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Dear Neighbor,
As we step into the new year, I want to take a moment to reflect on all we accomplished together last year and the important work that lies ahead. In 2024, our community showed incredible strength and unity as we tackled challenges, celebrated progress, and laid the foundation for a brighter future.
From advocating for affordable housing and enhancing community safety to expanding access to vital city services, every success we’ve achieved has been rooted in your support, input, and participation. These victories were highlighted in our recent mailer—milestones that wouldn’t have been possible without the collective power of our ward.
While I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, there’s still much work to do. Let’s continue building on this momentum as we take on 2025 together. Below, you’ll find updates on what we’ve been working on so far this year. |
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Participatory Budgeting Participatory Budgeting voting closes Friday, January 17! In order to make participation accessible, I am offering three ways to vote: Visit the Ward office at 2511 W Division St during hours of operation to submit a paper ballot. Review the ballot and call during hours of operation to submit your vote with the Barrio Services team. Complete the Google Form.
After January 17, the votes are tallied and winning projects are posted on my Participatory Budget page. Thank you to everyone who submitted a project! So many great ideas, unfortunately, we are not able to accommodate all. If you submitted a project and don’t see it on the ballot, visit the PB Ideas spreadsheet here. Submit feedback under “Status Notes.” |
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On Sunday and Monday, community groups came together to spread holiday cheer in celebration of Three Kings Day, bringing joy to children and families in our community. Hundreds of toys were distributed to children ages 0-14. On Sunday, Windy City Jeep Club, La Sandwichera, Lily's Record Shop, and Yauco Food & Liquor hosted a lively Three Kings Day celebration on Division Street. Families were treated to warm chicken soup and hot chocolate to stay cozy, and activities for everyone to enjoy. On Monday, the Puerto Rican Cultural Center (PRCC) held their annual Three Kings Day gift giveaway at La Casita, joined by The Three Wise Men from LAMA.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network, the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, the charitable arm of American Airlines, and the Mayor's Office for their generous donations that made these events possible. A special shoutout goes to all the volunteers who wrap gifts and made the celebrations run smoothly. This collective effort was made possible by generous donors, dedicated volunteers, and the love and support of our beloved community members. |
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Sanctuary City I have hit the ground running with legislative work in this new year! This week, two alders submitted an amendment to Chicago’s sanctuary city ordinance that would endanger Chicagoans. I, along with a broad coalition of legal experts, immigration organizations, community leaders, and electeds are working hard to ensure that these amendments do not pass in City Council.
The first and foremost reason these amendments must not pass is because no one should fear calling 911 or 311 due to immigration status. The sanctuary city ordinance prohibits law enforcement from engaging in immigration enforcement, which has proven to be effective in ensuring that no city resident or victim of a crime is afraid to call 911.
Second, if law enforcement engages with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), then they risk violating a person’s rights protected under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. No one should be detained by ICE without a legal warrant, and violating this right has cost New York City and Los Angeles hundreds of millions of dollars in settlements, draining government resources.
Finally, the CPD consent decree has found, building trust is vital. These unfunded mandates would deplete resources from our neighborhoods. When there is trust in government, our communities are safer, and I will always work to keep 26th Ward constituents safe. |
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In solidarity,
Jessie Fuentes, 26th Ward Alderperson |
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Shared Cost Sidewalk Program 1/13 |
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The Shared Cost Sidewalk Program is a very popular voluntary initiative where property owners and the City collaborate to cover the cost of sidewalk repairs. Applications open on Monday, January 13th, at 6 AM -10pm This program first-come, first-served program fills up quickly, so early applications are strongly recommended. you can apply on the 311 app, phone or website. Our offices will be open at 6am if you need assistance. Please note that if you applied in previous years, you must submit a new application this year to be considered. |
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| El Programa de Coste Compartido de Aceras es una iniciativa voluntaria popular en la que los propietarios y la Ciudad colaboran para cubrir el coste de las reparaciones de las aceras. Las solicitudes se abren el lunes, 13 de enero, a las 6 AM -10pm Este programa por orden de llegada se llena rápidamente. Se recomienda presentar las solicitudes temprano. Usted puede aplicar en la aplicación 311, teléfono o página web. Nuestras oficinas estarán abiertas a las 6 am si necesita ayuda. Tenga en cuenta que si usted solicitó en años anteriores, debe presentar una nueva solicitud este año para ser considerado. |
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Participatory Budgeting voting closes Friday, January 17! In order to make participation accessible, I am offering three ways to vote: Visit the Ward office at 2511 W Division St during hours of operation to submit a paper ballot. Review the ballot and call during hours of operation to submit your vote with the Barrio Services team. Complete the Google Form. |
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| La votación de los Presupuestos Participativos se cierra el viernes 17 de enero. Con el objetivo de hacer accesible la participación, estoy ofreciendo tres maneras de votar: Visite la oficina de Ward en 2511 W Division St durante las horas de operación para presentar una boleta de papel. Revise la boleta y llame durante las horas de operación para presentar su voto con el equipo de Barrio Services. Complete el formulario de Google. |
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Jefferson Township Property Tax Appeal |
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🌨️ 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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| 1608 N St Louis Ave 1633 N Hamlin 3340-50 West North Ave
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UIC College Financial Aid Support |
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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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YMCA McCormick Chicago Blood Drive 1/11 |
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| Join the YMCA McCormick Chicago Blood Drive and make a difference.
YMCA McCormick
1834 N. Lawndale Ave., Chicago, IL Saturday, January 11 Time: 10 AM - 3 PM
💻 Schedule Your Donation:
Visit communityblood.org/donor
Use sponsor code C105 when you schedule.
📝 Remember: Stay hydrated. Know your medication and travel history. Bring a photo ID.
Save lives —your donation matters |
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Know Your Rights Workshop 1/16 |
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| KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
Join Chicago's Northwest Side Progressive Coalition for an online training designed to empower our community with essential knowledge on your rights when interacting with ICE or other law enforcement officials and how to identify ICE activity in our communities.
This will be an English session with Spanish Translation
RSVP now at bit.ly/kyr16 |
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🗣️ ¡Conoce tus derechos! 🗣️ 📢 Aprende qué hacer si eres detenido por la policía o un agente de ICE. Aunque no tengas un estatus legal, tienes derechos. Participa en este importante taller educativo para protegerte y estar informado. 🗓 Fechas y horarios: 📌 Sábado 25 de enero a las 2 PM 📌 Martes 28 de enero a las 1 PM 📌 Jueves 30 de enero a las 6 PM 📍 Ubicación: Biblioteca Pública de Chicago 📲 Escanea el código QR del volante para registrarte y recibir recordatorios. O haga click AQUI ¡Ayúdanos a compartir esta información con tu comunidad!
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Health Insurance Open Enrollment CLOSING SOON |
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 | FECHA LIMITE: 15 de Enero Una nueva regla federal permitirá a los beneficiarios de Acción Diferida para los Llegados en la Infancia (DACA) inscribirse en cobertura a través de Get Covered Illinois Marketplace por primera vez, a partir del 1 de noviembre de 2024. Los beneficiarios elegibles de DACA pueden recibir ayuda financiera si califican. Estas preguntas frecuentes preguntas que los beneficiarios de DACA pueden tener sobre el proceso de inscripción. |
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|  | DEADLINE: Jan 15th A new federal rule will allow Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) recipients to enroll in health coverage through the Get Covered Illinois Marketplace for the first time, starting November 1,2024. Eligible DACA recipients can receive financial help if they qualify. This FAQ addresses key questions that DACA recipients may have about the enrollment process. |
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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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AI Essentials Certification Starts 1/15 |
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| In partnership with UnidosUS, CCL is offering Google’s AI Essentials Certification Program to help enhance your skills and productivity with AI—no experience needed! 🗓 Start Date: 1/15/25
Weekly Check-Ins: Wednesdays at 12 PM
Virtually or In-Person: 1955 N. St. Louis Ave, #101 Chicago, IL 60647 🎯Learn at your own pace and get certified! 📩 Sign Up Today: linktr.ee/cclchicago
📧 Email: frontdesk@cclconnect.org
📞 Call: 773-342-6210 Don’t miss this opportunity to empower your future with AI! 🌟 |
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| ¿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! |
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Economic Empowerment Center Cohort |
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Digital Skills for Small Biz Owners |
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| 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, and help with important tasks like finding housing, securing employment, and accessing healthcare and other resources in their first 90 days in the U.S.–. Learn more and apply today.
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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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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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CPD Community Feedback Survey |
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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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| 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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