to join a discussion with HESC. Can’t make the virtual live event? Visit the on-demand events library to view archived events at your leisure. 

GoFundMe Page for Bedford Congregational Church

Residents are being kindly asked to donate to support the upgrading of the heating system at Bedford Congregational Church, located at 309 East 201st Street in Bedford Park. Founded in 1889 and a designated landmark since 2000, the church is a 501c3 charity and provides space for local support groups battling addictions, as well as other congregations. A replacement oil tank is needed before the water pipes freeze and burst. To donate, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/warm-hearts-cold-church.

 

Transportation Updates 

For updates on Bronx Street and Bridge closures, subway changes, and other transportation-related updates, click here.

 

English Classes

Practice your English while getting to know your community, regardless of immigration status, with free English classes offered by the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs. See below tweet for more information.

Practice your English while getting to know your community! MOIA’s We Speak NYC program offers FREE English classes, regardless of immigration status, to help all New Yorkers thrive in NYC. Fall classes begin Sunday, October 16.

🍂📚Sign up here: https://t.co/95wJPveYZs pic.twitter.com/WcR0MtXacA

— NYC Immigrant Affairs (@NYCImmigrants) October 14, 2022

Fair Fares Updates 

As confirmed by the Office of State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi (S.D. 34), the Fair Fares NYC program continues to offer eligible New York City residents a 50 percent discount on eligible transportation. Fair Fares enrollment is simple and can be done completely online without coming into an HRA office. To apply, visit ACCESS HRA here.

 

 

Farmers Market

NYC Health + Hospitals/NCB provides the community with fresh fruits and vegetables, along with cooking demonstrations and more from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each Wednesday at Jerome Avenue and Mosholu Parkway North. More #BackToSchoolNYC healthy eating tips can be found at https://bit.ly/3A9yt7J.

 

Second Round of Child Care Center Grants

As confirmed by State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi, the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) is accepting applications for a second round of childcare stabilization grants made available through federal funding relating to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Child Care Stabilization Grant 2.0 for Workforce Supports application period is July 5 to Nov. 30. Grant payments will be made directly to the childcare provider. Eligible providers must be OCFS-licensed or registered childcare programs, NYC permitted group daycares, or enrolled, legally exempt, group childcare programs (enrolled with an enrollment agency). Learn more here.

 

Increased Child Care Services

New York City Council has passed legislation to increase accessibility to child care services in New York City. Click here for our recent story on the issue.

 

College Prep and Leadership Classes

Learn how to navigate the process of choosing a school that is best for you, what to expect after graduation, and how to become a leader at Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center, 3225 Reservoir Oval East in Norwood, each Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Email shagari.allyene@parks.nyc.gov for more information.

 

Local People Reported Missing in Recent Weeks 

A 64-year-old woman was reported missing in Bedford Park. Click here for more details.

A 70-year-old woman was reported missing in Morris Heights. Click here for more details.

A 12-year-old boy was reported missing in University Heights. Click here for more details.

A 15-year-old girl was reported missing in Kingsbridge Heights. Click here for more details.

A 50-year-old woman was reported missing in Fordham Manor. Click here for more details.

A 55-year-old man was reported missing in Bedford Park. Click here for more details.

A 23-year-old woman was reported missing in University Heights. Click here for more details.

A 50-year-old man was reported missing in Fordham Heights. Click here for more details.

A 21-year-old woman was reported missing from Fordham Manor for the second time in a week. Click here for more details.

A 16-year-old girl was reported missing in Wakefield. Click here for more details.

A 76-year-old woman was reported missing in Williamsbridge. Click here for more details.

A 75-year-old man was reported missing in Fordham Manor. Click here for more details.

 

New Car-Sharing Plans by DOT  

As confirmed by Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz (A.D. 81), NYC Department of Transportation has unveiled plans for a pair of carsharing companies (Getaround and Zipcar) to establish four carsharing sites in the local Northwest Bronx community. Each site would come with two parking spaces.

The sites they are looking to use are at:

• Cambridge Avenue between West 235th Street and West 236th Street

• Arlington Avenue between West 227th Street and West 230th Street

• Manhattan College Parkway between West 242nd Street and Manhattan College Parkway

• West 236th Street between Irwin Avenue and Tibbett Avenue

The assemblyman welcomes feedback from the community on the proposal at DinowitzJ@nyassembly.gov or on 718-796-5345.

 

Redress for Tenants regarding Construction Noise 

Construction can be noisy, dusty and disruptive. Living in a building that is undergoing renovation or construction can be difficult, but conditions should never be dangerous or present hazards to occupants. NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) works to help minimize the impact of construction on existing tenants through the Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA). Learn more: https://on.nyc.gov/3NtnCsQ

 

Electric and Gas Utility Bill Credit Program for Low-Income Families

As confirmed by State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi (S.D. 34), a one-time, low-income utility bill credit is now available to help low-income electric and gas utility customers pay off past utility bills. This credit, which will be applied to affected customers’ bills by the utilities, requires no action by existing low-income customers enrolled in the EAP to receive the benefit. The bill credit is expected to be applied to customers’ accounts by August 1, 2022. Any eligible low-income customer who enrolls in EAP before Dec. 31, 2022, will be included in the bill credit program. Learn more about the program here.

 

Temporary Assistance (TA) funding may continue to be utilized to pay utility arrears when the applicant presents with an emergency or immediate need, after first exploring the availability of HEAP. A payment can be made to prevent termination if it is determined that an immediate threat of shut off is present and the applicant/recipient (A/R) is otherwise eligible.

 

Heating and Cooling Assistance (HEAP) 2022-2023

As confirmed by State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi (S.D. 34), the regular HEAP season opened on Nov. 1, 2022. More information including 2022-23 benefit amounts and eligibility requirements can be found here. The Emergency HEAP Benefit opens on Jan. 1, 2023. The Emergency HEAP Benefit provides assistance to those who are in a heat related emergency. More information, including 2022-23 benefit amounts and eligibility requirements, can be found here

 

SUNY Application Fees Waived

As confirmed by State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi (S.D. 34), since Aug. 1, 2022, all students at designated public high schools across New York State can apply to up to seven SUNY schools for free. SUNY has automatically waived application fees for every student at the 500 high schools statewide with the highest percentages of students receiving free lunch. Additionally, any student at any high school in the state who receives free lunch will also have their fees waived. Please click here for additional information and to see which schools qualify.

 

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

As also confirmed by Biaggi, the FAFSA filing season opened on Oct. 1. Through FAFSA, students can receive federal grants, loans, and work-study jobs to help fund their education. The earlier families fill out the FAFSA, the better their chances are to receive aid, since some financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, or from programs with limited funds. Here are some of the documents needed to apply, including tax documents and information about any investments or savings your family has. A Social Security Number is required, although students with undocumented parents can still apply.

 

Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)

As confirmed by State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi (S.D. 34), ERAP applicants should note that from September 2022, OTDA is actively reviewing and processing eligible ERAP applications submitted through August 31, 2022. The OTDA ERAP website will be updated if additional funding is available to pay eligible applications submitted after June 30, 2022.

 

MTA WiFi News 

The MTA is expanding its WiFi service. For more information, click here.

 

An affordable housing lottery has launched for units at 740 Brook Avenue in Woodstock, with a deadline of Dec. 27. Click here for information.

 

For more information, run a search using these addresses on www.norwoodnews.org, or contact the Affordable Housing Lottery Helpline on (212) 863-7990, or via email at nychousingconnect@hpd.nyc.gov. For information on applying for affordable housing for people with disabilities, call (212) 863-6486 or email: accessibility@hpd.nyc.gov. HPD housing ambassadors can be reached at ambassadors@hpd.nyc.gov.

DACA Decision

According to the group, CUNY Citizenship Now, a court decision issued on Wednesday, Oct. 5, keeps DACA in place for current recipients who can renew their status and apply for advance parole. The ruling continues to disallow new applications. For more information about the future of DACA, please see http://ow.ly/MOVz50L4ER5.

 

Ombudsperson Call Center for Unresolved Repair Issues 

 

Citizen Training to Reduce Overdose Deaths 

With overdose rates of 75.3 percent in Hunts Pont and Mott Haven, the City has announced new measures to train citizens on how to reduce overdose deaths. Click here and here for more information.

 

City Redistricting 

As reported, New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams sent a letter on behalf of the council to New York City Districting Commission chair, Dennis Walcott, on Thursday, Oct. 27, notifying the commission of the council’s acceptance of the proposed district maps [dated Oct. 6] without objection. The proposed maps were to be sent to the city clerk for certification.

NYC Districting Commission held a public meeting on Oct. 6, and voted 13-1 to submit newly drawn maps for all 51 districts to the City Council. These maps were revised from the preliminary plan published by the Commission in July and a proposed revised plan in September that was not approved by the Commission. The latest maps represent a response to over 12,500 submissions offered by New Yorkers in person or via Zoom during more than 35 hours of public hearings; by email; and by regular mail. The latest revised plan and video of the meeting of the Commission will be made available for viewing on nyc.gov/districting. For more information and background, read our latest story here.

 

Neighborhood Map 

NYC Department of City Planning recently released a new City Neighborhood Map which can viewed below.

 

Student Loan Forgiveness Program 

In August, many public college students were elated when U.S. President Joe Biden approved one-time debt relief by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) as part of the Biden-Harris Administration student debt relief plan. As confirmed by State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi (S.D. 34), the application for the Student Loan Forgiveness program was released in October 2022. The DOE recommended that students apply even if they had automatic forgiveness.

 

Nov. 15 was the first application deadline for Student Loan Forgiveness. Applying by Nov. 15 was to ensure students would receive relief before payments resume and interest begins to accrue. For students who did not receive total forgiveness, loan payments are no longer paused, and interest begins accruing on the balance as of June. 1, 2023 (extended recently from Jan. 1, 2023). Payments will resume 60 days after the pause ends. The final deadline to apply for Student Loan Forgiveness is set at Dec. 31, 2023.

 

However, due to various legal challenges across the country by primarily Republicans, the courts issued orders blocking the program in the meantime. As a result, the government is not accepting applications currently. The Biden administration is seeking to overturn the orders. If you’ve already applied for relief, the federal government will hold your application. Check back here for updates. The DOE will post information as soon as further updates are available. More information on the latest ongoing federal legal negotiations on the program can be read here.

 

According to Bronx Community Board 7, Con Edison is offering residential customers a $50 discount for buying an eligible smart thermostat, and another $85 for registering it with Con Edison’s “Bring Your Own Thermostat (BYOT)” Program. Con Edison is also offering residential customers a $1,000 rebate to weatherize their home with new air sealing and proper insulation. Click on the following links for more information.

 

Avoid Getting Scammed by Robocalls 

See the below flier for tips on how to avoid robocall scams.

WIC Infant Formula

As confirmed by State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi (S.D. 34), as of August 23, 2022, the USDA extended a series of waivers to provide WIC families with additional formula options through the end of the year. The waivers, which were previously set to expire at the end of September, will now be available either through Dec. 31, 2022, or 60 days after the expiration of the state’s COVID-19 major disaster declaration, whichever happens first, ensuring WIC families have continued access to the formula they need. WIC-Eligible Families can contact their local WIC office to identify or obtain additional sources of infant formula nearby.

 

Polio Vaccine

See attached below the recommended childhood polio immunization schedule.

NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) says according to their data, 13.8 percent of children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years in New York City have not been vaccinated against polio and the agency is urging parents to ensure their children get vaccinated against what they say is a highly contagious viral infection. Meanwhile, CBS News recently reported that the New York Health Department said hundreds of people may be infected with the polio virus, once regarded as being an illness that was contained.

Our new map shows polio vaccination rates for NYC children 6 months to 5 years old. According to our data, 13.8% have not been vaccinated against polio. Polio is highly contagious. The most important way to prevent polio is by getting vaccinated: https://t.co/HVfYyj35LN pic.twitter.com/JSe4pK9G90

— nychealthy (@nycHealthy) August 5, 2022

Abortion Services in New York 

New York Attorney General Letitia James is reminding New Yorkers that abortion services remain legal in New York for those who seek them. A free legal hotline is available for information and legal guidance on accessing safe abortion services in the State. Call (212) 899-5567 for more details.

 

2022 Community Needs Assessment 

Do you have ideas about what your local community needs? Take a few minutes and fill out a survey to help inform how future funding is spent across the city. Visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2022CNANYC today. See below flier for more information. Norwood News recently published an Inquiring Photographer feature on where would be the best location for a new public swimming pool in Bedford Park / Norwood. Some residents had also raised the need for a YMCA in the Northwest Bronx, an east-west subway service, and platform seats in all Bronx subway stations. See also our recent story on the latest discussions around the Kingsbridge Armory.

 

In addition, Bronx Community Board 7 recently invited residents to join them for a series of sessions to help identify community needs and ideas for expense projects which could potentially be funded by “The People’s Money,” as reported.

 

Mental Health Resources

RAINN offers mental health resources for anyone who has experienced sexual assault, teen dating abuse or who has been discriminated against or abused due to their sexuality. For more information, see the attached flier below.

 

Health Equity and Access to Care

CUNY Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy is inviting members of the community to join a focus group on health equity and access to care in New York City. See attached flier below for more information.

 

 

MPV Outbreak Update

As of Nov. 28, there were 3,785 cases of MPV in New York City, up from 3,758 cases on Nov. 4, according to NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene (DOHMH). A two-dose vaccination is available for those eligible, and appointments are open for second doses. A Bronx mass vaccination site is open at Lincoln Hospital, 234 E 149^th Street. Book an appointment by calling 877-829-4692. Visit: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/monkeypox.page for more information.

 

Officials emphasize that anyone can get and spread MPV, and added that the current cases are primarily spreading among social networks of gay, bisexual, and other men who have multiple sexual partners, and therefore this community subset is currently at greater risk of exposure. They said if you have a new or unexpected rash or other symptoms of monkeypox, contact a health care provider. The mass vaccination site is no longer open at Bronx High School of Science.

 

As reported, cases had risen sharply over the summer, with 30 percent of U.S. cases recorded in New York City, per the CDC. The WHO declared the MPV outbreak a global emergency on Saturday, July 23. The White House declared it a public health emergency on Aug. 4. For our latest story on the Bronx MPV Townhall, click here.

 

Launch of 4Bronx Project

Kingsbridge Riverdale Van Cortlandt Development Corporation is launching the 4Bronx Project on Dec. 7. See attached flier below for more information.

 

Become an American Red Cross Lifeguard

New Settlement Community Center and the American Red Cross are encouraging Bronxites to become American Red Cross lifeguards. See attached flier for more information.

 

Bronx Education Leaders’ Consortium: RESO-A Funding Informational Session

THE OFFICE OF the Bronx Borough President is hosting a Bronx Education Leaders’ Consortium: RESO-A Funding Informational Session on Thursday, Dec. 15, 2022. See attached flier below for more information.

 

Bronx Dispensary Showroom 

The Bronx Dispensary Showroom: a cannabis retail, pop-up experience will take place on Dec. 9. See attached flier below for more information.

 

Free Mammogram Event

Watch her Win in partnership with Project Renewal Scan Van presents a Sunday Breast Care Day Free Mammogram event on December 11, 2022. See attached flier below for more information.

 

Capital Project Informational Workshop

The Office of the Bronx Borough President is hosting a Capital Project Informational Workshop for nonprofit community-based organizations on Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022. See attached flier below for more information.

 

Bronx Community Board 7 Toy Drive 

Bronx Community Board 7 is holding a Holiday Toy Drive in conjunction with the 52nd Precinct. See attached flier below for more information.

 

 

Municipal Credit Union Toy Drive 

Cameroonians Living in the U.S. May be Eligible for TPS 

 

Property Tax Rebate

As confirmed by State. Sen. Alessandra Biaggi (S.D. 34), in recognition of New York City homeowners contribution to the city’s neighborhoods, economy and quality of life, Mayor Eric Adams and the New York City Council recently began issuing property tax rebates in the amount of $150 to eligible homeowners. Learn more and apply here.

 

COVID-19 UPDATES 

 

A new COVID-19 vaccine booster has been authorized for everyone 5 and older who received their most recent vaccine dose at least two months ago. This booster is specifically designed to protect you against the omicron subvariants that account for nearly all recent infections in NYC. You can get this updated booster at the same time as other vaccines. Learn more about getting the updated booster.

 

An NYC COVID-19 hotline provides residents with COVID-19 updates, including testing sites, advice from medical staff, quarantine information and mental health support. Call 212-COVID19 or (212) 268-4319. Find a vaccine or booster location today at ny.gov/vaxtoschool. For more information on boosters, click here. For more general information on testing and other COVID-19 matters, click here.

 

Open Enrollment for NYS Health Insurance

The NY State of Health Open Enrollment Period for coverage in a 2023 Qualified Health Plan began on November 16, 2022. Enroll by the 15th of the month for coverage starting on the first of the following month. Enrollment in other programs through the NY State of Health (Medicaid, Child Health Plus and the Essential Plan) is available year-round. New Yorkers can apply for coverage through NY State of Health, at https://nystateofhealth.ny.gov/ or directly through insurers. If you need help choosing a plan, talk to a registration advisor for free. Call 311, text the word “SafeNYC” to 877-877 or visit https://on.nyc.gov/3hEl8JI.

 

Waste Management Plan

The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) now requires owners and developers of new large residential buildings to submit a Waste Management Plan. This requirement is found in a new rule effective April 1, 2022. Visit nyc.gov/wastemanagementplan to learn more and submit your plan.

 

Free Haircuts

SUNY Bronx Educational Opportunity Center is offering free haircuts by appointment. Taking place Mondays through Fridays, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Bronxites can call the following number if interested: 718-530-7043. The haircuts will take place at the following location: SUNY Bronx EOC, 1666 Bathgate Avenue, Bronx, NY 10457. Vaccination or a negative test within three days is required to receive a haircut.

 

Free Parenting and Prenatal Classes

The Parenting Resource Center at Catholic Guardian Services, located at 3356 Fort Independence St., Bronx, NY 10463, is providing free, parenting, and prenatal classes for new and expecting parents. Classes will be held in person and will be taught in English and Spanish. Parents that complete the classes will be given a free crib. The four classes will be on breastfeeding, stress or trauma, safe sleep, and women’s health. To sign up, contact Marie at (718) 828-0300 Ext. 209.

 

 

Notice from NYCHA / Con Ed re People Who Use Life-Support Equipment 

New York City Housing Authority ae advising residents that if they use life-support equipment or if someone in their household does, it’s important to let Con Edison know. Con Edison keeps a record of such individuals to contact them in case of emergency and make sure they are safe. Call 1-877-58-CONED (1-877-582-6633) or visit https://on.nyc.gov/3tScCuR to complete the online form. Please have your 15-digit account number available when you call. Life-support equipment conditions require certification that must be updated annually.

NYC Care

NYC Care is a health care access program that guarantees low-cost and no-cost services to New Yorkers who do not qualify for or cannot afford health insurance. All NYC Care services are provided through NYC Health + Hospitals. With NYC Care, residents can get a unique membership card to access health services, choose their own doctor, and get affordable medications. Immigrants no longer have to live in NYC for six months to be eligible for NYC Care. Click on the link in the below tweet to learn how to enroll.

 

Immigrants no longer have to live in NYC for six months to be eligible for #NYCCare! 🎉 It’s now easier than ever to enroll! Learn more about the @NYCHealthSystem program that guarantees care for all New Yorkers: https://t.co/feRboHd8y0 pic.twitter.com/TDLGVjgzx3

— NYC Mayor's Public Engagement Unit (@MayorsPEU) June 22, 2022

 

SNAP App

NYC Human Resources Administration and NYC Department of Social Services are advising New Yorkers that SNAP benefits and Cash Assistance can be managed via the HRA app. See the link in the below Tweet for more information.

Need SNAP? Get the app.
To apply for and manage your SNAP benefits and Cash Assistance, use the ACCESS HRA app. Learn more: https://t.co/stpJyqx6mE

— HRA (@NYCHRA) May 10, 2022

Cannabis Updates 

On Aug. 28, the Mayor’s office announced that New Yorkers can now apply for the State’s first cannabis retail dispensary licenses, adding that licenses for those most harmed by cannabis prohibition would be prioritized. More details can be found at nyc.gov/cannabis. On Oct. 6, U.S. President Joe Biden announced he was pardoning all prior federal offenses of simple marijuana possession. “There are thousands of people who were previously convicted of simple possession who may be denied employment, housing, or educational opportunities as a result,” he said. “My pardon will remove this burden.” For more information click here.

 

A Bronx Cannabis Forum was recently held in the borough. For more information on what was discussed, click here. For other recent Cannabis-related news in The Bronx, click here. Click here for a list of frequently asked questions and answers regarding medical cannabis dispensary operations, provided by PharmaCann in relation to Verilife’s relocation to 25-27 West Fordham Road, Bronx NY 10468. According to its website, PharmaCann [https://www.pharmacann.com/] is one of the country’s “largest vertically integrated cannabis companies, providing safe, reliable, top-quality cannabis products.” For more information about Verilife Bronx, NY, go to https://www.verilife.com/ny/location/bronx.

 

United States Suicide Prevention Hotline 

A National Suicide Prevention hotline is available since July 1, 2022. Call 988 for help.

 

NYC Well

NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene provides a confidential mental health and substance use support 24/7 via their NYC Well service. Talk with a professional on (888) 692-9355 or via 888-NYC-Well, text “well” to 65173, or chat on https://nycwell.cityofnewyork.us/en/.

 

Free Legal Help with Domestic Violence 

The Urban Justice Center’s Domestic Violence Project provides free legal help with domestic violence-related matters on the last Thursday of each month from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in conjunction with District 12 City Councilman Kevin Riley. See attached flier below for more information. (If you are in immediate danger, if you can, call 911.)

 

 

Suicide Awareness Seminar with The Suicide Network  

 

Cash Assistance from Bronxworks 

Social Security Online Services 

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has advised it now has a one-stop shop solution allowing customers to complete their Social Security business remotely, rather than visiting a Social Security office. Hundreds of partners across the country are reportedly now using the Social Security Express Icon, including libraries, retirement communities, homeless shelters, job training facilities, prisons, doctor’s offices, veterans’ facilities, motor vehicle administrations, health and human service offices and many more. Customers are being encouraged to avail of SSA’s “flexible, easy and time-saving solution to conduct their Social Security business in one place.” To learn more and get the Social Security Express icon on your public access computers and websites, click here.

 

 

Visiting Nurses Services NY is inviting the public to virtual, exercise classes in Cantonese on Tuesdays, from 2.30 p.m. to 3.30 p.m. See attached flier below for more information.

 

 

LISC NYC Developers of Color Training Programs 

LISC NYC is partnering with Infinite Horizons and other partners to provide a Developers of Color Training Program aimed at expanding the capacity of minority-owned business enterprise developers. Go to Developers of Color Training Program for more information.

 

Make Compost, Not Trash!

New York City Department of Sanitation is encouraging New Yorkers to make compost, not trash, by using their buildings’ brown bins to deposit food scraps. For more information, see attached flier.

 

 

Eviction Moratorium 

Gov. Kathy Hochul’s moratorium on COVID-19-related residential and commercial evictions expired on Jan. 15, 2022. For more information on how to get help, EvictionFreeNY.org is a free tool put together by JustFix and Right to Counsel.

 

It is illegal for someone to pressure or force you to leave your home. Do not self-evict! Call 311 and ask for the Tenant Helpline to get free legal advice, including information on how to complete the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) application. pic.twitter.com/OknxH0kACN

— NYC Mayor's Office to Protect Tenants (@NYCMOPT) March 10, 2022

 

As of Jan. 24, delivery workers now have new rights:

1. Apps must tell you how much the customer tips for each delivery.
2. Apps must tell you your total pay and tips for the previous day.
3. You may have better access to restaurant bathrooms when you pick up orders.

Go to: http://on.nyc.gov/33BL6el for more information.

 

Qualifying disabilities include receiving medicare benefits for any reason other than age, serious mental illness and receiving supplemental security income, blindness, deafness or hearing loss, ambulatory disability, cognitive disability, or other physical disabilities. You can submit an application online, by mail, or in person. See how to apply.

 

Become a New York City Lifeguard

NYC Parks is recruiting for New York City lifeguards. See attached flyer above for details.

 

 

 

 

Community Meetings

Bronx Community Board 7 meetings resumed in September. The election for the position of chair was held at the November Board meeting on Nov. 15, as reported, and Yahaira Arias was elected as the new board chair. The position of secretary is now open and nominations will be accepted at the December board meeting. Bronx Community Board 7 (CB7) district manager, Ischia Bravo, has been appointed, effective Jan. 2, 2023, as county clerk for Bronx County at the Supreme Court of The State of New York Appellate Division, first judicial department, as reported. Her replacement has not yet been announced. The latest schedule of meetings for December is attached below. This calendar is subject to change. Contact KCabreraCarrera@cb.nyc.gov to be added to the distribution list. Proof of vaccination is required for in-person meetings.

 

 

The latest Bronx Community Board 8 schedule for December meetings is attached below.

 

BRONX COMMUNITY BOARD 8 latest December calendar
Source: Bronx Community Board 8

The next 52nd Precinct Community Council meeting and Holiday Gathering will be held on Thursday, Dec 15, at Monroe College. See attached flier for more details. Call the 52nd Precinct Community Affairs office at (718) 220 5824 to be added to the email list. The NYPD’s 52nd Precinct is divided into a number of sectors. Find your sector by entering your address in the map here. The precinct also holds regular Build the Block community meetings and invites feedback from residents to discuss issues of common concern.

 

Bedford Mosholu Community Association meetings are usually held on the first Wednesday of each month at 8 p.m. For further details, contact bedfordmosholu@verizon.net.

 

Bronx Residents Have $353,393,103 in Unclaimed Funds

New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli announced last year that Bronx residents have $353,393,103.00 in unclaimed funds, waiting to be paid. In 2022, New York State returned $208,316,341 so far to New Yorkers. For more information about this topic, and how to check if you are owed unclaimed funds, click here.

 

Following the 2020 census, the redistricting process and the general election held on Nov. 8, 2022, representatives at congressional and State senate level will begin representing the redrawn congressional and State Senate districts effective Jan. 1, 2023.

 

Assembly District Redistricting 

The State Assembly districts will be redrawn ahead of the 2024 primaries. Drafts of the redrawn assembly districts were recently released on Dec. 1 by the NY Redistricting Commission, and can be reviewed here.

 

Obtaining a High School Equivalency and / or Commercial Driver’s License (free or loan-free)

VetConnectPro has tools to help #veterans land a great job & launch a career, including:
– military skills translator
– a dashboard w/ NYC gov job postings
– info on civil service exams
– recommended online job training

Create or upload your resume today: https://t.co/xS9E7ZbR7K pic.twitter.com/DNpYbdsqI4

— NYC Department of Veterans' Services (@nycveterans) November 11, 2021

 

Free Transportation for Seniors and People with Disabilities 

Free transportation is available with NYC Department of the Aging for seniors and people with disabilities living in certain community districts in the Bronx. See attached flyer for more information.

 

 

Price Gouging

Price gouging is illegal. Bronxites can report sudden and unexpected increases in consumer goods by calling the consumer hotline toll free at 800-697-1220. This line is available seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. for consumers. For more information on this topic, click here.

 

Black Entrepreneurs NYC (BE NYC)

Black entrepreneurs face enormous barriers and are vastly underrepresented among New York City’s business owners. While the Black community currently makes up 22% of New York City’s population (1.9 million), just 3.5% of NYC businesses are owned by Black entrepreneurs. There is tremendous potential for more Black-owned businesses to start and grow. In September 2019, in partnership with community members, organizations, advocates, and leaders, Black Entrepreneurs NYC (BE NYC), was launched to help create equity of opportunity by advancing Black entrepreneurship. More information is available here.

 

Free Training from NYC Department of Small Business Services

The NYC Department of Small Business Services is providing no-cost, online training to help business owners and employees in NYC. Click here for more information: http:// nyc.gov/trainingemployees. In addition and as reported, during National Small Business Week 2022, Small Business Services (SBS) Commissioner Kevin D. Kim also encouraged small businesses to avail of a range of other supports available to New York City small businesses. Click here for more information.

 

New Urgent Care Opening 

A Bronx County Medical Society physician opened a New Urgent Care across the street from Montefiore Hospital at 161 East Gun Hill Road on Wednesday, June 22, “in efforts to reduce inpatient admissions in hospitals, while also educating the public on what Urgent Care can support, especially for non-emergencies as well as supportive care in the community.” For more information, go to: www.mydocurgentcare.com.

 

Norwood Community Library 

Norwood Community Library distributes free books at different pop-up events around the borough but also has a library mailbox based at the Keeper’s House, located at 3400 Reservoir Oval East in Norwood. More information about the library can be found here.

 

Building Skills NYC is offering a free, 3-month training program in HVAC (heating, ventilation and air-conditioning). Flyer attached further below with more details.

 

 

Illegal Dumping

 

NYC Paid Safe and Sick Leave 

NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) advises that paid safe and sick leave is covered for all workers who:

• seek diagnosis or treatment of an illness, injury, or health condition;
• are sick, including from side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine;
• have to take kids to get the COVID-19 vaccine;
• need preventive care;
• have to quarantine;
• seek safety because of domestic violence, unwanted sexual contact, stalking, or human trafficking; or have to care for a family member for the reasons above.

 

For more information about the NYC Paid Safe and Sick Leave Law or to file a complaint, visit nyc.gov/workers.
All covered workers have the same rights and protections under the Law, regardless of immigration status.
Contact NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection: Call 311 and say “Paid Safe and Sick Leave” | Visit nyc.gov/workers | Email OLPS@dca.nyc.gov.

 

Kingsbridge Heights Community Center Programs

Kingsbridge Heights Community Center provides a range of helpful programs to the local community for all age-groups. For more information, click here.