Hey Neighbor,


Were you interested in RSVPing for the Bronx Zoo Family Nature Club?


We’re sorry the RSVP link in our last email didn’t work — here’s the updated information so you can register and share with your family:

As a reminder, The Bronx Zoo Family Nature Club is a free, family-friendly outdoor program being offered on Sunday, February 1, 2026 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the Mitsubushi River Walk. It is designed to help children and caregivers connect with nature right here in the Bronx. Sessions encourage unstructured free play, exploration, and investigation of the local environment. Other upcoming dates are March 1, 2026 and May 3, 2026. This program is offered in partnership with the Bronx Zoo, and pre-registration is required for each session.


In Community,

Hon. Amanda Farías

Majority Leader

Council Member, District 18

🔎 PUBLIC PROGRAMS & BENEFITS

Free Educational Workshop: Home Care Services Through Medicaid in NY

Tuesday, January 6, 2026 | 4:00 PM (Zoom)


This free virtual workshop will help individuals and caregivers understand changes to Medicaid long-term care and how to access support to age in place at home.


Topics include:

  • Medicaid guidelines for home care services
  • Income trusts and excess income management
  • MLTC & NYIA evaluations
  • Veterans home care benefits
  • Nursing Home Transition & Diversion (NHTD)
  • PACE and OPWDD programs



Register for this Meeting

Free Lincoln Center Tickets for District 18 Residents



Through a partnership I secured with Lincoln Center, District 18 residents can access free tickets to select Mainstage performances as part of Lincoln Center’s Choose-What-You-Pay programming.


Residents are eligible for up to three FREE tickets per performance, while supplies last.

Use the code LCPCD18 at checkout.


January performances include:

  • globalFEST — Sunday, January 11, 2026
  • Pastoral — January 11, 12, and 13, 2026



For details and tickets visit LincolnCenter.org/Presents



Free In-Person Workshop: Safety First (Fire Safety Education Program)

Monday, January 12, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM


This workshop focuses on lifesaving fire prevention strategies, with special attention to older adults and at-risk communities. It will be held at JASA, Sue Ginsburg Older Adult Center – 975 Waring Avenue, in the Bronx



Register for this Meeting

Felony Trial Training Program (Mock Juror Experience)

Friday, February 6, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM


A full-day, in-person opportunity for community members to participate as volunteer mock jurors as part of a felony trial training program. Participants will observe and engage in a simulated trial process. Breakfast and lunch are provided. Must be 18 years or older to participate.



Register for this Program

Winter/Spring 2026 Virtual Caregiving Workshops (NYC Public Schools)

Zoom | Weekly Sessions


A free, trauma-informed workshop series for caregivers of NYC Public School students, focused on wellness, healing, and family support.



Schedule:

  • Mondays: 5:00 – 6:00 PM
  • Tuesdays: 7:30 – 8:30 PM


Monthly themes:

  • January: Resilient Parenting
  • February: Family Healing
  • March: Family Connection
  • April: Emotional Balance
  • May: Mindful Support
  • June: Compassion Across Generations




Monday Registration Tuesday Registration

Access-A-Ride: MY AAR & OMNY ID Live Review Sessions

Zoom | Weekly Sessions


Live review sessions designed to help Access-A-Ride customers understand and use MY AAR and AAR OMNY ID cards.


Sessions cover how to:

  • Book and manage trips
  • Use OMNY for free or reduced-fare rides
  • Navigate the MY AAR portal
    

Session times:

  • Tuesdays at 2:00 PM
  • Thursdays at 11:00 AM


Tuesday Registration Thursday Registration

The Door- Free GED Program

Advance & Earn is an innovative training and

employment program for young adults between

the ages of 18-24. Develop your career pathway with employer recognized trainings, earn credentials and certifications, enjoy paid internships and get comprehensive GED test prep.



Paid Internship for HSE Track: 250 hours total at $18/hour (approx. 25 hours/week) 

Weekly Stipend for Pre-HSE Track:
Earn $240/week (must attend at least 14 hours of programming) 


Interest Form

Mobile Food Distribution Every Thursday

10am - 2pm



  • For anyone age 65+ and has active Medicaid coverage.
  • Pre Registration is Required.
  • Located at 604 Castle Hill Avenue.
    

Call 347-315-4898 for more info.

Free Museum Memberships for SNAP Recipients

SNAP recipients in New York can now enjoy free membership to the American Museum of Natural History — including FREE admission for up to four guests. This new benefit opens the door to one of NYC’s most iconic cultural institutions.


Get membership details

Food Distribution Friday, January 9th
12pm - 2pm



  • Located at 1000 Rosedale Avenue Bronx, NY 10472
  • Rain or Shine! Bring your bag and shopping cart
  • Food will be distributed on a first come, first serve basis.


🔗 STAY CONNECTED

My office is here to help you navigate city services and access resources. We are accepting appointments for the services below. Call our office to schedule a day and time that works for you.

For questions please call my office at 718-792-1140

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