View this email in your browser ([link removed])
Dear Neighbors,
As you know, our office serves thousands of constituents each year. Because our staff is so small, we are indebted to a group of incredibly dedicated community volunteers who take the time to assist their neighbors with a wide range of critical issues.

Linda Miller and Matt Abuelo were part of this group of volunteers and spent countless hours helping Upper West Side tenants stay in their homes. We lost both Linda and Matt in the last few months and want to take this moment to thank them for everything they did for the Upper West Side. We send our deepest condolences to their families and friends.

Linda Miller was an attorney who very generously provided legal expertise and volunteered her afternoons and evenings to help tenants protect their rights. Linda was very active in her community and quilted baby blankets for those who are less fortunate. We miss Linda and are better for having known her.

Matt Abuelo handled our housing hotline with great patience and empathy. He understood that callers to our office often needed a kind listener who understands how frightening it is to endure the very real threat of losing their home. Matt was dedicated to serving his neighbors and even came to the office while on crutches. Matt was also an author and poet, and once lived at the UWS SRO Dexter House, which he wrote about.


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Save the Date: October 6th Housing Clinic
Tenants with legal and/or housing court-related questions are warmly invited to join us for our October Housing Clinic, led by TakeRoot Justice. The clinic will be conducted via Zoom on Wednesday, October 6th, from 6 to 7pm. This month's topic: getting repairs done safely during the pandemic. We will send out viewing information on Monday, October 4th.

Rent stabilized and rent controlled tenants: please mark your calendars for our November 3rd Housing Clinic, which will focus on your rights, understanding what it means to be a "tenant of record," and preferential rents. There will also be a refresher on the State tenant protections passed in 2019.

NYS Eviction Moratorium Extended
A reminder that legal protections from eviction for most NYS tenants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic have been extended through January 15, 2022. The new law follows recent decisions by the U.S. Supreme Court that found the federal restriction on evictions and the earlier NYS COVID-19 eviction protection laws to be unlawful. Scroll down to "Important News for Tenants" to learn more.

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Curbside Composting Updates
As you know, the City is resuming 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. Click here ([link removed]) to sign up and learn more.

If you have already signed up, please encourage your building management or co-op board members to sign up as well. Service is resuming on a rolling basis based on the number of sign-ups in your area. The Dept of Sanitation reports that demand for Curbside Composting has been very high generally. Due to budget constraints, they are gradually expanding pick-up service areas month by month.

Until Curbside Composting begins in your immediate area, the DSNY is urging residents to bring food scraps to a drop-off location ([link removed]) if they are able. Residents can also learn how to make compost at home ([link removed]) . For additional information, read this update from Upper West Side Recycling ([link removed]) .

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Discounts for City Fines Imposed During the Pandemic
Until December 20th, 2021, the City of NY will be offering residents and small businesses discounts of up to 75% for fines imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more via the City's Fines and Interest Reduction Enabling Recovery program ([link removed]) . (Scroll to the “How to Participate” section and click the link.)

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The City's Open Storefronts program assists existing ground-floor storefront businesses who want to use outdoor areas on a temporary basis. The Program has been extended until the end of 2021. Learn more about the program here ([link removed]) .

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The General Election Is Around the Corner. Are You Registered to Vote?
The November 2nd general election will impact our city for years to come. Learn more about why this election is so important ([link removed]) . The deadline to register to vote in the general election is next Friday, October 8th.
* If you’re already registered, click here ([link removed]) to double check your registration status and ensure that all your information is up to date. This is especially important if you have recently moved or changed your name.
* Register to vote ([link removed]) if you are not already registered!

Town Hall: NYS Constitutional Amendments On November's Ballot
NYS Senator Liz Krueger is hosting a Virtual Town Hall next Thursday, October 7th from 7pm – 8:30pm regarding five State constitutional amendments included in this November's general election ballot. Proposals include:
* Amending the Apportionment and Redistricting Process
* Right to Clean Air and Water
* Same Day Voter Registration
* No-Excuse Absentee Voting
* Expanding the New York State Civil Court Jurisdiction

The Virtual Town Hall will feature: Patrick Berry, Counsel, Democracy Project, Brennan Center for Justice; and Kate Kurera, Deputy Director, Environmental Advocates NY.

Please register for the event and submit your questions here ([link removed]) . You can join the event online via Zoom or Facebook (you do not need a Facebook account or profile) or by phone. Once you register, you will receive a confirmation email with the Zoom and Facebook links, and the call-in information. Attendees will be able to submit questions through Zoom and Facebook during the event but are strongly encouraged to submit them in advance.

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Calling All Teens Who Care About the Environment
Do you know public high school students who care about their community, are interested in climate change and sustainability, and want to make a difference for their future? If so, please encourage them to apply for the DOE Office of Sustainability Youth Leadership Council (YLC)!

Applications are due Tuesday, October 12th. Apply and learn more here ([link removed]) .
YLC members:
* develop leadership and teamwork skills
* learn about student advocacy, sustainability and climate change
* gain skills and knowledge to empower action within their school & local communities
* build youth networks within the YLC and across the DOE

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Free Pre-K Spaces Available!
The Bloomingdale Family Program ([link removed]) has space for your child born in 2017 in its 4s classrooms. The program is free of charge. For more information and to apply, call Bloomingdale at 212-665-4631 or email them at [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) .

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City of NY Emergency Food Programs: Important Updates
A reminder that the City has ended provision of Community Grab & Go Meal Service at public schools across New York. The City will also be ending its Emergency Food Home-Delivered Meal Program (EFD) in October. The City says it is in the process of contacting all New Yorkers who participate in the program to identify anyone needing food assistance beyond October. Those New Yorkers will be connected to longer-term programs and agencies.

Food insecurity remains widespread across New York City. If you or someone you know is in need, available resources include:
* Please visit Hunter College's COVID-19 NYC Neighborhood Food Resource Guides ([link removed]) with information about food resources in each of NYC’s 59 community districts. The Guides are updated daily.
* Please visit 311’s COVID-19 Resources and Support page ([link removed]) .
* Please visit my website ([link removed]) and click on "Food Assistance" for a list of food pantries in our community.

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Health Coverage for City of NY Retirees
This summer the City of NY and the Municipal Labor Committee reached an agreement to replace the current Senior Care program -- a supplement to traditional Medicare which is free for all retirees and their eligible dependents -- with a Medicare Advantage Plus Plan.

Retirees will automatically be enrolled in the new NYC Medicare Advantage Plus Plan with an effective date of January 1, 2022. Retirees can opt-out of the NYC Medicare Advantage Plus Plan and purchase another health plan, including the Senior Care program and HIP VIP, until the end of October (before the program start date).
* For more information about the switch to Medicare Advantage, click here ([link removed]) .
* Retirees can also phone 1-833-325-1190, Monday to Friday, 8am to 9pm, with questions.
* Click here ([link removed]) to learn more about City of NY negotiations with municipal labor unions.

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Electoral Redistricting: Submit a Comment
The Independent Redistricting Commission is a ten-member body created by New York State voters to redraw Congressional and State Legislature lines fairly and equitably. After holding virtual public meetings this summer and reviewing updated Census Bureau data, the IRC is drawing the first round of new district maps. Final district maps will eventually be voted on and certified by the IRC and presented to the State Legislature.

Public participation in drawing these districts is critical to ensuring that communities have the strongest voice possible. The IRC continues to seek input from New Yorkers regarding how they feel about the current lines outlining their district; and what they would like the IRC to know about their community.
Submit testimony here ([link removed]) . Learn more and stay updated about the process at www.nyirc.gov ([link removed]) .
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Free Membership at City Recreation Centers
Free membership at City of NY recreation centers is available to any New Yorker who signs up before December 31, 2021. The membership term will last for one year from the date of sign-up, and will grant access to facilities across the city. Learn more here ([link removed]) .

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New Soccer Field at MLK Educational Campus!

I was so moved and delighted to join Coach Jake and all the MLK Campus soccer players as they celebrated the installation of their new soccer field earlier this month!

The new field was funded by our community, via Participatory Budgeting, and it was wonderful to see how MLK students really engaged with the PB process. We are wishing everyone at MLK many successful seasons!


Other Upcoming Events of Interest

Congestion Pricing Public Input Session for Upper Manhattan
A reminder that a public info session regarding the impact of congestion pricing on Manhattan, 61st Street and above, will be next Wednesday, October 6th, from 6-8pm.The MTA and the NYS and NYC Departments of Transportation are currently holding virtual public meetings regarding congestion pricing, also known as the proposed Central Business District Tolling Program (CBDTP), for a 28-county region in New York, Connecticut and New Jersey.

Visit new.mta.info/project/CBDTP to learn more about CBDTP, the public meetings, and how to submit comments. The CBDTP was authorized by the State in April 2019 and modeled on urban congestion pricing programs around the world to reduce traffic congestion and raise needed revenue to improve public transportation. Other cities with similar programs have also experienced improved air quality. If approved, the CBDTP would be the first such program in the U.S.

City Hearing on New Regulations for Moped Share Companies
The City's Dept of Transportation is holding a public hearing on October 28th at 2pm regarding its proposed amendment to City traffic rules pertaining to moped share systems. The amendment would prohibit the operation of any moped share system in New York City without DOT’s prior written authorization, and more specifically, establish a permit process for moped share systems.

To learn more about the hearing, including viewing information and how to submit testimony, click here ([link removed]) .

The NY Historical Society has a wide range of programming for children and adults during Hispanic Heritage Month, including:
* Hablemos, starting October 9, 2021 - Join NYHS for a once-a-month virtual program for children ages four to ten and their grown-ups led by a Spanish-speaking art educator. Explore NYHS's collections and engage in creative activities that illuminate New York City's past. More information will be posted on NYHS's Family Programs calendar ([link removed]) .

* Silver, Sword, and Stone: A History of Latin America ([link removed]) : featuring Marie Arana and David M. Rubenstein (moderator). In this episode of NYHS's "For the Ages: A History Podcast," award-winning author Marie Arana examines the critical forces—including exploitation, violence, and religion—that have shaped Latin America for the past millennium and continue to reverberate today.

For local and citywide environmental news and events, sign up for newsletters from UWS Recycling ([link removed]) , which come out 6 times/year. Read the September/October Eco Letter here! ([link removed])
Have You Been Vaccinated?

COVID-19 has made it more important than ever to get your flu shot! Everyone 6 months and older should receive a seasonal flu vaccination each year. It is best to get vaccinated in the fall, but you can be vaccinated through late spring.

Vaccinated Escorts Needed to Accompany Vaccinated Older Adults on Vital Appointments
Search and Care ([link removed]) , a social service agency which provides older people with support and companionship so they can live with security and dignity, is seeking compassionate, vaccinated adults to safely accompany vaccinated older/frail adults on medical and other vital appointments.

Escorts will accompany older adults to and from their homes on the upper east and upper west sides of Manhattan. Escorts will be paid by the hour for their time. To learn more, please email [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) .

The ideal escort will:
* be available one or more weekdays for 3-5 hours between 8:30 and 5pm
* assist clients into/out of a vehicle (taxi, Access-A-Ride, bus)
* provide companionship and chaperoning assistance from home to medical provider and back home
* be bilingual (Spanish), a plus

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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 began 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.) Third Vaccine Doses

Pfizer Boosters
The following New Yorkers are now eligible for a booster shot of the Pfizer vaccine, if they received two doses of the Pfizer vaccine at least six months ago:
* Persons 65 or older
* Persons 18 to 64 and either have an underlying medical condition or a higher risk of COVID-19 exposure due to their job (for example, health care workers) or where they live or frequently visit (for example, a homeless shelter)
* Persons living in a nursing home or other long-term care facility

3rd Dose of Pfizer or Moderna for Immunocompromised People
Separate from booster shots, people who are moderately to severely immunocompromised (meaning they have a weakened immune system) are eligible for a third dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, as part of their initial vaccination series. They can get a third dose 28 days after their second shot.

Please read guidance from the NYC Dept of Health here ([link removed]) and the federal Centers for Disease Control & Prevention here. ([link removed])

Before receiving a third dose, please consult with your doctor if possible. NYers getting a third dose will be asked to attest to their qualifying medical condition. No other documentation will be required.
* 3rd doses are available at all City-run vaccination sites. Don't forget to bring your vaccination card!
* Homebound immunocompromised persons who received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine can request an in-home booster shot by calling 877-VAX4NYC or visiting nyc.gov/homevaccine.
* The NYC Dept of Health is still awaiting guidance on whether another dose will be recommended for the Johnson +Johnson vaccine.

3.) Have you lost your COVID-19 vaccination card?
If you are fully vaccinated and need verification of your vaccine status, you can request a record of your COVID-19 vaccination online ([link removed]) , or via fax or mail. Click here ([link removed]) to learn more!

New Yorkers can meet vaccine and/or testing requirements by carrying their paper vaccination card with them or scanning and storing it in one of two authorized mobile apps - Excelsior Pass Wallet and NYC Covid Safe. Learn more here ([link removed]) .

4.) 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 ([link removed]) . Vaccinations can also be scheduled via the City's Vaccine Finder ([link removed]) , or by calling 877-VAX-4NYC or 877-829-4692.

Please check the NYC Dept of Health website ([link removed]) regularly for vaccination updates and additional information -- including for people who were recently vaccinated.

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

6.) 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.

7.) 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 ([link removed]) 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 $100 to community and faith-based organizations 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.

8.) Stay Informed! Helpful COVID-19 information sources include:
* Up-to-date information on NYC's COVID response ([link removed]) .
* COVID testing and locations of testing sites ([link removed]) . New Yorkers can also call 212-COV-ID19; or text COVID TEST to 855 - 48.
* NYC Health + Hospitals Testing Sites ([link removed]) .
* Learn more about NYC Care, the City’s healthcare access program ([link removed]) .


Important News for Tenants

The NYS Eviction Moratorium has been extended to January, 2022.

Important: tenants can still be evicted in certain cases. Read our overview of the moratorium here. ([link removed])

Tenants whose eviction cases are scheduled for appearance in Housing Court --including hearings about Hardship Declarations-- have access to free legal services, regardless of ZIP code, under NYC’s right-to-counsel law.
* Call 311 and ask for the Tenant Helpline
* Visit the NYC Human Resources Administration’s Office of Civil Justice online at www.nyc.gov/civiljustice
* Call Housing Court Answers at (718) 557-1379

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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). Click here ([link removed]) to learn about eligibility and apply.
* Tenants are eligible to apply for ERAP regardless of immigration status if their household income is below 80% of "area median income," which you can look up here ([link removed]) .
* Either a landlord or tenant may initiate an ERAP application. All applications require documentation from both the landlord and tenant to be deemed complete and to be reviewed for payment of arrears and other expenses.
* Click here for guidance ([link removed]) in cases when the application is initiated by the tenant and a landlord does not or refuses to provide necessary information.

NYCHA residents no longer have to fill out the ERAP application – they can authorize NYCHA to apply for ERAP on their behalf via NYCHA's online portal ([link removed]) . Detailed instructions for the portal are available here ([link removed]) , or please contact your property management office for assistance.

NYCHA residents who have already submitted an ERAP application should email their ERAP application number, along with their first name, last name, date of birth, development name, and their nine-digit account number, to [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) so NYCHA can complete the application with the State.

For assistance with the application: call New York State at 844-NY1-RENT (844-691-7368; or the TTY phone number, 833-843-8829, for the hearing impaired.).

If you live in Manhattan, the two organizations below are designated ERAP "enrollers" and can also provide assistance.
* Call Catholic Charities Community Services at 888-744-7900. Click here ([link removed]) for detailed information about how Catholic Charities can assist you, as well as important application checklists for tenants and landlords.
* Call University Settlement at 212-453-4500.

Application Tips: TakeRoot Justice has prepared a very helpful:
* Info sheet with ERAP application tips ([link removed]) ; and a
* Worksheet with a list of questions that tenant applicants can fill out ahead of time ([link removed]) in order to complete the ERAP application in one sitting.

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] (mailto:[email protected]) .
* Met Council is assisting constituents with the ERAP application. Learn more here ([link removed]) .
* West Side Campaign Against Hunger is answering questions about the ERAP application. Contact them here ([link removed]) .
* The NY Legal Assistance Group is answering questions about the ERAP application. Contact them here ([link removed]) .

ERAP Updates
* NYS requires that all residents must have applied for and received a State determination on ERAP before rental arrears can be paid via a City of NY "One-Shot-Deal" or CityFHEPS.
* Note for HRA cash assistance, SNAP or HEAP recipients: ERAP payments are not countable as income or as a resource for eligibility or for budgeting purposes. For recipients who are granted ERAP benefits for prospective (future) rent, these payments will cover the difference between the Cash Assistance Shelter Allowance grant and the monthly shelter cost.

Read about other resources for tenants here ([link removed]) .


** Job Listings: Spread the Word!

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Bus Operator Positions
The MTA is seeking full-time bus operators. Compensation is between $23.84 - $25.49 per hour, along with competitive benefits packages. Learn more about the position here ([link removed]) . Interested applicants can apply directly until November 30th on the MTA Career Site, www.new.mta.info/careers ([link removed]) , using Job Posting 99929.
* Applicants must possess a motor vehicle driver license, for at least three years, and either a Class B Commercial Driver License (CDL) or a Permit, with a passenger endorsement and no airbrake or other disqualifying restrictions. Your license/permit must be valid in NYS.
* If an applicant does not possess a Lerner Permit for a Class B CDL and they cannot obtain a DMV testing appointment, please email [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) for assistance in scheduling a DMV testing appointment for a Class B CDL permit.

HVAC Construction Jobs
Building Skills New York (BSNY), a not-for-profit organization committed to providing New Yorkers with good paying local construction jobs, is recruiting for their HVAC training program.

The HVAC program is being offered in a hybrid format (virtual/in person). Click here to learn more ([link removed]) . At the conclusion of the training, BSNY will work to get participants employed utilizing BSNY's certification. Click here to learn more ([link removed]) about BSNY's other training programs.

Lincoln Center is hiring for a variety of open positions, including Security Officers ([link removed]〈=en_US&source=TW) , which are responsible for maintaining the safety of visitors, staff, community members, and campus property in numerous outdoor and select indoor spaces. The security officer position is union-represented and successful applicants will be required to join Local 32BJ. For Lincoln Center's full list of job openings, please click here ([link removed]〈=en_US&selectedMenuKey=CareerCenter) .

GrowNYC is hiring! See a variety of open positions here ([link removed]) .

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 ([link removed]) .

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.
* Click here to see job opportunities ([link removed]) in neighborhoods across NYC.
* Click here if you are a non-profit organization ([link removed]) interested in a full-time CCC intern. The Human Resource Administration and the JCC of Greater Coney Island have partnered to place paid full-time interns in community organizations.


** Important Resources for Our Community
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Back to School Resources for Families
* NYC Dept of Education Homecoming Guidebook ([link removed]) .
* Advocates for Children of New York: Call 866-427-6033 (toll free), Monday to Thursday, 10am to 4pm with questions about the NYC education system. The Helpline ([link removed]) is staffed by bilingual education specialists who provide information and resources and, in a limited number of cases, assign AFC attorneys to represent low-income families. AFC also offers guides and resources ([link removed]) to help families navigate NYC’s complex education system.

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Free Legal Services
Volunteers of Legal Service (VOLS) ([link removed]) provides free, civil legal services to low-income New Yorkers. VOLS serves seniors, older veterans, small business owners, immigrant youth, unemployed workers, mothers in prison or jail, as well as children and their families.

VOLS is currently offering remote services. Please call (212) 966-4400 or reach out to their specific programs:
* Small businesses/ VOLS Microenterprise Project: (347) 521-5729
* Seniors/ VOLS Elderly Project: (347) 521-5704
* Older Veterans/ VOLS Veterans Initiative: (347) 521-5725
* Immigrant Youth/ VOLS Immigration Project: (347) 521-5722
* Unemployed Workers/ VOLS Unemployed Workers Project: (347) 521-5735

The VOLS Senior Law Project provides free legal services for life planning documents including Last Will & Testament, Power of Attorney, Health Care Proxy, Living Will and Control of Remains for New Yorkers age 60 and older. Click here ([link removed]) to learn more.
* To access free legal services for seniors, complete this intake form ([link removed]) , call 347-521-5704, or email [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) .
* Click here ([link removed]) to learn about Spanish-language legal services for seniors.

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

Keeping Buildings Free of Rats & Other Pests
Rats pose an ongoing threat to public health. Click here ([link removed]) to view City rat inspection results and follow-up actions on an interactive map, and to learn about resources for property owners. The NYC Dept of Health has prepared these helpful materials for residents, and building owners and managers.
* Preventing Rats on Your Property ([link removed])
* Pest Management Tips for Building Residents ([link removed])
* How to Control Pests Safely (English) ([link removed])
* Como Controlar las Plagas de Manera Segura (Espanol) ([link removed])

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Hurricane Season is Here: Sign Up for Notify NYC
Notify NYC, part of NYC Emergency Management ([link removed]) , is the official information source regarding emergency events and important City services. Sign up to receive free emergency alerts and updates by visiting NYC.gov/notifynyc, calling 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115), following @NotifyNYC on Twitter, or getting the free Notify NYC mobile application for your Apple or Android device. Notify NYC messages are available in multiple languages, audio format, and American Sign Language (ASL) video format.

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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 ([link removed]) and receive the payments quickly and safely.
* NYC Free Tax Prep ([link removed]) 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 ([link removed]) for help setting up a bank account if they don’t have one.

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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.
* Learn about available resources in our district here ([link removed]) .

* 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 ([link removed]) ; call: 1-888-NYC-Well (1-888-692-9355); or text: “Well” to 65173.

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New Resource: Watch the NYC Office of Nightlife and the Dept of Health & Mental Hygiene's recent webinar for nightlife workers ([link removed]) on Overdose Prevention, Naloxone and Fentanyl.
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Free Wellness Classes: a wide variety of free, on-line wellness programs are available from:
* Mount Sinai Beth Israel's Karpas Center. Click here to learn more ([link removed]) .
* Visiting Nurse Service of New York. Click here to learn more ([link removed]) .

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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 ([link removed]) .

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

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.
* You can watch the webinar here ([link removed]) , and read through the entire presentation here ([link removed]) .
* The MRC has also prepared this additional Q & A document ([link removed]) .
* You can make an appointment to speak individually with a MRC counselor. Contact info for the MRC can be found in English here ([link removed]) and Spanish here ([link removed]) .

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] (mailto:[email protected]) ; or check our website, HelenRosenthal.com ([link removed]) . 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 ([link removed]) . Also, follow my social media accounts on Twitter ([link removed]) , Facebook ([link removed]) , and/or Instagram ([link removed]) .

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Council Member Helen Rosenthal
563 Columbus Avenue
New York, NY 10024
USA
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