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Dear Neighbors,

For the last eight years, I’ve had the privilege of serving District 6 on the Upper West Side of Manhattan and the City of New York. I’ve been humbled by the experience.

They say that Upper West Siders are opinionated and passionate: this is true! 

The smiles and “thumbs up” signs from so many of you who walked by our storefront window made it all worthwhile. I will miss Sam’s jokes and Preston checking-in with a friendly wave. Special gratitude goes out to the Goddard Greenkeepers who kept our sidewalk snow-free every winter. Our local community and senior centers have done so much to bring hope and service to those in need– it’s been an honor working with you.

The public servants in the City Council, City Hall, and the City agencies are dedicated to making local government work for all New Yorkers…. I will miss them and am lucky to call some of them friends. We’ve accomplished a lot together– ok, there was some yelling involved, but, “no hard feelings?”

While I thanked folks in my paper newsletter, it’s worth thanking them again. 

I’m grateful to my staff over the past eight years who have served the Upper West Side and our city: Cindy Cardinal, Anna Gago, Vivian Rivera, Teri Darwish, Bill McNally, Madhuri Shukla, Rita Genn, Josephine Luna, Luis Cisneros, Sarah Crean, Marisa Maack, Ned Terrace, Sean Fitzpatrick, Julian Dellaporta, Stephanie Buhl, Sarah Mallory, Ahmed Tigani, Danielle Eras and Jason Harding. And my great thanks to all the interns and volunteers who have worked side by side with us. During the most difficult times, you’ve all brought warmth and kindness to those around you.

I’m proud of what we accomplished together. 

Wishing you all a happy and healthy New Year.

Warmly,
Helen

A final reminder that our incoming Council Member, Borough President Brewer, will have the same constituent office at 563 Columbus Avenue and the same phone number: (212) 873-0282. 

If you'd like to subscribe to email or text updates from incoming Council Member Brewer, please use this link to sign up. (Don't worry, this won't remove you from my list-- I'll still keep in touch!)
 

Legislative Update -- At the last 2021 session of the City Council my legislation passed with overwhelming support. These seven bills will:
  • help to increase pay parity, 
  • improve access to voter information and movies for those with disabilities, 
  • increase access to student loan forgiveness programs for City and non-profit employees, 
  • assist survivors of gender based violence and street harassment, and 
  • decrease the likelihood of birds dying from flying into tall buildings during peak migration season. 
My great thanks to all the advocacy organizations who worked with my office on these bills.

Salary Ranges for All Job Postings – Int. 1208-2018-B
On average women make 86 cents for every dollar white men make, black and brown women make 50-65% of what white men are paid. This bill requires that advertisements for private or public sector jobs, promotions or transfer opportunities in New York City include a minimum and maximum salary. Pay transparency brings us one step closer to pay equity. Read the press release.

Open Captions in Movie Theaters – Int 2020-2020-A
Roughly one in five New Yorkers experiences deafness, ranging from moderate to total. Such a significant segment of the population deserves to fully enjoy movies with ease. This bill requires open captioned (sub-titled) film screenings in NYC movie theaters -- with up to four open captioned screenings per film every week. Read the press release.

Video Voter Guides – 2438-2021-A
Neighborhoods with a relatively high number of residents with disabilities or limited English proficiency often have lower rates of voter participation. This bill opens the door for greater voter participation by requiring that printed voter guides include the top ten spoken languages in NYC and braille/large print. It also requires that candidates participate in video voter guides, which will include close captioning and ASL. Candidates who chose not to participate in the videos will not receive the final five percent of campaign matching funds. Read the press release.

Student Loan Forgiveness Notification -- Int 2130-2020
An estimated 1 million New Yorkers owe student loans. This bill ensures that the City's 330,000 employees are automatically informed that they may be eligible for public service loan forgiveness -- under either a federal or state program. The NYC Office of Labor Policy & Standards (OLPS) will also work with the non-profit sector so that its 600,000+ workers receive information about loan forgiveness options. Read the press release.

Street Harassment Advisory Board – Int 2424-2021-B 
Women, minorities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people with disabilities are most often on the receiving end of street harassment. This bill requires the City to establish a street harassment prevention advisory board, with a broad membership, to study harassment (including an annual survey), provide public education, and identify more effective, community-based responses. Read the press release.

Victim-centric Training for NYPD (DV, Sexual Assault & Human Trafficking) – Int 2439-2021-A
This bill recognizes the severe trauma of survivors of domestic or sexual violence and human trafficking. All police officers who interact with the public will be required to receive comprehensive victim-centered, trauma-informed questioning training. The bill also requires that the City investigate the causes of domestic violence fatalities and make every effort to identify and implement policy changes and fund programs to reduce the stubbornly high number of deaths. Read the press release.

Building Light Restrictions to Protect Birds – Int 0274-2018-A
During peak migratory bird season, between 90,000 and 230,000 migrating birds die from collisions with glass in New York City each year. This bill requires all City owned buildings to turn off non-essential outdoor lights from 11pm-6am, during peak avian migratory periods. Read the press release.
 

Small Business Committee -- Throughout the pandemic, the City Council's Committee on Small Business, of which I am a member, has held numerous oversight hearings and passed legislation designed to assist this critical part of our economy. You can see the hearing topics and read the bills here.
Community Updates

COVID-19 vaccine booster shots are available for New Yorkers ages 16 and older. These shots boost your immunity from an initial vaccination series. Please read the latest guidance from the NYC Dept of Health here. 

It has never been easier for New Yorkers to get vaccinated:
Stay Informed! Helpful COVID-19 resources include: 
 

2021 NYCHA Resident Survey Closes on Dec 31st
Tomorrow (12/31) is the last day to complete NYCHA's survey for residents. Click here to fill out the survey. All responses are completely anonymous unless residents choose to submit their name at the end of the survey. 

NYCHA's annual survey focuses on operations and services for residents. As part of NYCHA's agreement with HUD, they released a Transformation Plan in March 2021 and are now working to implement various initiatives of the Plan.
 

Resources for Aging In Place
The Upper West Side is home to many older adults who want to remain in their apartments and the community they love. My office has made it a priority to ensure that older adults are informed about the benefits and entitlements they have earned throughout their lifetimes, as well as resources that will help them age safely at home with additional support when needed.

Over 140 residents attended our webinar earlier this month in which LiveOn NY, NYSARC Trust Services, and Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP presented on "aging in place" resources for older adults -- including:
  • Medicaid-funded Home Care: click here to read the presentation.
  • Pooled Income Trusts for Medicaid Income "Spend Down": click here to read the presentation.
  • For more information on Pooled Trusts for Medicaid Eligibility: click here.
Contact information for the presenters is below:

Senior Planet from AARP
(888) 713-3495
website: www.seniorplanet.org
email: [email protected]

NYSARC Trust Services
(518) 439-8323
webite: www.nysarctrustservices.org
email: [email protected]
video: How To Establish a Pooled Trust

LiveOn NY Benefits Outreach Intake Line
(212) 398-5045
website: www.liveonny.org/
email: [email protected]
Kim Lerner, (212) 398-6565, ext. 228
email: [email protected]
 

Deadline Extended: Apply for Discounts on City Fines
Until March 20th, 2022, the City of NY will be offering residents and small businesses discounts of up to 75% for fines imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unpaid Environmental Control Board (ECB) judgments may also be eligible for discounts.

Learn more via the City's FAIRER (Fines and Interest Reduction Enabling Recovery) program. Scroll to the “How to Participate” section and click the link. Questions? Call 311.
 

Mulchfest!
Wrap up the holiday season by saying goodbye to your tree at Mulchfest! The City will convert it into mulch to make NYC even greener. You can bring your tree to one of the following locations through January 9th, 2022.
  • W. 65th & Central Park West;
  • W. 81st & Central Park West (at Bridle Path);
  • Morningside Park West -- 123rd & Morningside Ave; or
  • Riverside Park -- Riverside Drive & W. 83rd. 
You'll also be able to bring mulch home from select locations in early January! Learn more here.


 

The NYC Dept of Transportation (DOT) is accepting applications for both the 2022 Open Streets and Public Spaces Programming initiatives.

The City’s Open Streets program transforms streets into public spaces that improve our neighborhoods. Applications are open to community-based organizations, schools and restaurant groups until April 29, 2022, with additional application periods to follow. Apply here. 
  • Non-profit Open Street partners can apply for funding to cover certain costs needed to run their program, such as operations or materials.
  • DOT will provide Open Streets partners with tools such as metal barriers, traffic signs or movable furniture.
  • Returning Open Streets partners only need to complete a short-form application. DOT will work with returning applicants on streetscape changes if requested, such as planters, barriers, or street redesigns. 
The City's Public Space Programming initiative provides free activities on Open Streets, pedestrian plazas, and other car free DOT public spaces by partnering with host organizations. Applications can include arts, culture, fitness, or educational activities and will be accepted until January 28, 2022. Apply here. 
  • Activities must be open to New Yorkers of all ages and abilities.
  • Funding for providers may be available and is based on their proposed fees. Regardless, DOT provides assistance with permitting and logistics to all providers.
  • Approved providers are added to the Public Space Programming list and may be called upon throughout the season.   
  • Returning Public Space partners only need to complete a short-form application.   

Lifeguard Positions & Training Available

The NYC Parks Dept is recruiting now for lifeguards who will serve next summer! New York City beaches open on Memorial Day weekend, and pools open in late June; both close the Sunday after Labor Day. City of NY lifeguards work 48 hours each week and first-year lifeguards earn a minimum of $16 an hour, for a weekly salary of about $800. 
  • Training is free for those who pass qualifying tests in December and January. For a list of testing locations and additional information, click here.
The YMCA of Greater New York is offering new rounds of FREE lifeguard training and certification this winter at locations across the city. Ys in each borough are offering ongoing winter classes from January 3rd to February 22nd.
  • Pre-tests are required and are currently underway at various locations and times. Experienced swimmers should click here for details and scheduling. 
Additional COVID-19 Vaccination Updates
 
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.) As of December 27th, all employees at private sector businesses must have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Learn more here.

2.) "Key to NYC" Vaccination Mandate Applies to NYers 5 and Older
As ordered by the City, indoor dining, fitness, and entertainment establishments require proof of at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. To enter one of these establishments, you need to show your paper CDC card, Excelsior Pass, NYC COVID Safe App, or any other vaccine record. 
  • The mandate now applies to anyone age 5 and older.
  • As of December 27th, people 12 and older must show proof they have received two vaccine doses, except for those who have received the one dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
  • Learn more at nyc.gov/keytonyc or by calling 311.
  • Applies to 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."
3.) NY Vaccine Literacy Campaign Launches COVID-19 Vaccine Community Resources & Data Dashboard
The NY Vaccine Literacy Campaign at the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy has launched its COVID-19 data visualization dashboard and resources site to support community organizations with COVID-19 education and outreach. The dashboard is the first to visualize primary data collection of COVID-19 vaccine sentiments, uptake, and needs for health and social services across New York's lower nine counties. Visit the interactive dashboard at VaccineLiteracyCampaign.org. 

Community organizations can email program manager Hannah Stuart Lathan at [email protected] with inquiries and requests for branded educational materials.  

4.) 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, or via fax or mail. Click here 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.

5.) In-home COVID-19 testing is 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 $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. 

7.) New Resource: Educational materials about COVID-19 vaccines, testing, & prevention are now available for NYC’s Asian American communities. (Languages Available: Arabic, Bengali, Traditional and Simplified Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, Nepali, Punjabi, Urdu, and Vietnamese.)
Resources for Tenants & Landlords
 
The NYS Eviction Moratorium was extended to January 15th, 2022. Read our overview of the moratorium here. 

Tenants facing eviction must submit a declaration of pandemic-related hardship. Landlords can challenge these declarations in certain cases. Visit Eviction Free NY to learn more and use their online tool which automatically sends the hardship declaration to housing court, and your landlord, at no cost.

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 
  • Find additional free legal services on our website, by looking under "Housing"
  • Read about other resources for tenants here. 
Assistance with Rental Arrears
Our December Housing Clinic featured a presentation on troubleshooting the NYS Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) & other Rental Arrears assistance, led by TakeRoot Justice. As we discussed, New York State reports that total requests for assistance exceed available federal funding for ERAP. 

Exhausted funding is an issue that can be solved! We strongly encourage all New Yorkers to reach out to their federal and NYS representatives, including Governor Hochul, to ask them to push for more funding for ERAP.

Government must act now to provide more rent relief and avert a catastrophic wave of evictions next year. We must also move more aggressively to preserve and build new housing. For constituents with rental arrears:
  • 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.).
  • To be notified of possible future opportunities to apply for ERAP, please complete this NYS ERAP - Notify Me Form.
  • Learn about "One-Shot" Emergency Financial Assistance from the City here.
  • Learn about CityFHEPS, a City rental assistance supplement here.
 
Click here to read the City's summary of resources for property owners-- including assistance with 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 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. The NYC Dept of Health offers "Rat Academy" virtual trainings which focus on rat prevention methods. Free, virtual trainings are available for: building supers & staff, homeowners & tenants, and managing companies. See the schedule of trainings here. 

Helpful Resources for Our Community

 
For the first time, seniors and people with qualifying disabilities can apply for a Reduced Fare MetroCard online. Until now, customers could only apply by mail or in person. To apply, visit reducedfare.mta.info!

A reminder that 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!
 
 
Employee Rights in NYC

Free Legal Services
Volunteers of Legal Service (VOLS) 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
 
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]. You can also complete an intake form with LiveOn NY here. 

Have 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 and Spanish here.
 

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 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. 

Free Wellness Classes: a wide variety of free, on-line wellness programs are available from:
We Were Honored to be of Service

Throughout this pandemic, my office has assisted people with housing issues, seniors, the disabled, the recently un (or under) employed, the food insecure, and all impacted residents, to help in any way we can. We also provided on-going advocacy with our public schools and other public services.

We were honored to serve the people of District 6 and are wishing each one of you the very best.

Warmly,
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