Editor’s Note: Check back for more updates as we add more events.
Transportation Updates
For updates on Bronx Street and Bridge closures, subway changes, and other transportation-related updates, click here.
Friendly Voices Program for Seniors
If you are an older New Yorker feeling lonely or isolated, NYC Ageing can connect you with a friendly volunteer to talk with over the phone or video chat. Call (212)-Ageing-NYC (212) 244 -6469 and ask about the Friendly Voices Program.
Liz Krueger’s 2023 Virtual Roundtable for Boomers & Seniors
A virtual roundtable for Boomers and seniors will be held on Thursday, May 11. See attached flier below for more information. Register here.
Flier courtesy of the event sponsors
Understanding Elder Abuse
SHOPP Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) Elder Justice Program is presenting a series of Understanding Elder Abuse workshops through June 28. See attached flier for more information.
Flier courtesy of the event organizers
NYC Parks Stewardship Program
Volunteer with NYC Parks Stewardship Program. See attached flier below for more details.
Flier courtesy of NYC Department of Parks & Recreation
Mobile Office Hours for District 11 City Councilman Eric Dinowitz
The councilman said his constituency district office, located at 277 West 231st Street, is under construction and is set to be completed soon. While this happens, his team is hosting mobile office hours at public libraries across the district, and he said residents can stop by anytime between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. during these designated mobile office hours.
The team will be available at Mosholu Library, 285 East 205th Street on the first Monday of the month, at Van Cortlandt Library, 3882 Canon Place, on the second Tuesday of the month, at Riverdale Library, 5540 Mosholu Avenue, on the third Wednesday of the month, and at Kingsbridge Library, 291 West 231st Street, on the last Thursday of the month. Call (718) 549-7300 to reach the team.
Assemblyman George Alvarez New Office Opening
Assemblyman George Alvarez formally opened his new constituency office on Sunday, April 30. It is located at 2633 Webster Avenue, 1st Floor, Bronx, NY 10458. The number is (718) 933-2204. Details of the services provided by his office are outlined in the attached flier below.
Flier courtesy of Assemblyman George Alvarez
Constituency Hours for State Sen. Robert Jackson (S.D. 31)
Details of State Sen. Robert Jackson’s constituency office hours can be found in the attached flier below.
Flier courtesy of State Sen. Robert Jackson.
Get your IDNYC
Get your ID NYC. See attached flier below for details.
Flier courtesy of State Sen. Gustavo Rivera (S.D. 33)
Bronx CB7 Veterans’ Resource Fair
Bronx Community Board 7 is hosting a Veterans’ Resource Fair on June 3, 2023. See attached flier below for more details.
Flier courtesy of Bronx Community Board 7
Upcoming Public Hearings
For details of upcoming public hearings, click here and here.
Potential End of Free COVID-19 Test Kits
NYC Health +Hospitals distributes free COVID-19 test kits at libraries, cultural centers, etc. thanks to funding from the federal government. That funding will end on May 11 when an emergency order is lifted and the program’s future is uncertain, according to Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. Residents still have time to stock up. Check your local public library for details.
Lead Pipe Right to Know Act Passes Senate
State Sen. Gustavo Rivera (S.D. 33)’s Lead Pipe Right to Know Act passed in the Senate on April 25. The senator said there is no safe level of lead in drinking water and the bill will require public water systems to take service line inventories and make such information available to New Yorkers. It will also codify federal requirements and State guidance for each water utility to develop a comprehensive inventory of all the service lines. He said this information is needed to understand the full scale of the lead service line problem in New York State. The bill awaits passage in the Assembly.
Veterans Appreciation Luncheon
A Veterans Appreciation Luncheon will be held during Bronx Week 2023 on Wednesday, May 10. See attached flier for details.
Flier courtesy of the event sponsors
Potential End of Free COVID-19 Test Kits
NYC Health +Hospitals distributes free COVID-19 test kits at libraries, cultural centers, etc. thanks to funding from the federal government. That funding will end on May 11 when an emergency order is lifted and the program’s future is uncertain, according to Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine. Residents still have time to stock up. Check your local public library for details. See attached flier below for test kit pick-up sites in The Bronx.
Flier courtesy of NYC Health + Hospitals
Asthma Awareness Month
May 2 marked World Asthma Day and May is Asthma Awareness Month. Asthma is a lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. In New York City, according to health authorities, asthma disproportionately affects Black and Latino children living in very high poverty neighborhoods. The Bronx has some of the highest rates per 10,000 children according to health officials. For more information and resources on curbing asthmas rates, click here.
Source: NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene
Auto Theft at Car Washes
The NYPD has warned of increased auto theft at car washes. They recommend keeping your vehicle in sight at all times, and prior to your vehicle being dried, to have the attendant turn off the vehicle, remove the keys, and hand them to you.
New Bill to Address Gun Violence
Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz (A.D. 81) has introduced a new bill, A2882, which would require licensed gunsmiths and gun store owners to post multiple notices in their store alerting customers about the significant increase in the risk of suicide, deaths during domestic abuse, and the unintentional deaths to children, household members, and others when there is access to a firearm in the home. The notice would also provide the phone number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for people or loved ones who are experiencing distress and/or depression.
The notice would be given to every consumer who purchases a firearm at the point of sale. The bill is modeled on a law enacted in Westchester. Dinowitz said that in 2018, a Swiss-based research project found that for every 100 residents in the U.S., there were 120.5 firearms with a total of 390 million guns in circulation.
Charity Yard Sale
Bedford Park Congregational Church, located at 309 East 201st St., Bronx, NY 10458, will be holding a yard sale on Saturday, May 20, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is a basement clearance sale of chairs, tables and other items collected over the church’s 100+ years.
New York State Primary Elections June 27 Key Dates
Request your absentee ballot online or by mail by Monday, June 12. Register to vote via https://nycvotes.turbovote.org/?r=votingnyc by Saturday, June 17. Update your address if you have moved in order to vote on Primary Day by Saturday, June 17. Early voting takes place from Saturday, June 17, to Sunday, June 25. Visit https://findmypollsite.vote.nyc/ to find your early voting site and hours. Request an absentee ballot in person by Monday, June 26. To find your borough Board of Elections office, visit https://vote.nyc/page/contact-us.
Polls are open on Primary Election Day, Tuesday, June 27, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Visit https://findmypollsite.vote.nyc/ to find your Election Day poll site. Return your absentee ballot by mail (postmark required) or drop it off at a poll site by Tuesday, June 27.
National Small Business Week
The Bronx Chamber of Commerce, with Bank of America is hosting a virtual workshop entitled Pivoting a Small Business on May 11 at 10 a.m. Click here to register.
Grants for Small Businesses
Bronx Chamber of Commerce advises that The Greg Hill Foundation’s Restaurant Strong and Grubhub’s Community Fund wish to further aid small business restaurants by providing them with the opportunity to grow. The Restaurant Strong Grant, made possible by the Grubhub Community Fund, will provide $1.25 MILLION to small business restaurants in different U.S. cities, including New York City. Click here for more details.
Bronx Chamber of Commerce advises that the Five-Borough Chamber Alliance, and the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey – the DoorDash Accelerator for Local Restaurants. The Accelerator aims to increase access to restaurant education to help small businesses adapt, grow, and thrive. The 8-week program will provide $10,000 in grants and a training program to selected restaurant owners in New York and New Jersey. Click here for more information.
Annual Blood Drive
New York Blood Center (NYBC) and MTA Metro-North Railroad will be hosting their 11th annual blood drive on Thursday, May 11, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Vanderbilt Hall at Grand Central Terminal. MTA Metro-North Railroad has been a long-time partner of NYBC, and its sponsorship over the years has generated a total of 2757 donations which have saved the lives of up to 8271 area patients. After testing, each blood donation can save up to three lives.
Assembly District Redistricting
The State Assembly districts will be redrawn ahead of the 2024 primaries. Drafts of the redrawn assembly districts were released on Dec. 1, 2022 by the NY Redistricting Commission. The latest plan released April 20 can be reviewed here.
Mental Health Resources for Mothers
Mental health resources are available for mothers. See attached flier for more information.
Flier courtesy of NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene
Traffic Signal to be Installed at Bainbridge Ave
In efforts to address traffic congestion, NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) will install a new traffic signal at Bainbridge Avenue between East 210th Street and East Gun Hill Road in Norwood. The work is scheduled to be completed by July 31, 2023.
Lead Pipe Right to Know Act Passes Senate
State Sen. Gustavo Rivera (S.D. 33)’s Lead Pipe Right to Know Act passed in the Senate on April 25. The senator said there is no safe level of lead in drinking water and the bill will require public water systems to take service line inventories and make such information available to New Yorkers. It will also codify federal requirements and State guidance for each water utility to develop a comprehensive inventory of all the service lines. He said this information is needed to understand the full scale of the lead service line problem in New York State. The bill awaits passage in the Assembly.
Asthma Awareness Month
May 2 marks World Asthma Day and May is Asthma Awareness Month. Asthma is a lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. In New York City, according to health authorities, asthma disproportionately affects Black and Latino children living in very high poverty neighborhoods. The Bronx has some of the highest rates per 10,000 children according to health officials. For more information and resources, visit ,https://www.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/epi/databrief126.pdf.
New Bill to Address Gun Violence
Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz (A.D. 81) has introduced a new bill, A2882, which would require licensed gunsmiths and gun store owners to post multiple notices in their store alerting customers about the significant increase in the risk of suicide, deaths during domestic abuse, and the unintentional deaths to children, household members, and others when there is access to a firearm in the home. The notice would also provide the phone number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for people or loved ones who are experiencing distress and/or depression.
The notice would be given to every consumer who purchases a firearm at the point of sale. The bill is modeled on a law enacted in Westchester. Dinowitz said that in 2018, a Swiss-based research project found that for every 100 residents in the U.S., there were 120.5 firearms with a total of 390 million guns in circulation.
Affordable Housing Lotteries
NYC Department of Housing, Preservation and Development (HPD) launched an affordable housing lottery for housing units at 1169 River Avenue in Concourse, a 19-story mixed-use building in Concourse, The Bronx, with a deadline of May 22. HPD also launched a lottery for housing units at 1760 Grand Avenue, a 7-story, mixed-use building in Morris Heights with a deadline of May 19, and a separate affordable housing lottery for units at 2441 Crotona Avenue, a 7-story residential building in Belmont with a deadline of June 20. Visit www.norwoodnews.org, and search for “affordable housing” for more information.
An affordable housing lottery helpline is available on (212) 863-7990 or via
email at nychousingconnect@hpd.nyc.gov. For information on applying for affordable housing for people with disabilities, please call (212) 863-6486 or email accessibility@hpd.nyc.gov. Housing ambassadors can be reached at ambassadors@hpd.nyc.gov.
Switch Replacement Work on D Line
The MTA announced that switch replacement work will begin on Monday, May 15, at 5 a.m. through Monday, July 3, at 5 a.m. on the B, D, F and M Sixth Avenue subway lines. These switches near West 4th Street in Manhattan will allow the B, D, F, and Mtrains to move between the uptown local and express tracks. As a result, there will be several service changes on the A, B, C, D, F and M lines effective May 15. Click here for more information.
Help with Academic Goals
Bronxworks and Fordham University wants to connect with residents who may be interested in getting extra support around their academic or career goals. See attached flier for more information.
Flier courtesy of BronxWorks and Fordham University.
Volunteers Wanted as Mentors
I’Raise Girls & Boys International is looking for male volunteers to act as mentors to young people. See attached flier for more information.
Flier courtesy of I’Raise
Abortion Access in NYC
Abortion remains safe and legal in New York City according to the City’s health department. On April 7, a federal judge in Texas ruled to suspend FDA approval of the medication abortion drug mifepristone, potentially threatening nationwide access to the drug. The judge stayed the ruling for 7 days to allow the federal government time to appeal the decision.
Medication abortion continues to be available at the City’s Sexual Health Clinics and NYC Health + Hospitals locations. Should mifepristone become unavailable, City officials said they will continue to make medication abortion accessible to all in NYC by shifting to a misoprostol-only treatment regime. If you are looking for help finding an abortion in New York City, call the Abortion Access Hub on 1-877-NYC—AHUB o 1-877-692-2482 or visit nyc.gov/abortion for more information. Learn more at https://on.nyc.gov/3h2fQvl.
Emergency Preparedness
See attached flier for an emergency preparedness session on May 16.
Flier courtesy of the event sponsors
Recursos para Pequeños Empresas
Unos recursos para pequeños empresas son disponible. Ver el fichero abajo para más información.
Folleto courtesía de MPC / NYC Department of Small Business Services
Workforce Development Program
Kingsbridge Heights Community Center offers an entrepreneurial workforce development program. See attached flier for more details.
Flier courtesy of Kingsbridge Heights Community Center
Salary Negotiation Help
New York State Department of Labor can help with applications, interviews, job offers and salary negotiation. If you need advice, visit https://dol.ny.gov/salary-negotiation-guide.
Lost Dog
A reward of $100 is being offered for information leading to the safe return of Prince, a lost dog, per posters seen around the Reservoir Oval East. The pup is described as 2 years old and ran away while walking with his owner. He was last seen in the Grand Concourse area. He is described as very friendly and probably scared. Call (475) 477-7312 or (203) 889-7784 or email Jonn58935@gmail.com with any information.
Photo courtesy of Prince’s owner
Charity Yard Sale
Bedford Park Congregational Church, located at 309 East 201st St., Bronx, NY 10458, will be holding a yard sale on Saturday, May 20, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is a basement clearance sale of chairs, tables and other items collected over the church’s 100+ years.
Summer Youth Employment Program Deadline Extended
In late March, the City government announced that the application deadline for the Summer Youth Employment Program has been extended to an unspecified date. Apply now to gain valuable work experience and earn extra cash this summer. To apply, visit https://application.nycsyep.com/.
New York State Primary Elections June 27 Key Dates
Request your absentee ballot online or by mail by Monday, June 12. Register to vote via https://nycvotes.turbovote.org/?r=votingnyc by Saturday, June 17. Update your address if you have moved in order to vote on Primary Day by Saturday, June 17. Early voting takes place from Saturday, June 17, to Sunday, June 25. Visit https://findmypollsite.vote.nyc/ to find your early voting site and hours. Request an absentee ballot in person by Monday, June 26. To find your borough Board of Elections office, visit https://vote.nyc/page/contact-us.
Polls are open on Primary Election Day, Tuesday, June 27, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Visit https://findmypollsite.vote.nyc/ to find your Election Day poll site. Return your absentee ballot by mail (postmark required) or drop it off at a poll site by Tuesday, June 27.
Kingsbridge Armory Survey
The working group behind the redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory, Together for Kingsbridge, is requesting the public to provide their input on what they would like to see in place in the armory by completing a survey, which has been extended to May 15, and which can be found here. It is also available in Spanish. See also our latest story on the armory.
Con Ed Works
Con Edison will be carrying out works in Bronx Community District 7 from March 28 to April 26, 2023. See attached flier below for more details. We are checking with Con Edison if the end date has been extended and will provide a further update in this regard.
Flier courtesy of Bronx Community Board 7 and Con Edison
Bronx Borough President Hosts Prom Drive
The Office of the Bronx Borough President will be hosting a Prom Dress & Suit Drive through May 19. See attached flier below for more information.
Flier courtesy of the Office of the Bronx Borough President
2022-23 Statewide Community Air Monitoring Initiative
NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is undertaking a statewide community air quality monitoring effort in ten disadvantaged communities that are home to an estimated five million New Yorkers. Air quality monitoring will focus on locations in these communities with high air pollution burdens.
This effort will help DEC target strategies to reduce air pollution, including the greenhouse gas emissions contributing to climate change in these burdened areas to help achieve the goals of the State’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. The results of the monitoring will drive solutions to reduce greenhouse gases and other harmful air pollutants to protect public health.
The Bronx is one of the communities selected. A map of the Bronx community study boundary is available here. Visit here to view a community fact sheet.
Gun Hill Road Bus Project
NYC Department of Transportation recently provided an update on the Gun Hill Road Bus Project. Click here for more information.
New Trash Curb Collection Time
The usual time for placing trash at the curb for collection changed on April 1. See attached flier for more information.
Flier courtesy of 311
NYS Office of Mental Health Clubhouses
NYS Office of Mental Health Clubhouses exist as a place to go for meaningful things to do and a lifelong community. See attached flier below for more information.
Flier courtesy of the Office of Mental Health
Bronx Week 2023
Food and merchandise vendors are sought for this year’s 2023 Bronx Week Food & Arts Festival, on Sunday, May 21, 2023, which takes place from noon to 6 p.m. along East 161st Street and Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY. Request your application via email at Freddyperezjr@aol.com.
Flier courtesy of Bronx Week 2023 / Ilovethebronx.com
MetroCard Van Schedule for Woodlawn
Woodlawn has been added to the MetroCard Van schedule according to District 11 Councilman Eric Dinowitz. See attached flier below for details.
Flier courtesy of District 11 Councilman Eric Dinowitz
Norwood & Woodlawn Heights Replacement & Distribution of Water Mains
The 2nd Quarter 2023 Reconstruction Newsletter from NYC Department of Construction & Design for the Norwood and Woodlawn Heights area regarding the replacement and distribution of water mains and rehabilitation of sewers is attached below.
Flier courtesy of NYC Department of Construction & Design
Flier courtesy of NYC Department of Construction & Design
Reimagine the Cross Bronx Expressway
Reimagine the Cross Bronx Expressway during a series of public sessions with NYC Department of Transportation and partners. See attached flier below for more details.
Flier courtesy of NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) & Partners
Free Training
Northstar Literacy Digital Literacy and partners host ongoing free training programs, including English language learning and more. See attached flier for details.
Flier courtesy of Northstar Digital Literacy
Color of Justice Law Day Event
The 2023 Color of Justice Law Day Celebration event entitled, “Cornerstones of Democracy: Civics, Civility & Collaboration” will be held at Monroe College, King Hall, 2501 Jerome Avenue, Bronx on Wednesday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. RSVP at bit.ly/lawday23 or email Jody McCalla at scsj@monroecollege.edu.
Flier courtesy of Monroe College
Free Face Shields
Montefiore Health System has advised us it has some boxes of face shields to give away in case anyone would like to pick them up. You can email smoloney@norwoodnews.org or call (929) 318 6595 and leave a contact name & number, and we’ll have them reach out to you.
Photo by Síle Moloney
Internships
VAN CORTLANDT PARK Alliance is hiring for Garden 2 Market and Urban Eco-Teens internships for high school students. See attached flier below for more details.
Flier courtesy of Van Cortlandt Park Alliance
NYC Sexual Health Clinics
NYC sexual health clinics are open across the city and provide low-cost or no-cost services. See attached flier below for more information.
Flier courtesy of NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene
Harm Reduction
NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene explains what is harm reduction. See attached flier for details.
Flier courtesy of NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene
Water Service Interruption
NYC Department of Design & Construction advises residents of a Water Service Interruption. See attached flier for details.
Flier courtesy of NYC Department of Construction & Design
Fire Disaster Relief
The 52nd Precinct Community Affairs and partners are organizing a Fire Disaster Relief Fund for victims affected by a recent major 2-alarm fire. See attached flier for more information.
Flier courtesy of 52nd Precinct Community Council and partners
Community Meetings
The latest schedule of meetings for Bronx Community Board 7 for May can be viewed here. Contact KCabreraCarrera@cb.nyc.gov to be added to the distribution list. Proof of vaccination is required for in-person meetings.
The next Bronx Community Board 8 full board meeting will be held in June (Date TBC). Contact BX08@cb.nyc.gov to be added to the distribution list. Additionally, the board advises that the nominating committee meeting, originally scheduled for Thursday, April 27th, 2023 has been rescheduled to Tuesday, May 2, 2023 at 7 p.m. Join the Zoom Meeting here or join the meeting by phone on +1 (646) 558 8656, using passcode: 2114033690#.
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.
52nd Precinct Community Council Meeting
The 52nd Precinct Community Council Meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of the month, sometimes online and sometimes in person. Call the 52nd Precinct Community Affairs office at (718) 220 5824 to be added to the email list. Meetings usually take place on the third Thursday of each month. 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.
Carpenter Apprenticeship Recruitment Drive
Click here for more details of a Carpenter Apprenticeship Recruitment drive announced by NYS Department of Labor.
Recall of Scooters/Hoverboards
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Jetson Electric Bikes LLC, of Brooklyn, New York, announced the recall of about 53,000 42-volt, Jetson Rogue, self-balancing scooters/hoverboards on March 30, due to a fire hazard and two deaths. According to CPSC and Jetson, the lithium-ion battery packs in the self-balancing scooters/hoverboards can overheat, posing a fire hazard. Click here for more details. See also our recent story on the latest City measures to enhance fire safety and prevantion.
M/WBE Mentoring Program
Applications for the second cohort of the M/WBE mentoring program are open and the deadline is Mary 15. Click here for more details.
The ANHD Morgan Stanley Community Graduate Fellowship
The deadline for the ANHD Morgan Stanley Community Development Graduate Fellowship is May 15. Click here for more details.
Passport Issues
The district team for Rep. Ritchie Torres (NY-15) is hearing from many residents about passport issues and has advised that the U.S. Department of State has announced increasing delays with passport applications. If you or someone you know needs a passport or if yours is expiring, visit http://travel.state.gov to apply now.
Fundraiser for Burial
The Bronx Learning Lounge is sharing a request from one of their @lehmancuny mentees whose mother tragically passed away on April 1, following a cancer illness. They are asking residents to consider donating to help the family find peace in laying their mother to rest with dignity. Click here for more details.
Tibbett’s Brook Daylighting Gets Green Light
The Adams administration has given the green light to uncover Tibbetts Brook and extend the Putnam Greenway in the Van Cortlandt Park through Kingsbridge to the Harlem River. Following years of stalemate, an agreement was reached with railroad freight company, CSX Transportation, to purchase some old railroad property for $11.2 million. This will enable the city to reroute the underground brook above ground, an engineering feat known as “daylighting.”
City officials said removing Tibbetts Brook from the sewer system will create much-needed additional capacity in the borough’s drainage network and is expected to reduce combined sewer overflows by 228 million gallons annually, improving the health of the Harlem River.
Local People Reported Missing in Recent Weeks
A 13-year-old girl was reported missing from Belmont. Click here for more details.
A 15-year-old girl was reported missing from Bedford Park. Click here for more details.
A 15-year-old boy was reported missing from Bedford Park. Click here for more details.
A 14-year-old boy was reported missing from Norwood. Click here for more details.
A 15-year-old girl was reported missing from Fordham Manor. Click here for more details.
A 14-year-old girl was reported missing from Jerome Park. Click here for more details.
A 17-year-old girl was reported missing from Fordham Manor. Click here for more details.
A 13-year-old girl was reported missing from Norwood. Click here for more details.
A 14-year-old girl was reported missing from University Heights. Click here for more details.
A 15-year-old girl was reported missing from Kingsbridge Heights. Click here for more details.
The David Prize
Kingsbridge Library is advising Bronxites that The David Prize is giving away $200K to New Yorkers with big ideas. The David Prize is a celebration of individuals and ideas to create a better, brighter New York. Open to any individuals working in the five boroughs, the Prize welcomes those with the grit and vision to change their communities, culture, and future for good. Head to the official website at https://thedavidprize.org/ to submit your idea, or nominate someone!
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.
KHCC Needs to Fund Repairs
Kingsbridge Heights Community Center (KHCC) has been providing cradle-to-career services to the local community for nearly 50 years. It is now calling on the local community to help fund urgent repairs which are needed to its building (owned by NYC Parks) which cost $4 million. If not completed soon, KHCC will be forced to leave Kingsbridge. KHCC is asking residents to share this on social media tagging @khccnyc, contact local elected officials to request that they secure $2 million to fund the repairs, and ask the City administration to repair the building in 2023.
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. An updated bivalent COVID-19 vaccine boosters are now available for children ages 6 months and older. To learn more and find a vaccination site near you, visit nyc.gov/covidvaccine.
New Onsite Testing for COVID-19/FLU/RSV
New Yorkers experiencing symptoms but who don’t know what they may have can go to any of the dozens of mobile “Test to Treat” sites around the City to get tested for COVID-19, the flu and the RSV virus and if they need it, they can also get an RX for Paxlovid or Tamflu onsite.
Lithium-Ion Safety Tips
The FDNY recently shared some lithium-ion battery safety tips. See attached flier for more details.
Flier courtesy of the FDNY
Fair Fares MetroCard
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.
Car-Sharing Plans by DOT
As confirmed by Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz (A.D. 81), NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) 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.
Online Community Needs Assessment
NYC Department of Youth & Community Development (DYCD) are encouraging residents to take the online community needs assessment today, to hear from New Yorkers about their highest priority needs and priorities for their communities. This data helps inform how DYCD directs funding, designs its programs, assesses program success, and gains insight as to where it needs to improve policies or practices.
The more voices the better, like voting, according to officials. The survey takes under 10 minutes to complete, and any NYC resident (ages 14+) is eligible to participate. Here is an electronic link to the survey. See attached flier below for more information.
Flier courtesy of NYC DYCD
KHCC Needs to Fund Repairs
Kingsbridge Heights Community Center (KHCC) has been providing cradle-to-career services to the local community for nearly 50 years. It is now calling on the local community to help fund urgent repairs which are needed to its building (owned by NYC Parks) which cost $4 million. If not completed soon, KHCC will be forced to leave Kingsbridge. KHCC is asking residents to share this on social media tagging @khccnyc, contact local elected officials to request that they secure $2 million to fund the repairs, and ask the City administration to repair the building in 2023.
New State Law Bans Fees on Tenant-Installed AC
Assembly Member Jeffrey Dinowitz (A.D. 81) announced on Dec. 1, 2022 that his legislation with State Sen. Robert Jackson (S.D. 31) to ban fees for tenant-installed air conditioners has been signed into law by Gov. Kathy Hochul.
Get a Refund on Your Next Rent Increase (Section 8 voucher holders)
Attention New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) Section 8 voucher holders: Find out how you can get a refund on your next rent increase. Click here to sign up: https://on.nyc.gov/3OgGJZ1.
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.
The David Prize
Kingsbridge Library is advising Bronxites that The David Prize is giving away $200K to New Yorkers with big ideas. The David Prize is a celebration of individuals and ideas to create a better, brighter New York. Open to any individuals working in the five boroughs, the Prize welcomes those with the grit and vision to change their communities, culture and future for good. Head to the official website at https://thedavidprize.org/ to submit your idea, or nominate someone!
Flier courtesy of The David Prize
Small Homes Rehab NYCHA Program
New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) has partnered with local agencies to renovate 18 homes throughout the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens and make them available to public housing residents through the Small Homes Rehab-NYCHA Program. NYCHA partnered with NYC Department of Housing, Preservation & Development (HPD), the non-profit, Restored Homes HDFC, an affiliate of Neighborhood Restore HDFC, and Neighborhood Housing Services of Queens to renovate these 18 homes. The initiative is the latest effort by the Adams’ administration to help communities of color throughout New York City build and maintain wealth through homeownership. For more information, click here.
Law on Rats
New York City Mayor Eric Adams signed a set of bills on Nov. 18, 2022 that creates rat mitigation zones and puts 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. Additionally, a new ad campaign to curb street garbage has been launched by NYC Department of Sanitation and the department is also educating kids on how to reduce the rat population in schools. Click here for more details.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams signs rodent-related bills on Nov. 18, 2022. Video courtesy of the Mayor’s Office via YouTube.
Complaint Process for Heat or Hot Water
Officials from NYC Department of Housing, Preservation & Development (HPD) said cold weather is no excuse for a cold apartment. During the day, the inside temperature of residential buildings must be *at least* 68° F when the outside temperature goes below 55°. Overnight, the required minimum temperature is 62° – no matter what.
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.
They said if you cannot get in contact with your property owner, you can file a complaint via 311. They added to make sure to specify the details of the complaint (location, time of day, etc.). They said this helps inspectors get a clearer picture of what issues the unit or building is experiencing. For more information on heat and hot water complaints, visit: https://on.nyc.gov/3GjWexr.
Source: NYC Department of Housing, Preservation & Development
Space Heater Warning
NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene is reminding New Yorkers that while space heaters may keep toes warm, it is important to remember that they are also a fire hazard. They remind residents to be sure to plug such heaters directly into a wall outlet as opposed to into an extension lead, to place it away from flammable items, and never to hang clothes over it. Learn more at https://on.nyc.gov/2RxNRUY.
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
OMNI Cards
OMNY CARDS ALLOW New York City riders to tap and go. See attached flier below for more information.
Flier courtesy of the MTA
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
Scam Alert
The NYPD’s 52nd Precinct is reminding Bronxites to be aware of phone scams. “While there are many types, the common threads between them are that they all are unexpected, about some sort of problem/prize, must be handled immediately, and require money to solve,” police said. “If you receive such a call, hang up‼️”
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
MPV Updates
The MPV epidemic has been declared over. A two-dose MPV vaccination is still available for those eligible. A Bronx mass vaccination site is open at Lincoln Hospital, 234 E 149th Street. Book an appointment by calling 877-829-4692. Visit: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/monkeypox.page for more information.
Affordable Internet Access Program
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) operates an Affordable Connectivity Program to help connect families and households struggling to afford internet service. Find out how you can immediately save $400 per year. Under this federal program, you may be eligible for a discount on internet access. Visit https://www.fcc.gov/acp for more information.
Flier courtesy of NYC Mayor’s Office of Contract Services
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.
NYC Department of Buildings After Hours
Do you have questions about a building project? Drop by NYC Department of Buildings After Hours event to chat one-on-one with DOB experts for solutions and guidance on your project every Tuesday night!
When you need straight answers to your buildings-related questions, sometimes it is better to talk with the experts face to face. That’s why DOB introduced “Buildings After Hours,” a weekly event offering in-person advice and services to New Yorkers every Tuesday at each of its borough offices. Learn more at https://on.nyc.gov/3tm0BAB.
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.
Flier courtesy of Van Cortlandt Park Nature Center
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.
What Seniors Need to Know about Financial Aid for College
FAFSA and TAP Application CompletionSUNY Financial Aid Days
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.
Work Permits for Asylum Seekers
The Commissioner for NYC Immigrant Affairs is joining a host of U.S. cities in calling on the Biden administration to expand work permits to asylum seeks. See below for more information.
Over 50 US Cities call on the Biden Admin to accelerate work permits for asylum seekers. #AsylumSeekers want to work to support themselves & their families. Delays wreak havoc on their lives and receiving communities. #SummitOfTheAmericas #CitiesSummithttps://t.co/E9xmubBBDp pic.twitter.com/v6MSprZv4a
— Commissioner Manuel Castro (NYC Immigrant Affairs) (@MCastroMOIA) April 28, 2023
English Classes & Language Access Help
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. Written translations and in-person or telephonic interpretation for any person requiring assistance is also available. Call (212) 669-7817 or email access@lpc.nyc.gov for more information. Complaints can also be submitted to access@lpc.nyc.gov or by calling 311 for those who may not have received information or assistance in a way that is understandable to them. Click here for more information.
Fair Fares Updates
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.
Protect Yourself against Fraudsters
NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development (HPD) is warning New Yorkers that scammers seek out homeowners who are in foreclosure, behind on their mortgage or bills, and often target seniors, who are especially vulnerable to fraud. While scammers are often clever, here’s how you can protect yourself:
NEVER transfer ownership of your property DON’T send your mortgage payment to anyone other than the company that sends you your mortgage payments DON’T agree to sell any part of your home without first seeking advice from a lawyer you trustCheck out homeownerhelpny.org/handbook for additional resources and tips on how to protect and maintain your home.
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 healthy eating tips can be found at https://bit.ly/3A9yt7J.
Increased Child Care Services
New York City Council has passed legislation to increase accessibility to child care services in New York City. Click here to read our story on the issue.
Car-Sharing Plans by DOT
As recently 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 here.
Flier courtesy of NYC Department of Buildings
SUNY Application Fees Waived
As confirmed by former 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.
MTA WiFi News
The MTA is expanding its WiFi service. For more information, click here.
DACA Decision
According to the group, CUNY Citizenship Now, a court decision issued on Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2022 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, click .
Flier courtesy of CUNY Citizenship Now
Ombudsperson Call Center for Unresolved Repair Issues
Do you have an existing and/or unresolved mold or leak complaint that you need help with? The Ombudsperson Call Center (OCC) is independent of NYCHA and receives complaints by residents who have contacted NYCHA about repair issues but still have concerns regarding mold, leaks and any associated repairs that have not been completed properly or on time. Get in touch with the Ombudsperson Call Center by phone on 1-888-341-7152 to get it resolved, or submit a ticket online at https://on.nyc.gov/37KvvH0.
Citizen Training to Reduce Overdose Deaths
With overdose rates of 75.3 percent in Hunts Pont and Mott Haven, the City announced new measures in Fall 2022 to train citizens on how to reduce overdose deaths. Click here and here for more information.
Neighborhood Map
NYC Department of City Planning released a new City Neighborhood Map in recent months, which can viewed below or a larger version can be viewed here.
Source: NYC Department of Planning
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.
Con Edison Discounts
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.
Flier courtesy of the Office of New York Attorney General
WIC Infant Formula
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.
Flier courtesy of NYS Department of Health
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. Last year, CBS News 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.
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.
Flier courtesy of RAINN
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.
Flier courtesy of CUNY Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy
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.
Flier courtesy of the sponsors
The nonprofit, African Communities Together, has advised that Cameroonian nationals living in the United States may be eligible for TPS, and are offering free legal support for Cameroonians looking to apply for TPS. The designation by the Biden-Harris administration comes after over 5 years of advocacy on the ground by the group and others, according to African Communities Together. Click here for more information.
Property Tax Rebate
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 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.
Flier courtesy of NYC Department of Transportation
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, 2022, 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, 2022, 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 held in the borough last year. 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.)
Flier courtesy of Urban Justice Center / Councilman Kevin Riley
Suicide Awareness Seminar with The Suicide Network
The Suicide Network holds monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of each month in The Bronx to discuss various mental health matters and other topics. See attached flier for more details.
Flier courtesy of The Suicide Network / Bronx Community Board 7
Cash Assistance from Bronxworks
Bronxworks can provide cash assistance to people experiencing an unforeseen crisis. For more information, see the attached flier below.
Flier courtesy of Bronxworks / Bronx Community Board 7
Problems with Health Insurance
Community Health Advocates can help residents who are having problems with health insurance. Please see attached flier for details.
Flier courtesy of Bronxworks / Bronx Community Board 7
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.
Flier courtesy of SSA
Exercise Classes in Cantonese
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.
Flier courtesy of Bronx Community Board 7 / VNSNY Choice
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.
Flier courtesy of New York City Department of Sanitation
Eviction Help
For more information on how to get help if you face eviction, 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
Rights for Delivery Workers in NYC
As of Jan. 24, 2022, delivery workers now have new rights:
- Apps must tell you how much the customer tips for each delivery.
- Apps must tell you your total pay and tips for the previous day.
- You may have better access to restaurant bathrooms when you pick up orders.
Go to: http://on.nyc.gov/33BL6el for more information.
Reduced fares are available for riders who are 65 or older or riders who have qualifying disabilities. The reduced fare is half the base fare. For example, the base fare for subways and local buses is $2.75, so the reduced fare is $1.35. There is also a Reduced-Fare MetroCard for riders who use mobility aids or have service animals. The MTA has resumed processing MetroCard claims, following a pause in processing because of the pandemic. See how to get help with MetroCard problems.
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.
Flyer courtesy of NYC Parks
Flyer courtesy of Councilman Eric Dinowitz / NYC Department of Housing, Preservation & Development
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.
Congressional & State Redistricting Update
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.
Obtaining a High School Equivalency and / or Commercial Driver’s License (free or loan-free)
If you are between the aged between 16 and 24, Mosholu Montefiore Community Center (MMCC) can help you obtain your High School Equivalency and/or Commercial Drivers License through our Advance & Earn program for free. Limited spots are available right now in the Fall cohort. Learn more at www.mmcc.org/advance-earn/ or call right now at (917) 792-3899. To read one testimony, click here. MMCC also offers loan-free culinary training programs with opportunities for paid internships. Go to www.mmcc.org or call (718) 652 0282 for more information.
Job & Career Assistance for Veterans
VetConnectPro has tools to help veterans land a great job and launch a career, including military skills translator, a dashboard with NYC.gob job postings, info on civil service exams, recommended online job training. Create or upload your resume to nyc.gov/vetconnectpro.
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 trainingCreate 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.
Flyer courtesy of Councilman Eric Dinowitz
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.
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.
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Welcome to the Norwood News, a bi-weekly community newspaper that primarily serves the northwest Bronx communities of Norwood, Bedford Park, Fordham and University Heights. Through our Breaking Bronx blog, we focus on news and information for those neighborhoods, but aim to cover as much Bronx-related news as possible. Founded in 1988 by Mosholu Preservation Corporation, a not-for-profit affiliate of Montefiore Medical Center, the Norwood News began as a monthly and grew to a bi-weekly in 1994. In September 2003 the paper expanded to cover University Heights and now covers all the neighborhoods of Community District 7. The Norwood News exists to foster communication among citizens and organizations and to be a tool for neighborhood development efforts. The Norwood News runs the Bronx Youth Journalism Heard, a journalism training program for Bronx high school students. As you navigate this website, please let us know if you discover any glitches or if you have any suggestions. We’d love to hear from you. You can send e-mails to norwoodnews@norwoodnews.org or call us anytime (718) 324-4998.
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