|
|
|
Budget season is here! This means long days combing through line items, researching equitable solutions, asking department commissioners difficult questions, and ongoing negotiations. I applaud Budget Director Annette Guzman, Comptroller Chasse Rehwinkel, and Chief Financial Officer Jill Jaworski for their tireless work to design and answer to the Mayor’s budget recommendations. I hear you and many of Chicagoans’ concerns about the property tax proposal, and know that I am firmly committed to finding alternative revenue sources to avoid the increase. |
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The budget schedule is above for anyone wishing to know more. If you have any revenue suggestions or specific questions for specific departments, please reach out to my Legislative Aide at marie@the26thward.org. The budget process becomes more democratic when constituents participate - don’t hesitate to let your voice be heard. |
|
On Thursday evening, my chief of staff along with ALSO conducted a safety walk on Rockwell between Hirsch and Potomac. They were able to speak with over 20 households. Neighbors submitted requests for rat abatement and new garbage bins. Overall, neighbors are well. We thank them for taking time to talk to us, and we thank them for the care they have over our community. |
|
I’m excited to share some upcoming events and office updates with you! I will be hosting our Community Safety Town Hall on Tuesday, November 12th, from 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM at McCormick YMCA. alongside 25th District Councilors, DCO’s and CAPS officers, ALSO, BUILD, PRCC, Rincón, and Wright College Humboldt Park. This is an opportunity to discuss crime data, hear updates from violence prevention organizations, and get insights from police district councils. SIGN UP HERE to be part of this conversation.
Business owners and entrepreneurs, I’m hosting a Business Summit on Wednesday, November 13th at the National Puerto Rican Museum, from 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM. Come learn about licensing, permitting, grants, and more from the City of Chicago’s Business Affairs and Consumer Protection team. Take advantage of this opportunity. SIGN UP HERE.
On Friday, November 15th, we’ll be distributing turkeys for the holidays at our Annual Turkey Giveaway at New Life Covenant Church from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Turkeys will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to arrive early. |
|
|
Please note, the 26th Ward Office will be closed on Monday, November 11th in observance of Veteran’s Day, and on Friday, November 15th for the Turkey Giveaway (we’ll reopen at 2:00 PM). I look forward to seeing many of you at these events. Let’s continue to build a strong and connected community!
|
|
|
I have been incredibly contemplative this week, distilling not only an exceptionally challenging City budget to balance, but also preparing for the potential federal policies changes that may impact future budgets. A phrase I keep hearing is that we are the same nation now as we were when we went to bed Tuesday, and that feels affirming. No matter what the future holds, I am the same person you entrust to center our community’s values, and I am more committed than ever to ensure neighbors feel safe, supported, and empowered. Illinois will remain a refuge for those seeking reproductive care, Chicago will remain a Welcoming City, and our community will remain as resilient as ever. As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office. Let’s continue to work together to build a future we can be proud of. |
|
In solidarity,
Jessie Fuentes, 26th Ward Alderperson |
|
|
|
|
Office Closures This Week |
|
|
Property Tax Appeal Workshop 11/12 |
|
|
26 Ward Business Summit 11/13 |
|
|
ILUH Winter Fundraiser 11/14 |
|
| Join the Illinois Union of the Homeless’ Winter Fundraiser!
Help raise funds for essential medical and survival supplies for Chicago’s homeless community.
Thursday, November 14, 6-9 PM
25th Ward IPO Office, 2102 W Cermak
Special guests: Alderperson Byron Sigcho-Lopez and Alderperson Jessie Fuentes. Your support makes a difference! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Annual Turkey Give Away 11/19 |
|
|
Jefferson Townships Reassessments |
|
|
|
| Youth ages 14-21 are encouraged to apply to be part of the 26th Ward Youth Council! Be part of the participatory budgeting process and help guide me in determining legislative goals. Apply at bit.ly/youth26. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Join the Call for a New Non-Congregate Shelterin Humboldt Park! |
|
 |
As the Alderperson of the 26th Ward, I advocate for compassionate solutions for our residents, including the unhoused in Humboldt Park. Unlike traditional shelters, Non-congregate shelters provide private, dignified living spaces. Support our initiative by signing a petition to urge the City of Chicago to establish a non-congregate shelter in Humboldt Park, promoting long-term housing stability.
SIGN THE PETITION
|
|
Street Sweeping Map & Schedule |
|
 |
Street sweeping takes place between April and November. Click map to enlarge. |
|
|
 |
|
|
The 26th Ward's zoning process requires anyone requesting a zoning change to first complete a zoning intake form. After review, they present their request to the Zoning Advisory Committee and answer questions. In some cases, they may also present at a community input meeting. |
|
 |
We are currently reviewing zoning change requests for the following properties. |
|
|
| 1433 N Hamlin Ave 3949 W. Armitage Ave 3330 W Armitage Ave
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Go CPS Deadline Extension |
|
| Deadline Extended: until 5 p.m. on November 22, 2024 for CPS programs in the 2025-26 school year.
For students entering kindergarten through ninth grade in 2025-26 High School: Selective enrollment, IB, STEM, Arts, CTE, and more
HSAT Testing for Non-CPS Students: Final test: November 23-24, 2024
cps.edu/gocps or contact (773) 553-2060 or gocps@cps.edu. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Diverse Learners Recovery Fund |
|
|
The Diverse Learners Recovery Fund Program provides financial assistance to families of children with disabilities. The Diverse Learners Recovery Fund provides a one-time grant of $500 to K-12 students with disabilities through a lottery. To date, the program has selected and awarded 1,000 students with disabilities. DEADLINE is 11/15/24 the eligibility requirements are: Reside in the City of Chicago Household income: less than 300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) Students enrolled in K-12 Public or Private Schools Student has a disability covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Up to 2 eligible students per household
Application: www.AdaMOPD.com Questions: MOPD@adasmckinley.org (312) 561-6965. |
|
Enroll Your Student with Tutoring Chicago |
|
| Tutoring Chicago is a free program offering regular tutoring to economically disadvantaged students, and they are expanding to a new location in Mozart Park.
They are still accepting student applications and recruiting volunteers to help tutor their students - sign up your child today!
Visit www.tutoringchicago.org |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Emergency Heating Repair Program Now Open! The City of Chicago's Emergency Heating Repair Program (EHRP) is providing grant assistance to eligible homeowners for critical furnace and boiler repairs. Open enrollment is from November 1, 2024, to April 1, 2025. Apply now, as funds are limited and granted on a first-come, first-served basis. 📞 For assistance or to apply, call 311, visit the CHI311 app, or go to www.chicago.gov/ehrp. Ensure a warm winter—act now! |
|
Chicago Public Library November Events |
|
| It’s a new month and the Chicago Public Library has events for you from arts and crafts to film screenings and hands-on workshops, there's something for everyone, including activities for teens, kids, and adults.
You can explore unique offerings. Make sure to check out the full schedule for events at the Logan Square and Humboldt Park branches.
For more details, visit: Chicago Public Library Events. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Oak Park Turkey Give Away 11/9 |
|
| Get ready for a Turkey Giveaway hosted by Commissioner Tara Stamps and CountyCare! On November 9, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 6614 W North Ave, Oak Park, IL, The first 200 people will receive a turkey and two family-sized sides (one per family). All food items will be frozen and come with heating instructions. Don't miss out on this chance to enjoy a holiday meal with your loved ones! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Vaccines: I’ll Hold Your Hand 11/9 |
|
| Get Your Vaccines with Support at the Church of God LeMoyne Street! Saturday, November 9, 11:00AM-2:00 PM 3301 W. LeMoyne St. Vaccines available for: COVID-19, Flu, RSV, and Shingles. Everyone 6 months and older is encouraged to get the updated COVID-19 and annual flu shots. Bring your insurance card, and community members will be there to support you through the process. Call to Register: (312) 900-5044 Stay protected this season with a caring hand by your side! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Find a Pumpkin Smash Near You!
Join us on Saturday, November 9, 2024, from 10 AM to 2 PM for a fun and eco-friendly Pumpkin Smash! Bring your pumpkins to one of the many Chicago locations to be turned into compost instead of ending up in a landfill. Let’s green our Halloween—don’t trash it, smash it! Visit scarce.org/pumpkins for more locations around Chicagoland. Remember to remove all candles, paint, and decorations before smashing. Let's make a difference together! #PumpkinSmash |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
DOH Housing Workshop 11/9 |
|
|
Small Business Growth Program |
|
| Small Business Growth Program! Are you a South or West Side business owner aiming to grow from six figures to over $1M? The Polsky Center at UChicago offers a 30-week program with targeted support in growth strategy, customer expansion, and business scaling. What You’ll Get: Weekly meetings with coaches and MBA teams Strategy development, service provider access, and up to $5K in vendor services Recruitment: September - November. Program start: January 2025
For details CLICK HERE or email isra.omar@chicagobooth.edu. Don't miss this opportunity to take your business to the next level! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hermosa Soup Kitchen Cocina con Sazón
Hermosa Soup Kitchen at 2100 N. Kildare Ave has delicious meals served with care! The kitchen is open twice a week: Supported by the Greater Chicago Food Depository and Life Impacters, this community effort aims to provide nourishing food for all. Stop by and enjoy a warm meal with your neighbors!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Volunteer with El Mercadito |
|
|
Free English and Citizenship Classes |
|
|
FREE English and Citizenship Classes!
After Thanksgiving, join us for free English classes at the Humboldt Park Library!
These 2-hour sessions run for 12 weeks, every Monday and Wednesday from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Citizenship classes are also available! Humboldt Park Library, 1605 N. Troy St.
For more details, contact Literacy Chicago at (312) 858-6020 or reach out to the Library after November 5th at (312) 744-2244. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Enhanced Neighborhood Opportunity Fund |
|
| Neighborhood Opportunity Fund (NOF) application round, opening for 90 days on Nov. 12, 2024. NOF grants of up to $250,000 support vital projects on the South, West, and Southwest Sides, with new benefits including up to 75% project cost coverage, additional technical assistance, and Loan Loss Reserve funding through CDFIs. Learn more about these improvements, upcoming webinars, and community meetings at chicago.gov/nof.
Contact Deputy Commissioner Mary O’Connor at (312) 744-0757 or mary.o'connor@cityofchicago.org |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Humboldt Park Health Wellness Center |
|
 |
Become a Charter Member at the New Humboldt Park Health Wellness Center! Join now and enjoy exclusive benefits: Waived $150 joining fee and a FREE Charter Member T-shirt This limited-time offer is available only for the first 500 Charter Members who sign up before the grand opening!
For details, visit HPHWellness.care, email infowellness@hph.care, or call (773) 537-9200. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to be part of the Humboldt Park Health Wellness Center community! |
|
GFPI Community Fund DEADLINE 11/11 |
|
|
🌱 Apply Now for the 2024 GFPI Community Fund! 🌟 Applications are open until November 11th—don’t miss out! Are you a farmer, food business, or organization within 250 miles of Chicago? The 2024 GFPI Community Fund offers flexible grant funding to support healthy, sustainable food access. APPLY HERE
|
|
|
|
📦 Package Protection Tips 🚚✨ 🔍 Track your deliveries and stay informed with alerts 📭 Safe delivery locations and plan for secure drop-off locations. 📝 Add delivery instructions for secure drop-offs and consider requesting a signature 🚪💪📦 Let’s keep your packages safe and sound! |
|
|
|
Introductory Guide to City Services |
|
| Want to learn how to access city resources and take an active role in your community? Download our Introductory Guide to City Services. The guide includes: Steps to submit an infrastructure request, Host a community event Get immigration, re-entry or domestic violence support Find your elected officials Engage with various city departments How to access critical services.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
McCormick YMCA Food Distribution |
|
|
Court-Based Rental Assistance Program |
|
|
CBRAP offers up to $15,000 in emergency rental assistance for households in eviction court due to non-payment of rent. Funds can cover past due rent, court costs (up to $500), and two months of future rent. Payments go directly to landlords, who must agree to dismiss eviction proceedings, helping tenants stay housed. This assistance does not need to be repaid.
Eligible households must live in Illinois and earn at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Assistance is one-time only, and households cannot reapply after receiving payment. Eligible tenants and landlords can start an application online at www.illinoishousinghelp.org. Additional information about CBRAP can be found at www.illinoishousinghelp.org/resources. |
|
|
|
Chicago Senior Risk Assessment Program |
|
| The Chicago Seniors At Risk Assessment Program provides free fire/fall safety assessments for individuals ages 65 or over and those with a disability.
Chicago Fire Department members will assess the home for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as other fire and fall hazards.
Call to schedule an appointment. Phone: (312) 747-6691 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Free Chore Services from DFSS for 60+ Seniors |
|
 |
Foster Care: Ready to Make a Difference? |
|
 |
Free Classes at Humboldt Park Library |
|
| Need help with computer or tech skills?
The Humboldt Park Branch is now offering one-on-one CyberNavigator Technology Tutoring!
Available in English and Spanish, sessions are by appointment and can last up to an hour.
Get personalized support M- TH, 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM.
To make an appointment, visit the library or email HumboldtParkCybNav@gmail.com. Don’t miss out on this great resource!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Chicago Rents connects landlords with tenants through various housing subsidy programs, offering guaranteed rent, vacancy filling, and personalized support. Created in response to COVID-19, it centralizes property partner relationships and helps Chicagoans in need of housing. For additional information, please visit: allchicago.org/chicagorents. If you are a landlord interested in joining the Chicago Rents program, you can click here to apply.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Special Concession Opportunity with the Chicago Park District |
|
| The Chicago Park District has opened its Notice of Application for a Special Concession Opportunity for 2025, which presents substantial opportunity for small businesses. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Emergency Supplemental Victims Fund |
|
| The Emergency Supplemental Victims Fund (ESVF) provides economic relief to victims and survivors of gunshot wounds and homicides. ESVF has now expanded to 15 priority communities with the highest levels of violence.
You must work with a victim advocate from one of the funded delegate organizations that administers the program. See chicago.gov/ESVF for the complete list of funded organizations. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Residential Electronic Recycling |
|
| ♻️ Residential Electronics Recycling Program 💻
It’s easier than ever to recycle your old electronics in Chicago!
Drop off items like computers, monitors, TVs, printers, & more at designated city locations from April 1st -December 30th 🗓️ Multiple locations across the city, specific days each month
For a full list of items and drop-off details, visit CLICK HERE
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Don’t Let a Tick Make You Sick! |
|
|
If you find a tick, don't panic! IDPH has released an infographic to demonstrate the proper protocol for removing ticks from oneself, family, friend, and even your furry friends. To learn more about tick prevention and removal and other pest control information please visit IDPH Site here. |
|
|
The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) has introduced a new and improved interactive calendar, which you can click here to access. One of the key features of this calendar is the inclusion of the yearly meeting calendar for both the Commission for Public Safety and your Local District Councils. By simply visiting this website, you can find the dates, times, and locations of all scheduled meetings. 14th Police District Council Join elected District Councilors every first Saturday of the month at 1pm to work for better police accountability, restorative justice, and evidence based approaches to public safety. Please sign up at bit.ly/do14news for Councilor David Orlikoff's newsletter or email David.Orlikoff@cityofchicago.org with questions. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Looking for a rewarding career working with children? Chicago Public Schools invites you to the CPS Job Fair! Thursday, November 14, 10 am–1 pm 7621 South Greenwood Full-time: Special Education Assistant, School Counselor, Nurse, Social Worker, and more. Part-time: Substitute Teacher, School Security Officer, Bus Driver, and more.
Bring your resume! Register HERE. For applications or cps.edu/careers. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Free Course: Photovoltaic System Fundamentals Kickstart your career in renewable energy with a FREE 30-hour course from April 1 to May 1, 2025. Learn about solar power systems, energy conversion, regulations, and more. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:00 - 8:00 PM
Offered by IL IBEW Renewable Energy Fund Only 25 seats available—apply now: Apply Here |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| The Illinois Department of Human Services is hosting virtual recruitment presentations offering career opportunities in fields like business, healthcare, and public service. Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply, with competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and up to 5% extra pay for bilingual positions. Presentations are available in English and Spanish. Learn more about job opportunities, benefits, and how to enhance your application.
To register for the next virtual session, visit idhs.state.il.us/jobs or scan the QR code.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Explore Careers in Renewable Energy! Interested in solar power and a career in renewable energy? Join the Photovoltaic System Fundamentals course, a FREE 30-hour program from April 1 - May 1, 2025. Classes are Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:00 - 8:00 PM. Space is limited—only 25 seats available!
Apply now and secure your spot: Application Link. For more info, contact Arturo Velasquez Institute or Wilbur Wright College. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Ready to take the next step in your career? The National Latino Education Institute (NLEI) offers community workforce services for success in today’s job market! Get 1-on-1 support for resume building, interview prep, and high-skilled training with job placement assistance. Must be 18+, have a photo ID, and meet eligibility requirements. For more info: education@nlei.org or call 773-395-1924 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Click Here to view and apply for Chicago Department of Public Health jobs |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Shipping & Receiving Training - visit sr.gwtp.org for more info 12-week training at no cost, includes supportive services once enrolled Average $18+/hour wage upon job placement Training Includes:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
If you know someone looking for reproductive justice resources in Chicago, they can go to this Department of Public Health resource page to use the City’s digital community resource directory. There is also a free talkline (1-888-493-0092) where operators are available to share information on various reproductive justice options. |
|
|
|
| If you need assistance with a city service, let us know! You can submit your request through our website, by giving us a call, or submitting a request directly to 311.chicago.gov. Our team is here to provide the support you need and ensure our community thrives. |
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property Tax Appeal Workshop 11/6 |
|
