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Neighbors, This week has been full of inspiring moments, from equipping young people with career skills to strengthening our community spaces. Whether it's students exploring the skilled trades, an intern gaining hands-on government experience, or a new community hub taking shape in Humboldt Park, we are working to create opportunities and uplift residents. On Wednesday, I joined the CPS Office of College and Career Success’ Building Chicago’s trades fair at the Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters Training Facility. Over 400 students from all across the city were able to experience hands-on activities like drywall and concrete installation and connect with industry professionals and union laborers. Thank you Mid-America Carpenters for hosting! I am so proud of North-Grand High School for representing 26th Ward! Shoutout to Ms. Mouroukos for chaperoning Alex, Ryan, and Joseph. I can’t wait to visit your senior seminar class before you graduate. |
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Later Wednesday evening, we hosted a community meeting where the Tu Casa Project team presented their vision for a new nonprofit community center at 2626 W. Division and gathered valuable feedback from residents. Thank you to everyone who joined the conversation! Tu Casa is being proposed to fill the gap left by Casa Puertorriqueña, reimagining a space for enrichment, cultural celebration, and community togetherness. The center will offer vocational training, skill-building workshops, and event spaces to serve Humboldt Park’s Puerto Rican community. We’re excited to see this project moving forward! Learn more at tucasaproject.com. |
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Our Bennett Day School intern Leon recently completed his time with us and was able to showcase all that he learned. From constituent services to traffic studies to visiting City Hall, he now has a taste of government work to bring with him to university this fall. One of his projects was studying the Participatory Budgeting submission of redesigning Central Park and Potomac to enhance pedestrian safety. Check out his recommendations, which will be shared with our PB Steering Committee. |
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Thank you to the students, educators, neighbors, and local organizations who continue to show up, contribute, and build with us. In solidarity, Alderperson Jessie Fuentes |
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Hermosa Park located at 2240 N Kilbourn is under construction and CLOSED to the public. All programming has been moved to Blackhawk Park, including day camps. For more information, call 312-746-5014. |
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| I am so excited to be part of Canine Wellness Day TOMORROW. Let’s take care of our pets the way they take care of us. See you there! 🐾💙
📅 Saturday, March 22
⏰ 10 AM – 1 PM
📍 Chicago Ave Community Network Foundation, 3705 W. Chicago Ave ✅ Vaccinations
✅ Microchips
✅ Food & treats
✅ Nail trims & more! Limited spots available—reserve yours today! 👉 HERE
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Coffee with Your Alderperson 3/29 |
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 | ☕🥐Join me for coffee and pastries, get the latest Ward updates, and share your ideas and concerns. 📆Sat, March 29th ⌚10am - 12pm 📍Rica Arepa, 4253 W. Armitage 📝Register at: bit.ly/26coffee |
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|  | ☕🥐 Acompáñeme a tomar café y pasteles, entérese de las últimas novedades del Distrito y comparta sus ideas y preocupaciones. 📆Sábado, 29 de marzo ⌚10am - 12pm 📍Rica Arepa, 4253 W. Armitage 📝Regístrese en: bit.ly/26coffee |
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Property Tax Exemption Day 4/9 |
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| My office, in partnership with Cook County Commissioner Anthony Quezada, is here to help you apply for exemptions, get tax assistance, and access veterans services. 📅 Wednesday, April 9th
📍 2511 W Division St, 10 AM – 5 PM
📞 Call (773) 395-0143 to make an appointment! Whether you need help with property tax relief or permits for the Forest Preserve, we’ve got you covered. Spread the word and stop by! |
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Street Sweeping Map & Schedule |
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Street Sweeping takes place between April and November. |
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Boulevard Landmark District Extension Project |
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The “Logan Square Boulevards District” is a significant part of our community's history and character. An extension of this Landmark District is currently being evaluated. This project builds on decades of historic preservation work and reflects the ongoing commitment of the 26th Ward to maintaining the unique identity of our neighborhoods. On March 6, 2025, the Commission on Chicago Landmarks meeting will consider whether to initiate the consideration process for possible Chicago Landmark designation of an extension to the Logan Square Landmark District on Humboldt and Sacramento Boulevards. The “Logan Square Boulevards District” is a significant part of our community's history and character. An extension would build on decades of historic preservation work and reflect the ongoing commitment of the 26th Ward to encourage sustainable development and safeguard our community’s historic character. You can learn more about the project, review FAQs, and submit your thoughts at: the26thward.org/boulevard-landmarking. A Commission vote to recommend preliminary landmark status would formally initiate the consideration process. This process typically takes 6 to 9 months and would include communication and notices throughout the process. |
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Join the Call for a New Non-Congregate Shelterin Humboldt Park! |
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As Alderperson of the 26th Ward, I advocate for non-congregate shelters in Humboldt Park. These provide private, dignified spaces for the unhoused. Support by signing our petition to urge the City of Chicago to establish one, promoting housing stability. SIGN THE PETITION |
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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. |
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We are currently reviewing zoning change requests for the following properties. |
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1807 & 1805 N. Lawndale 1639 N. Kimball Ave 2556-2558 W Division St 2935 W Augusta Blvd
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| 1751-53 N Spaulding Ave 3330 W Armitage Ave 1608 N St Louis Ave 3340-50 West North Ave
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| 🎉Join us for the 4th annual Teen Bash at Navy Pier’s Aon Grand Ballroom—a FREE event for teens 13-19, presented by Mayor Brandon Johnson, My CHI. My Future., and the Chicago Park District!  March 29th - Navy Pier
🎶 Live music & DJs
🍕 Free food
🎟️ Giveaways & merch
🎮 Video games & 360 cameras
💼 Jobs & resources fair 🎊 Plus, a chance to win Lolla tixs
Celebrate Spring Break with us! Registration is free & first come, first served—grab your ticket HERE |
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Queer Youth Support Group |
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CLCF Scholarship: Deadline 4/11 |
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| The Chicago City Council Latino Caucus Foundation (CLCF) is awarding forty $5,000 scholarships to high school seniors & undergraduates in Chicago! U.S. citizenship is NOT required. 📅 Apply by April 11, 2025 🔗 Apply HERE. Question? info@ccclatinocaucus.org. Don’t miss this opportunity! 📚✨ |
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PROM ATTIRE: DRIVE AND GIVEAWAY |
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| Help make prom night special for our local students! Alternative Schools Network is collecting new & gently used formalwear and accessories for young ladies & men. 📅 Feb 3 - April 1, 2025
⏰ 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
📍 1807 W. Sunnyside, Chicago, IL 60640 💜 Donate today! Click Here
📩 Questions? Contact Jessica Taylor at jtaylor@asnchicago.org |
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El Rescate: Support for Homeless Youth |
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| El Rescate: Supporting Homeless Youth (18-24) Are you or someone you know in need of safe, supportive housing? El Rescate offers:
✅ Independent Transitional Living Program
✅ Wraparound Services for LGBTQ+ and HIV+ youth
📍 Location: 2703 W Division St
📞 Intake Line: 872-829-2662 Empowering our youth with the resources they need to thrive.
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 | A Platform for Emerging Jazz Musicians
Under the direction of pianist Adrian Ruiz, La Cantera is SRBCC’s Afro-Caribbean Jazz performance ensemble for young adults aged 19-24. GET TICKETS HERE |
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🎭 Upcoming Events at SRBCC! 🎶 All events are free with RSVP, except for Aquí, Somos: A Fundraiser with Los Pleneros de la Cresta (May 10), supporting SRBCC & Acción Valerosa. With arts funding uncertain, this event is critical to sustaining our cultural hub and supporting independent artists. ✨ Upcoming Highlights:
🎼 La Ruta Ana Otero (U.S. Premiere) – March 22
🎸 The Latin Side of Jazz Guitar – April 12 🎫 GET TICKETS HERE |
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Women’s History Month 3/22 |
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Property Tax Save Exemptions 3/31 |
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Cook County Homeowners Are You Getting All Your Property Tax Exemptions? Come learn more, two virtual presentations by the Cook County Assessor's Office on
Monday, March 31st 6:00-6:50pm in Spanish 7:00-7:50pm in English REGISTER HERE |
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Center for Changing Lives April Workshops |
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Airport Expo & Job Fair 5/1 |
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|  Mark your calendar—it’s Time to Take Flight!
Join the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) for the Airport Expo and Job Fair 🗓️Thurs 5/1, 2025, 10 - 2 p.m. 📍UIC Forum registration opens Monday 3/17 Visit flychicago.com/AirportExpo |
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| 🎥📢 Columbia College Chicago will be filming a student film, Truth, in our community: Sunday, March 23rd, from 8 AM - 2 PM. 🚗 No Parking/Tow Zone: 📍 Both sides of W Beach Ave (3244 – 3258) |
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| Jumping Jack Portal opens Tuesday, April 15 at 8:00 AM! The free inflatable bounce house is available for residential block parties within Chicago city limits from May 24 – August 31. 📌 Important Guidelines:
✅ Block parties only (No private properties, parks, schools, or festivals).
✅ Applicants must live on the block where the party is taking place.
✅ One request per block, per season (Saturdays & Sundays only).
✅ First-come, first-served! Submit your request ASAP. 📥 How to Apply:
➡️ Use Google Chrome to complete the application.
➡️ Manually enter all info (avoid autofill errors).
➡️ Click "SUBMIT" to receive an auto-confirmation.
➡️ Permit required from your Aldermanic Ward office. 💡 Need to correct your date? Email JumpingJack@cityofchicago.org—last-minute changes not honored. 🔗 Apply here: ChicagoNeighborhoodFestivals.us |
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| 📢 Mentors Needed! Make a Difference Today! 🌟
YouthBuild is looking for dedicated mentors to support youth ages 16-19 in navigating school, work, and life challenges. Your guidance can help shape their future!
💙 Passionate about youth empowerment? Join us!
📩 Contact: kellyc@pachs-chicago.org | anaisa@pachs-chicago.org
🔗 Sign-up HERE
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Small Business Improvement Fund |
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| Sexual violence affects our communities, but together we can raise awareness, support survivors, and take action for change. Throughout April, engage in community events, workshops, and advocacy efforts to build a safer and more supportive city.
Visit ourresilience.org for resources, events, and ways to get involved.
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| Calling all performers! Showcase your skills and compete for big prizes at Boricuas Got Talent during Puerto Rican Fest 2025 from June 12-15.
💫 Talent Ideas: Singing, dancing, acting, DJing, lip-sync, comedy, and more!
📅 Submissions due by March 31, 2025, at 11:59 PM
💰 $25 registration fee (non-refundable)
Register now and take the stage! 🎶✨ Visit puertoricanfest.com for details. |
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Home Repair Program Opens 3/10 |
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Senior Computer Confidence Program |
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| Did you know only 25% of seniors report feeling confident when using computers and smartphones? That's why we're launching our newest Tech Ready course, Senior Planet, for a comfortably-paced computer class designed specifically for adults over 60.
Students will learn to browse the web safely, confidently connect with their loved ones, and expand their knowledge well beyond the basics. Learn more HERE |
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CTS Community Development Programs |
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| CTS Community Development (CTSCD) provides essential services to support West Side residents, focusing on: Community-Based Services: Mental health support, therapy, crisis intervention, case management, and substance use assessments. Children’s Behavioral Support: Early screening/testing for neurodivergent conditions, developmental screenings, home-based support, and mentoring. Intensive Team-Based Services: Trauma-informed programs for individuals impacted by violence, including therapy, crisis intervention, and aftercare support
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Cannabis Expungement Project |
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| New Leaf Cannabis Expungement Project is a network of 17 nonprofits that helps anyone ever charged with a cannabis offense anywhere in Illinois clear eligible cannabis and non-cannabis cases from their record.
Our services are free.
New Leaf is state-funded and was formed after the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act was passed in 2019. |
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Avoid Bird Alert: Protect Yourself & Your Pets |
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| 🐦 H5N1 Bird Flu: What You Need to Know 🦠 Protect yourself and your pets from H5N1 bird flu by avoiding contact with sick or dead birds and their droppings. If handling is necessary, wear protective gear like gloves, goggles, and an N95 mask. 🐾 Keep pets safe! Don’t let dogs or cats interact with wild birds or contaminated areas. If they come into contact, wash them immediately and monitor for symptoms. 🍗 Always cook poultry and eggs thoroughly to kill any potential virus. For more info, visit: Chicago Department of Public Health |
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Inherent Homes - Affordable Housing |
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What Nonprofits Should Know - KYR |
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| Watch the What Nonprofit Workers Need to Know webinar on immigration, civil rights, and mental health. discussion and access key resources by watching the recording here
✅ Immigration policies & legal rights
✅ Civil rights protections
✅ Mental health support for immigrant communitiesincluding details on the DHS settlement for unlawful ICE stops & arrests: More Info |
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Cook County Health Free Birthday Screenings |
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City of Chicago - Know Your Rights Guide |
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The City of Chicago’s Office of Immigrant, Migrants and Refugee Rights has created a comprehensive guide to help families navigate the detention of a loved one by immigration authorities. This resource provides: ✅ Step-by-step guidance on what to do if someone is detained
✅ Legal and community resources for support
✅ Information on visitation, bond, and legal rights Empower yourself and your community—ACCESS GUIDES HERE
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OCAD - Raid Immigration Resources |
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The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) provides this Rights Card to protect you during interactions with law enforcement or immigration officials. 📞 Family Support Hotline:
Call 1-855-HELP-MY-FAMILY (1-855-435-7693) for assistance in English, Spanish, Korean, or Polish. ✅The right to remain silent. ✅The right to refuse answering questions without legal representation. ✅The right to contact an attorney or organization for help. Print and carry this card to assert your rights and ensure your safety in uncertain situations. For more information, visit www.icirr.org/family-support |
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Administrative ICE Warrant VS. Judicial Warrant |
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🔹 Administrative ICE Warrant (First Image - SAMPLE) Issued by: DHS, not a court. Purpose: Allows ICE to arrest for immigration violations. Limitations: Does not allow entry into your home without consent. Key Detail: Signed by an immigration officer, not a judge.
🔹 Judicial Warrant (Second Image) Issued by: A U.S. District Court. Purpose: Authorizes law enforcement to enter, search, or seize property/individuals. Authority: Signed by a judge, allows entry without consent.
⚠️ Why It Matters:
An ICE administrative warrant does not grant officers the right to enter your home—only a judicial warrant does. Always ask to see the warrant, verify details, and seek legal help if needed. For assistance, contact legal professionals or trusted community organizations. |
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5k Delinquent Tax Program |
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| 🏡 Delinquent Tax Program – Get Up to $5K in Assistance!
Struggling with property taxes? The Northwest Home Equity Assurance Program (NWHEAP) and Northwest Center are offering grants up to $5,000 to help homeowners on Chicago’s Northwest Side pay off delinquent property taxes and keep their homes.
📍 Eligibility: Must live within NWHEAP boundaries
📞 Apply today! Call 773-622-0700 or 773-283-3888 for more details. 🔗 Learn more: nwheap.com |
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City of Chicago Resources |
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| The Chicago Empowerment Fund (CEF) was a pilot program supporting low-income Chicago residents facing economic hardships. While it’s not funded in 2025, alternative resources are available for residents to explore. If you have questions, or need further assistance, please contact DFSS at (312) 743-0300, or visit the Department of Family and Support Services
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| As the temperatures drop, it’s important to keep an eye out for animals in need of care and support. Chicago Animal Care & Control (CACC) is here to help with wildlife, stray animals, abandoned pets, and more. 📞 How to Get Help: Call 311 to report any animal-related issues. Be sure to provide as much detail as possible, including your contact info, to ensure quick assistance. 📍 CACC Location: 2741 S. Western Ave. 🐾 Animal Intake Hours: 3 PM–7 PM daily |
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Intake for People Experiencing Homelessness |
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| 🏠 24/7 Intake Location for People Experiencing Homelessness
For single adults in need of shelter, the Shelter Placement and Resource Center (SPARC) offers:
✅ Open 24/7 with a 200-person capacity
✅ Meals, showers, laundry, and shelter placement services
✅ On-site assistance and 3-1-1 shelter requests available around the clock
📍 Location: 2241 S. Halsted St. (S Halsted St. & W 23rd) |
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Sunrun Affordable Solar Programs |
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| ☀️ Go Solar & Save in Illinois! ☀️
Illinois residents, take advantage of solar energy incentives that lower electricity costs while reducing carbon footprints. With programs like net metering, federal tax credits, and state solar rebates, switching to solar is more affordable than ever.
✅ Lower your energy bills
✅ Get solar incentives & tax credits
✅ Increase your home’s value
✅ Reduce your environmental impact Make the switch! sunrun.com/solar-by-state/il |
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Brright Affordable Solar Programs |
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| 🌞 Bright Neighborhoods Program
Affordable solar panels for income-eligible homeowners with 1-4 unit properties.
✅ Guaranteed bill savings
✅ Open until April 2025
🔗 LEARN MORE HERE
💡 Multi-Family Energy Savings
Energy efficiency upgrades for multi-family properties.
🔗 LEARN MORE HERE
Take advantage of these great opportunities today!
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| Do you need your furnace or boiler heating system repaired? Chicago’s Emergency Heating Repair Program (EHRP) provides grants to assist income-eligible property owners of 1-to-4 unit properties with emergency heating system replacements or repairs during the winter season. ——— ¿Necesita reparar su sistema de calefacción? El Programa de Reparación de Calefacción de Emergencia de Chicago (EHRP) ofrece subvenciones para ayudar a los propietarios de 1 a 4 unidades que reúnan los requisitos de ingresos a sustituir o reparar el sistema de calefacción de emergencia durante la temporada de invierno. |
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Court-Based Rental Assistance Program |
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The Court-Based Rental Assistance Program (CBRAP) offers up to $15,000 for households facing eviction due to unpaid rent. Funds 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 cases—helping tenants stay housed. No repayment required. 📌 Eligibility: ✔ Live in Illinois ✔ Earn at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) ✔One-time assistance only 🔗 Apply Now: www.illinoishousinghelp.org |
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Chicago Senior Risk Assessment Program |
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| 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 |
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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.
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12 District Police Oversight |
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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. |
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| 🚨 New Job Opportunities with the City of Chicago! 🚨
Looking for a career in public service? The City of Chicago has new job openings across various departments! Whether you’re interested in administrative roles, public safety, or community services, there are opportunities to grow, serve, and make an impact. 📌 Check out the latest job postings in the City of Chicago Job Flash document! ✅ Competitive salaries & benefits
✅ Opportunities for career advancement
✅ A chance to serve your community |
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| Kaleidoscope is looking for a Human Resources Generalist to support recruitment, benefits, compliance, and employee relations. ✅ Requirements: HR degree + 2 years experience
✅ Benefits: Health, dental, vision, 403(b) & more
✅ Make an impact in child welfare & community care
📩 Apply now: HERE |
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| 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 |
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| Click Here to view and apply for Chicago Department of Public Health jobs |
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| 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:
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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. |
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| 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. |
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