Dear Fellow New Yorker,
As we move deeper into November, our city continues to showcase its extraordinary heart. This time of year reminds us that our strength comes not just from our diversity, but from our shared commitment to care, community, and making this city a better place for everyone who calls it home.
Last week, we were proud to join our Panamanian neighbors in raising the Panamanian flag at Bowling Green, filling the plaza with vibrant color, music, and pride. The ceremony honored Panama’s rich heritage and the many contributions Panamanian New Yorkers make to our city every day.
While we honor the many cultures that enrich our city, we also take time to reflect on the moments of loss that have shaped us. Mayor Adams gathered with the Rockaway community to honor the 265 lives lost in the tragic crash of American Airlines Flight 587 on November 12, 2001. This moment of reflection also comes as our city mourns the passing of FDNY Firefighter Patrick D. Brady, whose service and dedication exemplified the very best of New York’s Bravest. His memory reminds us of the daily sacrifices made by those who protect our communities. We will continue to honor their memories and ensure they are never forgotten.
As we reflect on these moments, we are reminded that our city’s strength lies in the resilience and unity of its people. As we move forward, let us continue to embrace one another with the same spirit of care and compassion that makes our city truly one of a kind. Together, we can ensure that New York remains a place where every life is valued, and every story is remembered.
For the latest updates, follow CAU on Twitter and Facebook,
All the best,
Fred Kreizman Commissioner, Community Affairs Unit Office of the Mayor
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Resources for Impacted SNAP Recipients
November SNAP benefits are delayed due to the federal government shutdown. However, New York State has begun issuing full November SNAP benefits to all eligible households. All New Yorkers are expected to receive their full benefits by this week.
There are resources available to help you during this time. For ongoing SNAP updates, please visit otda.ny.gov. For guidance on additional food resources, click here to see a comprehensive resource list for impacted SNAP recipients.
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Staying safe in cold weather
As the cold weather sets in, electric space heaters can be a cozy way to warm up, but they can also pose a fire hazard if not used correctly. To stay safe: 1- Plug directly into a wall outlet: Never use an extension cord or power strip, as this can cause overheating. 2- Keep away from flammable items: Place heaters at least three feet away from furniture, blankets, curtains, or anything that can catch fire.
3- Never hang clothes over a heater: This can be a serious fire risk and damage both your clothes and the heater. 4- Turn off when unattended: Always switch off your space heater when you leave the room or go to sleep. For more information click here. |
Department of Corrections Recruitment Event
Join the NYC Department of Correction on Monday, December 2, from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. at Bronx County Court (851 Grand Concourse) for Boldest in Your Neighborhood — a community recruitment event highlighting career opportunities with the City’s Boldest and building pathways to a bold future in public service. To register click here.
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NYC Health Free Food Safety Workshops
Join us at a free food safety workshop where you will have an opportunity to:
Learn about Active Managerial Control Review NYC Health Department resources and services Receive an inspection history report Talk with Health Department representatives
Workshops will be offered in person and virtually. Space is limited — register and secure your spot by clicking here. |
Get Your Birth Certificate Fast and Securely!
For the quickest and most secure way to order a certified copy of your birth certificate, use VitalChek—the only authorized vendor approved by the Health Department. You can even track your order online for added convenience. Click here for more information!
Beware of unauthorized vendors that charge high fees for birth certificate services. If you’ve already ordered through one of these vendors and wish to file a complaint, visit the NYC Department of Consumer Protection or call 311.
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Support Food Access in NYC
NYC Service has centralized volunteer opportunities and donation lists to help local nonprofits with meal distribution. Volunteers are needed to serve, deliver, or pack meals, and support pantry or kitchen operations through client assistance, inventory, and general help.
Join your neighbors in fighting hunger — sign up to volunteer or donate food items: nycservice.org/foodaccess.
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16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an annual campaign from November 25, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to December 10, Human Rights Day. Since its founding in 1991, the campaign has become an international movement to prevent and eliminate gender-based violence (GBV).
The Mayor's Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence (ENDGBV) and the New York City (NYC) Commission on Gender Equity (CGE), which sits under the Mayor's Office of Equity & Racial Justice (MOERJ), co-lead the NYC campaign in collaboration with partner organizations and city agencies.
The campaign recognizes how multiple forms of discrimination overlap, and calls to end GBV against all people, regardless of age, ethnicity, race, faith, gender identity, gender expression, immigration status, physical and mental ability, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status, among other protected classes. Visit nyc.gov/16Days to learn more. |
Help Your Community Be Ready for the Next Emergency!
NYC Emergency Management’s Strengthening Communities Program is offering funding and training to community and faith-based groups to develop emergency plans and boost local readiness.
Empower your neighborhood by joining the effort to build a stronger, more resilient community. Get involved today and help ensure your area is ready when disaster strikes!
Click here to apply today! |
The Mayor’s Office of Climate & Environmental Justice (MOCEJ) is hitting the road!
The Mayor’s Office of Climate & Environmental Justice is visiting every borough to discuss strategies to tackle environmental concerns affecting our city. Join us for a conversation with City agencies and community organizations to learn more about the upcoming EJNYCPlan and how we are advancing environmental justice.
Register today and join us at one of the upcoming conversations: November 19, 2025 – Fort Green, Brooklyn November 20, 2025 – Corona, Queens December 2, 2025 – Port Richmond, Staten Island
Register today at: bit.ly/ejnycevent |
It’s renewal season for property tax exemptions!
If you receive SCHE ( Senior Citizen Homeowners’ Exemption), DHE ( Disabled Homeowners’ Exemption), Clergy Exemption, or others, renew by March 16, 2026, to keep your benefits and avoid higher taxes. For more information click here. |
Discover NYC’s Dynamic Cultural Scene—for Free!
Explore over 130 cultural venues across all five boroughs with NYC's updated guide, featuring free and suggested admission options. Whether you're into art, history, or performance, there's something for everyone!
Check out the guide to find out which venues offer free admission and when: Explore the Guide |
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NYCJobs: Get free career training and help finding a job in government or the private sector.
Food Help NYC: Free food locations including food pantries & soup kitchens.
NYC 988: NYC 988 is your connection to free, confidential crisis counseling, mental health and substance use support, information and referrals. You can reach the toll-free help line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone, text and online chat.
Buildings After Hours: Free in-person information session with DOB staff every first and third Tuesday of the month from 4 PM to 7 PM at your local borough office. Notify NYC: Enroll for free in New York City’s dedicated emergency public communications program.
311: Non-emergency municipal services available online, by texting 311-692, or by calling 3-1-1 from within the City or 212-NEW-YORK outside the five boroughs. TTY service is also available by dialing 212-504-4115.
Money in Your Pocket: Connect with 70+ Programs and Save Money in New York City.
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