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Dear Neighbor,
When I was elected to serve as one of Chicago’s 50 alderpeople, I made a promise to uplift the 26th Ward and protect all Chicagoans, regardless of their identities or affiliations. This past Monday, over 150 community members, along with local elected officials, came together in a powerful display of solidarity to reaffirm that commitment. Together, we distributed Know Your Rights flyers at CTA stops, local businesses, and on the streets, ensuring that our neighbors are equipped with the tools to safeguard their rights.
This week has also reminded us of the ongoing challenges we face. Recent federal actions threaten to strip away essential protections for marginalized communities. These efforts include attempts to target birthright citizenship, remove anti-discrimination protections for transgender individuals, restrict access to healthcare, and curtail bodily autonomy. These attacks aim to destabilize the very sense of safety and dignity we all deserve. |
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Despite these challenges, Chicagoans have shown what resilience and co-governance look like in action. Leaders like Governor JB Pritzker, Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle, and Mayor Brandon Johnson are unwavering in their dedication to using every legal tool available to protect our state, county, and city. The Illinois State Board of Education and Chicago Public Schools have also reaffirmed their shared commitment to safeguarding ALL students.
I am humbled and encouraged by the care and strength of our collective spirit that I've witnessed in our ward over the past week. If you’re ready to take action and stand with your neighbors, I invite you to join us for a Know Your Rights training this Tuesday evening (see details in the flyer below).
In solidarity,
Jessie Fuentes, 26th Ward Alderperson |
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Know Your Rights Workshop |
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Senior Valentine’s Brunch |
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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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El Rescate Youth Resource |
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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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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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🗣️ ¡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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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. 💬 Your Rights Include: ✅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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Understanding the Difference Between an Administrative ICE Warrant and a Judicial Warrant Administrative ICE Warrant (First Image that reads SAMPLE): Issued by: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), not a court. Purpose: Authorizes ICE officers to arrest an individual for immigration-related violations. Limitations: This warrant does not permit ICE officers to enter your home without your consent. Key Features: It is signed by an immigration officer, not a judge, and does not have the legal authority to compel entry into private property.
Judicial Search and Seizure Warrant (Second Image): Issued by: A United States District Court. Purpose: Authorizes law enforcement to enter a specified location to search or seize property or individuals. Authority: This warrant is signed by a judge, granting law enforcement legal authority to enter a home or premises without consent. Key Details: Always verify the warrant to ensure it applies to you and your address. Check attachments for specific instructions or limitations.
Why This Distinction Matters:
Understanding these differences is critical to protecting your rights. An ICE administrative warrant does not grant entry into your home, whereas a judicial warrant does. Always ask to see the warrant, verify its details, and seek legal counsel if necessary. For further assistance or questions, contact legal professionals or trusted community organizations. |
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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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Temperatures this weekend are expected drop with high winds this weekend. Click the images below for resources to stay warm and safe. |
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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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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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Mobile DMV coming to 26th Ward 3/4 |
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| 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 |
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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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| 🌈 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! 💙 |
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Economic Empowerment Center Cohort |
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Documentary: In Their Hands |
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| Explore the fight for freedom and the politics of parole through the story of Ronnie Carrasquillo, a man whose fate has been determined by shifting political dynamics and the Illinois Parole Board.
📅 Premiered: December 12, 2024
📺 Airs on WTTW: December 27, 9:00 PM
📲 Stream: wttw.com or PBS app
Screenings will continue throughout 2025, raising awareness about the parole system. Don’t miss this powerful and thought-provoking film. Follow: @intheirhandsfilm
📧 Contact: dan@protesscommunications.com |
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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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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 Survey: Community Policing & Alternative Response |
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| 🗣️ 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
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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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