Dear Fellow New Yorker,

As we settle into the first weeks of the new school year, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the parents, teachers, and school staff. Your commitment and dedication sets the foundation for a successful year ahead. Find important information and updates about the academic policies, health and safety protocols, support services for students and families, and more here. 

Last week, I attended the African Heritage Reception at Gracie Mansion. This was a vibrant celebration of the African communities across New York City.  

We also had the privilege of participating in the Commissioner for a Day, where a student named Rosanna shadowed me for the day. This experience highlighted the importance of creating meaningful opportunities for young people to explore leadership, civic engagement, and public service firsthand.  

As we look ahead to Thursday, September 11, we pause to honor the memory of the first responders we lost and reflect on the resilience, unity, and strength of our city. This solemn day reminds us of the importance of service, community, and standing together as New Yorkers. We also honor the families and neighbors who were affected, and we reaffirm our commitment to supporting one another — today and every day.

For the latest updates, follow CAU on Twitter and Facebook,

All the best,
Fred Kreizman
Commissioner, Community Affairs Unit
Office of the Mayor

Key Updates

Safe Disposal Events Are Back !

Residents can bring unwanted electronics, flammable products, batteries, car products, paint & medicine to an upcoming drop off event.

Get all the details here: http://nyc.gov/safeevents

Back to School 

New York City's youngest and brightest are back in school and we're committed to setting them up for success!. Over the next year, our City's children will learn and grow together, academically and socially. This is an important journey, and we want to make sure students and families have the tools they'll need for a strong start and continued success this school year.

Find important information and updates about our academic policies, health and safety protocols, support services for students and families, and more here. 

Benefits On Your Block

This Saturday, September 13, from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM, the City of New York is bringing Benefits On Your Block to Washington Heights! Join us on Audubon Avenue for a free resource and enrollment fair where you can connect with City agencies and community organizations.

Get screened for benefits, apply for programs on-site, and learn about services that can support your health, housing, and financial well-being—all in one place, right in your neighborhood.

Find full event details and the summer schedule at on.nyc.gov/benefitsonyourblock.

Know Your Rights as a NYC Tenant!

Every renter in New York City has rights, and now there’s a clear, easy-to-read guide to help you understand them. The Tenant Bill of Rights, created by the NYC Tenant Protection Cabinet, outlines essential tenant protections, including the right to a safe and well-maintained home, protection against unlawful eviction, and safeguards against landlord harassment.

The guide also explains tenants' rights in rent-stabilized units and buildings covered by the Good Cause Eviction law.

Explore your rights and get connected to support: on.nyc.gov/TPC
Need help or have questions? Call 311 and ask for the Tenant Helpline.

FAITH IN YOUR BOROUGH TOUR EVENTS!

New York City is literally coming to the Bronx, Manhattan, and Brooklyn.  This is time where your staff, volunteers, trustees, team leaders and congregants can be in one room with city resource, agencies heads and the Mayor.  From violations, planting of trees, funding and connecting with city agencies will be covered.  I want to encourage you to take full advantage of this opportunity to tap into city resources for the faith community.  Other events and information below.  

 Bronx
Thursday, September 18
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Fordham University McShane Campus Center, 2691 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458
Register Here: Faith in Your Borough Registration
 
Manhattan
Thursday, October 2
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

 El Museo del Barrio
1230 5th Ave., New York, NY 10029

 Register Here: Faith in Your Borough Registration
 
Brooklyn
 Wednesday, October 29
 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Kingsborough Community College 
2001 Oriental Blvd, Brooklyn, NY 11235
  Register Here: Faith in Your Borough Registration

2025-2026 NYC Civic Corps program 

NYC Service is recruiting for the next cohort of NYC Civic Corps members. From October 2025 to July 2026, members will serve full-time at City agencies and nonprofits to address NYC’s most pressing issues—like youth education, food access, environment, and more!

Members receive:

• A $24,500 living stipend
• Healthcare coverage
• Unlimited MetroCard
• 150+ hours of professional development
• A $5,176 education award upon completion

The application deadline is September 28. Learn more and apply at nyc.gov/servenyc.

Questions? Contact [email protected]

In case you missed it:

Additional Resources:

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.

{{Disclaimer}}

 Mayor's Office--Community Affairs
253 Broadway 9th Fl
New York, NY 10007
United States 

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