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Dear Neighbors,
In the last two years especially, our office has received numerous calls and emails from constituents with concerns about unsheltered people living on the streets of the Upper West Side. What we are seeing now is the result of issues that have built up over decades -- the ongoing loss of affordable housing (especially for single adults), deeply inadequate mental healthcare services, and more. Above all -- constituents ask what can be done to address the situation now.

New Yorkers experiencing street homelessness can be especially challenging to assist -- they show higher rates of mental health and substance use challenges, medical issues, and each person finds themselves living on the street via a different path. It's also important to remember that in accordance with State law, unsheltered homeless persons cannot be involuntarily removed from the streets unless they pose a danger to themselves or others.

In response to this challenging situation, outreach teams from the Manhattan Outreach Consortium (MOC) ([link removed]) canvas our borough 24/7/365 offering assistance, shelter, and social services to unsheltered people, and are persistent in their efforts to help them transition into housing. Goddard Riverside established the MOC in 2007 to bring all city-funded street outreach work under one umbrella.

Accepting outreach services is voluntary. It can take time to bring New Yorkers inside from unsheltered environments (several months on average), involving hundreds of contacts with the outreach team to build the trust and relationship that will result in someone ultimately accepting services. MOC outreach teams actively engage street homeless individuals with immediate housing resources, and provide additional support with physical and mental health needs when appropriate.

If you encounter a person who is experiencing homelessness and would like to connect them to an outreach team, the best way is via 311. You can submit a request for homeless assistance -- with the location and a description of the person in need. The outreach team will visit the location within an hour of receiving the request to engage the person in need and offer services. The outreach teams also monitor 311 data trends and will return to a location if the individual is not encountered during the first attempts.

We are also sharing various resources that you may find helpful:
* Info sheet from the Manhattan Outreach Consortium ([link removed]) with locations of programs and services for people in need.
* Both Goddard Riverside Community Center ([link removed]) and Project Find ([link removed]) offer programs for homeless, mentally ill and socially challenged populations.
* Our COVID-19 resource page ([link removed]) lists soup kitchens and food pantries throughout the Upper West Side.
* 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.
* Visit 311’s COVID-19 Resources and Support page ([link removed]) .

When constituents raise public safety concerns, we encourage them to work with their local NYPD Precinct, and attend Build the Block meetings ([link removed]) for their immediate community. Other resources include:
* 20th Precinct Crime Prevention Officer: (212) 580-7843 - Upon request, the 20th Precinct can send a crime prevention officer to buildings and businesses to review the best locations for cameras, and other best practices in terms of safety and security.
* NYPD Paid Detail Unit: (646) 610-5115 - The NYPD’s Paid Detail Unit allows businesses and organizations to hire off-duty police officers, who arrive in full uniform, to provide additional security and a uniformed presence to help deter crime.

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Vaccine booster shots are now available for New Yorkers ages 18 and older. These shots boost your immunity from an initial vaccination series. Please read the latest guidance from the NYC Dept of Health here ([link removed]) .

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. Learn more here ([link removed]) .

It's easier than ever to get vaccinated!
* All City-run COVID-19 vaccination sites are open to ALL New Yorkers. 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.
* In-home vaccinations are available to all New Yorkers. Click here to learn more ([link removed]) or phone 877-829-4692.

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Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive
The number of food insecure New Yorkers continues to increase due to the pandemic and ongoing economic crisis. If you are able, I hope you will consider making a donation to Muslim Volunteers for New York's Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, which runs through this Saturday, November 20th. Donate and learn more here ([link removed]) .

Our office is proud to support MV4NY's efforts. This year's drive will benefit the West Side Campaign Against Hunger (WSCAH) ([link removed]) , the New York Common Pantry ([link removed]) , and City Meals on Wheels ([link removed]) . Each of these organizations serves a unique need for NYC’s food insecure communities. Let's be there for our neighbors during this hard time. Thank you for your support!

Volunteer with DOROT's Thanksgiving Meal Delivery Program!
Sign up today to help DOROT ([link removed]) deliver Thanksgiving meals and share warmth and companionship with older adults in our community. Join DOROT on November 21st and 22nd in Manhattan (East or West Side) or Westchester for this wonderful opportunity to bring holiday joy to isolated older adults. Volunteers will:
* Pick up a Thanksgiving meal
* Deliver the meal to a DOROT client
* Connect by phone with the older adult for a 20-30-minute friendly phone call.

To register, please visit: [link removed].

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Curbside Composting Begins December 6th!
After a month's delay -- the Dept of Sanitation has announced that beginning the week of December 6th, curbside composting will be provided to eligible residents in Community Board 7 (Upper West Side, Lincoln Square, Manhattan Valley). Residents who have signed up are being notified now of their collection day and start date.

Curbside composting is voluntary, and residents must sign up. Click here ([link removed]) to sign up and learn more. The food scraps, food-soiled paper, and yard waste collected by the City will be turned into compost or renewable energy.

Building Staff -- the Dept of Sanitation encourages you to view a webinar at on.nyc.gov/DSNYwebinar for tips on increasing participation in your building, how to set your building up for success, and how to troubleshoot any issues you might come across.

Curbside composting is resuming on a rolling basis based on the number of sign-ups in every neighborhood. If composting has not yet begun in your 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]) .

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Friday Deadline! Funding Available for Non-Profits Serving Caregivers of Young Children
Please spread the word -- this Friday, November 19th is the deadline for applications to Robin Hood’s Fund for Early Learning (FUEL for 50) ([link removed]) , which will provide funding to NYC-based programs that support parents or caregivers of children ages 0-3.

Fifty organizations will receive $25,000 in unrestricted funding, access to workshops with experts in early childhood and nonprofit management, and opportunities for more than $1 million in future funding. Learn more here ([link removed]) . For specific questions, please email [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) and Robin Hood will respond within 24 hours.

Mayor's Graduate Scholarship Program
Scholarships are available for City employees who want to pursue a graduate degree, but you must apply soon! The Dept of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) is accepting applications for the 2022- 2023 Mayor's Graduate Scholarship Program (MGSP). This is a competitive program - a limited number of scholarships are available.

The citywide deadline for City employees to apply through their Agency Personnel Office is November 22, 2021. Some agencies might have earlier/later submission dates. Check with your Agency Personnel Office regarding agency-specific deadlines.

To compete for a scholarship, you must:
* Be a full-time City employee
* Have a bachelor's degree by the start of the fall 2022 semester
* Be willing to pursue a graduate degree on your own time
* Meet other requirements, as explained at www.nyc.gov/mgsp.

Scholarships will be offered for classes that begin in the fall of 2022. For more information about participating schools and eligible degree programs, visit the MGSP Web site at www.nyc.gov/mgsp. For general information or assistance, email [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) or call (212) 386-0059.

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Apply by December 1st: "Arts, Inquiry, and Civic Imagination"
Arts, Inquiry, and Civic Imagination is an innovative, free two-week virtual course for artists who value inquiry as a disposition in art-making and in education. First piloted in partnership with The New School in 2021, this course provides participants with the experience of Lincoln Center's inquiry-based approach to teaching and learning.

Participants will apply these concepts to individual and collaborative creative processes. Together, they will consider the intersectionality of the Arts, Inquiry, Civic Imagination and the role of the "artist as citizen". The course is crafted for emerging artists early in their career and those interested in deepening their practice through inquiry. Applications due December 1st. Learn more and apply here ([link removed]) . The course will be offered from January 10th-21st, 2022.

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Service Changes: A/C/D Subway Lines
Due to work on water drains along Central Park West, there will be subway service changes from Friday, Nov 19th (9:45pm) until Monday, Nov. 22nd (5am).
* Central Park West service (A/C/D) will operate express in both directions between 125th St. and 59th St.
* Shuttle bus service will be provided between 125th St. A/C/D and 96th St 1/2/3 stations.
* Between 96th St and 59th St, C train riders will be directed to use nearby 1/2/3 stations.
* Northbound customers at 59th St. will be directed off the C to transfer to a 1 for stations between 59 St and 125 St.

Resources for UWS Families
The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is now available for children ages 5 to 11. The vaccine dose for this age group is smaller than the dose given to people 12 and older. Children can be vaccinated at their doctor’s office, pharmacies and vaccine sites across the city. Learn more here ([link removed]) and here ([link removed]) .

****NYC schools are also offering the first (and soon the second) dose of Pfizer vaccinations to eligible students ages 5-11. Learn more here ([link removed]) .

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Save up to $50 Per Month on Internet Service
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched the short-term Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB) ([link removed]) , which provides eligible households with a temporary discount on monthly broadband internet bills during the COVID-19 pandemic.

All households with a student enrolled in a NYC Dept of Education school or program are eligible for two types of benefits:
* Monthly Benefit: Provides a discount of up to $50 per month for broadband service, equipment, and device rentals; and
* One-Time Device Discount: This is a one-time discount of up to $100 on a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer, where available.

These benefits are also available to residents receiving certain types of income-based supports, like SNAP or Medicaid. Click here ([link removed]) to learn more and see if you are eligible!

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Information Sessions: 3-K, Pre-K, & Kindergarten Admissions
The NYC Dept of Education is hosting a series of virtual information sessions (in multiple languages) for NYC families with children born in 2017, 2018, and 2019. For families who are unable to attend any of the sessions, a recording of the presentation will be posted on the DOE's website in December. Browse upcoming admissions events here ([link removed]) .

Free, Self-Paced Classes to Help Families Navigate School Applications.
On-line classes in English or Spanish walk families through how to find the best pre-K, elementary, and high school for their child, and how to apply. InsideSchools ([link removed]) offers these classes via its InsideSchools+ platform (families must create a profile and request access). Learn more here ([link removed]) .

Free Tutoring for Students with IEPS
The Hunter College Learning Lab offers free one-on-one tutoring for students with IEPs, provided by teacher candidates in Hunter's Graduate Program for Learning Disabilities. Tutoring is offered twice per week for three locations in Manhattan. Learn more about the program and apply here ([link removed]) .
Important News for Older Residents & Residents with Disabilities
Webinar: Making Changes to Your Medicare Parts A, B, C & D Coverage
Join State Senator Liz Krueger and Eric Hausman from the NYC Dept for the Aging’s Health Insurance Information and Counseling Program (HIICAP) for a special webinar about Medicare coverage this Thursday, November 18th, from 2pm – 3:30pm.

Open enrollment for 2022 Medicare programs ends on December 7th. Learn more here ([link removed]) . Thursday's webinar is a great opportunity to learn about changes you can make to your coverage now. Topics covered include:
* Changes coming in 2022 to premium rates and deductibles for Medicare Parts A and B;
* Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans;
* Medigap/Supplemental plans; and
* Programs that can help defray Medicare costs, including prescription drug costs.

Register for the webinar and submit your questions here ([link removed]) . The webinar will feature a question and answer session -- you will be able to submit questions during the event but are strongly encouraged to submit them in advance.

You can join the webinar online via Zoom or Facebook (you do not need a Facebook account or profile), or you can listen via phone. A recording will be available immediately after the event at www.facebook.com/statesenatorlizkrueger.

Have more questions about Medicare? You can make an appointment to speak individually with a counselor at the Medicare Rights Center. Contact info for the MRC can be found in English here ([link removed]) and Spanish here ([link removed]) .

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Changes to Health Coverage for City of NY Retirees: Important Updates
As you know, the current Senior Care program -- a free supplement to traditional Medicare -- is being replaced with a Medicare Advantage Plus Plan. For information from the City about changes to retiree healthcare, click here ([link removed]) .

The opt-out period for the NYC Medicare Advantage Plus Plan (to purchase another health plan, including the Senior Care program and HIP VIP) has been extended until further notice by order of the NYS Supreme Court. Pursuant to the Court's decision, the City must retain the status quo for retirees and their dependents until deficiencies with the implementation of the proposed Medicare Advantage Plan are addressed.

Watch the City Council Committee on Civil Service & Labor's recent oversight hearing regarding changes to healthcare coverage for municipal retirees ([link removed]) . The Committee report for the hearing can be found here ([link removed]) .
* Representatives of the Mayor's Office of Labor Relations ("OLR") have stated unequivocally that the quality of care and the choice of doctors will remain the same under Medicare Advantage as compared to the Senior Care Plan.
* The City Council has urged OLR to notify retirees as soon as possible when the issues with the roll-out are resolved, and provide a significant period of time in which to opt out of Medicare Advantage.
* Retirees should phone 1-833-325-1190, Monday to Friday, 8am to 9pm, with questions about the switch to Medicare Advantage.
* Retirees can email OLR directly at [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) regarding any health insurance enrollment or Medicare Part B reimbursement issues.
* You can also email our office at [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) and we will send OLR your name and contact information, along with the issue topic (e.g. enrollment, MA Plan, Medicare reimbursement, etc.). OLR will respond directly to you.

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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.

For 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]) .

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Legal Resources for Older Adults
The Volunteers of Legal Service (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.

Upcoming Events of Interest

Goddard Riverside's Book Fair is this Saturday & Sunday (November 20th & 21st)! Click here ([link removed]) to learn more!

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Virtual Veterans Day Legal Clinic Ends This Friday!
Fordham Law School’s Feerick Center for Social Justice and its Veterans Rights Project (FCVRP) serves low-income veterans, military members, and their families who have unmet civil legal needs.

FCVRP's Legal Clinic will include know-your-rights presentations (via Zoom) in the afternoons and evenings on November 15th, 16th, and 17th, followed by one-on-one legal consultations (via phone or video) on November 18th and 19th during the day. Please click here ([link removed]) to fill out the clinic's interest form.

FCVRP recruits subject matter experts from various legal services organizations to lead these know-your-rights presentations and one-on-one limited scope consultations. Planned topics are subject to change but currently include:
* Consumer bankruptcy
* Consumer debt
* Discharge upgrades
* Family law
* Housing
* Micro-enterprise and small business
* NYC veterans legal protections
* Tax
* VA benefits
* Wills and end-of-life planning
* Women veterans, military sexual trauma

NOTE: For those who schedule a one-on-one consultation, depending on the subject area, the volunteer lawyer may conduct an intake, ask eligibility questions, and/or have the client sign an acknowledgment form stating that the attorney will be providing brief legal advice.

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Cigarette Butts: What's the Problem?
Dropped butts drift from streets into drains, the Hudson and East Rivers, and finally the Atlantic Ocean. Each year, 4.5 billion are discarded worldwide--the greatest source of ocean trash.
* Cigarette butts are not biodegradeable! They contain plastic, which can take up to 14 years to break down.
* They look like food to fish, birds and even dogs.
* They leach toxic chemicals and heavy metals which have lethal effects on organisms in land and sea and can move up the food chain to us.

Join the No Butts Campaign by helping pick up butts and count them. Bring gloves and if you have one, a grabber. Look for the No Butts sign at the campaign sites and times below.
* Sunday (11/21), 2:30-4:30pm, starting at Sixth Avenue & 42nd Street
* Sunday (12/5), 12-2pm, starting at Central Park West & 96th Street

Smokers: Get a free pocket ashtray while they last.
Building Managers: Contact Joyce at [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) to obtain a free butt receptacle and learn to recycle the butts.

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Rat Prevention Trainings
Please join the NYC Dept of Health for "Rat Academy" virtual trainings to learn about rat prevention methods. Free, virtual trainings are available for: building supers & staff, homeowners & tenants, and managing companies.

Please see the Dept of Health's schedule of rat prevention trainings here ([link removed]) . To pre-register, please click on the dates available and download calendar when prompted. Upcoming trainings:
* Monday, November 22nd, 10am to Noon ([link removed]) . (For Community Gardeners)
* Tuesday, November 30th, 5 to 7pm ([link removed]) .

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Health Insurance 101 Workshop: December 2nd
Join NYC Health + Hospitals, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS), and NY State of Health on Thursday, December 2nd at 3pm to get the latest on:
* Medicare parts A, B, C and D
* CMS Covid-19 coverage update
* Medicaid basics
* Preventive Services
* Enrollment Assistance & Resources for the Uninsured
* What’s new for 2021, and beyond
* NYC CARE Enhancements

Register for the webinar here ([link removed]) !

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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 November/December Eco Letter here! ([link removed])

Community events at Goddard Riverside are back! See the schedule here ([link removed]) .

Community Programs at Lincoln Center
* The Passport to the Arts ([link removed]) program for children, teens, and adults with disabilities and their families is back this fall! The program provides a welcoming, accessible, and affordable introduction to the performing arts across Lincoln Center at no cost. Families can attend dance, music, or drama classes on Zoom, watch exclusive performances, check out behind-the-scenes content, and even meet performers. Families can register here ([link removed]) and learn more here ([link removed]) .
* Moments At Home ([link removed]) is a free performance-based program specially designed for people with dementia and their caregivers. Each virtual event includes a performance, followed by activities facilitated by educators and music therapists that explore the work through discussion, movement, music, and art-making. Registration is now open here ([link removed]) .

The Bloomingdale School of Music 2021-2022 Faculty Concert series has begun! Click here ([link removed]) to learn more and see the concert calendar for the year. BSM will also begin streaming concerts live from the school this spring.

"It’s My Park" Projects Happening this Fall!
Join one of the community-led parks clean-up projects happening across New York City! Learn more, and sign up to join or host an It’s My Park project here ([link removed]) . See a current project list here ([link removed]) .
For cultural & environmental events in our parks: visit the City Parks Foundation's Green / Arts Live NYC Event Calendar. ([link removed])
Additional COVID-19 Vaccination Information

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.

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.
* Learn more at nyc.gov/keytonyc or by calling 311.
* Applies to NYers 12 and older -- customers, workers, patrons -- with reasonable accommodations for health, disability, and religion.
* 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.) 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]) .

3.) 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.

4.) 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.

5.) 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 & Landlords

The NYS Eviction Moratorium has been extended to January 15th, 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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Financial Assistance for Landlords
Governor Hochul has announced that $125 million in State funding is available to assist landlords who have been unable to participate in the State's Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) because their tenants either declined to complete an application or vacated the residence with arrears. Priority will be given to those landlords owning small-to-medium-sized properties.

The Landlord Rental Assistance Program provides up to 12 months of past-due rent to landlords who are ineligible for ERAP. Learn more here ([link removed]) .

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NYS Emergency Rental Assistance (ERAP)
New York State reports that total requests for assistance exceed available federal funding for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). ERAP provides eligible tenants with up to 12 months of rental and utility arrears assistance, as well as three prospective months of rent. Click here ([link removed]) to learn more.

ERAP applications are only being accepted in certain instances ([link removed]) . If you have already applied to the ERAP program and have not received any information about your application status, you may email our office (mailto:[email protected]) and we will follow up on your behalf.

For questions about ERAP: 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 would like to be notified of possible future opportunities to apply for the ERAP program, please complete this NYS ERAP - Notify Me Form ([link removed]) .

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


** Important Resources for Our Community
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Employee Rights in NYC
* Learn about Workers Rights & Resources from the City of NY ([link removed])
* Learn about COVID 19 & Paid Sick Leave ([link removed])

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The Fair Fares NYC program provides a 50 percent discount on subway and certain bus fares or Access-A-Ride paratransit trips to New York City residents ages 18 to 64. Find out if you are eligible for Fair Fares and apply here! ([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 FAIRER (Fines and Interest Reduction Enabling Recovery) program ([link removed]) . Scroll to the “How to Participate” section and click the link. Questions? Call 311.
* Unpaid Environmental Control Board (ECB) judgments may be eligible for a reduction under the FAIRER program. Depending upon whether you had a hearing and whether the judgment was entered during the COVID-19 pandemic, your savings can be up to 75%. This savings includes the abatement of any interest associated with your judgments.

NY Public Library Updates: All Fines Forgiven!
A reminder that the New York Public Library announced in October that all late fines have been eliminated going forward—and all existing fines and fees in patron accounts have been cleared. Learn more here! ([link removed])

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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

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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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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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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]) .

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]) .

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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Copyright © 2021 Council Member Helen Rosenthal, All rights reserved.
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Our mailing address is:
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New York, NY 10024
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