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Last week, the Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) and partner agencies hosted an Expanded Housing Event for unhoused residents of the Humboldt Park tent encampment. The event resulted in connecting 63 households to a diverse pool of housing. In the next 60 to 90 days, these households will transition to either shelter or apartments, where they will continue to receive support with logistics to ensure a smooth transition. Anyone else who did not get connected will receive ongoing outreach for placement, including services to address essential needs, from emotional care to accessing vital documents to healthcare. This is an encouraging sign of progress! |
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| This ongoing work began the day I took office, and could not result in this kind of outcome without the collaborative efforts of the Illinois Union for the Homeless, Chief Homelessness Officer Sendy Soto, Commissioner Brandie Knazze, Deputy Commissioner Andrea Chatman, and the DFSS and delegate agency outreach teams. Chicago Park District staff have also gone above and beyond with regular park cleanups and opening their spaces to host outreach events. To read more about our multifaceted approach to address homelessness in the ward, visit my recent Instagram post. |
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Our Senior Wellness Fair is less than two weeks away. We’re excited to offer a range of services designed to support seniors in our community. Attendees can expect vaccines, balance exams, will and estate planning, a 30-minute gentle stretching exercise, free lunch from Janellie's sponsored by DoorDash and much more. The event will take place on Thursday, October 17th, from 10am-2pm at the Humboldt Park Field House. If you know a senior who could benefit from these resources, please spread the word and offer transportation if necessary. Let’s come together to ensure our seniors have access to the support and resources they need and deserve. |
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| Attention 26th Ward businesses and nonprofits: the deadline to apply for Community Development Grants is quickly approaching on November 8th! Grants of up to $250,000 are available to support commercial, mixed-use, and light manufacturing projects. This grant prioritizes projects that enhance the economic vitality of the neighborhood, benefit the community, and meet local needs. Funding can cover up to 75% of eligible project costs for new construction, rehabilitation, or both. Click here for more details and application info.
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Jorge, our Ward Superintendent of Streets and Sanitation plays a crucial role in keeping our community healthy, vibrant, and safe. His work helps prevent health hazards, enhances the appearance of our neighborhoods, and supports public safety. A well-managed sanitation system contributes to the overall quality of life and fosters a strong, thriving community where residents can take pride in their surroundings. This week we applaud his work on 4000 block of Armitage. |
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| Walk the WardAs part of my commitment to the 26th Ward, I’ve been out walking the neighborhood, checking in with our neighbors to ensure you all have what you need. I’m sharing the We Keep Us Safe community resource guide and spreading the word about our Participatory Budgeting (PB) process. This initiative allows you, the residents, to decide how we spend a portion of the ward's budget on projects that matter most to you—whether it's improving parks, streets, schools, or public spaces. Be on the lookout for me visiting your block soon! I want to hear your thoughts and ideas.
Learn more and submit ideas below. Together, we can continue to build a safer, stronger community! |
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In solidarity,
Jessie Fuentes, 26th Ward Alderperson |
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| Do you speak Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Polish, Korean, or Tagalog? The Chicago Board of Elections needs you! Help make a difference in your community by serving as an election judge for the November 5th Presidential Election. This is a great opportunity to support democracy, earn some extra income, and ensure that every voice is heard. Interested? Learn more and sign up today: pollworker.chicagoelections.gov. |
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The Chicago Board of Elections is hiring for the upcoming November 5th Presidential Election! This is your chance to be part of a crucial moment in our democracy and make a difference in your community. Explore a variety of job opportunities and join the team that helps ensure a smooth, fair election process. For more information and to apply, visit chicagoelections.gov. |
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Coffee with your Alderperson 10/12 |
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Coffee with the Alderperson is an opportunity to meet with Alderperson Fuentes about local or city issues. Our next event will be October 12th from 9am - 11am. If you would like to meet with Alderperson Fuentes during Coffee with your Alderperson, please rsvp here: bit.ly/26coffee |
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Senior Wellness Fair 10/17 |
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We are hosting our Annual Senior Fair on Tuesday, October 17th, from 10am to 2pm at the Humboldt Park Fieldhouse located at 1440 N. Humboldt Blvd alongside State Representative Lilian Jimenez, State Senator Omar Aquino and, Commissioner Anthony Quesada. This event is all about celebrating and uplifting the seniors who are a vital part of our community. We know how important it is to ensure our seniors feel supported and valued. That’s why we’ve come together to provide a variety of senior resources and health services, along with delicious food and activities. We are looking forward to seeing you there! |
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Join us for a fun and festive Trunk-or-Treat event on Wednesday, October 30th, from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM at Lowell Elementary School (3320 W. Hirsch St., Chicago)! Hosted by Representative Lilian Jimenez, Alderperson Fuentes, and Senator Aquino, this event is all about bringing families together for Halloween fun and valuable community resources.
Kids can enjoy trick-or-treating, and parents can learn about after-school programs, youth mentorship opportunities, and family services available in our community. It’s a great chance to connect with local organizations, meet neighbors, and enjoy a safe and fun environment.
We can’t wait to see you and your family there! For more information, feel free to contact Brenda at brenda@replilianjimenez.com. Let’s make this Halloween a special one for the 26th Ward! |
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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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NEW TO OUR SITE: Upcoming CDOT Projects |
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Click the image to learn more about the 2024 Humboldt Park Encampment Initiative to house all tent encampment residents and help them move out of the park by December 2024. |
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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. Non-congregate shelters provide private, dignified living spaces, unlike traditional shelters. 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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Street Sweeping Map & Schedule |
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Street sweeping takes place between April and November. Click map to enlarge. |
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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. You are invited to provide feedback at: the26thward.org/zoning. 1751-53 N Spaulding Ave 3208-3210 W Armitage Ave
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Introductory Guide to City Services |
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| If you want to learn how to access city resources and take an active role in your community, you can 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, and engage with various city departments. It also provides information on how to access critical services. |
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Diverse Learners Recovery Fund |
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The Diverse Learners Recovery Fund Program, created by the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities in partnership with Ada S. McKinley Community Services, provides financial assistance to families of children with disabilities. The Diverse Learners Recovery Fund provides a one-time grant of $500 to up to 8,000 eligible K-12 students with disabilities through a lottery. To date, the program has selected and awarded 1,000 students with disabilities.
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. |
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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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Illinois Biodiversity Field Trip Grant |
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Chicago Public Library October Events |
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| Exciting events are happening throughout October at the Chicago Public Library! 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 like pumpkin painting, Rubik's Cube meetups, and Anime Club. 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. |
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Wellness Club 2024 Fall Calendar |
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Bike Safety with Safe Ambassadors 10/7 |
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Center for Changing Lives - October Workshops |
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Parent University Open House 10/15 |
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Casa Central 70th Anniversary Gala 10/18 |
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McCormick YMCA Food Distribution |
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IDHS Virtual Job Recruitment Presentation Schedule |
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The Illinois Department of Human Services is hosting virtual recruitment presentations throughout 2024, offering rewarding career opportunities in fields like business, healthcare, and public service. Bilingual applicants are highly encouraged to apply, with competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and up to 5% extra pay for bilingual positions. Presentations are available in both English and Spanish. Learn more about job opportunities, benefits, and how to enhance your application.
To register for the next virtual session, visit dhs.state.il.us/jobs or scan the QR code.
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DonorsChoose Support for Ms. Torres at Lloyd Elementary |
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Help Ms. Torres give her students fresh school supplies. Many students begin the school year with no school supplies and need notebooks and folders to start the school year. Ms. Torres also likes giving special things for birthdays. Every dollar counts!
Consider Donating to this project |
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ChiBlockBuilder applications now open!
The Chicago Department of Planning and Development is now accepting applications to purchase select City-owned vacant lots. View available lots and submit an application at Chicago.gov/BlockBuilder. Need assistance? Email landsales@cityofchicago.org or call (312) 744-LAND |
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| ¡El plazo de solicitud de ChiBlockBuilder está abierto! El Departamento de Planificación y Desarrollo de Chicago está aceptando solicitudes para comprar lotes municipales vacantes seleccionados. Vea los lotes disponibles y envíe una solicitud en Chicago.gov/BlockBuilder. ¿Necesita ayuda? Envíe un correo electrónico landsales@cityofchicago.org o llame al (312) 744-LAND
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Local School Council Parent Representatives Ne |
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| Roberto Clemente Community Academy is looking for parents to join the Local School Council!
Two seats are open. The council plays a vital role in approving how school funds are allocated, monitoring the School Improvement Plan, and selecting the school’s principal. If you're a parent and want to make a difference in your child's education, apply by Wednesday, October 16th at 3:30 PM
The next meeting is on October 19th at 9 AM. For more information, visit the main office or download the application at bit.ly/parentLSCforms Don’t miss this opportunity to have a voice in your school community! |
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YMCA Steam Club: Exploration |
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McCormick YMCA is excited to offer a FREE STEAM Club for kids ages 6-9, starting October 21st! Join us Mondays and Wednesdays at 5:30 - 7:00 PM for hands-on projects and fun challenges that explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM).
In the first unit, kids will dive into STEAM exploration, learning about sustainability, graphic design, coding, engineering, and more. It’s a great opportunity for young learners to discover the wonders of STEAM in a supportive environment. All skill levels are welcome! For info: steam2@ymcachicago.org or scan the QR code in the flyer.
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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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Free Chore Services from DFSS for 60+ Seniors |
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Foster Care: Ready to Make a Difference? |
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Free Classes at Humboldt Park Library |
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Need help with computer or tech skills? The Humboldt Park Branch is now offering one-on-one CyberNavigator Technology Tutoring! Available in both English and Spanish, sessions are by appointment and can last up to an hour. Get personalized support on Mondays through Thursdays, 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. To make an appointment, visit the library or email HumboldtParkCybNav@gmail.com. Don’t miss out on this great resource!
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Community Development Grants |
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Community Development Grant - Small The Department of Planning and Development is now accepting applications for awards up to $250,000. This grant supports small businesses, nonprofits, and property owners involved in local commercial, mixed-use, and light manufacturing development.
Application Deadline: 11:59 p.m. Friday, November 8, 2024
Learn More and Apply: Visit chicago.gov/cdg for more information. For questions, email DPDGrants@CityofChicago.org.
Grant Information Sessions: Attend a session online or in-person to learn more about grant eligibility and application requirements. Register at chicago.gov/cdg. |
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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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Special Concession Opportunity with the Chicago Park District |
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| The Chicago Park District has opened its Notice of Application for a Special Concession Opportunity for 2025, which presents substantial opportunity for small businesses. |
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Emergency Supplemental Victims Fund |
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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.
Who qualifies?
Victims or family members of victims who have suffered non-fatal gunshot wounds or homicide in the calendar year The incident occurred in one of the 15 communities listed Victim is a resident of one of the 15 communities who was victimized within the City of Chicago Families of people 24 years of age or younger who have been victims of homicide in the City of Chicago Victims and applicants must have proof of residency in the City of Chicago
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. |
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Residential Electronic Recycling |
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See the flyer for information on drop-off locations for electronics ranging from computers and TVs to printers and game consoles. |
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Humboldt Condo Now Listed |
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The Chicago Housing Trust still has one 2 bedroom condo at 1508 N. Harding near North and Pulaski. These condos are restricted to households making under 100% of the area median income.
Live in a beautifully renovated 100-year-old Chicago 6-flat with a huge yard, five minutes to Humboldt Park, a short bike ride to the 606/Bloomingdale Trail, and 2 blocks from the North and Pulaski bus lines.
Contact 1508nharding@gmail.com or call/text Denise Reyes at (773) 391-1960 for details. Click here to apply.
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Don’t Let a Tick Make You Sick! |
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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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Community Conversation 12th District |
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Career Opportunities with the City |
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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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| Chicago Fire Department is hiring a paramedic
Job Number: 8750-CFD-2024
For support, call the Help Desk at (312) 744-4976 between the hours of 8:30am (CST) and 4:30pm (CST), Monday through Friday or email fire-application@cityofchicago.org. |
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| Get paid for 9 weeks of virtual preparation (in the evenings) to be considered for a Mechanical Maintenance full time role at the nation’s largest producer of carbon-free energy.
If you are interested in learning more, complete an assessment form and join an info session which are ongoing through September 23.
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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: Computerized inventory control Forklift certification OSHA 10-hour General Industry Safety Card RF scanners UPS WorldShip Picking, packing, documentation Warehouse design, material handling, quality control And much more…
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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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