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** Dear Neighbors,
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As we continue to adjust to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, I am writing with updates that impact Upper West Siders. Please know that my staff and I are committed to serving you during this crisis to every extent possible.
Please spread the word that the City of New York is seeking NYS-certified healthcare workers to support the expected surge at healthcare facilities. Click here to learn more ([link removed]) . Other important updates include:
* Alternate Side Street Parking is suspended until March 24th.
* The Pre-K application deadline has been extended to Sunday, March 29th. Families can apply online via MySchools ([link removed]) or by calling (718) 935-2009 (Monday through Friday, 8am to 6pm). Pre-K offers will still be released in May.
* Con Edison will not shut off electric, natural gas or steam service due to payment difficulties resulting from the health crisis. They are also waiving new late-payment charges for all customers. Learn more here ([link removed]) about all the measures Con-Ed is taking during the pandemic.
* MAKE SURE YOU ARE COUNTED: Households across the country are receiving mailed invitations, asking them to complete the 2020 U.S. Census. Every household has the option of responding online, by phone, or by mail. Learn more here ([link removed]) and here ([link removed] ) .
* I am very sorry to report that Participatory Budgeting for this budget season has been canceled. This was a difficult decision for the City Council, but voting this spring would have been severely impacted by the outbreak. A significant number of residents across the city lack internet access and can only vote for the PB projects by visiting public libraries and other community facilities.
Remember, the most important thing you can do at this moment is to stay home to every extent possible -- this will help to contain the spread of the virus. Read the NYC Dept of Health's latest factsheet here ([link removed]) .
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I've noticed that the City's websites are presenting information more clearly every day. Please visit these websites for the most up-to-date information:
* The City Department of Health ([link removed]) has lots of clear information about Coronavirus preparedness and safety. Their fact sheets are now translated into several languages.
* NYC Department of Education ([link removed]) Remember that any child under 18 (regardless of where they are enrolled) can go to any public school to pick up a meal between 7:30am and 1:30pm thru Friday, March 20. Locations for food pick-up for March 23rd and beyond will be posted ASAP.
* NYC Small Business Services ([link removed]) applications are online for "Employee Retention Grants" for businesses with 1-4 employees. SBS is also collecting information for larger businesses who can apply for a loan.
* Tips for running a small business during Covid 19 ([link removed]) .
* Sign up for the City’s text alert system, by texting the word “COVID” to 692-692.
* Our Facebook page ([link removed]) and website ([link removed]) will post regular updates from the Dept of Health & other helpful information.
Volunteers
Finally, please sign-up here ([link removed]) if you would like to be added to a list of Upper West Siders who are available to assist vulnerable neighbors via check-in phone calls, disseminating information within your building, and other safe outreach. We are developing a list of volunteer projects and will reach out to those who sign up, shortly.
Warmly,
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