Dear Neighbors,

As the council begins hearings on the budget for the next fiscal year, we must continue to work for a robust recovery that includes the whole city. I look forward to the end of this pandemic and working to create a stronger city.

As we continue our work to stop the spread of COVID-19, please remember: by wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, looking after our seniors and most vulnerable neighbors, and getting tested, we can continue to stay well.

Please find below the latest news and resources to stay informed.

Thank you and stay well,

Council Member Paul Vallone
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Council Member Vallone Holds Hearing on NYCEDC Budget for NYC Recovery

Council Member Vallone chaired a hearing of the Economic Development Commmittee to overview their preliminary budget for the upcoming fiscal year. NYCEDC outlined their plans to to get the city up and running through their various programs designed to support business and commerce in the city. They also outlined their plans to expand ferry service througout the city.

"Today I chaired a great preliminary budget hearing where we asked NYCEDC about their plans to revitalize the city after the pandemic and increase transit options in Northeast Queens by expanding ferry service to include our communities." said Council Member Vallone

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Council Member Vallone Signs on to Letter to Support the Schoolyard to Playground Program

Council Member Vallone signed onto a letter from Council Member Robert Holden to increase funding for the Schoolyard to Playground progam, which would expand access to schoolyards during off-hours for the residents of the surrounding communities.

"With public health officials encouraging outdoor activities over indoor gatherings and summer fast approaching, Schoolyards to Playgrounds has a small price tag for the significant, positive impact on communities. Please make funding this program a priority." the letter penned by Council Member Holden reads.

"It is important to open as much outdoor space as possible during these times to allow children and families to safely enjoy their time outdoors during the spring and summer" said Council Member Vallone.

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NYC Department of the Aging to Launch Ageless New York to Combat Ageism

The NYC Department for the Aging is unveiling and launching of Ageless New York – a first-of-its-kind media campaign in New York City, dedicated to combatting ageism. DFTA is working to tackle a pervasive problem in elder care in a first of it's kind media campaign to raise awareness.

“It is amazing to see the city recognize the pervasive problem of ageism in our city." said Council Member Vallone "I have worked for most of my career to protect the rights of vulnerable seniors and shining a light on their struggles will certainly empower them and their advocates in seeking justice in their lives. “

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Pop Up Douglaston Food Share Available for Neighbors in Need through June

Please spread the word about our pop up food pantries! All relevant information can be found on the infographics below in both Chinese and English.

Great work from the Douglaston LDC, Zion Episcopal Church, and The Community Church of Douglaston!

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ICYMI: Senior Medical Transport Program Returns to District 19

Photo taken in 2019

Council Member Paul A. Vallone is proud to announce that the Free Senior Transportation Program is back up and running as of last week thanks to a $90,000 funding allocation. An additional $50,000 was allocated in partnership with Speaker Corey Johnson and Council Member Robert Holden, bringing the total allotment to $140,000. Queens seniors living in Council Member Vallone’s district are eligible for the program, as well as seniors in Council Member Holden’s section of Queens. Rides are offered to areas within the five boroughs and western Nassau County. The program will continue until all funding runs out.

In order to schedule a ride to an essential medical or vaccination appointment, eligible Queens seniors should call the Selfhelp Clearview Senior Center at 718-224-7888 between the hours of 9 a.m. and noon and leave their name and phone number in a voicemail to schedule their next-day rides. The Selfhelp team will return their call and arrange the ride. If their appointment is on a Saturday, Sunday or Monday, seniors will need to call the prior Friday. All those who use the service will need to complete a basic application with demographic information and an emergency contact and provide their destination.