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Dear Neighbors,

This week I was delighted to participate in a ceremony honoring the 30 graduates of Lincoln Center's new workforce development program for community residents. Organized in concert with Turner Construction, this is Lincoln Center’s first-ever paid construction job-training program and comes at a time when there is an urgent need for entry level jobs which offer a living wage and advancement potential.



Graduates completed a 5-week paid classroom course and have begun on-site paid training with the goal of full-time employment in the construction industry. Special thanks to Pat Ryan and Andrew Blacks for all their outreach to community members. Congratulations and best of luck to all the graduates!
 

Photos: Turner Construction Company.

State Eviction Moratorium Struck Down
We are still trying to understand the full ramifications of last week's Supreme Court decision which essentially struck down the New York State eviction moratorium. TakeRoot Justice has prepared this "what happens next" fact sheet, which outlines what the decision means for tenants in the time remaining before the moratorium would otherwise have expired on August 31st.

As the fact sheet notes:
  • If a tenant has a pending NYS Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) application, their case & eviction are still stayed (nonpays and holdovers) until the application is decided.
  • The CDC (federal) moratorium is still in place. Tenants must fill out the CDC declaration to be covered by the CDC moratorium, even if they filled out a New York State hardship declaration.
  • The Supreme Court will probably strike down the CDC moratorium in the next few weeks.
Free legal assistance for tenants can be found on our website, by clicking on "Housing." Our upcoming e-blasts will include updates on eviction protections, as well as the date of our next on-line Housing Clinic, where tenants can ask questions directly of housing lawyers.
 

Assistance for Haiti
Please consider donating supplies for the earthquake relief effort in Haiti. New Yorkers can bring donations to any NYPD station house. Find your local station house here. The following items are urgently needed:
  • Medical Supplies
  • Personal Hygiene Items
  • Non-Perishable Food
  • Baby Food
  • Flashlights

Bike Helmet Event This Saturday!
A reminder to please join us this Saturday, August 21st in Riverside Park for our annual bike helmet giveaway event. Distribution will take place between 11am and 2:30pm, while supplies last.
  • We'll be on Riverside Drive between W. 88th and W. 89th Streets. Click here for more information.
  • Masks are required during the entire fitting.
  • A parent or legal guardian must be present for any child under age 18 who is being fitted. 
The NYPD will also be offering free bicycle registration, which can be very useful in the event your bike is stolen. Click here to learn more.
 

 

Environmental Justice for All New Yorkers
Decades of systemic inequality have left low income communities and communities of color to shoulder the brunt of negative environmental outcomes across the U.S. Through development of its Environmental Justice for All Report, the Mayor's Office is seeking to incorporate environmental justice into the fabric of City decision-making, identify initiatives to promote EJ, and provide recommendations for City agencies to adequately assess and address EJ concerns.  

The City has released a draft scope of study for the report -- including issues to be studied and a proposed analytical approach. A citywide public engagement period is open until September 5th to ensure that the issues included in the scope are truly reflective of the priorities and concerns of frontline EJ communities. Click here to learn more about the draft scope and how to comment. Please share the draft scope with anyone you think might be interested!
 

Preparing for this Year's General Election
In addition to voting for Mayor, City Council, and other elected officials in this year’s November 2nd general election, New Yorkers will also have the chance to weigh in on five ballot proposals.

The proposals offer amendments to the New York State Constitution regarding:
  • The redistricting process
  • The right to a healthy environment
  • Voter registration deadlines
  • No-excuse absentee voting
  • Civil Courts jurisdiction
To learn more and submit a public comment regarding one of the ballot proposals, click here. Comments must be submitted by 5pm on Friday, August 20th. 

The NYC Campaign Finance Board's official NYC Voter Guide will also feature summaries of the proposals, as well as public comments in support and opposition. 
 

August 25th: Volunteer with the Mask Force!
Every month, MTA employees and other volunteers have been fanning out across the transit system, handing out free masks to riders. The goal is to encourage 100% mask compliance to keep riders and front-line employees safe, as mask wearing continues to be a critical weapon in the fight against community spread.



There are multiple locations and times to volunteer this August 25th. Each volunteer is given their own KN-95 mask along with gloves, sanitizer, as well as bright yellow Mask Force gear to help riders identify them. Click here to learn more about the Mask Force, and sign up here to volunteer on August 25th!
Have You Been Vaccinated?
 
Vaccine Weekend of Faith
From Friday, August 27th - Sunday, August 29th, faith leaders across every borough will simultaneously preach, teach, share, or host a vaccination clinic for the communities they serve. The objective is to continue to vaccinate New Yorkers and ensure a safe return to school this Fall. Sign up to participate and receive more information by emailing: [email protected]. For more information, visit www.nyc.gov/cau. 

1.) "Key to NYC" Vaccination Mandate
As ordered by the City, indoor dining, fitness, and entertainment establishments now require proof of at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. To enter one of these establishments, you'll need to show your paper CDC card, Excelsior Pass, NYC COVID Safe App, or any other vaccine record.
  • Applies to NYers 12 and older -- customers, workers, patrons -- with reasonable accommodations for health, disability, and religion.
  • Enforcement of the order begins September 13th. Learn more at nyc.gov/keytonyc or by calling 311.
  • Businesses with questions should call: 1-888-SBS-4NYC or visit nycsmallbizcourses.eventbrite.com and search for “Key to NYC Guidelines and Resources to Help Your Business."
2.) 3rd Vaccine Dose for Immunocompromised New Yorkers
Public health authorities are recommending that some immunocompromised persons receive three doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, rather than the standard two-dose regimen. The recommendation applies to people 12 and older who have a condition or are taking medications or treatments that moderately or severely weaken their immune system, and received either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. Learn more here.

Before receiving a third dose, please consult with your doctor. NYers getting a third dose will be asked to attest to their qualifying medical condition. No other documentation will be required. Additional vaccine doses are not recommended for any other group at this time.
  • 3rd doses are available at all City-run vaccination sites.
  • NYC Health + Hospitals facilities will have 3rd doses available in the days to come.
3.) All City-run vaccination sites are open to ALL New Yorkers. This  includes City-run "walk-up" sites (age 12+ accepted at Pfizer sites; age 18+ accepted at Moderna sites).

Click here for the most up-to-date list of walk-up vaccination sites. Vaccinations can also be scheduled via the City's Vaccine Finder, or by calling 877-VAX-4NYC or 877-829-4692.

Please check the NYS Dept of Health website and the NYC Dept of Health website regularly for vaccination updates and additional information.

4.) In-home COVID-19 vaccinations are now available to all New Yorkers ages 12 and older. Click here to learn more or phone 877-829-4692.

5.) In-home COVID-19 testing is now available to all immunocompromised New Yorkers and those ages 65 and older. Appointments are available seven days per week, from 9am to 7pm. Please call 929-298-9400 to schedule.
  • The City will provide a molecular PCR test administered by a trained clinician at no cost.
  • Once a test is requested, it will be performed the next day or the day following, depending on when the patient is available.
  • Results will be returned within two days by text, e-mail or phone.
6.) Vaccination Incentives 
For New Yorkers
New Yorkers receiving their first vaccine dose at a City-run vaccine location are now eligible for incentives, including a $100 pre-paid debit card. Click here to learn more.

New Yorkers 18 and older can also win exclusive prizes. Once your first vaccine dose is complete, you will receive an email with instructions on how to select your money or incentive and enter the contest.
 
For Community Organizations
The City is offering a special incentive to community and faith-based organizations -- $100 will be awarded to community groups for each person they refer for a first vaccine dose at a City-run vaccination site.

New Yorkers who make an appointment ahead of time, or who use a walk-in vaccination site, simply need to identify which community organization referred them. Organizations can earn up to $20,000 each. Interested organizations should sign up at nyc.gov/vaccinereferralbonus. 

7.) Stay Informed! Helpful COVID-19 information sources include: 
 
Important News for Tenants
 
The NYS Eviction Moratorium has been struck down by the Supreme Court. Click here to learn more.

NYS Emergency Rental Assistance (ERAP)
Eligible tenants may seek up to 12 months of rental and utility arrears assistance, as well as three prospective months of rent, via the COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). Watch our August Housing Clinic with updates about ERAP here.
  • Applications are being accepted now. Click here to learn about eligibility and apply.
  • Tenants are eligible to apply regardless of immigration status if their household income is below 80% of "area median income," which you can look up here.
  • If you have an eviction case, it will be stayed while you apply, so you can't be evicted while your application is being processed.
Application Tips: TakeRoot Justice has prepared a very helpful: For assistance with the application, call New York State at 844-NY1-RENT (844-691-7368). If you live in Manhattan, the two organizations below are designated ERAP "enrollers" and can also answer questions.
  • Catholic Charities Community Services at 888-744-7900
  • University Settlement at 212-453-4500
Extra Tip: tenants should call New York State or an enroller organization as many times as necessary to have all your questions answered.

Other ERAP Resources
  • Older adults and persons with disabilities can contact LiveOn NY for assistance with the ERAP application. Phone (212) 398-5045 or email [email protected].
  • West Side Campaign Against Hunger is answering questions about the ERAP application. Contact them here.
  • The NY Legal Assistance Group is answering questions about the ERAP application. Contact them here.
NYCHA residents should click here if they are having difficulty paying their rent due to the pandemic.

Read about other resources for tenants here.

Job Listings: Spread the Word!

 
The West Side YMCA is recruiting for a number of positions. They offer great local career opportunities, especially for those looking to start a career path in youth development. Learn more here!

GrowNYC is hiring! See a variety of open positions here.

Jobs Available with the City Cleanup Corps
The City Cleanup Corps (CCC) is a New Deal-inspired economic recovery program with the aim of creating 10,000 jobs and making New York City the "cleanest, greenest city in the United States." The CCC is funded via federal stimulus dollars and part of the Mayor’s Recovery For All of Us plan.

Hiring is taking place across 10 City agencies, including the departments of Parks & Recreation, Transportation, Environmental Protection, and the NYC Housing Authority. The CCC will focus on revitalizing New York City’s public spaces and neighborhoods -- prioritizing areas identified by local communities and elected officials, business districts, and the 33 neighborhoods hit hardest by the pandemic. 

Important Resources for Our Community

 
Services & Support for 9/11 Survivors and First Responders
Are you a survivor of the September 11th, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center? Or were you a first responder at the scene? Services and support are available for you via the World Trade Center Health Program, which is administered by the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH), part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

Learn about services for September 11th survivors here, and for first responders here.

In 2010, Congress passed legislation authorizing the WTC Health Program and the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund. Both programs have their own distinct mission, eligibility criteria, and enrollment process. Learn more about the Victim Compensation Fund and the WTC Health Program here.
 

Sign-Up for Curbside Composting! 
This fall the City will resume collecting food scraps, food-soiled paper, and yard waste from residents so that it can be turned into compost or renewable energy. This service is voluntary, and residents must sign up.
  • Sign-ups for curbside composting are now being accepted! Click here to sign up and learn more.
  • Encourage your building management or board members to sign-up. The Dept of Sanitation will notify the building representative when service will start in your area.
  • Service will resume on a rolling basis based on the number of sign-ups in your area. This way DSNY can ensure there will be enough material set out for their trucks to pick up. The more sign-ups in our area, the quicker service will start!
 
Summer Grab & Go Meals
Free “Grab & Go” meals are available for all residents this summer. No registration, documentation, or ID is required to receive a free breakfast or lunch.

To learn more and find a pick-up location: click here; text “NYC FOOD” or “NYC COMIDA” to 877-877; or call 311. 

The summer locations in our area are open Monday - Friday, 9am - 1pm.
  • Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts: 100 Amsterdam Ave
  • Anderson School: 100 W. 77th Street
  • Urban Assembly School for Green Careers: 145 W. 84th Street
  • P.S. 75: 735 West End Avenue
  • P.S. 163 Alfred E. Smith: 163 W. 97th Street
  • P.S. 145, The Bloomingdale School: 150 W. 105th Street

Resources for Residential Property Owners
COVID-19 has been a challenging time for owners as well as tenants. Click here to read the City's summary of resources which can assist property owners in securing rent payments, loans, foreclosure protections, and individualized assistance.
 

Grants for Artists
Grants are available via City Artist Corps, a new $25 million recovery initiative designed to assist artists who were both hard hit by the pandemic and may have been left out of other local and federal funding opportunities. Click here to learn more.
 

Child Tax Credit
A reminder to families that the IRS has begun monthly distributions of up to $300 per child as part of the expanded Child Tax Credit (CTC) created by the American Rescue Plan Act.

Families can receive half of the fully refundable credit—worth up to $3,600 per child (under age 6) or $3,000 per child (ages 6 to 17)—as monthly payments in 2021 and the other half as part of tax refunds in 2022.

These payments could bring in more than $5 billion to NYC and, when combined with other stimulus funds, reduce child poverty by nearly half -- but only if every eligible family participates!

No action is necessary if you filed a 2019 or 2020 tax return or used the IRS "Non-Filer" tool. Otherwise, click here to learn how to claim the CTC and receive the payments quickly and safely.
  • NYC Free Tax Prep can assist anyone who needs to file to in order to receive the CTC.
  • The fastest way to receive the advance payment is by direct deposit to a bank account. New Yorkers can visit one of the City's Financial Empowerment Centers for help setting up a bank account if they don’t have one. 

Grants Available to Help Address COVID-19 Learning Loss
TD Bank is offering grants to eligible not-for-profit and charitable organizations which are developing innovative solutions to address predicted learning loss in math and reading for students in grades K-12 who were disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. 

Research predicts that remote and virtual learning may disproportionately increase learning loss among students who do not have consistent access to technology, a private space, and/or teacher supervision, including:
  • Students from low-income households
  • Students with limited access to internet
  • Indigenous and Racialized students
  • Students with disabilities
A total of $10 million (Canadian) in grants are available to eligible organizations in Canada and the U.S. Applications are being accepted until August 26th. Learn more at td.com/readychallenge.
 

Mental Health Resources for District 6 Residents
Don't suffer alone. Support is available for any New Yorker coping with issues like depression, anxiety, substance misuse, crime victimization, and serious mental illness. Targeted services are being offered to older New Yorkers, veterans, families with young children, students, and people harmed by crime or abuse.
  • NYC Well is the City's confidential helpline for mental health and substance misuse services. Trained counselors can provide you with support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in over 200 languages. Click here; call: 1-888-NYC-Well (1-888-692-9355); or text: “Well” to 65173.

Free Wellness Classes: a wide variety of free, on-line wellness programs are available from:

Free Vision Screenings: University Eye Center
Free screenings are available on Monday, August 23rd, from 9:30am to 11:30am.

Screenings are by appointment only. All ages welcome. Infants under 18 months can have a complete eye exam done for free instead of a screening.
  • Phone (212) 938-4001, Monday - Friday (9am - 5pm) and Saturday (8:30am - 4:30pm)
  • Location: University Eye Center, SUNY College of Optometry, 33 W. 42nd Street
 
1.) Older adults may be eligible for a wide range of benefits, including assistance with food, medical, and utility costs, as well as rent freezes and lower property taxes.

If you missed our webinar with LiveOn NY about how to access these benefits, you can review detailed slides from the presentation here.

If you would like benefits screening and application assistance, phone (212) 398-5045, or email [email protected]. You can also complete an intake form with LiveOn NY here.

2.) Older adults may be eligible for assistance with their Medicare costs. Together with the Medicare Rights Center, our office hosted a special webinar in July regarding available assistance. We also reviewed COVID-19 Medicare coverage, Medicaid "Spend Down," and other important topics.

Community Events


The Goats of Gotham
I encourage you to visit Riverside Park's newest inhabitants -- a herd of goats which is roaming an enclosed two-acre area, between approximately 119th and 125th Streets.



The goats are hard at work, helping to eliminate invasive species in a hard to reach woodland area. The Riverside Park Conservancy says that some of the plant species that have proven most difficult to control in this area are Porcelain Berry, English Ivy, Mugwort, Multiflora Rose and Poison Ivy.

Throughout the summer, the goats will repeatedly consume the weeds all the way down to the roots. After a few months, the plants’ ability to grow will have been weakened, and perhaps eliminated altogether. Not only are the goats doing this labor intensive work with great efficiency and no need for chemicals, their droppings add valuable nutrients to the soil. 

I was delighted to visit Conservancy president Dan Garodnick and his team recently, and see all the great work happening at the Park. You can learn more here.


Photos: Emil Cohen / NYC Council
 

NYCHomecoming Week
New Yorkers are invited to a citywide celebration lasting through this Sunday (8/22) with live concerts, cultural activities, and more. Visit nyc.gov/HomecomingWeek to see the full line-up!



Explore the Wonders of the Ocean
Join the New York Aquarium for a special FREE virtual and behind-the-scenes tour of their Ocean Wonders: Sharks! exhibit on August 19th at 6pm. The tour will showcase the Aquarium's sharks, rays, sea turtles and more, with Aquarium keepers and educators. Space is limited: please RSVP here!
 

 

For local and citywide environmental news and events, sign up for newsletters from UWS Recycling, which come out 6 times/year. Read the July/August Eco Letter here!
 
Outdoor Fun
  • Summer on the Hudson is NYC Parks' annual outdoor arts and culture festival in Riverside Park, from 59th to 153rd Streets. Click here to learn more about upcoming music concerts, dance performances, movies under the stars, DJ dance parties, kids shows, special events, wellness activities, and more. All programs and events are free and registration not required unless otherwise stated. 
  • Re-Growth, A Celebration of Art, Riverside Park, and the New York Spirit is a free, park-wide art exhibition with site-specific installations spanning several miles alongside the Hudson River. Learn more here and here.
We're Here to Help

My office assists people with housing issues, seniors, the disabled, the recently un (or under) employed, the food insecure, and all those suffering the many consequences of this pandemic, to help in any way we can. We also provide on-going advocacy with our public schools and other public services.

Please call (212) 873-0282, leave a message and we will call you back as soon as possible; email [email protected]; or check our website, HelenRosenthal.com. We update it on a regular basis with information about public benefits, non-profit resources, and health facts Upper West Siders need to get through this crisis. 

Warmly,



P.S. Please forward this newsletter to anyone you think might be interested, or have them subscribe to my e-blasts here. Also, follow my social media accounts on Twitter, Facebook, and/or Instagram.
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