|
|
Neighbors, This past Saturday, my team was split between so many powerful events in the Ward. We hosted an impactful training session on deportation defense work, equipping over 120 volunteers on the northwest side with the skills to protect our most vulnerable in real time. Unlike our previous know-your-rights sessions, this event focused on building collective community capacity. |
|
A big thank you to OCAD and ICIRR for facilitating the presentations, and to our Northwest Side Progressive Coalition of elected leaders and their teams for making this possible. If you’re interested in getting involved, feel free to respond to this email to let us know! |
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
The Mayor’s Youth Commission visited Wright College Humboldt Park Vocational Center to interview a panel of youth engagement experts about how they connect and guide young people. Chief Homelessness Officer Sendy Soto consulted them on how to center young people experiencing homelessness when developing resources and supports. This type of intergenerational gathering is a model for how to collectively build a future that includes voices of those often left out. Thank you to all the staff who support youth-driven work! |
|
New District 3B School Board member Carlos Rivas hosted a meet-and-greet just outside of the ward. Juanita and Marie, both LSC members, participated in the vision development for the district, where Carlos collected ideas on what makes the most ideal learning environments for young people. We look forward to learning more about Carlos’s vision for CPS and how it is that we could support that vision. To learn more about Carlos, click here. |
|
|
One of the many reasons our ward thrives is because of local businesses, and we’re ensuring they get the love they deserve. We will begin featuring a local business in our Heart & Hustle Business Highlight section in our newsletter. This month, in honor of Black History Month, we’re starting with Black-owned businesses—kicking off with Not Just Cookies, owned by Johnathon Bush! Want your business featured? Reply to this newsletter to let us know! Finally, join me on Sunday for the Winter Walk in Humboldt Park. Winter Walk is an initiative that believes ending homelessness is within our reach. Their mission is to raise awareness and funds towards that goal and to support organizations that are working on prevention, support, and care for our homeless community. Hope to see you at the Humboldt Park Field House at 9:30am. The walk will kick off at 10am. In Solidarity, Alderperson Jessie Fuentes |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Senior Valentine’s Brunch |
|
|
|
|
Small Business Capital & Infrastructure Grant 3/6 |
|
|
Join us on March 6, 2025, to learn about the OE3 Small Business Capital & Infrastructure Grant—funding to help grow and strengthen your business! I’m co-hosting with Commissioner Quezada, Alder Ramirez-Rosa, and OE3 to break down the process and answer your questions. Let’s make sure our businesses thrive! 📍 Moos Elementary, 1711 N California Ave
🕕 English: 6-7 PM | Spanish: 7-8 PM
🔗 Register: HERE |
|
|
|
🌨️ 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 |
|
Join the Call for a New Non-Congregate Shelterin Humboldt Park! |
|
 |
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 |
|
|
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. |
|
|
2935 W Augusta Blvd 1751-53 N Spaulding Ave 3330 W Armitage Ave
|
|
| 1608 N St Louis Ave 3340-50 West North Ave
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The 26th Ward is celebrating local businesses, and during Black History Month, we’re kicking it off by featuring Black-owned businesses, starting with Not Just Cookies owned by Johnathon Bush! Hailing from Toledo, Ohio, Johnathon got his passion for baking from his grandmother who taught how to bake as a little boy. Johnathon then turned his childhood hustle into an award-winning bakery, recently earning BACP’s Good Food Grant to expand his business. |
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Now, he’s bringing his freshly baked cookies, pies, and high-protein brownies to the 26th Ward and he wants to hear from YOU! Every community has its own flavors and traditions and he wants to hear all about it. What desserts remind you of home? What treats do you want to see in the shop? We are thrilled that Johnathan chose the 26th Ward to expand his business. Please join us for the Grand Opening with free cookies and pies at 4 PM, a live DJ, and Blackhawks swag. Bring your ideas and let’s show up to support this new addition to our community! 📍 Grand Opening: February 26th, 4-7 PM (Doors open at 4 for free treats!)
☕ Come for the cookies, stay for the coffee & share your flavor ideas with Johnathon! |
|
|
|
|
| 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: ccclatinocaucus.org/about-scholarships For questions, email info@ccclatinocaucus.org. Don’t miss this opportunity! 📚✨ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
PROM ATTIRE: DRIVE AND GIVEAWAY |
|
| 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! Scan the QR or Click Here
📩 Questions? Contact Jessica Taylor at jtaylor@asnchicago.org |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 🎉 Girls Day of Play! 🌟🏀🎨
Join the Chicago Park District for a FREE day of fun, sports, dance, culture, and arts—designed to empower and inspire girls in a safe and supportive space! 📅 Tuesday, February 25th
📍 Humboldt Park, 1400 N. Humboldt
⏰ 10 AM - 4 PM
👧 Ages: 8-12 🌟 Pack a lunch, snack, reusable water bottle & wear athletic attire! 📞 More info: (312) 742-7549 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
El Rescate: Support for Homeless Youth |
|
| 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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In Their Hands Screenings |
|
| In Their Hands is screening in Chicago!
🎥 A documentary about one man's fight for freedom & the politics of parole in IL.
https://illinoisprisonproject.networkforgood.com/events/80948-in-their-hands-legislative-screeing-and-panel-discussion For more information about In Their Hands, visit: https://linktr.ee/intheirhandsfilm |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Transfer of Death Instrument Workshop 2/10 |
|
| 🏡 Who Will Inherit Your House? 🏡
Learn how a Transfer of Death Instrument (TODI) can help you pass your home to loved ones without expensive probate.
📅 Monday, February 10, 2025
⏰ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
💻 Virtual session in English 🔗 Register now!
Scan the QR code or contact Lucy Gomez Feliciano at lgomez@heretostayclt.org |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Heart & Soul: Self- Love Celebration 2/13 |
|
| 🎭✨ Fun Night at the Museum: HEART & SOUL! 🎨🎶 A night of art, music, and relaxation 🍽️ Puerto Rican dinner by Vanessa Luv Catering
🧘 Guided meditation: The Joy Room
🎨 Art by Maria Corrigan
🎶 Live music by Sazon.wav
🍷 Sangria, wine, & mocktails
📸 Photo station for fun memories 📅 Thurs, 2/13/25 | 5:30-8:30 PM
📍 National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, 3015 W. Division St., Chicago
🎟️ Tickets: Members $30 | Non-Members $40 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Avoid Bird Alert: Protect Yourself & Your Pets |
|
| 🐦 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 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Free Tax Preparation Program |
|
|
Ladder Up offers FREE tax preparation for eligible individuals and families in Chicago! Trained IRS-certified volunteers can help you maximize your refund and claim valuable credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC). Income Eligibility: $36,000 or less for individuals $60,000 or less for households 📍 Multiple locations & virtual options available! Find a site near you: goladderup.org |
|
|
| ⚖️ City of Chicago Department of Law – Open House ⚖️
📅 March 19, 2025 | 10 AM – 12 PM
🏛️ Inviting Law Firms Interested in Serving as Outside Counsel
✅ All law firms, regardless of size, are welcome!
🔗 Pre-registration required – Deadline: February 21, 2025
📲 Scan the QR code or CLICK HERE
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Senior Citizen Tax Deferral Program |
|
| Cook County Treasurer office is offers the Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral Program. This program helps homeowners aged 65+ defer paying their property taxes by offering a loan with a low interest rate of just 3%. Eligible seniors can defer up to $7,500 in property taxes annually! This means less financial strain, and a better chance of staying in your home
Eligibility: 👵🏼 65+ years old 🧓🏿 Income of $65,000 or less 🏡 Lived in the home for 3+ years 📝 Applications are now open! Be sure to apply before March 1.
🌐 Find details & download here |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Inherent Homes - Affordable Housing |
|
 |
What Nonprofits Should Know - KYR |
|
| 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 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Healing Circles for Helpers |
|
| LoSAH Center of Hope is hosting monthly circles for helpers on the last Tuesday of each month from January to June at LoSAH Center of Hope. This space is designed for those who support the community to connect, reflect, and recharge.
📅 Attendance is flexible—join as you’re able!
📍 LoSAH 3555 W. Armitage Ave.
📝 Register HERE
Community members and teams are encouraged to participate. For questions, reach out to the event organizers. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cook County Health Free Birthday Screenings |
|
|
City of Chicago - Know Your Rights Guide |
|
|
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
|
|
OCAD - Raid Immigration Resources |
|
|
|
 |
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 |
|
Administrative ICE Warrant VS. Judicial Warrant |
|
🔹 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. |
|
|
5k Delinquent Tax Program |
|
| 🏡 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 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| The public voting period for the Illinois State Flag redesign contest is underway!
Your input will help guide the General Assembly's final decision on the future of our state's flag.
Vote for your favorite flag until February 14th at ilsos.gov/stateflag. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
City of Chicago Resources |
|
| 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
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 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 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Temperatures this weekend are expected drop with high winds this weekend. Click the images below for resources to stay warm and safe. |
|
|
|
Intake for People Experiencing Homelessness |
|
| 🏠 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) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Affordable Solar Programs |
|
| ☀️ 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 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Affordable Solar Programs |
|
| 🌞 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!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 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. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mobile DMV coming to 26th Ward 3/4 |
|
| The Illinois Secretary of State Mobile DMV is coming to the 26th Ward! Take care of your needs without the lines. 📅 Date: Tuesday, March 4, 2025
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Location: Trina Davila Center
4312 W. North Ave., Chicago, IL Services Offered:
✅ New and Renewal ID Cards
✅ Driver’s License Renewal
✅ Sticker Purchases
✅ Real ID 💳 Accepted Payments: Visa, Mastercard, AMEX, Discover, Personal Check, or Money Order (fees may apply). 📞 Reserve your spot today! Contact Katie Tapert-Mercado at 312-744-2014 or katie.tapertmercado@cityofchicago.org |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| ¿Estás listo para un desafío que te ayudará a crecer? Únete a este círculo de 10 semanas diseñado para hombres entre 25-45 años que buscan explorar temas como la paternidad, relaciones, salud, y redefinir la masculinidad de manera positiva e inclusiva.
🗓 Inicio: Miércoles, 19 de febrero
⏰ Horario: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
📍 Lugar: LoSAH Centro de Esperanza
3555 W. Armitage Ave.
Como Registrarte: 📲 Regístrate AQUI o Escanea el código QR tambien puede llama al (773) 433-1995, o email a despino@losahcenter.org. ¡Cupos limitados, asegura tu lugar hoy! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 🌈 Trans Empowerment Center
📍 2753 W. Division St.
🕙 Mon-Fri, 10 AM – 6:30 PM The center provides essential services for the LGBTQIA+ community, including:
✅ Free HIV/STI Testing
✅ Safer Sex Kits
✅ Educational Resources
✅ Gender-Affirming Services
Join support groups, intervention programs, and events in a safe, inclusive space. Empower your journey today! 💙 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Neighborhood Opportunity Fund Grants |
|
| 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 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Chicago Housing Trust: Open House |
|
| Join us for an Open House at 1508 N Harding on 02/15, 03/01, and 03/15 from 12–2 PM!
✨ Six 2BR/1Bath units available for $170,000
🔥 Fully electrified with high-efficiency heating & cooling
📶 High-speed internet included
💰 For households at or below 120% AMI 📍 Scan the flyer to register or visit: https://hardingcondos.com/
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Court-Based Rental Assistance Program |
|
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12 District Police Oversight |
|
|
CPD Survey: Community Policing & Alternative Response |
|
| 🗣️ We Need Your Input! Take the Community Engagement Survey to help shape community policing strategies and alternate response models for a safer, more supportive Chicago. Your anonymous feedback will inform citywide recommendations, funding, and programs. 💻 Share your voice online today HERE! Or attend an in person session in your community HERE
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CPD Community Feedback Survey |
|
|
|
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. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 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. |
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
