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Dear Neighbor,
I made a promise to the 26th Ward that I would not vote for a property tax increase while protecting city services. Yesterday, we passed a budget that keeps that promise: no property tax hike, sustaining vital programs, services, and jobs.
This is not an ideal budget, nor does it solve the generational problems of a city that for too long has turned its back on working-class people while helping the rich get richer. It is, however, the budget we need for 2025.
As a result of input and leadership from City Council, I am proud to share these good faith investment in Chicago communities: Expanding city-funded youth employment from 28,000 to a historic 29,000, including the expansion of the Peace Book Ordinance Pilot. Releasing a record $570m in TIF funds for schools, parks, libraries, and City Colleges. Securing $460m in cost reductions and savings, including a 3% cut across all departments and $1m from the Mayor’s office.
Thank you to the coalition behind the Public Health & Safety budget amendment for your commitment to the long-term fight for investments in our neighbors. Thank you to every constituent who shared their experiences and priorities. Your brilliant ideas for our budget are documented and will steer me next year. I look forward to our continued engagement, especially as our Participatory Budgeting voting process begins this week.
This past weekend, my team and I had the privilege of attending several end-of-year and holiday events that truly highlighted the strength and spirit of our community.
At the Barreto Boys & Girls Club, we were amazed by the talents and intellect on display at their Science Fair. It was incredible to see kids I encounter daily in the neighborhood beaming with pride as they presented their projects. They took their time answering all my questions, thoughtfully referencing their notes, and pointing to their display boards. Their passion and hard work were evident in every detail. A heartfelt thank you to the dedicated staff at the Club who work tirelessly to nurture and draw out the genius in our young people. |
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I’d also like to give a special shout-out to Mrs. Rodriguez at Lowell Elementary and Mr. Salgado at Lloyd Elementary for partnering with us to share the joy of Christmas with their families. Through the Christmas in the Wards program, thirteen families received gifts and won prizes on Saturday, spreading holiday cheer across our community.
Please scroll below for more holiday festivities happening throughout the ward. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
In solidarity,
Jessie Fuentes, 26th Ward Alderperson |
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Coffee With Your Alder and State Rep |
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Join 26th Ward Alderperson Jessie Fuentes & State Representative Lilian Jiménez for free coffee and pastries. Ask questions, share your ideas, and communicate your community concerns. RSVP at: bit.ly/26coffee |
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La Oficina del Distrito 26 estará cerrada Desde el martes 24 de diciembre hasta el 1 de enero por vacaciones de invierno.
La oficina estará abierta el lunes 23 de diciembre, el jueves 2 de enero y el viernes 2 de enero de 9am a 1pm.
Póngase en contacto con nosotros con preocupaciones urgentes en info@the26thward.org. |
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Humboldt Park Housing Initiative |
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| Since elected to office, Alderperson Jessie Fuentes has been advocating for resources for unhoused neighbors in Humboldt Park.
The Humboldt Park Encampment Housing Initiative’s mission is to connect residents of the Humboldt Park tent encampment to stable housing, permanent shelter, and supportive services. Over 18 months this initiative has dedicated efforts to address systemic barriers, provide individualized care, and ensure every person has access to dignified and secure living situations. It represents a significant step forward in addressing homelessness with compassion and care.
For more information and FAQs go to:
the26thward.org/hpencampment |
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Boulevard Landmark District Extension Project |
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| Landmark District Expansion Process to Begin in 2025
The process to formally expand the Logan Square Boulevard Landmark District to include Humboldt Boulevard and Sacramento Boulevard will officially kick off in early 2025! This is a significant step in preserving the rich history and unique character of our community. Learn more about the project, its background, FAQs, and how you can stay involved by visiting our webpage here. |
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Paseo Boricua Parranda 12/21 |
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🌨️ The first snow of the season is here, and we need your help! Join the 26th Ward Snow Shoveling Program to support our seniors and residents with disabilities. Together, we can ensure sidewalks are safe and accessible for everyone this winter.
This is our chance to unite as a community and show we care. Grab your shovel and make a difference today! SIGN UP HERE |
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| 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. |
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Join the Call for a New Non-Congregate Shelterin Humboldt Park! |
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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
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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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1751-53 N Spaulding Ave 3949 W. Armitage Ave 3330 W Armitage Ave |
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Enroll Your Student with Tutoring Chicago |
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| 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 |
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| Celebrate with Navidad en el Barrio every Saturday in November and December from 10 AM - 1 PM at the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture. Discover unique, handmade gifts by local Puerto Rican artisans and vendors, enjoy FREE workshops and tours, and experience the joy of shopping local this holiday season. 📍 3015 W. Division St., Chicago, IL
For more info, visit NMPRAC.org Don’t miss out on this festive celebration of Puerto Rican culture and craftsmanship! 🎅🏽 |
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Belmont Cragin Christmas Parade |
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Belmont Cragin United and 25th District are providing a safe, fun, and free parade event for families, TODAY (Tuesday, December 17th) at 7pm. The starting point is at Hanson Park. |
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Join Palenque for a fun winter activity—decorate ornaments, gingerbread houses, and Christmas cookies while connecting with other community-driven youth. Food and raffle opportunities will be provided, so come ready to share ideas, and spread some holiday cheer. Youth ages 14 - 24 are invited. Thursday, December 19th, 4:30pm - 6:30pm at 2840 N Milwaukee Ave. |
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Grief Support Group at LoSAH Center |
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| Join the LoSAH Center of Hope for a free Grief Group which aims to help provide support to those navigating the loss of loved ones during the holidays.
Wednesday 12/18 from 6pm-7:30pm. This group is bilingual. Click here to resgister.
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Únete a la LoSAH Centro de Esperanza para un grupo de duelo libre que tiene como objetivo ayudar a proporcionar apoyo a aquellos que navegan la pérdida de seres queridos durante las vacaciones. Miércoles 12/18 de 6pm-7:30pm. Este grupo es bilingue. Haga clic aquí para registrarse. |
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Humboldt Park Health Coat & Toy Giveaway |
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| Join Humboldt Park Health for a Holiday Coat & Toy Giveaway this Thursday, December 19, 2024 from 5 PM to 8 PM at the Humboldt Park Health Wellness Center (2933 W. Division St., Chicago, IL 60622).
What to Expect: 🧥 FREE Coats for the first 500 guests (Ages 2-12) – Must be present to claim! 🎁 Toys for children ages 2-12 🎶 Music, Holiday Fun & an informal Tree Lighting Ceremony 🍪 Light Snacks & Drinks |
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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!
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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. ——— EN ESPAÑOL: ¿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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| Do you want to make a difference in an LGBTQI+ refugee’s life? Through a new federal program being implemented by Rainbow Railroad in communities across the U.S., you can help queer and trans newcomers access a dignified life free from persecution. Rainbow Railroad is a non-profit that helps LGBTQI+ people get to safety, and through the new Welcome Corps program, five everyday Americans can come together to welcome an LGBTQI+ refugee into their community. By forming a Community of Care, you can provide critical support for an LGBTQI+ newcomer, helping them with important tasks like finding housing, securing employment, and accessing healthcare and other resources in their first 90 days in the U.S.–with training and ongoing support from Rainbow Railroad. Learn more and apply today.
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| 📢 Applications Open: Senior Advisory Council! 🌟 Are you passionate about advocating for older adults and improving community services? Apply to join Chicago’s Senior Advisory Council and make a difference! 📅 Application Period: Nov 14 - Dec 13, 2024
📍 Attend an info session at one of six regional senior centers. ✅ Provide input, identify service gaps, and help expand programming that supports older adults in living their best lives.
📝 APPLY HERE
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Help Improve the Park District! |
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| 🌳 Help Shape the Chicago Park District!
The Chicago Park District Office of Inspector General is seeking ideas for its 2025 audit plan. Your input can make a real difference in improving our parks and community spaces! 📅 Submit ideas by: December 13, 2024
📍 SUBMIT HERE 💡 Let’s work together to ensure our parks remain a source of pride for all Chicagoans!
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Worker Rights Free Workshops |
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Need Help with Your Work Permit? Join Our Free Workshops Chicago Community and Workers’ Rights is hosting workshops if you’ve been a victim or witness to an employment violation, you may be eligible for DALE and can receive the same assistance as you would from a lawyer—at no cost! **Upcoming Workshop Dates:** **Nov 21:** Work Permit Extensions **Dec 5:** First-Time Work Permit Applications **Dec 12:** Work Permit Extensions **Dec 19:** First-Time Work Permit Applications **Jan 9:** Work Permit Extensions For questions or to register, contact Tenoch at **773-733-2315**. |
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Grants for West Side Businesses |
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| Support West Grants Now Open!
The Chicago Blackhawks Foundation is offering $5,000 grants to minority-owned small businesses on the West Side particularly in Austin, Belmont Cragin, East Garfield Park, Hermosa, Humboldt Park, Lower West Side, Near West Side, North Lawndale, Pilsen, South Lawndale, West Garfield Park or West Town.
Apply by Dec. 13 to access funds, mentorship, and professional development. Let’s invest in the future of our communities! APPLY HERE
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Neighborhood Opportunity Fund Grants |
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The Chicago Department of Planning and Development is accepting applications for Neighborhood Opportunity Fund (NOF) grants open to business owners, property owners, community developers and entrepreneurs.
NOF offers reimbursement grants that fund construction and renovation costs for small businesses and cultural establishments on NOF-eligible corridors. Learn more and apply at Chicago.gov/NOF |
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Humboldt Park Health Wellness Center |
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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! |
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📦 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! |
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Court-Based Rental Assistance Program |
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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. |
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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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Residential Electronic Recycling |
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| ♻️ 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
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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. |
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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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| 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. |
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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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