News Archive 2025

Below are notices and information from government agencies, community-based organizations, and other community stakeholders.

December 2025

DSNY News: No Trash, Curbside Composting or Recycling Collection on New Year’s Day, Thursday, January 1, 2026

The New York City Department of Sanitation announced that in observance of New Year’s Day, there will be NO trash, curbside composting nor recycling collection on the holiday, Thursday, January 1, 2026.

Residents who normally receive Thursday trash, curbside composting, or recycling collection may place their material at the curb Thursday evening for collection beginning Friday, January 2. Residents should understand collection delays may occur after holidays. We appreciate patience as we work to collect the backlog of material.

For questions about Sanitation services and holiday schedules contact 311 or visit nyc.gov/sanitation.

DSNY News: Special Christmas Tree Collection is…NO LONGER SPECIAL

Real Trees and Wreaths are Collected Weekly, on Your Recycling & Compost Day;

Residents Must No Longer Wait for a Limited Tree Collection Schedule

Christmas Trees will be collected curbside this week. And next week. And the week after. And even in May!

Thanks to the expansion of citywide curbside composting, city residents no longer must follow a limited schedule to get rid of their real Christmas trees. Residents may place naked trees – trees without decoration, ornaments and stands – at the curb on their weekly composting and recycling day.

Christmas trees are treated similarly to the other material the Department collects for composting, where food scraps, food-soiled paper products and yard waste are turned in to finished compost or renewable energy.

Trees and wreaths should be set at the curb next to other compostable materials. Trees and wreaths should be undecorated and not wrapped in plastic bags.

Residents looking to get rid of an artificial tree should separate and remove the metal base and trunk and place those parts with their other metal recycling.

NYC Parks will also help recycle Christmas trees during Mulchfest, from December 26, 2025 through January 11, 2026. They will chip your tree into wood chips that they will use to nourish trees and make NYC greener. Learn more: nyc.gov/mulchfest.

DSNY Issues Winter Operations Advisory for Tuesday, December 23 at 1 a.m.

Salt spreaders will be activated as coating to 2" possible overnight ahead of heavy holiday travel day

The New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) has issued a Winter Operations Advisory for Tuesday, December 23, 2025, beginning at 1 a.m. and running through 1 p.m. A Winter Operations Advisory is the Department's "lower level” snow-fighting notification, as opposed to the “higher level” Snow Alert. With very heavy travel days anticipated on Tuesday and Wednesday, DSNY is leaving nothing to chance.

Precipitation will begin as early as 1 a.m. tonight as snow, with the bulk of the snow likely between 4 and 9 a.m. Snow will transition to rain around noon, with precipitation continuing as late as 5 p.m. in some parts of the City. Current forecasts predict anywhere from a coating of snow to 2".

As such, this weather event is anticipated to rely only on salt spreaders rather than snow plows. In the extremely unlikely event that more than 2" accumulates, DSNY will dispatch plows as needed. Salt spreaders will address all roadways and bike lanes beginning at first flake.

DSNY will activate its GPS room — featuring the new Bladerunner 2.0 tracking operation — this evening to track salting operations. More than 700 salt spreaders and approximately 44 specialized bike lane spreaders are filled and ready to go, and the Department has approximately 700 million pounds of salt on hand.

At this time, there is no anticipated change to collection operations, and New Yorkers should continue to follow their regular schedule for trash, recycling, and compostable material unless otherwise notified.

New Yorkers should know: DSNY is working to ensure your safety. Do your part both for yourself and for the Strongest by staying off the roads during active precipitation or, if you absolutely must drive, by doing so slowly, safely and carefully. This is especially important given heavy holiday travel.

In a snow event, New York City’s Sanitation Workers cover our streets, highways and bike lanes, but all residents should remember that clearing snow from sidewalks is the property owners’ responsibility. Property owners must to do their part to make sure that the sidewalks are passable.

All winter weather information and information about the City’s response to the storm can be found by visiting the City’s Severe Weather website at nyc.gov/snow or by calling 311.

Operations Update

Thanks to historic investments in DSNY, the Department’s Workers and equipment are more prepared for winter weather than ever before. After 13 snow activations last winter, Department personnel continued throughout the year to prepare for snow season, as we do every year. DSNY recently completed an annual service training with a focus on snow and, as New Yorkers may have seen recently, the Department conducted a snow drill and has already fought one storm this season.

Every street is on a route, and unlike in past years, every route can be dispatched at the same time, bringing equity in snow clearance to the entire City. Thanks to historic investments in DSNY, bike lanes will also be serviced simultaneously alongside car lanes. DSNY will be tracking these operations via the new Bladerunner 2.0 platform.

When a plowable depth of 2” or more is reached, residents will be able to track the progress of DSNY snow removal vehicles at nyc.gov/PlowNYC. Remember, a plowed or salted street will not show blacktop right away.

Trash/Recycling Collection:

There is no change to DSNY collection or to bin requirements at this time.

Snow Clearing Information

While DSNY clears streets and bike lanes, property owners are responsible for clearing sidewalks. As a reminder, property owners and car owners may NOT push snow into the street, including bike lanes. This impedes snow clearing operations and is illegal. Snow may be moved against the building, to the curb line, or areas on private property. Sidewalks should be passable for all pedestrians, including a minimum 4-foot clear path, where possible.

If the snow stops falling between:

7 a.m. and 5 p.m., property owners must clear sidewalks within 4 hours
5 p.m. and 9 p.m., property owners must clear sidewalks within 14 hours
9 p.m. and 7 a.m., property owners must clear sidewalks by 11 a.m.

Property owners with Empire Bins are responsible for clearing snow and ice from the Empire Bin to facilitate collection.

The fine for failure to clear sidewalks is $100 for the first offense, $150 for the second offense and $250 for the third offense.

New Yorkers are also encouraged to sign up for NotifyNYC, the City’s free emergency notification system, available in 14 languages including ASL. Through NotifyNYC, New Yorkers can sign up to receive phone calls, text messages, and emails alerts about severe weather events and emergencies. To sign up for Notify NYC, call 311, visit nyc.gov/notify or follow @NotifyNYC on Twitter.

Find information on Sanitation snow operations along with residents’ responsibilities during and after snow at nyc.gov/snow.

HEAP Applications for the 2025 - 2026 Winter Heating Season are OPEN

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps cover heating and cooling costs and prevents utility shutoffs.

Applications for the 2025 - 2026 winter heating season are now open for the regular benefit, and are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. Applications close on April 7th, 2026, or when funds run out.

Apply today on ACCESS HRA, or click below for more information.

Apply for HEAP Here!

Learn More About HEAP Here!

DSNY News: No Trash, Curbside Composting or Recycling Collection on Christmas Day, Thursday, December 25, 2025

The New York City Department of Sanitation announced that in observance of Christmas Day, there will be NO trash, curbside composting nor recycling collection on the holiday, Thursday, December 25, 2025.

Residents who normally receive Thursday trash, curbside composting, or recycling collection may place their material at the curb Thursday evening for collection beginning Friday, December 26. Residents should understand collection delays may occur after holidays. We appreciate patience as we work to collect the backlog of material.

For questions about Sanitation services and holiday schedules contact 311 or visit nyc.gov/sanitation.

About the New York City Department of Sanitation

The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) keeps New York City clean, safe, and healthy by collecting, recycling, and disposing of waste, cleaning streets, attacking the scourge of illegal dumping, and clearing snow and ice. The Department operates 59 district garages and manages a fleet of more than 2,000 rear-loading collection trucks, 450 mechanical brooms, 705 salt spreaders, and several dozen bike lane operations machines. Under the Adams Administration, the Department is aggressively cleaning more parts of the City than ever before, including over 1,000 long-ignored areas spread across every neighborhood. With the highest wintertime uniformed headcount in 20 years, DSNY is more equipped than ever to remove snow and ice from the approximately 19,000 lane-miles of City streets.

New York City Contracting Summit - January 14, 2026

On Wednesday, January 14th, the NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) is proud to host the NYC Contracting Summit: A New Era for Small Business to open even more doors for small businesses, including M/WBE firms, across New York City. Every year NYC spends billions of dollars contracting with small businesses.

Join us for a robust schedule of activities designed for operating businesses of all sizes seeking to do business with the city, including:

Networking with contracting agents from all levels of government
Workshops providing a blueprint to finding opportunities, winning contracts and growing your company
Free business resources, including on-site technical assistance, financing assistance, and capacity building programming

See below for more details and registration information.

Date:

Wednesday, January 14, 2026

Time:

9 AM – 4 PM

Location:

Barclays Center

620 Atlantic Avenue

Brooklyn, NY 11217

Directions

Dress Code:

Business Casual

Cost:

Free

DSNY Issues Snow Alert for Saturday, December 13 at 7 p.m.

With 1 to 3 inches of snow expected this weekend, New York’s Strongest will begin spreading brine on 700 lane miles of highways at midnight tonight

The New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) has issued a Snow Alert for Saturday, December 13, 2025, beginning at 7 p.m., running through 2 p.m. Sunday. A Snow Alert is the Department’s “higher level” snow-fighting notification, as opposed to the “lower level” Winter Operations Advisory.

Precipitation will begin as early as 9 p.m. Saturday, continuing as late as noon Sunday, with heaviest bands of snow likely to fall Sunday between 1 and 5 a.m. Most forecasts anticipate 1 to 3 inches of snow though, as always, New York’s Strongest remain prepared for any amount of precipitation.

DSNY personnel will activate its GPS room — featuring the new Bladerunner 2.0 tracking operation — this evening to begin highway brining operations. Applying brine before snow begins falling helps reduce accumulations on roadways. In past storms of this nature, DSNY has applied brine to highway ramps and shoulders in anticipation of falling snow. This year, with new investments in brine equipment, the Department will not only apply brine to ramps and shoulders, but also the main beds of all highways – a total of 700 lane miles — starting at midnight tonight.

More than 700 salt spreaders are filled and ready to go, and the Department has approximately 700 million pounds of salt on hand. DSNY will begin spreading salt on roads, highways and bike lanes at the first sign of precipitation, and will begin plowing when and if snow depths reach two inches.

At this time, there is no anticipated change to collection operations Monday, and New Yorkers should continue to follow their regular schedule for trash, recycling, and compostable material unless otherwise notified.

All winter weather information and information about the City’s response to the storm can be found by visiting the City’s Severe Weather website at nyc.gov/snow or by calling 311.

Operations Update

Thanks to historic investments in DSNY, the Department’s Workers and equipment are more prepared for winter weather than ever before. After 13 snow activations last winter, Department personnel continued throughout the year to prepare for snow season, as we do every year. DSNY recently completed an annual service training with a focus on snow and, as New Yorkers may have seen in recent days, the Department conducted a snow drill this week that included the activation of snow equipment citywide.

Trash/Recycling Collection:

There is no change to DSNY collection or to bin requirements at this time.

Snow Clearing Information

If the snow stops falling between:

7 a.m. and 5 p.m., property owners must clear sidewalks within 4 hours
5 p.m. and 9 p.m., property owners must clear sidewalks within 14 hours
9 p.m. and 7 a.m., property owners must clear sidewalks by 11 a.m.

Property owners with Empire Bins are responsible for clearing snow and ice from the Empire Bin to facilitate collection.

The fine for failure to clear sidewalks is $100 for the first offense, $150 for the second offense and $250 for the third offense.

Find information on Sanitation snow operations along with residents’ responsibilities during and after snow at nyc.gov/snow.

Notice of Funding Opportunity - EmpowHER: Strengthening Women’s Sexual Health through HIV Prevention RFP

Public Health Solutions (PHS), on behalf of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC Health Department), has released the Request for Proposals: EmpowHER: Strengthening Women’s Sexual Health through HIV Prevention

Please note the following important dates:

Pre-Proposal Conference Webinar: January 7, 2026, 1:00 pm ET

Zoom Registration Link: https://healthsolutions-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_x0bcqD-eRM2Kl7680kd0oA

Deadline for submitting questions: January 8, 2026, 5:00pm ET

Proposal Due Date: February 4, 2026, at 3:00 pm ET

The RFP and associated RFP documents are available now and can be downloaded from the new PHS Procurement Portal:

https://healthsolutions.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities

NOTE: PHS has partnered with Bonfire Interactive to create a PHS Procurement Portal that will allow you to receive Notice of Funding Opportunities and submit proposals to PHS digitally. Organizations and vendors are requested to visit the new PHS Procurement Portal, then follow the “Log in / Register” link to the Vendor Registration page to register your organization. Registration is easy.

https://healthsolutions.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities

Thank you,

Public Health Solutions

DSS/HRA Announcement: The Relocation of the NYC Department of Social Services-Human Resources Administration (DSS/HRA) Refugee and Immigrant Service Center

This is to advise you of the relocation of DSS-HRA’s Refugee and Immigrant Service Center. Please see details of the change below:

Current Location (closes Friday, January 16, 2026):	32-20 Northern Boulevard, 5^th Floor, Queens 11101
New Location (opens Tuesday, January 20, 2026):	25 Chapel Street, 6^th Floor, Brooklyn 11201
Days and Hours of Operations:	Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

Program Services Background:

The Refugee and Immigrant Service Center provides assistance and services to refugees in the United States with the intent of assisting these individuals in becoming employed and self-sufficient. This Center serves the refugee population citywide, which consists of individuals who are either unable or unwilling to return to their country of origin due to persecution or fear of the same due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion or being a member of a particular social group.

ACE Roll Out Notification-B60 B68

This is to notify you that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) will activate Automated Camera Enforcement (ACE) on the B60 and B68 bus route on December 8th, 2025, starting a 60-day warning period per New York State law.

The ACE program was developed in collaboration with New York City Department of Transportation to make bus service safer, faster, more reliable, and accessible by enforcing existing traffic laws to help keep buses moving. ACE uses a bus-mounted camera system to issue violations to vehicles improperly using bus lanes and busways, as well as, to vehicles that are double parked along bus corridors or blocking bus stops.

The goal of ACE is to make bus service faster and more reliable by keeping bus lanes and bus stops clear.

On each ACE bus route, the MTA and the City issue warning notices for 60-days before fine-bearing summonses begin. Each of the corridors with active ACE enforcement has signage indicating that those routes are camera-enforced and the hours of enforcement.

Vehicles blocking bus stops or illegally double parked will receive warning notices in the mail for an initial period of 60-days, summonses will be issued after the first 60 days.

To learn more the about ACE program, please visit www.mta.info/ace.

To learn more about violations issued under ACE, please visit https://www.nyc.gov/site/finance/vehicles/mta-bus-camera-violations.page

You Are Democracy Event: Flourishing Community Meetings

Join the NYC Civic Engagement Commission for an evening that reimagines what civic life can feel like. Flourishing Community Meetings is a warm, art-infused gathering where neighbors, organizers, and dreamers come together to imagine the futures our city deserves. Over good food, live music, and guided creative exercises, participants will listen to visionary storytellers, reflect in small groups, and co-create bold civic ideas through fun and creative means. Together we’ll build a living “Manifesto of Possible Futures” — a collective snapshot of what becomes possible when creativity, community, and belonging shape public life. Come ready to dream, play, and co-author new possibilities for New York City.

The event will be hosted by artist Yazmany Arboleda (The People's Institute) with guest speakers Caron Atlas (Arts & Democracy), Sulu LeoNimm (TONYC), and Johnny Thornton (Arts Gowanus) and a special musical performance by Púyaloahí.

Come dance with our giant puppet twins Civic & Engagement and meet our beloved one of a kind inflatable Mama Sunny.

Children welcome! Spanish interpretation provided!

FDNY Control the Bleed Training Program

The FDNY officially launched a new public education and training initiative, "Control the Bleed," to provide bystanders with the skills and knowledge needed to respond effectively when faced with life-threatening bleeding. These classes are offered throughout NYC at no cost, with each session being taught exclusively by a member of FDNY EMS. This class focuses on recognizing life-threatening bleeding and the skills associated, such as direct pressure, pressure bandages and applying tourniquet. Each class size ranges from 15- 50 people and takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete. Larger groups can be accommodated by adding additional classes, which would occur consecutively.

We encourage you to host a training within your community! To request a training or learn more about the program, please visit Control the Bleed - FDNY Smart

Control the Bleed is possible thanks to support from the FDNY Foundation and a Department of Homeland Security grant support.

NYC Trash Academy 2026 - Spread the Word

NYC Trash Academy is a free eight-week educational series, offered online with in-person events, tailored for New Yorkers who are passionate about creating a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable city. The program explores the far-reaching impacts of waste management on our environment, society, and economy.

The program walks you through some of the everyday questions we all have about waste like what really happens to our food scraps, old clothes, or broken electronics, and how companies and communities can help reduce what ends up in the trash. You’ll explore the systems that shape how New York City manages waste, and by the end, you’ll feel more informed, more confident, and ready to take meaningful action in your home, on your block, and across the city we all love.

NYC Trash Academy 2026 begins Tuesday, January 27 and runs through Wednesday, March 18.

Participation is FREE, but the application window is only open for a limited time! Secure your spot: apply by January 12, 2026.

Apply Now

NEW DATE ALERT BUSHWICK FARMERS MARKET

Due to circumstances beyond our control, we are unable to host the farmers market at our Bushwick Health Center (335 Central Ave Brooklyn NY 11221) on Thursday December 18. We will now have our final Bushwick market for 2025, on Friday December 19, from 11 AM to 3:00 PM (see flyer attached). We do apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Planned Service Swap on F/M Lines starting December 8th

Starting, Monday, December 8, the F and M trains will permanently swap routes on weekdays at eight stations in Queens and Manhattan. This change is designed to reduce congestion and delays on the E, F, M, and R lines. The swap will be in effect weekdays only, from 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Weekend and late-night service will remain unchanged.

F trains will replace M trains at:

Queens Plaza
Court Sq–23 St
Lexington Av/53 St
5 Av/53 St

M trains will replace F trains at:

21 St–Queensbridge
Roosevelt Island
Lexington Av/63 St
57 St

In preparation for this change, customer ambassadors are currently stationed at the affected stations, actively engaging with riders, providing information about the upcoming service changes, and distributing pamphlets.

DSNY News: It’s TIMMMMMMEEEEE! NYC Department of Sanitation’s “Winter Schedule” Begins for 2025

Schedule Change Allows for Round-the-Clock Storm Readiness; Collection Times Could Vary Slightly

The New York City Department of Sanitation announced that it has transitioned its operations to its annual “Winter Schedule” with additional employees working overnight hours to allow for quicker and more effective snow operations work.

When snow is not in the forecast, Sanitation Workers scheduled for the night shift are frequently assigned to cleaning or collection duties, and as a result, residents may notice their trash, compost, and recycling collected at a slightly different time. To ensure material is collected, residents are reminded to set material out by midnight on their scheduled day.

This winter staffing is in addition to previously schedule night work - all part of ongoing efforts to decrease the time that material sits on the streets to create a cleaner City with fewer rats. The winter schedule generally lasts at least through mid-April, but the Department will re-evaluate in the weeks and months to come.

The Department of Sanitation has a frontline defense of more than 700 salt spreaders dispatched at the first sign of frozen precipitation. Once two inches of snow has fallen on the City’s streets and highways, the Department can deploy it’s more than 2,000 plow-equipped trucks to clear snow and ice. The Department is responsible for more than 19,000 lane-miles of roadway in the City. For further information on Sanitation services, call 311 or visit www.nyc.gov/sanitation.

Health Bucks Expire December 31

Make the most of your unused Health Bucks coupons. Be sure to spend them before they expire on December 31, 2025. All NYC farmers markets accept Health Bucks. Find a market near you: on.nyc.gov/3CBv3hv.

NYC Commission on Gender Equity Bystander Intervention to Address Gender-Based Street Harassment

On Wednesday, December 3, from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Right To Be, in partnership with CGE and ENDGBV, will host a virtual Bystander Intervention to Address Gender-Based Street Harassment training as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. The training focuses on encouraging community action and offering practical skills to safely intervene when witnessing someone who is experiencing hate- or gender-based harassment. Register for this free training.

2025-2026 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Regular Component Opening Date Update

We’re writing to inform you that the 2025-2026 Regular Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) benefits component is now open as of today, Monday, December 1, 2025.

The Regular HEAP benefit is scheduled to operate through April 7, 2026, or until funding is exhausted, whichever occurs first. HRA will notify community partners of any program operation date changes.

NYC residents may apply for Regular HEAP benefits online through ACCESS HRA. Applicants may also apply for Regular HEAP benefits by submitting paper applications by mail, fax, or in person at a HEAP Benefits Access Center (BAC). For additional details on the program and how to apply, visit our dedicated HEAP webpage here.

Two Weeks Remaining: Don't Wait to Submit Your Open Data Week proposal

This is a friendly reminder that there are two weeks left to submit your proposal for Open Data Week 2026 and NYC School of Data. Please share widely!

Deadline for Open Data Week and School of Data proposals: Monday, December 15, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET.

We received a record number of 199 submissions last year! Submit your proposal soon so we can make sure it gets reviewed.

Thank you to everyone who has already submitted, we appreciate you! Keep an eye out for follow up emails soon.

Submit your proposal!

November 2025

NYC BEST Bootcamp: Start Your Business the BEST Way!

NYC BEST is partnering with various city agencies and community partners to help small business owners understand city rules and regulations through a series of webinars covering the following topics:

Permits, licenses, and application processes
Government resources and incentives
Requirements for building out or renovating a storefront
Working with Con Edison & National Grid
Responding to violations or summonses
Outdoor vending
Waste management

Attend and Upcoming Session

Notice of Commission Meeting Wednesday, December 3, 2025

THE NEW YORK CITY TAXI & LIMOUSINE COMMISSION will hold a Commission Meeting on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at 33 Beaver Street, 19th Floor, New York, New York.

To view the agenda, click here .

The facility is wheelchair accessible. If you need a reasonable accommodation of a disability to participate in the meeting, you may contact the Office of Legal Affairs at 212-676-1135 or at tlcrules@tlc.nyc.gov.

Live webcast is available at www.nyc.gov/tlc.

TLC can provide language services following the meeting if you speak limited English. If you need language assistance regarding the content that was discussed at the meeting, please email tlcrules@tlc.nyc.gov for additional information.

Thanksgiving Day Office Closures

In observance of Thanksgiving Day, all HRA locations will be closed on Thursday, November 27, 2025. This includes all SNAP and Benefit Access Centers as well as Medicaid, Child Support, and CASA offices. HRA locations will resume regular operating hours on Friday, November 28, 2025.

Your Inside Look at NYC DOT's Bus Accessibility Work

Our next Access to Independence session is almost here! Join us next Friday, December 5, from 1PM to 2PM for a comprehensive overview of how NYC DOT supports bus riders—from bus stop design and accessibility to bus lanes and safety tools.

If you’ve ever wondered what's happening to make bus travel safer and more accessible for older adults and people with disabilities, this session is for you.

Event Details:
On the Move: How NYC DOT is Improving
Bus Stops and Bus Travel

Date: Friday, December 5th, 2025
Time: 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m
Where: Online

ASL interpretation and live captioning will be provided. For any other accommodation request, email MobilityManagement@dot.nyc.gov by Monday, December 1.

For assistance with registration, email MobilityManagement@dot.nyc.gov or call 212-839-3260.

Interborough Express-Design Phase Begins

The MTA is excited to announce that the design phase of the Interborough Express (IBX) project has begun. During the design phase, engineers transform conceptual ideas into detailed plans, which eventually will lead to construction. This is a multi-year process that builds on the planning and environmental work currently underway.

As the design phase ramps up, you may start to see MTA crews and contractor staff working periodically within the project corridor to collect technical data to inform project design. Activities may include collecting soil samples, performing site visits, and documenting existing conditions (what’s out there today).

Near-term Impacts

Over the next five months, crews will be drilling test pits into the ground to collect soil samples and verify utility locations. Crews will set up and work near the existing freight rail corridor.

Work Dates*: Monday to Friday, beginning on or about Nov. 24, for approximately five months
Work Hours*: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., in accordance with NYCDOT permits

What to Expect:

Crews will collect soil samples using drilling rigs and hand-held equipment to dig and drill into the ground.
There may be construction-related noise and dust from equipment and trucks.
If equipment is set up on the sidewalk, construction cones, guardrails, or fencing will be set up around the work zone.
Pedestrian access will be maintained around any work zone at a 5-foot minimum as required by NYCDOT.

*Please note: As with all fieldwork, some activities may be rescheduled due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.

Contact us

We understand this work can be disruptive, which is why we’re doing what we can to minimize impacts and keep you informed. Should you have any questions, please contact us at IBXoutreach@mtacd.org.

Virtual Info Session – Improving Bus Stops & Accessibility

The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) invites you to join us for a Virtual Information Session on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM.

This session will highlight how NYC DOT is improving bus stops and bus travel, with a special focus on accessibility features that support older adults and people with disabilities.

Event Details

📅 Date: Friday, December 5, 2025
🕐 Time: 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
💻 Location: Online via Zoom
🔗 Register Today: bit.ly/BusAccessibility

Accessibility Services ASL interpretation and live captioning will be provided. For any other accommodation requests, please email MobilityManagement@dot.nyc.gov by Monday, December 1.

DSNY News: No Trash, Curbside Composting or Recycling Collection on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 27, 2025

The New York City Department of Sanitation announced that in observance of Thanksgiving Day, there will be NO trash, curbside composting nor recycling collection on Thursday, November 27, 2025.

Residents who normally receive Thursday trash or curbside composting collection may place their material at the curb Thursday evening for collection beginning Friday, November 28.

Residents who normally receive Thursday paper and metal/glass/plastic/carton recycling collection should hold their recycling a week and may place their material at the curb the evening of Wednesday, December 3 for collection beginning Thursday, December 4.

Residents should understand collection delays may occur after holidays. We appreciate patience as we work to collect the backlog of material.

For questions about Sanitation services and holiday schedules contact 311 or visit nyc.gov/sanitation.

About the New York City Department of Sanitation

Idea Generation for The People's Money has been extended to November 26!

The online submission deadline for Idea Generation for the fourth cycle of The People's Money — NYC's citywide participatory budgeting process — has been extended to November 26!

Through The People's Money, the ideas New Yorkers submit now could end up as real projects implemented by community-based organizations and funded by the New York City budget. Once Idea Generation is over, the Civic Engagement Commission (CEC) will review the submitted ideas for eligibility requirements, then will pass them onto Borough Assemblies, where randomly selected New Yorkers from each borough will meet over multiple weeks to decide which ideas end up on the ballot.

If you have an idea for a project that would improve your community, you can submit it online at on.nyc.gov/pb through November 26!

Help NYC Sanitation Catch Illegal Dumpers – and Be Eligible for a Financial Reward

With illegal dumping summonses up more than 20 percent in the last fiscal year, the Department of Sanitation reminds New Yorkers they can receive a significant bounty for helping the Department catch criminals who dump on our neighborhoods.

“Too often, crooked contractors steal our public space by dumping materials in streets, lots and sidewalks that they perceive to be out of the way,” said Acting New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) Commissioner Javier Lojan. “We are catching more and more of these criminals with in-person surveillance and an expanded network of hidden cameras — and we also welcome assistance from the everyday New Yorkers who know these neighborhoods best. Provide us valuable information to catch these criminals, and you could be eligible for half the $4,000 fine.”

DSNY has two bounty programs that provide awards to people who witness and report illegal dumping:

Illegal Dumping Award Program: Complete an affidavit and/or submit a video after witnessing illegal dumping. When the lawbreaker is fined, the witness is eligible for 50% of the fine that the City collects. If the lawbreaker challenges the ticket at the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings (OATH) hearing, the witness must attend. Videos can be emailed to IllegalDumpingTips@dsny.nyc.gov.
Illegal Dumping Tip Program: Anyone who tips off the City – so that we can catch an illegal dumper in the act – is eligible for a reward of up to 50% of the fine collected. The tipster’s identity remains confidential – so he or she won’t have to appear at a hearing.

Note that illegal dumping is distinct from littering, as it refers specifically to dumping from a vehicle. If you witness illegal dumping, a video of the dumping taking place is most helpful to the Department, with a clear picture of the license plate. Do not approach or engage with the dumpers.

Those caught dumping materials on our neighborhoods have their vehicles impounded, and face summonses that begin at $4,000, plus the cost of cleaning.

In the last three years, DSNY deployed a network of more than 300 hidden cameras to catch illegal dumpers. In Fiscal Year 2025, the Department issued 21 percent more summonses for illegal dumping than the previous fiscal year, for a total of 872, and impounded 417 illegal dumping vehicles, a 46 percent increase over Fiscal Year 2024.

The Department has cleaned at least one million pounds of material left by illegal dumpers in the last year – and the total may be two to three times that. We need YOUR help to stop this criminal theft of public space.

About the New York City Department of Sanitation

October 2025

New York State' Commercial Security Tax Credit - Due Next Friday October 31st

With one week to go, this a reminder about the New York State' Commercial Security Tax Credit. This program is designed to support all qualifying retail owners in mitigating the financial impact of retail theft. Eligible businesses can apply to receive a $3,000 tax credit to offset costs related to theft prevention and recovery.

Applications are due by next Friday October 31st. This is a significant opportunity to support business operations and strengthen their community presence.

Supporting Survivors: Community Event & Discussion

Join Council Member Jennifer Gutierrez and Council Member Sandy Nurse on Tuesday, October 28, from 6:00–8:00 PM at CUFFH Headquarters (280 Starr St, Brooklyn, NY 11237) for a Domestic Violence Awareness Community Event and panel discussion dedicated to raising awareness and supporting survivors.

In collaboration with Wyckoff Hospital’s Violence Intervention and Treatment Program and CUFFH, this event will bring together community members, advocates, and experts to share insights, highlight available resources, and connect attendees with organizations that help survivors find safety and healing.

Learn the signs of abuse, how to help yourself or a friend, and meet the local partners working to end gender-based violence. Light refreshments will be provided.

👉 RSVP here: bit.ly/EGBV25

What to Know About the November General Election

The 2025 General Election is only a few weeks away (Tuesday, November 4), so here's what you need to know to make sure you're staying civically engaged this election season:

What is this election for?

In addition to ballot proposals, there are five citywide offices on the ballot, which you can learn more about here:

Mayor
City Council
Comptroller
Borough Presidents
Public Advocate

Depending on where you live, more offices may appear on your ballot. See all the races taking place this November here. You can also learn more about the candidates during their debates!

When is the election?

Election Day is Tuesday, November 4. You can also vote early from Saturday, October 25 to Sunday, November 2. Find your poll site here and poll hours here.

If you won't be able to vote in-person, you must request a mail ballot before October 25. Find out how to request an Early Mail Ballot or an Absentee Ballot here.

How do I register to vote?

If you're not already registered to vote, you must do so no later than October 25 in order to be able to vote in the General Election. If your address has changed recently, make sure the address on your voter registration is up to date before October 20.

You can register to vote online or in person at your local board of elections, at any New York State Agency-Based voter registration center, or at the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Learn more about the voter registration process and qualifications here.

Can I vote if I don't speak English?

Yes! You have the right to bring a friend or family member to interpret for you at the polls. CEC interpreters will also assist voters in select poll sites and languages, including Arabic, Bengali, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), French, Haitian Creole, Italian, Korean, Polish, Russian, Urdu, and Yiddish.

Learn more at on.nyc.gov/vla.

Have more questions about voting in NYC?

See the Board of Elections' FAQ and/or NYC Votes' website.

Community Partnerships RFP Now Open – Submit Your Proposals

The NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) is pleased to announce the release of the Community Partnerships Request for Proposals (RFP). This RFP sets a vision that builds on decades of Community Partnership implementation experience, driving toward even greater depth and impact. The submission period is now open; proposals are due by Wednesday, December 3rd. We invite organizations to review the RFP and submit proposals to partner with ACS in advancing our shared mission of strengthening families and building thriving communities. Please feel free to share this communication broadly.

Community Partnerships (Partnerships) are coalitions of community stakeholders that collaborate for more effective and interconnected service delivery and family support. Their memberships include health and human service providers, community leaders, residents and others who are invested in child and family well-being. Since their inception in 2007, the Partnerships have demonstrated their value as diverse and inclusive community planning hubs, rich in knowledge of local resources and supported by a network of invested stakeholders. They have built strong communication networks, locally and citywide, that help match Partnership resources to community members’ needs, create strategic partnerships, and increase Partnership members’ ability to collectively deliver a wide range of culturally appropriate well-being responses that residents desire.

Through this RFP, ACS will select community-based organizations that will build and sustain strong, diverse coalitions focused on:

Developing community leaders
Connecting families to needed resources and supports
Envisioning and implementing well-being activities that are responsive to community interests
Identifying policy and practice priorities to improve City Government services

This RFP builds on the foundation described in our Concept Paper and reflects ACS’s ongoing commitment to supporting families and investing in community-led solutions. We encourage organizations that share this commitment to review the RFP and consider applying.

You can access the RFP via the PASSPort Procurement Navigator at this link. Please note that to submit a proposal for this or any Human/Client Services RFP, organizations must have an active PASSPort account and an approved HHS Prequalification application. Proposals will only be accepted through PASSPort. If you do not yet have an account or an approved prequalification, please visit www.nyc.gov/passport to get started.

Thank you in advance for your partnership and for your continued commitment to New York City’s children, families, and communities.

The People's Money's Fourth Cycle has Begun — Submit Your Idea Now!

We are thrilled to announce the launch of a new cycle of The People's Money — NYC's citywide participatory budgeting process — which kicked off on October 15! All New Yorkers age 11 and up, regardless of immigration or incarceration status, are invited to decide how to spend part of the city budget in their borough.

From now through November 19, residents can share their ideas for projects to support and strengthen their communities either online or at an Idea Generation Workshop — a space where New Yorkers can come together to brainstorm creative, impactful projects.

Those ideas will then be developed into ballot proposals, which will be voted on citywide this spring. The winning projects in each borough will be implemented by community-based organizations beginning in July of 2026 — turning your ideas into real improvements for neighborhoods across the city.

Find an Idea Generation Workshop to attend in your borough or submit your idea online at participate.nyc.gov!

Important OMNY Upgrade This Weekend - Reload Your OMNY Cards by this Friday, October 3rd

Working to improve the OMNY experience:

During the weekend of October 3^rd, OMNY will undergo a planned service upgrade that will improve performance and will prevent future trip and charge processing delays like those experienced over the summer.

How this impacts customers:

The upgrade us expected to take place between 10:00 PM on Friday, October 3^rd and 7:00 PM on Sunday, October 5^th. While you can still tap at all OMNY readers on subways and buses to pay the fare, during the upgrade window, certain features and services will not be available, so please be aware of the following.

For customers tapping with an OMNY card:

You will not be able to buy or reload OMNY cards during the upgrade window. This means there will be no sales or value loads through OMNY vending machines, at retail locations, online at OMNY.info, over the phone or in-person at Customer Service Centers in stations. Riders can plan ahead by loading their OMNY card for the weekend before 7:00 PM on Friday, October 3^rd.

Note that while taps will still be accepted, the actual associated charges to your OMNY card will not be processed right away. Charges will be processed after the upgrade is completed. If a customer uses up their stored value prior to completion of the upgrade, they will need to load more value after the upgrade is completed to continue traveling with their card. Customers should allow an additional day or two for the charges to their OMNY card to settle. As an alternative, customers can tap and ride with their bank card in their mobile wallet or a physical credit or debit card.

For customers tapping with a mobile wallet or physical credit/debit card:

While taps will still be accepted during the upgrade window, customers will not see the actual associated charges for their fares right away, even if they appear in their mobile wallet app. Charges will be processed after the upgrade is completed and an additional day or two should be given for the charges to their bank card to settle.

For all customers:

Other services unavailable during the upgrade window include online trip and charge history information, access to your online OMNY account, and some in-person services for Reduced-Fare customers at MTA Customer Service Centers.

Customers will nor be overcharged while the system catches up after the upgrade is completed. Free transfers will be free, along with any free rides earned during the 7-day fare cap period.

Please allow an additional day or two for all taps and fare payments from the upgrade window to be fully processed. If a customer wishes to review their taps or to ensure they have been charged correctly, they can check at omny.info/trip-history or by signing into their OMNY account. Additionally, customers can call the OMNY Call Center at 877-789-6669.

Stargazing with the Amateur Astronomers Association of New York

Friday, October 3rd, 2025

7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Come observe and learn about the stars with members of the Amateur Astronomers Association of New York. This stargazing event offers the rare opportunity for attendees to observe the night sky in an area relatively free of glare from the lights of the city. Members bring high-powered telescopes and binoculars through which everyone is invited to look and will provide instruction on how to find objects in the night sky. Feel free to bring your own binoculars or a telescope as well.

The event is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged. Register on Eventbrite HERE.

Let's celebrate our urban forest together on City of Forest Day 2025!

Join Trees New York's environmental educators for the 4th annual City of Forest Day! We are hosting a series of events including tree walks and tree stewardship events to celebrate our urban forest and invite you to come and learn while you help us care for New York City's street trees.

Volunteer tree stewardship activities include removing litter and weeds from the tree beds, cultivating the soil, mulching, watering, and planting bulbs. Individual events may not include all activities mentioned above.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Click to REGISTER for Trees New York's events!

Click to view all City of Forest Day 2025 events!

September 2025

Notice of Funding Opportunity - Concept Paper - Rise Up: Building Capacity for HIV/STI Prevention and Sexual Health in Faith-Based Settings

Public Health Solutions (PHS), on behalf of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC Health Department), has released the Concept Paper (CP) for Rise Up: Building Capacity for HIV/STI Prevention and Sexual Health in Faith-Based Settings.

Public Health Solutions (PHS) on behalf of the NYC Health Department, anticipates releasing a Request for Proposal (RFP). Through this anticipated RFP, the NYC Health Department will seek to identify non-profit community-based organizations (CBOs) that provide capacity building assistance (CBA) to strengthen faith-based organizations’ (FBOs’) ability to deliver HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STI) prevention and sexual health education, reduce stigma, and expand access to prevention services in New York City (NYC) communities most impacted by HIV.

Please note the following important date:

Deadline for submitting questions: November 14, 2025, 5:00pm ET

The CP is available now and can be downloaded from the PHS Procurement Portal:

https://healthsolutions.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities

NOTE: PHS has partnered with Bonfire Interactive to create a new PHS Procurement Portal that will allow you to receive Notice of Funding Opportunities and submit proposals to PHS digitally. Organizations and vendors are requested to visit the new PHS Procurement Portal, then follow the “Log in / Register” link to the Vendor Registration page to register your organization. Registration is easy.

https://healthsolutions.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities

Make History: NYC Civic Corps Opportunities at DORIS

Looking for a unique way to give back while building your career?

NYC Service’s Civic Corps is a 10-month, full-time service program that places members at City agencies and nonprofits — including the NYC Department of Records and Information Services (DORIS) — to manage volunteers, develop programs, and engage communities across the five boroughs. Members gain hands-on experience, professional development, career coaching, and 1-on-1 support while making a real impact.

DORIS currently has three openings in Program Development, Community Outreach & Engagement, and Volunteer Management & Recruitment. Civic Corps members will:

Connect New Yorkers with their city’s history through outreach, curriculum development, and community conversations;
Strengthen volunteer and storytelling programs that preserve neighborhood stories; and
Expand access to the City’s archives by processing, digitizing, and improving records.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, an engaged retiree, or looking to launch your career in the public or nonprofit sector, this is your chance to build skills, grow your network, and serve your city.

Applications will be accepted until September 28th. Early applications are encouraged.

Learn more and apply today.

HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO SPRAY FOR ADULT MOSQUITOES IN PARTS OF BROOKLYN AND QUEENS TO REDUCE RISK OF WEST NILE VIRUS

Trucks Will Spray Pesticide in Parts of Brooklyn and Queens on the Nights of September 16 and 18, 2025, Weather Permitting

NEW YORK — To reduce mosquito activity and the risk of West Nile virus, the Health Department will conduct adulticide treatments in parts of the Brooklyn and Queens.

Trucks will spray pesticides in sections of the Brooklyn and Queens beginning Tuesday, September 16, 2025 between the hours of 8:30 P.M. and 6:00 A.M. the following morning, weather permitting. In case of bad weather, application in Brooklyn and Queens will be delayed until Wednesday, September 17, 2025, between the hours of 8:30 P.M. and 6:00 A.M. the following morning, weather permitting.

Trucks will spray pesticides in sections of Queens beginning Thursday, September 18, 2025 between the hours of 12:00 A.M. and 6:00 A.M. weather permitting. In case of bad weather, application in Queens will be delayed until Monday, September 22, 2025, between the hours of 8:30 P.M. and 6:00 A.M. the following morning, weather permitting.

The Health Department will use very low concentrations of Anvil®, Duet®, or MERUS® 3. The risks of pesticides applied by the Health Department for mosquito control are low to people and pets. Some people who are sensitive to spray ingredients may experience short-term eye or throat irritation, or a rash. People with respiratory conditions may also be affected.

To stay safe during spraying

Stay indoors, whenever possible.
Air conditioners can remain on. While unnecessary, you may wish to close air conditioner vents or choose the recirculate function.

After spraying

Wash skin and clothing exposed to pesticides with soap and water.
Always wash fruits and vegetables with water. New Yorkers are also encouraged to mosquito-proof their homes and take precautions when spending time outdoors.

Reducing exposure to mosquitoes

Use an approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus (not for children under 3), or products that contain the active ingredient IR3535.
Make sure windows have screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.
Eliminate any standing water from your property and dispose of containers that can collect water. Standing water is a violation of the New York City Health Code.
Make sure roof gutters are clean and draining properly.
Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty or covered if not in use. Drain water that collects in pool covers.

Report standing water by calling 311 or visiting nyc.gov/health/wnv. For more information about West Nile virus, call 311 or visit nyc.gov.

Locations of truck spraying in Brooklyn and Queens for Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Borough	Neighborhoods	Boundaries	Zip Codes
Brooklyn- Queens	Parts Bedford-Stuyvesant, Broadway Junction, Broadway Triangle, Brownsville, Bushwick, Crown Heights, Cypress Hills, East New York, East Williamsburg, Glendale, Greenpoint, New Lots, Ridgewood, South Williamsburg and Williamsburg.	Bordered by East River to the West; Greenpoint Avenue, Newtown Creek, Metropolitan Avenue, Woodward Avenue, Menahan Street, Cypress Avenue, and Cypress Hills Street to the North; and Euclid Avenue, Euclid Avenue, Atlantic Avenue, and Pennsylvania Avenue to the East; Pitkin Avenue, Howard venue, Broadway, Flushing Avenue, Marcy Avenue, Brooklyn- Queens Expressway and North 6 Street to the South.	Parts of 11206, 11207, 11208, 11211, 11212,11221, 11222, 11233, 11237 and 11385.

Con Edison Work Notice

Con Edison is performing Electric Upgrade work in your area. We expect to work from September 22 to November 22.

Locations and Work Schedule:

Granite b/t Bushwick and the Dead End

Monday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Tuesday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Wednesday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Thursday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Friday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

What to Expect
Street Closures
Limited Street Parking
Noise

Reference Number: 25-03061

DSNY News: Brooklyn’s Fall SAFE Disposal Event is Sunday, September 21, 2025

Event Give Residents an Easy Way to Dispose of Potentially Harmful Household Items

The New York City Department of Sanitation has announced that the Brooklyn fall SAFE (Solvents, Automotive, Flammables, and Electronics) Disposal Event will be Sunday, September 21, 2025 at Floyd Bennett Field. The event provides city residents an easy way to safely dispose of potentially harmful household products.

Household products such as pesticides, strong cleaners, mercury-containing devices, paints, automotive fluids, and medications may be brought to the drop-off event. Residents can also bring electronics, which may no longer be collected with trash and other recycling, due to a New York state law. Only items from NYC residents will be accepted.

The Department has scheduled five SAFE Disposal events this fall, one in each borough. All events are rain or shine, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The first event of the season was already held in Manhattan. The remaining events are:

Sunday, September 21, 2025 - Brooklyn

Floyd Bennett Field
Flatbush Avenue/Marine Parkway
Cars enter along Flatbush Avenue - Make a left into the main entrance, immediately before the toll bridge

Saturday, September 27, 2025 – Staten Island

Midland Beach Parking Lot 8
Father Capodanno Boulevard and Hunter Avenue
Cars approach from Slater Boulevard

Saturday, October 18, 2025 – Queens

Resorts World Casino, Parking Lot C
Cars approach east on Rockaway Boulevard and 107th Street
Make a right into the casino

Saturday, October 25, 2025 - Bronx

Orchard Beach Parking Lot
Cars follow Park Drive to the end

To identify harmful products, look for items marked DANGER, WARNING, POISON, or CAUTION.

Examples of accepted items include:

Automotive products such as motor oil, transmission fluid, and auto batteries
Personal care items like unwanted medicines or cosmetics
Thermometers
Syringes (clearly labeled and packaged in a “sharps” container or other leak proof, puncture-resistant container)
Household products such as pesticides, paint, hazardous cleaners, compact fluorescent light bulbs
Electronics, such as computers, televisions, and printers

Materials collected are either recycled, blended for fuel, or sent to licensed hazardous waste treatment facilities for safe disposal.

For those unable to participate in these events, visit www.nyc.gov/safedisposal or contact 311 for additional disposal options.

More information, including a full list of accepted items, is available at nyc.gov/SafeEvents.

Poison Prevention - Sept 2025 Medicine Safety and Falls Prevention

The week of September 21-27, 2025 is Falls Prevention Awareness Week. It's important to take steps to reduce the risk for falls at home and learn how to manage medications safely.

Falls Prevention Safety Tips
In NYC, falls are a leading cause of injury-related death and hospitalization for older adults.

Almost half of all falls occur in the home. You can improve safety at home with simple fixes like securing electrical cords, keeping walkways clear and making sure you have adequate lighting at night. Use the Home Safety Checklist to fix hazards at home.
Physical activity has many health benefits. Muscle-strengthening and balance activities are especially helpful for preventing falls. Click here to find examples that can help reduce your risk.
Take care of your feet and wear proper footwear, even at home. Wear shoes with a firm, nonslip sole and speak with your health care provider regarding any painful foot problems. Learn more here.
Your risk of falling goes up if you have trouble seeing clearly or hearing well. Visit an eye doctor once a year for a comprehensive eye exam, and have your provider check your hearing regularly. Learn more here.

This month is also a good time to review your medications. Certain medications, including those that affect your brain, heart or blood sugar levels, can increase the risk for falls. Since medicines affect each person differently, always speak with your health care provider or pharmacist about steps to take to reduce your fall risk. Check with the NYC Poison Center about side effects and potential drug interactions of both prescription and nonprescription medicines.

Medicine Safety Tips

Keep track of your medicines, use a Medicine List Card and review it regularly with your health care providers and pharmacist.
To keep track of your medication throughout the day, use a multi-dose pill box or Medicine Communication Log. Post this in a visible place in your home.
Call the NYC Poison Center any time at 212-POISONS (212-764-7667) to ask questions about medicines including dosing, side effects, interactions and safe disposal. Learn more here

Free September Webinars

The NYC Health Department's Education and Community Partnership Unit and Poison Center offer FREE virtual multilingual workshops about medicine safety, falls prevention, home safety and more. All participants receive a certificate. The full schedule and the links for registration can be accessed here.

Dining Out NYC Severe Weather Alert

The National Weather Service has upgraded NYC to a Slight Risk for severe thunderstorms tomorrow.

Timing: Tomorrow, between 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM (most likely 2:00–8:00 PM).

Hazards: Strong to damaging wind gusts (5–15% chance of exceeding 58 mph) are the primary risk. Large hail, heavy downpours, and lightning are also possible.

Rainfall: Up to 2 inches possible in some areas. Localized flash flooding cannot be ruled out.

As a precaution, we recommend securing outdoor furniture and monitoring local weather updates throughout the day.

Stay Safe,
Dining Out NYC Team

45th Annual GreenThumb Harvest Fair

Get ready for the 45th Annual GreenThumb Harvest Fair on Saturday, September 27, 2025 from noon to 4:00 p.m. at Herbert Von King Park and Hattie Carthan Community Garden in Brooklyn, NY. Join GreenThumb in community gardeners in celebrating the start of fall with workshops, live entertainment, healthy cooking, and more! This is a FREE family event with activities for all ages, rain or shine!

The Harvest Fair Passport is back by popular demand! Complete a few assignments during the event to get three stamps in this year's Harvest Fair Passport to receive a 2025 GreenThumb gardener t-shirt with the winning t-shirt design by Rita Root. Assignments include visiting a greening partner table, visiting the Harvest Fair Competition display, and more.

Keep an eye out for our special Harvest Fair Newsletter going out the week of Harvest Fair for a full schedule of the day!

Stargazing with the Amateur Astronomers Association of New York

Friday, September 5th, 2025

7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

The event is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged. Register on Eventbrite HERE.

Summary of SNAP and Medicaid Changes in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)

On July 4, 2025, the President signed into law the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) (the Act). This communication is intended to inform community partners about provisions in the legislation that will impact the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid (MA).

The following changes as a result of the Act are not yet in effect and will not be enacted until the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) and the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) issue implementation guidance.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

SNAP ABAWD Changes

Increases the Age of Those Subject to the ABAWD Time Limit:

The Act expands the age range for those who are subject to the ABAWD time limit. The Bill changes the ABAWD work rules age range to those 18-64 years old (currently, the work rule is 18-54).

Establishes a Dependent Child Age Threshold of 14 Years for Exemption from the ABAWD Time Limit:

The ABAWD exemption for adults residing in a SNAP household with a child under 18 is modified and now applies only to adults residing with a child under 14.

Removes Three Existing ABAWD Exemptions:

The Act removes the 3 specific exemptions from the ABAWD time limit established by the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) of 2023. These are:

Homeless individuals
Veterans
Individuals aged 24 or younger and in foster care on their 18th birthday.

Adds One New ABAWD Exemption:

The Act includes an ABAWD exemption for individuals who are Indians, Urban Indians, California Indians, and other Indians who are eligible for the Indian Health Services.

Changes to the ABAWD Waiver Criteria:

The Act limits the criteria states can request an ABAWD waiver to areas of the state that have an unemployment rate of over 10 percent. States are no longer able to seek ABAWD waivers for “lack of sufficient jobs”.

SNAP Policy/Eligibility Changes:

SNAP Eligibility for Non-Citizens:The Act further limits SNAP eligibility for non-citizens to only include Legal Permanent Residents, Cuban and Haitian Entrants, and those allowed to live in the US under the Compacts of Free Association. OTDA will provide updated policy information, as well as a revised Non-Citizen desk guide (LDSS-4579), when further federal guidance is issued.

Limits on “Heat and Eat”:States are restricted from increasing a household’s utility-based income deduction due to the household receiving a nominal HEAP benefit unless the household contains an elderly or disabled member. Households ineligible for the $21 HEAP payment may still be eligible for the Tier 2 (utility) or Tier 3 (telephone) based on household circumstances. OTDA will provide guidance on implementation of the changes when federal guidance is issued.

Other SNAP-related Changes

Thrifty Food Plan Adjustments:The Act limits when USDA can update the Thrifty Food Plan that is used as one factor in calculating SNAP benefit values. As a result, benefit adjustments would largely be based on Consumer Price Index changes. As a reminder, benefit amounts are released each year as part of the October SNAP Standards. There is no action required by districts as a result of this provision.

SNAP-Education Program Funding Eliminated: Federal funding is eliminated for the SNAP Education program effective at the end of FFY25 (September 30, 2025).

SNAP Funding Changes

SNAP Benefit Cost-Shift: The Act newly shifts responsibility for paying a portion of SNAP benefits onto states that have a Payment Error Rate (PER) of 6% or higher. The exact percentage of the state share is determined by the state’s PER. Benefit cost shift is effective October 1, 2027 (FFY28).

SNAP Administration Cost-Shift: Effective October 1, 2026, the federal share for SNAP administrative costs will be reduced from 50% to 25%, which will increase the State/local share from 50% to 75%.

Medicaid (MA)

Most of the impact of the passed reconciliation language on Medicaid becomes effective December 2026 or January 2027, including the work requirements and restrictions on immigrant populations. More information on work requirements and restrictions on immigrant populations will be provided when guidance is published by the New York State Department of Health.

Provisions that will go into effect as of December 2025 or January 2026 include enhanced ACA subsidy expiration, as well as Essential Plan elimination and funding cuts.

Funding Impact:

The reconciliation bill is anticipated to impact New York State health and healthcare at a total of $13.5 billion, with $10 billion in lost federal funding and $3.5 billion in new state costs. These losses will affect the following:

5 million individuals statewide will lose coverage, including 950,000 individuals in New York City (800,000 from Medicaid and 150,000 from Essential Plan)
The New York Essential Plan is anticipated to lose $7.5 billion, while New York State anticipates $2.7 billion in additional costs. As a result of these costs, 730,000 individuals will lose Essential Plan coverage statewide. Of these individuals, 506,000 will move to Medicaid and 224,000 will become uninsured.
Uncompensated care costs will increase by $1.3 billion, and New York City hospitals and other providers will experience a loss of revenue.

Other notable health-related changes driving coverage and access to loss include:

Immigrant eligibility restrictions
Expiration of Affordable Care Act (ACA) enhanced subsidies
Medicaid community engagement/work requirements with certain exemptions
Twice annual eligibility reverifications
Exclusion of Planned Parenthood from Medicaid funding
Provider tax restrictions
A reduction in the Emergency Medicaid expansion match rate

These changes are also anticipated to impact several specific New York demographics:

Children: 44% of New York State children are covered by Medicaid/CHIP.
Low-Income and Nursing Home Residents: Medicare does not provide sufficient coverage for low-income residents in need of residential care. Medicaid covers 64% of NYS nursing home residents.
Disabled New York State Residents: Hundreds of thousands of disabled New York State residents rely on Medicaid to afford healthcare.
Children of Veterans: An estimated 3.4 million children of veterans nationwide are covered by Medicaid/CHIP.
Immigrants: Various reconciliation provisions impose restrictions on benefit eligibility for lawfully present immigrants.
Black and Latino New Yorkers: Low income, black, and Latino New Yorkers have higher rates of Medicaid and Essential Plan use and will bear the burden of these cuts, thus experiencing further exacerbated social determinants to their health.

Please note that this summary is not intended to be exhaustive of all that is contained within the reconciliation bill, nor absolutely conclusive on all of its impacts. Our goal is to highlight key pieces that we feel will have impact on New York and specifically our NYC clients. We will be sure to send updates once we have more details to share about impact and implementation.

We will work to keep you informed as new developments occur.

Sincerely,

Office of Community Outreach

NYC Department of Social Services

August 2025

Stargazing with the Amateur Astronomers Association of New York

Friday, August 29, 2025

7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

The event is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged. Register on Eventbrite HERE.

NYC Sanitation News: Fall SAFE Disposal Events for 2025

Fall SAFE Disposal Events Start Soon!

First Event is Sunday, September 7 in Manhattan;

Events Give Residents an Easy Way to Dispose of Potentially Harmful Household Items

The New York City Department of Sanitation has announced its fall 2025 SAFE Disposal (Solvents, Automotive, Flammables, and Electronics) Events schedule. The events provide city residents an easy way to safely dispose of potentially harmful household products. The first event of the season will be held Sunday, September 7 in Union Square in Manhattan.

Household products such as pesticides, strong cleaners, mercury-containing devices, paints, automotive fluids, and medications may be brought to the drop-off events. Residents can also bring electronics, which may no longer be collected with trash and other recycling, due to a New York state law. Only items from NYC residents will be accepted.

The Department will hold five SAFE Disposal events this fall, one in each borough. All events are rain or shine, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fall events are:

Sunday, September 7, 2025 - Manhattan

Union Square, North Plaza
South side of 17th Street, between Park Avenue South and Broadway
Cars approach from Park Avenue South and 20th Street

Sunday, September 21, 2025 - Brooklyn

Floyd Bennett Field
Flatbush Avenue/Marine Parkway
Cars enter along Flatbush Avenue - Make a left into the main entrance, immediately before the toll bridge

Saturday, September 27, 2025 – Staten Island

Midland Beach Parking Lot 8
Father Capodanno Boulevard and Hunter Avenue
Cars approach from Slater Boulevard

Saturday, October 18, 2025 – Queens

Resorts World Casino, Parking Lot C
Cars approach east on Rockaway Boulevard and 107th Street
Make a right into the casino

Saturday, October 25, 2025 - Bronx

Orchard Beach Parking Lot
Cars follow Park Drive to the end

To identify harmful products, look for items marked DANGER, WARNING, POISON, or CAUTION.

Examples of accepted items include:

Automotive products such as motor oil, transmission fluid, and auto batteries
Personal care items like unwanted medicines or cosmetics
Thermometers
Syringes (clearly labeled and packaged in a “sharps” container or other leak proof, puncture-resistant container)
Household products such as pesticides, paint, hazardous cleaners, compact fluorescent light bulbs
Electronics, such as computers, televisions, and printers

Materials collected are either recycled, blended for fuel, or sent to licensed hazardous waste treatment facilities for safe disposal.

For those unable to participate in these events, visit www.nyc.gov/safedisposal or contact 311 for additional disposal options.

More information, including a full list of accepted items, is available at nyc.gov/SafeEvents.

August is National Immunization Awareness Month – Important Resources to Share

August is National Immunization Awareness Month—a great time to remind everyone about the importance of vaccines in protecting New Yorkers of all ages from serious illnesses such as measles, flu, and COVID-19.

The NYC Health Department offers no or low-cost vaccinations at clinics across the city. Learn more and schedule an appointment here. We encourage you to share these resources with your communities to help keep everyone safe and healthy:

No J Service between Crescent Street & Broad

As a reminder, please be advised of the attached planned service change to the J& M line that will take place during this weekend, Friday, August 8^th at 11:45pm until Monday, August 11^th at 5:00am.

The J will not run between Crescent St, Brooklyn and Broad St, Manhattan. J service will run between Jamaica Center and Crescent St, the last stop. The M will replace J service between Myrtle Av and Broad St. Service changes will be in effect due to station improvements.

Free shuttle buses will run along two routes:

Local shuttle buses make all J stops between Crescent St and Myrtle Av.
Express shuttle busses operate between Crescent St and Myrtle Av, stopping at Broadway Junction.

For Lower Manhattan, take the A, C, L . Transfer at Broadway Junction.

When exiting at Crescent St, Broadway Junction, or A, C, L, or Myrtle Av, get a GO Ticket to re-enter the subway.

As always please consult the MTA website or the MyMTA app for the latest service information and alternative service options. Customers can also sign up for the MTA’s customer real-time email and text alert system, or call 511 for service-related information. To stay up-to-date on weekend service, customers can sign up for our MTA Weekender newsletter.

Where We Live NYC 2025

NYC Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) released a set of new proposed commitments and interactive tools that will help shape Where We Live NYC 2025, the City’s next fair housing plan to be released this fall. The plan aims to combat housing discrimination, preserve affordability, prevent displacement, and reinvest in neighborhoods that have long faced disinvestment. By releasing the data and documentation behind the forthcoming plan, HPD is inviting New Yorkers to explore what’s driving these proposals, engage with stories and evidence that shaped them, and share feedback to help inform the City’s next fair housing plan.

Through workshops, roundtables, and community events across all five boroughs, the City has engaged directly with New Yorkers over the last three years. These conversations, along with an online questionnaire and updated data and interagency collaboration, have helped to shape a new set of draft actions that reflect the realities New Yorkers face today. By making both the proposals and their underlying data public, HPD is inviting all New Yorkers into the planning process: to explore the findings, see how they connect to the proposed solutions, and help ensure Where We Live NYC 2025 reflects the needs of communities across the city.

Each new action helps advance one of the City’s six fair housing goals, first announced in the original 2020 fair housing plan and being carried forward in Where We Live NYC 2025. The new commitments include

To Fight discrimination and ensure equal access to housing
To build more housing in all neighborhoods across NYC and the region
To protect affordable housing & prevent displacement
To ensure access to different types of neighborhoods for tenants using rental assistance
To expand and improve housing options and accommodations for people with disabilities
To improve conditions, services and infrastructure in historically disinvested neighborhoods

The draft strategies and new tools are the next step in a broader, citywide conversation. Public meetings will follow in September, giving New Yorkers a chance to respond to what is being proposed, explore the data behind the work, and help shape the final Where We Live NYC 2025 plan, which is set to be released in fall 2025.

Visit nyc.gov/wherewelive to learn how to participate!

HELP NYC RESPOND AND RECOVER: REPORT FLOOD DAMAGE AND SUBMIT 311 SERVICE REQUESTS

NEW YORK — New York City Emergency Management is urging all New Yorkers impacted by the July 31, 2025 flash flood event to take two separate but essential steps: submit a damage report and file a 311 service request. These actions will help the city assess the full scope of the storm’s impact and may support a request for federal disaster assistance. The July 31 storm brought intense rainfall across New York City. Oakland Gardens in Queens recorded 6.52 inches of rain, with 6.35 inches in Bayside. Prospect Park in Brooklyn received 2.49 inches. Staten Island saw totals exceeding 2.7 inches. These unofficial localized totals provided by the National Weather Service reflect the severity and variability of flooding citywide.

City agencies are working closely with state officials to assess the extent of damages caused by the July 31 storm. The information collected through damage reports may help support a request for targeted federal assistance, such as Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loans. SBA assistance, if approved, can provide low-interest loans to help homeowners, renters, businesses, and certain nonprofits recover from physical damage or economic losses. SBA assistance is dependent on the scope and concentration of reported impacts.

Report Damage to NYC's Damage Reporting Portal

New York City property owners, tenants, business owners, and nonprofit organizations are encouraged to visit reportdamage.nyc.gov to submit a damage report survey. This voluntary form helps the city understand where impacts occurred and how severe they were. Your report may help determine whether to pursue SBA disaster assistance for affected neighborhoods. Submitting a damage report does not replace an insurance claim and does not guarantee financial help. It is used only for assessment and planning. This form also supplements any 311 service request you may submit to report specific needs like sewer backups, fallen trees, mold, or building damage.

Request Service from 311

New Yorkers should also file a 311 service request for specific conditions that require city response. This includes basement flooding, sewer backups, street flooding, water leaks, power outages, structural concerns, fallen trees, blocked catch basins, mold, broken sidewalks, and heat or hot water outages. Requests can be submitted at nyc.gov/311, by calling 311, or using TTY at 212-504-4115 or Video Relay Service at 212-639-9675.

What to Do After a Flood

If you are in immediate danger, call 911. Do not return to a damaged building until it has been inspected and cleared for safety. Watch for signs of structural damage, gas leaks, and live wires. Shut off external gas lines and ventilate flooded areas. Do not turn the power back on until a licensed electrician confirms it is safe. NYC tap water remains safe to drink unless otherwise announced. If your water service was disrupted, run the tap for at least 30 seconds until it runs cold and clear. Flush appliance lines and replace filters. Document all damage with photos and keep receipts for repairs.

If your building sustained serious damage, consult a New York State–licensed engineer or architect before reoccupying. Some work may require permits through the NYC Department of Buildings and must be completed by licensed professionals.

Begin cleanup only when safe. Wear gloves and protective gear. Clean surfaces with soap and water, then disinfect with a bleach solution. Never mix bleach with ammonia. Remove wet porous materials and monitor for mold growth. Fuel spills, deep flooding, or sewage contamination may require professional cleanup.

For more detailed guidance on cleaning up safely, structural risks, and mold prevention, visit NYCEM’s flood recovery page at nyc.gov/floodhelp.

To stay informed on recovery efforts, sign up for Notify NYC at nyc.gov/notifynyc and monitor official city channels. By submitting a damage report, filing a service request, and documenting conditions carefully, New Yorkers can help ensure a coordinated response and support the strongest possible case for additional recovery assistance.

###

MEDIA CONTACT: NYCEM Press Office (718) 422-4888

STAY CONNECTED: @NotifyNYC (emergency notifications), @nycemergencymgt (emergency preparedness info)

Save the Date for the 45th Annual GreenThumb Harvest Fair

Mark your calendars for the 45th Annual GreenThumb Harvest Fair on Saturday, September 27, 2025 from noon to 4:00 p.m. at Herbert Von King Park and Hattie Carthan Community Garden in Brooklyn, NY. Join GreenThumb and community gardeners for this free public event in Bed-Stuy and celebrate the start of fall with workshops, live entertainment, healthy cooking demonstrations, and more! Stay tuned to our website and social media channels for more information.

Volunteer at the 2025 GreenThumb Harvest Fair

We are seeking dedicated volunteers to assist at the 45th Annual GreenThumb Harvest Fair on Saturday, September 27 at Herbert Von King Park and Hattie Carthan Community Garden in Brooklyn. To volunteer, you must be 18 or older, able to commit to the entire event from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and attend a 1-hour virtual volunteer orientation. Lunch and volunteer swag will be provided. For more information and to sign up, please complete the 2025 Harvest Fair Volunteer Sign Up Form by Monday, September 8th.

Take Evergreen’s Business Survey – Share Your Priorities and Win a Prize!

We are conducting our annual survey of the businesses in the Industrial Business Zones and beyond. The responses you provide help us better understand the changing business needs and assist us in providing services to help you. The data is also essential for us to quantify the impact our businesses have on the local economy and the role our services play in shaping that impact, which informs our advocacy. Your information will not be shared publicly.

Ways you can complete the survey:

Evergreen’s summer interns, Alex Jacobson and James Banks, will be visiting your business. Please fill out the survey with them.
If you do not have time when staff visits, they can schedule an appointment, either at your place of business or over the telephone.
If you prefer, you can fill out the survey online.

We will enter the respondent of each completed survey into a raffle that will be drawn at the end of the summer. The prize will be a $200 gift card to Barano. Alex and James will be making a survey report and presenting it at an interactive Briefing and Brews event in late August.

If you have any questions, please contact Karen Nieves.

Are Operating Costs Impacting Your NYC Small Business?

NYC Small Business Services is looking to identify financial challenges small businesses face while operating in NYC.

Take the Survey

July 2025

Funding Availability for FY 2026 Brownfields Job Training Grants

The FY 2026 Brownfields Job Training Grants solicitation* has been published and is on Grants.gov. Please join us on Zoom on Thursday, July 24th, 2025 at 1:00 PM ET / 10:00AM PT for a public outreach webinar about EPA's FY 2026 Brownfields Job Training (JT) Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). This webinar will support applicants with understanding the NOFO for the FY 2026 Brownfields Job Training Grant Guidelines.

For more information about the currently available NOFO, and relevant information regarding this funding opportunity, please visit:

https://www.epa.gov/brownfields/brownfields-job-training-grants. The webinar will be recorded and posted on the EPA website.

Why Attend? Training programs funded by Brownfields Job Training Grants equip graduates with essential skills for securing full-time, sustainable employment in various sectors related to hazardous substances, pollutants, contaminants, and petroleum products, within the larger environmental field. This includes areas such as sustainable remediation, chemical safety, and site preparation for the revitalization of brownﬁelds. To see the impact of these programs, check out this success story: Brownfields Job Training Program Success Story.

Registration is not required to attend this webinar. Please join the webinar via the information below:

Webinar Link: https://usepa.zoomgov.com/j/1614162939

Webinar ID: 161 416 2939

Join by phone: 1-646-828-7666

Also see the newly published Brownfields Job Training Best Practices Guide to learn more about strategies used by successful Brownfields Job Training grantees to develop sustainable programs.

If you have questions, please contact the Brownfields Team at brownfields@epa.gov.

*EPA reserves the right to reject all applications and make no awards under this announcement or make fewer awards than anticipated.

Reminder: NYC Delivery Fee Law Changes Take Effect End of July

At the end of July, changes to NYC law regulating third-party delivery fees will take effect. By that time, delivery companies are required to send all restaurants and bars they have an agreement with a notice detailing their service plans and new fee structures (read more about notice and fees).

If you haven’t received this notice, check your spam/junk email folders and contact your delivery providers to confirm they have the correct contact information for you and to request the notice. You’ll want to ensure that you’re paying the correct fee and receiving the associated service package.

The NYC Hospitality Alliance will be monitoring this transition, so if you need support or encounter any issues, please inform us at info@thenycalliance.org.

BELOW IS A SUMMARY OF KEY CHANGES TO THE LAW (read law)

Delivery Fee (No Change)

Still capped at 15% of an order’s value to deliver food and beverage for a restaurant.

Basic Service Fee

While the 5% fee cap is lifted (learn more below), delivery platforms must offer a 5% service tier for core listing and marketing services to restaurants.

Guaranteed Services for the 5% Tier

Visibility: Restaurants must appear in relevant search results; platforms cannot hide businesses that opt for this tier.

Protections and Rights for Restaurants

Must include delivery within a 1-mile radius of the restaurant.
Ad Keyword Protection: Delivery platforms cannot purchase restaurant names online to redirect customers to order through their platforms and take a fee without the restaurant’s written consent.
Marketing Materials: Restaurants can include menus, coupons, or other promotional items in delivery orders—including promotion of their own direct delivery platforms.
Pricing Autonomy: Delivery companies cannot require menu price parity between in-house dining, pick-up orders, and delivery platform orders—unless explicitly agreed upon in a separate written contract.
Transparency: Full itemized monthly transaction reports and clear disclosure of all fees are required.
Credit Card Transaction Fee: Capped at 3%, unless the delivery company can prove higher external processing costs.

Additional Service Fees

Under the new law, delivery companies can now charge an optional fee above the 5% fee cap.

These fees are optional for restaurants.
Capped at 20% of an order’s value
These higher fees are for premium add-ons like featured placements, custom ads, optimized search, and more marketing.

Limits on Total Charges

Delivery companies cannot charge restaurants more than:

15% for delivery services
5% for basic listing/search services
3% for credit card processing fee
20% for optional enhanced features

If a monthly average exceeds these caps, the excess must be refunded within 30 days.

NYC Department of Social Services Network and Phone Outage – Service Impact Update

Please be advised that as of 8:00 AM on July 22, 2025, network and phone services are currently unavailable at multiple HRA locations. This outage has impacted several systems, and we are actively working to restore full functionality to ensure continued delivery of services.

ITS teams are coordinating recovery efforts and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

All client-facing HRA offices, including SNAP and Benefits Access Centers, Medicaid, Child Support, HASA, Fair Fares, IDNYC, Burial Services, and HEAP, remain open and are serving clients. Manual issuance of emergency SNAP and Cash Assistance may be available where necessary.

Please note that ACCESS HRA, as well as the OneNumber and On-Demand phone lines, remain operational.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership, and for all that you do every day to help New Yorkers in need.

Help Improve Community Health in Brooklyn – Please Share this Survey

Downstate Health Sciences University, along with other Brooklyn Hospitals, is conducting a community health needs assessment (CHNA) to better serve the population. This survey will help us understand what you and your families who reside in Brooklyn think are the most important health issues and what matters to us most.

What Is the Survey About?

Hospitals conduct CHNAs to receive input from the community and improve health outcomes for all. Brooklyn Community members, 18 and up, are invited to participate in this anonymous, 10-minute survey.

What: Community Health Survey
When: May 30 to July 31
Who: Anyone you know who lives in Brooklyn
How: Click this link: www.gnyhasurveys.org/CHNA

Take Action: Business Climate Survey

Please complete this brief, two-minute survey so the NYC Hospitality Alliance can understand your current business outlook and your feelings so far this year, which will inform our advocacy and support for our industry.

If you operate multiple restaurants, bars, and/or nightclubs in NYC that have different answers to the survey questions, kindly complete a separate survey for those establishments.

All submissions will be kept confidential and may be reported publicly in the aggregate to inform our advocacy and business insights.

Take the Survey

SAVE THE DATE: 4TH ANNUAL CITY OF FOREST DAY!

City of Forest Day is a citywide day of events to raise awareness of the importance of the NYC urban forest and the essential role New Yorkers play in caring for the "lungs" of our city.

When: Saturday, October 4th, 2025 (all day long)

Location: Free events located throughout all five boroughs! Click here to view events as they become available.

Are you interested in hosting or participating in an event? Please click the button below to access our interest form.

Please Click to Learn More!

Free Virtual Hypertension Workshop Series

Due to circumstances beyond our control we must change the start date of our CDSMP classes. The new 6 weeks CDSMP series start Tuesday, August 12, 2025. Please see more details below, we do apologies for nay inconvenience this may cause.

__________________________________________________

Living with High Blood Pressure and Heart Disease can be a daily challenge. But it doesn’t have to be.

For those diagnosed with hypertension or are at risk, in collaboration with Interfaith Medical Center, we bring you, Free Virtual Hypertension workshop. The 6 weeks series start Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 5:30pm –7:00pm.

Attend a Virtual 6-week workshop for 1 and a half hours each week to learn about:

Managing your symptoms and Medications
Relaxing to deal with pain and fatigue
Creating an exercise program that works for you
Healthy eating to improve your condition

2025 Community Needs Assessment

The Department of Youth and Community Development is conducting a citywide Community Needs Assessment (CNA) to collect feedback from New Yorkers to set program priorities and direct resources where they are needed most. We want to help ensure local services reflect real community needs; completing the survey affords residents a chance to shape the future of their neighborhoods. We’d like to enlist your help. Please share the CNA with every New Yorker you know—family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues.

Every voice matters. Any New Yorker age 14 and older can take the survey. Take the survey today: https://arcg.is/10zazj3

Thank you for being a vital part of this process.

Evergreen's Business Engagement Survey 2025

We are writing to ask you to respond to our annual Business Engagement Survey and to offer any assistance your business may need.

Every summer, Evergreen conducts a survey of the businesses in the Industrial Business Zones and beyond. The responses you provide help us better understand the changing needs of our industrial business community and assist us in providing services to help industrial businesses operate, grow, and expand in North Brooklyn. The data is also essential for us to quantify the impact our businesses have on the local economy and the role our services play in shaping that impact. With such information, our advocacy on behalf of the industrial community only becomes sharper and more effective. Your information will not be shared publicly.

Founded in 1982, Evergreen is a local development corporation that works to help businesses grow to retain, and create high-quality working-class jobs in our community. We can help you in a variety of ways, from obtaining financing to finding real estate and from navigating local government agencies to our educational offerings. All of our services are FREE. You can learn more about our organization and our services on our website.

Ways you can complete the survey:

Evergreen’s summer interns, Alex and James, will be visiting your business. If you have time, please fill out the survey with them. This gives us an opportunity to listen to additional needs that may not be covered in the survey.
If you do not have time when staff visits or want to proactively set something up, we can schedule an appointment for when it is more convenient for you to fill out the survey, either at your place of business or over the telephone.
If you prefer, you can fill out the survey online.

Please complete the survey with as much detail as possible. It should take no more than 20 minutes to complete.

We will enter the respondent of each completed survey into a raffle that will be drawn at the end of the summer. The prize will be a $200 gift card to Barano. Alex Jacobson and James Banks will be making a survey report and present it at an interactive Briefing and Brews event to be scheduled in late August.

If you have any questions, please contact Karen Nieves.

U.S. Internal Revenue Service Announcement

A new tax deduction for seniors is in effect starting this year. This means eligible taxpayers 65 and older may claim an additional deduction of $6,000 over the current additional standard deduction for seniors. See: https://ow.ly/A71K50Wq966

Heat Advisory & Air Quality Alert – July 16–17

The National Weather Service has issued the following alert:

What: Heat Advisory & Air Quality Health Advisory
Where: New York City
When: 11:00 AM on Wednesday, July 16 through 8:00 PM on Thursday, July 17
Hazards: High temperatures and poor air quality pose serious health risks. Older adults, individuals with chronic health conditions, those without A/C, and people working outdoors are especially vulnerable.

Safety Tips:

Stay in a cool place. If you don’t have air conditioning, visit a library, a friend’s home, or a NYC Cooling Center: Cooling Center Finder
Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities
Limit outdoor time if you have respiratory issues

For more information and safety tips, visit:

NYC Green Fund Grassroots Grant Program Now Open! Deadline is August 22nd

NYC Green Fund Grassroots Grantee Highlight

Bring Your Local Park or Open Space to Life!

With support from the NYC Green Fund Grassroots grant, More Gardens! Fund transformed Open Streets Sundays on the Lower East Side into Sprouting Justice—an oasis of art, environmental education, and community engagement that connected hundreds of residents to nature and each other.

“We created a space for learning, creativity, and empowerment, helping neighbors of all ages shape a greener, more just community,” said project manager Saige Flickinger.

Now it’s your turn! The NYC Green Fund Grassroots grant is open for applications, offering up to $40,000 per year, with two-year funding available for returning grantees.

The application deadline is August 22, 2025 at 11:59pm.

LEARN MORE/APPLY

Application & Info Sessions

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to Host Virtual Public Information Sessions for the New York-New Jersey Harbor and Tributaries Study (NYNJHAT Study)

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) New York District will host a series of virtual public information sessions to provide an update on the New York-New Jersey Harbor and Tributaries coastal storm risk management feasibility study (NYNJHAT Study). These sessions will precede the public release of the Draft Integrated Interim Response Feasibility Report and Environmental Assessment (Draft Report), which identifies proposed Actionable Elements for near-term coastal storm risk management projects. The Draft Report will be released for public review on July 24, 2025. The public information sessions will offer an overview of the Draft Report and proposed Actionable Elements, along with information on how the public can actively participate and provide input during the Draft Report's public comment period that will start on July 24, 2025, and end on August 25, 2025.

Two identical virtual public information sessions will be held:

DATE: Wednesday, July 23, 2025

TIME: 2:00 – 4:00 pm and 6:00 – 8:00 pm (same information at each session)

VIRTUAL ROOM: Join Here

A recorded version of the presentation will be made available shortly after the live sessions on the study website at http://www.nan.usace.army.mil/NYNJHATS

The USACE New York District will host additional public meetings this summer. Information regarding future public meetings and engagement opportunities will be posted on the study website and shared via the study email listserv.

The NYNJHAT Study is being conducted by the USACE New York District in partnership with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), New York State Department of State (NYSDOS), and New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP). The USACE New York District appreciates your continued interest and look forward to your participation as all stakeholders work together to enhance coastal resiliency for the New York & New Jersey Harbor and Tributaries region. Visit the study website here: http://www.nan.usace.army.mil/NYNJHATS

NEW LOCATION - DEP Brooklyn Customer Service Office

DEP's Bureau of Customer Service is moving our Borough Office location in Brooklyn over the coming weeks and there will be a period of closure while the new space is set up to receive customers. The office at 250 Livingston Street will have its last day of customer walk-in service on Wednesday July 9^th , and the new office located at 345 Adams Street, 9^th Floor will open its doors and accept customer walk-in service beginning Monday July 21^st.

For all services from July 10th - July 18th, customers may visit one of our other Borough Office locations:

Queens 59-17 Junction Blvd 9th floor* 718-595-3258

Bronx 1932 Arthur Avenue, 6^th floor 718-466-8481

Manhattan 55 West 125^th Street, 9^th floor 212-643-2201

Staten Island 60 Bay Street, 6^th Floor 788-876-6802

* = An appointment is needed to be seen at the Queens Office. Customers can call the number listed to schedule.

Furthermore, customers needing assistance with Permits can also utilize the Queens Permits Email Box as needed. Queenspermits@dep.nyc.gov

DEP’s website has been updated with this information and 311 has been notified. A sign will be posted at 250 Livingston Street notifying customers of the closure and alternative options listed above.

Relocation of DSS-HRA's Office of Child Support Services (OCSS) Brooklyn Borough Office

We're writing to advise you of the relocation of DSS-HRA’s Office of Child Support Services (OCSS) Brooklyn Borough Office. Please see details of the change below:

Current Location (closes Friday, August 1, 2025):

6th Floor at One Metrotech Center,

Brooklyn, NY 11202

New Location (opens Monday, August 4, 2025):

4th Floor at 2400 Fulton Street,

Brooklyn, NY 11233

Days and Hours of Operations:

Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

The following HRA programs have already relocated to 2400 Fulton Street:

Accountability Office (AO)/Investigation Revenue & Enforcement Administration’s (IREA) Bureau of Eligibility verification (BEF) and Bureau of Fraud Investigation (BFI)
Family Services Call Center-Brooklyn Satellite
East New York Medicaid Office
SNAP East New York Office
Fair Fares Application Center

Program Services Background:

The Office of Child Support Services (OCSS) puts children first by helping both parents provide for the economic and social well-being, health, and stability of their children. OCSS serves parents and guardians, regardless of income and immigration status. The program helps tens of thousands of children every year by bringing more income into the home. OCSS collects more than $650 million a year on their behalf. Services include assistance with locating noncustodial parents, establishing parentage, establishing child support and medical support orders, collecting and distributing child support payments, and modifying and enforcing child support orders. Employment services and debt reduction programs are also available to noncustodial parents with a child support order. Custodial parents receiving Cash Assistance are required to comply with OCSS pursuant to federal and New York State statutes. All other custodial parents may apply for OCSS services on a voluntary basis.

The OCSS Brooklyn Borough Office services residents of the Borough of Brooklyn. This office serves cash assistance applicants/recipients who are required to comply with child support.

Urban Forest Plan Questionnaire Deadline Extended!

Want to help shape the future of our urban forest? The deadline to fill out NYC’s Urban Forest Plan questionnaire has been extended to Monday, July 7, 2025! NYC is developing its first Urban Forest Plan to increase our tree canopy, especially in neighborhoods that need it the most. To ensure the plan reflects the needs of our city, we need YOUR input.

Fill out this brief questionnaire (available in عربي, বাংলা, 简体中文, 繁體中文, Kreyòl ayisyen, 한국인, Polski, Русский, Español) and share your input now at inform.urbanforestplan.nyc.

Your Voice Matters: Evergreen’s 2025 Business Engagement Survey

Ways you can complete the survey:

Evergreen’s summer interns, Alex and James, will be visiting your business. If you have time, please fill out the survey with them. This gives us an opportunity to listen to additional needs that may not be covered in the survey.
If you do not have time when staff visits or want to proactively set something up, we can schedule an appointment for when it is more convenient for you to fill out the survey, either at your place of business or over the telephone.
If you prefer, you can fill out the survey online.

Please complete the survey with as much detail as possible. It should take no more than 20 minutes to complete.

We will enter the respondent of each completed survey into a raffle that will be drawn at the end of the summer. The prize will be a $200 gift card to Barano. Alex Jacobson and James Banks will be making a survey report and present it at an interactive Briefing and Brews event to be scheduled in late August.

If you have any questions, please contact Karen Nieves.

June 2025

Reminder: Free Courses to Help Launch or Grow Your Business in July 2025

Everything You Need To Know To Plan, Launch, and Operate a Successful NYC Restaurant

Free, in-depth business management education delivered by experienced industry professionals for aspiring restaurateurs and early-stage food & beverage operators.

Level 1 (Virtual)

How to Plan and Finance
Your Business

Level 2 (Virtual)

How to Launch and Operate Your Business

Level 3 (In Person)

Create an Effective Business Plan

Upon completing the 3-course series, you'll receive free 1:1 assistance to help you create a tailored business plan for your restaurant concept.

Unlock Free Advertising Secrets: Boost Your Business Today

Learn more about LinkLocal, a program that provides free advertisements for small businesses, community groups, and local events.

LinkLocal provides pre-designed advertising templates that can be featured on up to 8 selected LinkNYC kiosks.

Essential Plan Cooling Program

Governor Hochul announced a new cooling program that provides free air conditioners to eligible New Yorkers who are enrolled in the State’s Essential Plan and live with persistent asthma. This initiative helps people with persistent asthma manage their increased risk of health issues linked to rising temperatures. It aims to prevent asthma-related emergency visits and hospital stays, which will lower health care costs.

To qualify, you must submit an application for the Essential Plan Cooling Program and meet the following eligibility requirements:

Be enrolled in NY State of Health’s Essential Plan
Have persistent asthma
Meaning you experience asthma symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing attacks, chest tightness, or chest pain much of the time or need a daily medication for asthma to control your symptoms
Have not received a cooling unit in the past five years through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Cooling Assistance Component.
Request installation at the permanent residential address on file with NY State of Health
Agree to program terms and conditions

Applications should only take 5-10 minutes to complete and are processed on a first come, first served basis until August 31 while funding lasts. Applicants get an update on if their application was approved within two to three weeks.

To learn more about the program, click here.

June 27th is the last day to say NO to new rent increases! / ¡Último día para decir NO a nuevos aumentos de alquiler!

BUSHWICK!

Today is the last day to tell the Rent Guidelines Board (RGB) that you don't want a rent increase. Call before 5PM and leave your voicemail directly to the board: (929) 256-5472 against increases.

Hoy es el último día para comunicarle a la Junta de Normas de Alquiler (RGB) que no desea un aumento de alquiler. Llame antes de las 5 p. m. y deje su mensaje de voz directamente a la junta: (929) 256-5472 contra los aumentos.

It's My Park will Pause for the Summer

As we look ahead into the summer season, we want to share an important update. Because we have seen significant changes in weather patterns in recent years, with much more intense rain and heat, forcing a great percentage of projects to be cancelled at the last minute and creating scheduling and resource challenges, we will be pausing It’s My Park activity for July and August. You can still host volunteer activities in coordination with local park managers, contact Partnerships for Parks at partnershipsforparks@parks.nyc.gov if you need more information.

This pause doesn’t mean we’ll be slowing down! This summer, we’ll be focused on:

Connecting with partners
Helping park partners apply for grant opportunities
Visiting community events
Hosting skill-building workshops
Preparing for a robust fall season

The It’s My Park application will reopen on July 15 for September projects. You can direct people to our site www.PartnershipsforParks.org for updates and more information about the many resources we offer.

Thank you for everything that you do to care for one of our city’s most precious resources. We look forward to seeing you soon!

UPCOMING HEAT WAVE AND PREPAREDNESS TIPS

The City is expecting a stretch of extreme heat as we approach the weekend. Beginning Thursday, June 19, temperatures are forecasted to reach the 90s. After a brief reprieve on Friday, June 20, the heat will return, with temperatures remaining above 90 degrees from Saturday through Tuesday.

NYCEM wants to make sure New York stays ahead of the heat with preparedness tips that can keep you and those around you safe. We hope you find these tips helpful and encourage you to share this information with your family, friends, and community members.

Know how and where to cool off.

Make a Plan

Find your Cool Option if it gets hot. If you have air conditioning, use it! If you don't, identify other places where you can find relief from the heat.
Keep an eye on older adults, children and those that are sick or overweight as they are at greater risk from extreme heat.
Stay in the shade or indoors during extreme heat.
Stay hydrated throughout the day.
Avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors, during midday heat, if possible.
Consider pet safety. If they are outside, make sure they have plenty of cool water and access to comfortable shade. Asphalt and dark pavement can be very hot to your pet’s feet.

Gather Supplies

Set aside at least one gallon of drinking water per person per day.
Consider adding drinks with electrolytes. Include sunscreen (at least SPF 15) and wide-brimmed hats.
Light, loose clothing.
Emergency meal preparation supplies in case of a power outage, such as disposable plates, cups, and utensils.

Stay Informed

Get Alerts from Notify NYC by texting NOTIFYNYC to 692-692 or call 311.

Click here for more information!

2024-2025 HEAP Cooling Assistance Component Closing Monday, June 23 at 5:00pm

New York State has announced the 2024-2025 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Cooling Assistance Component benefit is closing on Monday, June 23, 2025, at 5:00pm. All applications submitted online via ACCESS HRA, or postmarked and received on or before the deadline will be processed. Households are encouraged to submit an application prior to Monday's deadline.

To help New Yorkers find relief from the heat, New York City cooling centers will be open throughout the five boroughs during heat emergencies. To find a cooling center, including accessible facilities closest to you, call 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115) or visit the City's Cool Options Map which include free spaces that offer air-conditioned spaces to escape the heat.

ACTION REQUIRED - Extreme Heat and Open Fire Hydrants - Report to 311

During this heat wave, NYC Environmental Protection is asking for your help in reporting any open fire hydrants to 311. Open fire hydrants can use more than 1,000 gallons of water per minute, reduce water pressure to nearby buildings like hospitals, and make it harder to fight fires.

New Yorkers can ask their local fire house to install a spray cap on a nearby hydrant. To request a spray cap you must be 18 or older and have a valid ID.

For more information on extreme heat tips, click here.

Register for our NYC Public School Budget Workshop today!

Join IBO for a NYC School Budget Workshop. This interactive workshop is designed to help you better understand how NYC public schools are funded. We'll walk you through:

How to read your own school’s “Budget at a Glance” and "Galaxy Allocation" page
What a “School Allocation Memorandum (SAM)” is
Where school funding comes from and what different funds can be used for

In the second half of the session, you’ll have the opportunity to join a breakout room for hands-on support and to ask questions about your school or district’s budget.

WHEN

WHERE

Online ONLY via ZOOM. Register to attend.

Attendance is capped at 100 participants per session, so register today to claim your spot!

Notification - DEP Work near Evergreen Avenue & Myrtle Avenue

The Department of Environmental Protection's engineering team is scheduled to activate the water pressure regulator at Evergreen Avenue and Myrtle Avenue in Brooklyn on June 17th. There is a possibility of discolored water in the vicinity of Evergreen Avenue and Myrtle Avenue from this operation. Precautions will be taken, and hydrants will be flushed to minimize any discolored water effect.

Juneteenth Office Closures

In observance of Juneteenth, all HRA locations will be closed Thursday, June 19, 2025. This includes all SNAP and Benefit Access Centers as well as Medicaid, Child Support, and CASA offices. HRA locations will resume regular operating hours on Friday, June 20, 2025.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership, and for all that you do every day to help New Yorkers in need.

Neighborhood BBQ – Saturday, June 28th at Good Life Garden (Noon–8 PM, Rain or Shine!)

You’re invited to a Neighborhood BBQ on Saturday, June 28th, 2025 at the Good Life Garden on Goodwin Place – rain or shine!

Let’s come together for a relaxed day of food, fun, and community. The more the merrier so please feel free to spread the word to others on the block, it’s a great chance to connect with neighbors and enjoy the summer.

Details:
📅 Date: Saturday, June 28, 2025
🕛 Time: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Good Life Garden, Goodwin Pl
🍴 What to bring:
– Your own food and drinks
– A grill if you have one and are willing to share
– Lawn chairs or picnic blankets for comfort
– Games or outdoor activities (corn hole, frisbee, cards, etc.)

We’ll be there rain or shine, so come prepared for the weather and ready to have fun!

👉 Please RSVP by Wednesday, June 25th by replying to goodwinpl-bk@proton.me so we can get a rough headcount.

DSNY Service News: No Trash, Curbside Compost or Recycling Collection on Juneteenth, Thursday June 19, 2025

The New York City Department of Sanitation announced that there would be no trash, curbside compost or recycling collection on Juneteenth, Thursday, June 19, 2025.

Residents who normally receive Thursday trash or curbside compost collection should place their material at the curb Thursday evening for collection beginning Friday, June 20.

Residents who normally receive Thursday recycling collection should hold their paper, metal, glass, plastic and carton recycling for a week, and place their material at the curb Wednesday, June 25 for collection Thursday, June 26.

NOTE: All residents should understand collection delays may occur after a holiday. We appreciate patience as we work to collect the backlog of material.

For questions about Sanitation services and holiday schedules contact 311 or visit nyc.gov/sanitation.

About the New York City Department of Sanitation

Please fill out the questionnaire! NYC URBAN FOREST PLAN 2025!

Along with our Forest for All NYC partners, Trees New York shares a vision of a healthy urban forest that benefits all New Yorkers!

We are excited to announce that the city is creating the first ever city-wide urban forestry plan, which will focus on best practices in maintaining and expanding the tree canopy and community engagement.

Share your ideas on the future of trees in NYC by filling out the questionnaire! Your feedback is critical to the success of this plan. Please click here for the questionnaire and then click next at the bottom of the page to complete it by June 30, 2025. Learn more: https://www.urbanforestplan.nyc

Trees New York’s mission is to plant, preserve, and protect New York City’s urban forest through education and community participation.

City Planning Announces New and Improved Tools to Speed Up Pre-Development Process

For Immediate Release: June 2, 2025
Contacts: Joe Marvilli – press@planning.nyc.gov (212) 720-3471

City Planning Announces New and Improved Tools to Speed Up Pre-Development Process

Improved Zoning Application Portal and New CEQR Webtool Will Ease Application, Environmental Review for New Projects

Improvements Deliver on “Get Stuff Built,” Mayor Adams’ Plan to Get Homes Constructed Faster

NEW YORK – Department of City Planning (DCP) Director Dan Garodnick today announced key process improvements to speed up the pre-development land use application and environmental review process. An improved Zoning Application Portal (ZAP) system now allows applicants to self-initiate projects online, while a brand new City Environmental Quality Review (CEQR) Data Hub makes it easier to move projects through environmental review. Together, these improvements will make it easier to move housing proposals forward to the public review process, and ultimately, help new homes get built more quickly.

CEQR Data Hub

In New York City, most discretionary land use actions – such as zoning changes to allow new apartment buildings – must go through the CEQR process, per state and city law and practice. This requirement can take several years to complete before formal public review even begins. Until now, initiating CEQR required manually collecting up to 180 data sets from a patchwork of city, state, and federal sources, and confirm that each one was up to date. The CEQR Data Hub significantly streamlines this process by centralizing data sets in one place and providing clear instructions on how to use them.

The CEQR Data Hub also streamlines communication by offering a workbook to easily calculate population data that previously had to be requested from DCP staff. As such, the Data Hub marks a significant step forward in the Adams Administration’s “Get Stuff Built” initiative to cut red tape and increase housing construction.

Zoning Application Portal

The newly enhanced Zoning Application Portal (ZAP) enables land use applicants to initiate their own projects, rather than having to contact the appropriate DCP borough office through email. The new system reduces the need for time-intensive correspondence, reduces the margin for human error, and makes it easier to accurately track and manage applications as they advance forward.

Streamlined Rules to Build Homes Faster

These process improvements deliver on goals established in the Buildings and Land Use Approval Streamlining Taskforce (BLAST)’s “Get Stuff Built” report, and are the latest in a series of reforms to streamline rules and build housing faster. Green Fast Track is helping achieve the city’s housing and climate goals by making it easier for modest, climate-friendly housing projects to proceed through environmental review. The Office Conversion Accelerator is an interagency effort to guide buildings that wish to convert through city bureaucracy that now has assisted over 85 buildings. City of Yes for Housing Opportunity represents the most pro-housing zoning update in New York City’s history, and significantly streamlined zoning rules to encourage housing growth across the city. Indeed, the changes it introduced have resulted in a Zoning Resolution that is now ~470 pages shorter, and easier to understand.

Department of City Planning

The Department of City Planning (DCP) plans for the future of New York City, working to create thriving and dynamic neighborhoods with access to housing and jobs, resilient infrastructure, and a vibrant public realm. The Department engages communities to develop inclusive plans and studies, expands housing access and economic opportunity, and plans for long-term sustainability.

DCP supports the City Planning Commission in its annual review of approximately 450 land use applications for a variety of discretionary approvals. The Department also assists government agencies and the public by advising on strategic and capital planning and providing policy analysis, technical assistance, and data.

Save the Date: Small Business Financing Panel & Networking!

Mark your calendar for our upcoming Free IN-PERSON Small Business Financing Panel & Networking Event, hosted by the Pace University Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) New York District Office.

Event Details:

Date: June 9th, 2025, from 9:00 AM-1:00 PM

Location: Pace University, One Pace Plaza – Student Center.

This free event will bring together a wide range of banks and community-based/alternative lenders. Attendees will hear directly from lenders about their financing programs and have the opportunity to connect with them individually during the networking session.

Friends of Irving Square Park Free Yoga And Volunteer Gardening

Summer is finally here (at least in spirit, it’s June now!) and we’ve got two fantastic reasons for everyone to come out and enjoy Irving Square Park.

First, our monthly gardening/cleanup/touch grass session returns this Saturday the 7th from 10a - 12p. We’ve had really beautiful weather for the gardens this past month, and everything has been growing nonstop! We’ll be touching up the rose gardens, doing trash pickup, and sweeping paths. We won’t even be mad if you show up just to admire the flowers, it’s just too beautiful out there of late!

Then on Sunday, our first Summer Stretch! event is happening! For those who don’t know, Summer Stretch! is our yoga and fitness series that brings your favorite local studios to the park for free sessions throughout the summer. This month we’ve got sessions hosted by Soul Work Studio, which is just a few blocks away near Saratoga park. Soul Work will be leading 4 30-minute sessions from 10a - 12p, and you can drop in whenever you like. Attendees will also receive a coupon/discount for a future class at Soul Work! Bring your own yoga mat! Support for these events is provided by City Parks Foundation and Partnership for Parks through the NYC Green Fund.

After yoga, make sure to stop by the RiseBoro Farmer’s Market for some amazing produce and baked goods. We’ve been in love with the foccacia from Zeena Bakery and the vegan cinnamon raisin bites from Offbeat Bakery.

As always, see you at the park!

May 2025

The National GrowTogether Conference is June 5th to 8th! Register Now!

In two weeks, join us for the 2025 National GrowTogether Conference: Planting Seeds of Resilience! This inspiring four-day gathering of community gardeners and leaders nationwide will celebrate the resilience of our communities and cultivate a greener, healthier, and more connected future!

The conference is presented by NYC Parks GreenThumb in partnership with the American Community Gardening Association, Urban Garden Project, and with support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Plan your days in advance!

Access all conference information in the Conference Guide and the Whova app

Claim your free tickets before they are gone!

Register in advance here.

If you would like to pre-order a lunch in advance for Friday, June 6th and/or Saturday, June 7th, lunch tickets must be purchased by Wednesday, May 28th when registering for the National GrowTogether Conference on Eventbrite. Please note, lunch tickets will not be available to purchase after the deadline or onsite.

Sunday Guided Tours Now Open!

Learn more about the tours being offered throughout the day on Sunday, June 8th and register for free at the links below or on our website.

Service Alert: No Trash, Curbside Composting or Recycling Collection on Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, 2025

The New York City Department of Sanitation announced that in observance of Memorial Day, Monday May 26, 2025, there will be NO trash, curbside composting nor recycling collection on the holiday.

Residents who normally receive Monday trash, curbside composting, or recycling collection may place their material at the curb Monday evening, for collection beginning Tuesday, May 27.

NOTE: All residents should understand collection delays may occur after a holiday. We appreciate patience as we work to collect the backlog of material.

For questions about Sanitation services and holiday schedules contact 311 or visit nyc.gov/sanitation.

About the New York City Department of Sanitation

MTA Board and Its Committees to Meet Wednesday, May 28

Livestream Available

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Board and the Board’s committees will meet on Wednesday, May 28. Beginning at 8:30 a.m., the Board’s Audit and Corporate Governance Committees will convene, followed by a meeting of the Capital Program Committee. Then, a joint meeting of Long Island Rail Road, Metro-North Railroad, New York City Transit, and Bridges & Tunnels Committees will convene. Finally, there will be a joint meeting of the Finance Committee and the MTA Board at approximately 12:00 p.m.

MTA Board and Committee meetings will provide an opportunity for the public to comment on Authority business from either the MTA’s 2 Broadway headquarters or a remote location. Speakers will be allotted up to two minutes each and need to register, either online or in person, at 2 Broadway. There will be 30 minutes of public comment at each committee meeting and 60 minutes at the Board meeting. Any additional speakers who cannot be accommodated within the scheduled time will have the opportunity to provide video comments that will be sent to members of the board and posted online. Remarks must be related to action items or subjects identified in the meeting work plan or materials for that meeting.

Members of the public who attend committee and board meetings are required to adhere to the MTA’s Code of Conduct.

For details on meeting schedules and procedures for public participation, to watch meeting livestreams and access meeting materials, the public is encouraged to visit MTA Board Meeting, May 2025.

Summer housing questions? You bring the lemonade, we’ve got your NYC Housing Answers.

Summer housing questions? Stay cool at home. Join our Housing Information Classes over Zoom. Presented by the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) in partnership with NYC Public Schools’ Parent University.

All classes are free and taught over Zoom.

Live interpretation in Spanish, Chinese, and Bangla available for classes in bold below!

Learn from experts about housing resources you can access for free. From pest removal to responding to violations to navigating Housing Court. Our classes are taught by the housing experts that renters and homeowners need to work with.

We’re ready to help everyone with three sets of classes:

Dates in bold will have interpretation into Spanish, Mandarin, and Bangla.

General NYC Housing Classes:

5/20/2025, Tue, 6pm, NYC Housing Connect: The Affordable Housing Lottery – REGISTER HERE
5/21/2025, Wed, 12pm, Housing Court: What to Expect – REGISTER HERE
5/28/2025, Wed, 6pm, Financial Empowerment to Access Housing – REGISTER HERE
5/29/2025, Thu, 12pm, Pests: Eliminate Rodents, Bedbugs, and Roaches using Integrated Pest Management – REGISTER HERE
6/3/2025, Tue, 6pm, Housing Court: What to Expect – REGISTER HERE
6/5/2025, Thu, 12pm, NYC Housing Connect: The Affordable Housing Lottery – REGISTER HERE
6/10/2025, Tue, 12pm, Financial Empowerment to Access Housing – REGISTER HERE
6/12/2025, Thu, 6pm, Pests: Eliminate Rodents, Bedbugs, and Roaches using Integrated Pest Management – REGISTER HERE

Classes for Tenants:

6/16/2025, Mon, 6pm, Tenants: Know Your Rights – Market Rate Apartments and Good Cause Protections – REGISTER HERE
6/17/2025, Tue, 12pm, Rental Housing Discrimination and Harassment – REGISTER HERE
6/24/2025, Tue, 6pm, Rent Stabilized & Rent Control Tenants: Know Your Rights – REGISTER HERE
6/26/2025, Thu, 12pm, Tenants: Know Your Rights – Market Rate Apartments and Good Cause Protections – REGISTER HERE
7/1/2025, Tue, 6pm, Rental Housing Discrimination and Harassment – REGISTER HERE
7/2/2025, Wed, 12pm, Rent Stabilized & Rent Control Tenants: Know Your Rights – REGISTER HERE

Homeowner Classes:

7/8/2025, Tue, 6pm, Owning a Home in NYC – REGISTER HERE
7/9/2025, Wed, 12pm, Department of Buildings: Rules, Permits, Summons, and More – REGISTER HERE
7/16/2025, Wed, 12pm, Lead-Based Paint Basics for Homeowners – REGISTER HERE
7/17/2025, Thu, 6pm, Energy Efficiency and Solar Power for Homeowners – REGISTER HERE
7/22/2025, Tue, 12pm, Avoiding Deed Theft: A Homeowners’ Guide – REGISTER HERE
7/24/2025, Thu, 6pm, Department of Buildings: Rules, Permits, Summons, and More – REGISTER HERE
7/29/2025, Tue, 12pm, Owning a Home in NYC – REGISTER HERE
7/30/2025, Wed, 6pm, Avoiding Deed Theft: A Homeowners’ Guide – REGISTER HERE

Getting FREE Compost in New York City is Now Four-Times as Easy

NYC Sanitation Opens 4th Seasonal Compost Giveback Site; New Eastern Queens Site Joins Sites in Western Queens, Brooklyn and on Staten Island

The New York City Department of Sanitation is pleased to host a fourth seasonal compost giveback site for residents looking to add the “black gold” to their gardens. This site joins three other sites open seasonally, as well as a number of “pop-up” events throughout the coming months, and will allow even more residents an easy opportunity to receive finished compost – made from their previously collected food scraps, food-soiled paper and yard waste.

The new site, on Hillside Avenue, will be open every Saturday from May 17 through September 27. To get their free bags of finished compost, residents must register for a specific date at nyc.gov/GetCompost; dates are open for registration two weeks before each giveback event.

“It’s an easy equation. More food scraps and yard waste equals more free compost for residents,” said Acting Sanitation Commissioner Javier Lojan. “City residents are really getting behind the curbside compost program by separating out and locking up the ‘rat-food’ in their compost bins, and doing so in record numbers. We collect the material and turn it in to something useful that we can give back to residents. It’s a win-win situation for all.”

DSNY expanded Curbside Composting to all five boroughs last October, making it the largest – and easiest – curbside composting program in the nation. Rather than shipping this material hundreds of miles away to break down in landfills and emit methane, the Department of Sanitation is putting it to beneficial use for New York City, creating either finished compost for parks and gardens or renewable energy that heats homes and businesses while reducing the need for fracked gas.

DSNY also operates Wednesday evening and Saturday morning giveback sites in Astoria, Greenpoint and Fresh Kills, as well as community pop-up events throughout the five boroughs. In addition, the Department gives free compost and mulch to NYC agencies and nonprofits for their programs, construction, or landscaping projects. Commercial landscapers and other businesses can purchase compost in bulk.

These bags of finished compost – certified by the US Composting Council Seal of Testing Assurance program – are made from food and yard waste at DSNY's Staten Island Compost Facility. The recently expanded facility has produced about 42 million pounds of finished compost per year over the last several years. After a 2024 expansion, it can now process about 170 million pounds of incoming material per year.

Save the Date: Small Business Financing Panel & Networking!

Mark your calendar for our upcoming IN-PERSON Small Business Financing Panel & Networking Event, hosted by the Pace University Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) New York District Office.

Event Details:

Date: June 9th, 2025, from 9:00 AM-1:00 PM

Location: Pace University, One Pace Plaza – Student Center.

This free event will bring together a wide range of banks and community-based/alternative lenders.

Attendees will hear directly from lenders about their financing programs and have the opportunity to connect with them individually during the networking session.

Check the flyer below with additional details, including a QR code to register for the event. Stay tuned and get ready to secure your spot! Contact us at sbdc@pace.edu if you have any questions. We look forward to seeing you there!

Join us for the launch of The People's Money!

You pick, we pay — and it all starts May 14! Join the Civic Engagement Commission by participating in our citywide budgeting program where you can decide how to spend part of the city's budget. You can vote digitally at on.nyc.gov/pb or find an in-person voting location at on.nyc.gov/pbvotesites

This is your chance to have your voice heard and spend part of the city's budget on projects that matter to your community

Any New York resident, ages 11 and up, can participate regardless of their immigration status!

URGENT Lien Sale Deadline Approaching - May 19, 2025

Please help us get the word out to help NYC property owners avoid this spring’s lien sale before May 19th.

If property owners have unpaid property taxes or water/sewer charges, the lien sale allows the City of New York to sell the unpaid charges to a third party to collect on the debt. While the property is not sold, this can be the first step toward foreclosure if not addressed. Property owners at risk of being included in the upcoming lien sale have already received warning notices by mail.

DEP wants to work with property owners, and we offer flexible payment plans. Property owners on the lien sale list can get off the list immediately by making a minimum payment or entering into a payment agreement for as little as 0% down, but property owners must act before May 19th! Customers can look up their minimum payment amount online by visiting nyc.gov/dep/liensale.

Property owners may be eligible for relief programs, including:

Property owners can log onto their My DEP Account to make a payment or get in touch with our customer service specialists by phone at 718-595-7000 or in person at one of our customer service offices:

Bronx: 1932 Arthur Avenue, 6^th Floor
Brooklyn: 250 Livingston Street, 8^th Floor
Manhattan: 55 West 125^th Street, 9^th Floor
Queens: 59-17 Junction Blvd, 9^th Floor
Staten Island: 60 Bay Street, 6^th Floor

We are holding extended hours this week:

Call center hours: Monday-Friday 8am–7pm; Saturday: 9am–12pm
Borough offices hours: Monday-Friday 9am–7pm

Partnerships for Parks Turns 30!

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the largest community engagement program for local parks in NYC, Partnerships for Parks (PfP), a joint program of City Parks Foundation and NYC Parks. Since 1995, we've been bringing New Yorkers together across neighborhoods, backgrounds, and sectors to help our shared, local green spaces thrive.

Today, we work with nearly 500 community groups supporting 400 parks and mobilize over 30,000 volunteers annually. Together, we build long-term investment in public space and strengthen the social fabric of our city’s neighborhoods. Celebrate with us this year by getting involved!

Learn More

Apply Today: Enduring Culture Initiative Open Call for Community Partners

Open Call for Community Partners: Apply by May 18!

Do you or someone you know have a community-engaged preservation project based in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Staten Island, The Bronx, or Queens? The Enduring Culture Initiative is expanding, join us!

MAS seeks Community Partners from across New York City's five boroughs who are leading local cultural preservation efforts to join the next phase of the Enduring Culture Initiative. The ECI Community Partners program runs from July 2025-September 2026.

Seven (7) $10,000 grants are available to support Community Partners’ ongoing work. These grants support the expansion of community engagement, research, and advocacy for underrecognized or at-risk cultural practices and places that anchor neighborhoods and communities across New York City. Learn more & apply >

Questions? Email us at enduringculture@mas.org.

5/28: State of NYC Nightlife Town Hall 2025

Date: Wednesday, May, 28, 2025

Time: 4 – 7 p.m.

Location: Center415, 415 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10016

In celebration of NYC Small Business Month, the NYC Office of Nightlife invites the entire nightlife industry and community — including bar, club, and restaurant owners, performers, DJs, workers, patrons, and residents — to come together to learn about our ongoing work, city programs, and resources.

You will also have the opportunity to connect with representatives from various city agencies including and, most importantly, ask questions, share your comments, concerns, and recommendations to help shape the future of NYC nightlife.

Registration is required to attend.

Register to Attend & Submit Comments

HPD Announces Stay Informed NYC

Tens of thousands of housing complaints come into HPD every week. Stay Informed, NYC will bring housing knowledge directly to New Yorkers— with monthly guidance for tenants and homeowners on the issues that impact apartments across the city.

Press Release: The City's Housing Agency Unveils 'Stay Informed' Public Awareness Campaign | City of New York

The People's Money Voting Begins May 14th!

Starting May 14^th all New Yorkers will be able to help decide how to spend part of the city budget in The People’s Money, NYC’s citywide participatory budgeting (PB) process!

From May 14th through June 24th, New Yorkers ages 11 and up, regardless of immigration status, can decide how to spend $4M of city funds on projects in their community.

Last year, New Yorkers voted to fund 20 projects for a total of $3.5M. The projects address a wide range of community needs, including mental health, food safety, youth programming, skills building, and the arts.

The People’s Money is the only citywide process utilizing mayoral expense funding, meaning we will fund programs and services. This is the only citywide process that allows all New Yorkers to participate, regardless of the council district they live in. To learn more about the process, visit participate.nyc.gov.

How to Vote between May 14 and June 25:

Online Ballot: Voting online is easy. The online ballot is available in English and 13 additional languages. Visit on.nyc.gov/pb starting May 14^th and follow the instructions.

Paper Ballots: Voting in-person is also easy. You can see sites and upcoming events that will host paper ballots at: on.nyc.gov/pbvotesites

How to Spread the Word:

Post Online: Everyone can use the CEC’s digital toolkit to post on social media and email their networks. View here: on.nyc.gov/pbvotetoolkit
For Organizations: Organizations and groups can invite CEC staff to attend their event/meeting/forum to lead a voting activity between May 14th - June 25th, or groups can request paper ballots and a ballot box to organize their own activities. Email us at: participate@civicengagement.nyc.gov
For Individuals: Individuals can volunteer with the CEC to staff flagship events across the five boroughs. Sign up here: on.nyc.gov/cecvolunteer

April 2025

Sign Up for Brooklyn’s Friendliest Contest!

The Greenest Block in Brooklyn competition is for businesses and residents alike.

For the past 29 years, Greenest Block in Brooklyn, organized by Brooklyn Botanic Garden in partnership with the Brooklyn Borough President’s office, has been a highlight of summer in the borough and a wonderful way to connect with your community.

Please consider entering commercial blocks in your district into this free, friendly competition. The winning block will receive a monetary prize, a speaking segment at our press conference, a commemorative plaque, and the pride of being able to call your commercial block the greenest in Brooklyn! Awards are also given out in a Greenest Storefront category.

The joy of building relationships with each other and our environment is something we can all share. We hope you will join us as we bring in another season of Greenest Block.

Entries are due by June 1.

Learn More & Enter

Friends of Irving Square Park Cleanup this weekend Rescheduled for May 3!

Due to weather, the April park clean up is rescheduled for Saturday May 3rd! Come out for:

Planting in the gardens
Reseeding the lawns
Plant Workshop in the pollinator garden

As usual, all tools will be provided. Stay dry this weekend and see you in the park 12-3pm May 3rd!

MTA to Hold Public Open Houses on Interborough Express Project This Spring

IBX Will Provide 900,000 Residents With 14 Miles of New Service

The MTA announced it will host a series of Open Houses on the Interborough Express (IBX) throughout the Spring. The Open Houses will be held on Thursday, April 3, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at South Shore High School in Canarsie, Brooklyn, Tuesday, April 22 at Maimonides Medical Center in Borough Park, Brooklyn from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and in Jackson Heights, Queens on Thursday, May 8 at Renaissance Charter School from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. This continues the MTA’s extensive outreach campaign, adding to the more than 35 project meetings already held with elected officials, stakeholders and the public. The MTA has previously held three virtual and six in-person open house meetings.

Public Open Houses on Interborough Express Project This Spring

MTA to Sunset MetroCard Sales at End of the Year

Tap-And-Go Fare Technology Available Today to All Subway and Bus Customer Groups
Fare-Capping Feature Automatically Provides Riders Best Value
Contactless Payment System Unlocks Potential for Additional Discounts, Promotions and Supports Future Fare Compliance Efforts
MTA to Save at Least $20 Million Annually Transitioning to Tap-and-Go as Sole Payment System
85% of Full Fare Customers and 55% of Reduced-Fare Customers Use Contactless System
View Photos of MTA Chair and CEO Lieber's Announcement at Crain's Power Breakfast

The MTA announced that the final day for MetroCard sales and distribution will be December 31, 2025, as the MTA’s popular contactless tap-and-go payment system fully replaces the three-decade old swipe system. The tap-and-go payment system allows riders to pay fares directly with digital wallets, contactless credit and debit cards, and OMNY cards.

MTA to Sunset MetroCard Sales at End of Year

New York Restoration Project 2025 Free Tree Giveaways End May 4 🌳

Our 2025 tree giveaway season will conclude on Sunday, May 4! Browse our site to find an event near you.

Tree species vary by giveaway event, and this year, we are proud to offer: Allegheny Serviceberry, American Persimmon, American Plum, Bald Cypress, Basswood, Beach Plum, Black Cherry, Chestnut Oak, Common Ninebark, Eastern Redbud, Flowering Dogwood, Hazelnut, Lowbush Blueberry, Nannyberry, Northern Bayberry, Pawpaw, River Birch, Silky Dogwood, Silky Willow, Smooth Alder, Spicebush, Sweetbay Magnolia, Sycamore, Tulip Poplar, Washington Hawthorn, and Witchhazel.

Wolff-Alport Chemical Company Superfund Site Community Poster Session 5/5/25

The EPA will be holding a community poster session on Monday, May 5, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at 1519 Decatur Street Ridgewood, NY 11385. There will be posters with information about the Superfund process, site history, and ongoing cleanup work. Community members will also have the opportunity to chat with the EPA’s site team and ask questions. Spanish interpretation will be available at the session and all materials will have Spanish versions. View and share the flyer with this information in English and Spanish.

The EPA will also be publishing and sharing a community update fact sheet in early May with information about the current cleanup work and will resume sending monthly updates to the site’s mailing list.

Pace Small Business Development Center Verizon Digital Ready Partnership

The Pace University SBDC is proud to have been selected as a program partner for the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready program. Through this initiative led by Verizon, LISC & Next Street, small businesses gain access to free training, valuable resources, and grant funding opportunities. Connect with a Pace SBDC Business Advisor to learn more about this program, and you can enroll here.

HEAP COOLING ASSISTANCE APPLICATION OPENS TODAY, APRIL 15TH

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Cooling Assistance application is now available for eligible households across New York City. This program helps income-eligible New Yorkers purchase and install an air conditioner or fan to stay safe and cool during the hot summer months.

Extreme heat is one of the deadliest weather-related hazards in the U.S. Access to safe, at-home cooling is a critical life-saving tool—especially for individuals with disabilities, access and functional needs and those vulnerable to heat-related health risks.

What is the HEAP Cooling Assistance Benefit?

HEAP’s Cooling Assistance can provide for one air conditioner or fan per eligible household, including installation. Eligibility guidelines can be found at on.nyc.gov/heap2025

How can you help?

As a trusted service provider in your community, your support can make a big difference. Please:

Inform your clients about the Cooling Assistance benefit
Help them gather the required documentation, if needed
Direct them to apply online at on.nyc.gov/heap2025 or visit an HRA Benefits Access Center

The Cooling Assistance program is first come, first served, and funds are limited, so early applications are encouraged. Applications are accepted between April 15 and August 30 (or earlier if funds run out).

For your clients who already have an air conditioner at home:

The cost of electricity is a major reason why people can’t or don’t use their air conditioner when it’s hot outside. Con Edison’s Financial Assistance Program provides a discount on monthly electricity and natural gas bills for qualified households.

Only some eligible households are automatically enrolled. Any households with a member on Medicaid or who receive housing benefits, like Section 8 vouchers, are eligible but must enroll directly at the ConEd website.

To sign up online, clients can visit https://www2.pardot.health.nyc.gov/e/944933/sistance-help-paying-your-bill/p31vy/701108245/h/3sKYEOsy4CLbgZrquowWHaiWGIMDsPLLgUjQfH9cTww

Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping New Yorkers safe.

Free Virtual Hypertension Workshop Series REMINDER (April 15th)

Come join us Tonight!

Living with High Blood Pressure and Heart Disease can be a daily challenge. But it doesn’t have to be.

For those diagnosed with hypertension or are at risk, in collaboration with Interfaith Medical Center, we bring you, Free Virtual Hypertension workshop. Join us Tonight again from 5:30PM-7:00PM.
Attend a Virtual 6-week workshop for 1 and a half hours each week to learn about:

Managing your symptoms and Medications
Relaxing to deal with pain and fatigue
Creating an exercise program that works for you
Healthy eating to improve your condition

This program is proven to help better manage your symptoms.

Free Blood Pressure Monitor for participants enrolled as Central Brooklyn Heart Healthy Ambassador members.

Join using the link below:

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85472408943?pwd=3E555YsbLeZQDv6evu43bCQYHg6jWL.1

Meeting ID: 854 7240 8943
Passcode: 110972

---

One tap mobile
+19292056099,,85472408943#,,,,*110972# US (New York)
+16469313860,,85472408943#,,,,*110972# US

---

Dial by your location
• +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

Meeting ID: 854 7240 8943
Passcode: 110972

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kgwyz86NV

Consumer Bill of Rights regarding Immigration Service Providers

We wanted to share with you the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection’s (DCWP) DCWP’s Bill of Rights regarding Immigration Service Providers. This important resource outlines protections and guidance for individuals seeking immigration assistance.

We encourage you to share this important information within your communities to help ensure everyone is informed of their rights.

Baruch STEP Academy - Summer Recruitment

The Baruch STEP Academy, a free STEM enrichment and college readiness program, is currently recruiting for its Summer 2025 Programs. We are asking for your assistance to recruit eligible and interested students from your neighborhood. The program is offering in-person programming for 4 weeks this summer for students who are currently in grades 6-11.

Program Schedule: July 7 - July 31 from 9:30am-2pm

Mondays through Thursdays ONLY

May 1: Priority deadline

May 15: Regular deadline

IN-PERSON PROGRAMS

Students will participate in one course for the duration of the program. Courses will only run if they reach minimum enrollment numbers. Some courses will have field trips, perform experiments, and participate in research. All students will showcase posters and projects on the last day.

Middle School | https://tinyurl.com/Summer25App-MiddleSchool

Engineering Basics
Urban Ecology

High School | https://tinyurl.com/Summer25App-HighSchool

Anatomy & Physiology
Behavioral Neuroscience
Biomedical Research
Coding in Snap (Block-based programming)
Environmental Sustainability
Social Psychology

The summer recruitment flyer is enclosed. General information can be found at step.baruch.cuny.edu (please note that this site is not updated with summer recruitment materials). Visit https://baruchstep.wordpress.com/ to review previous semester events. Please direct questions to BaruchSTEP@gmail.com.

The fall program will tentatively run September 27th-December 6th for 10 Saturdays from 9am-2pm. There will be three periods: test preparation, STEM enrichment courses and workshops on college preparation, career readiness, and soft skill development. Join our listserv to be notified of the fall/spring applications: https://tinyurl.com/STEPInterest-Su25toSp26

Register for the free 2025 National GrowTogether Conference!

Free registration is now open for the 2025 National GrowTogether Conference: Planting Seeds of Resilience, Thursday, June 5 - Sunday, June 8 at CUNY Graduate Center, 365 Fifth Ave. New York, NY 10016. This inspiring four-day gathering of community gardeners and leaders nationwide will celebrate the power of urban green spaces and community gardening in New York City. All activities are free and open to the public.

Please register in advance here.

Presented by NYC Parks GreenThumb in partnership with the American Community Gardening Association, Urban Garden Project, and with support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Join us as we celebrate the resilience of our communities and cultivate a greener, healthier, and more connected future!

Con Edison Work Notice

Con Edison is performing Electric Upgrade work in your area. We expect to work from April 28 to May 28.

Locations and Work Schedule

Linden st b/t Broadway and Bushwick ave

Monday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

What to Expect
Street Closures
Limited Street Parking
Noise

Reference Number: 25-02829

Office of Council Member Sandy Nurse Today is the LAST day to vote this Participatory Budgeting Season!

Participatory Budgeting (PB) Vote Week Ends April 7th!

We’ve been all over the district getting out the vote for PB this past week! Making sure all District 37 residents have their voices heard on the community projects on the ballot this year. If you haven’t voted yet - there’s still time! Polls close at 11:59 PM tonight. If you experience any issues with voting please refresh the page. YOU get to decide how we spend $1 million on capital improvements to schools, parks, public spaces and more - across District 37!

Don’t miss your chance to vote!

Office of Council Member Jennifer Gutierrez Participatory Budget Voting Week

April 7th is the last day for the community to decide how to spend $1 Million. We are thankful for the community's response to the process and cannot wait to find out who won. The online voting number as of today is 2,294! We have less than 12 hours left, so this is the last push to get as many votes.

If you would like to vote, please do so at pbnyc.org/vote or https://rnd.council.nyc.gov/PB_Voting/

Please help spread the word and encourage students, teachers, parents, and anyone in the district to vote.

Thank you all for the support!

Free Virtual Hypertension Workshop Series

Come join us!!

Living with High Blood Pressure and Heart Disease can be a daily challenge. But it doesn’t have to be.

For those diagnosed with hypertension or are at risk, in collaboration with Interfaith Medical Center, we bring you, Free Virtual Hypertension workshop. The 6 weeks series starts Tuesday, April 08, 2025, at 5:30pm –7:00pm.

Attend a Virtual 6-week workshop for 1 and a half hours each week to learn about:

Managing your symptoms and Medications
Relaxing to deal with pain and fatigue
Creating an exercise program that works for you
Healthy eating to improve your condition

Full Roadway Closure Notice: 374 Stockholm Street (FRC's on Stanhope Street between Wyckoff Avenue & St Nicholas Avenue) - April 12, 2025 to May 17, 2025

OVER THE TOP LIFTING LLC will be fully closing the roadway to PLACE CRANE TO INSTALL MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT AT HOSPITAL at 374 STOCKHOLM STREET, BROOKLYN. Please see below details for this full roadway closure.

Location:

On: Stanhope Street

Between: Wyckoff Avenue & St. Nicholas Avenue

Date:

April 19, 2025 to April 27, 2025

Work hours:

9 AM to 4 PM, Monday to Friday

Rain Date: (if any)

N/A

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact:

CONTACT NAME: Keith Malia

CONTACT NUMBER: (844) 688-5438

CONTACT EMAIL: kmalia@overthetoplifting.com

Immigrant Health Care

Every New Yorker, regardless of their immigration status or ability to pay, has the right to quality health care. This includes emergency care at any hospital in NYC.

You can find information on low- and no-cost City services available for all immigrants on this page, or by calling the NYC Immigrant Affairs Hotline at 212-788-7654, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Many low-cost health care services are available at NYC Health + Hospitals facilities and community health centers near you. You can also get care for mental health issues, including substance use disorders, through 988.

For more information, visit the NYC Health website.

NYC DOT Summer Streets Art Interventions RFP 2025

The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) will host the annual Summer Streets event again this year! On five Saturdays this summer, miles of NYC’s streets will be open in both directions for people to play, walk, and bike along while taking a break at rest stops along the routes to enjoy free activities and art installations.

NYC DOT Art seeks proposals from artists for new or existing artwork to be presented at Summer Streets. The selected artwork will be presented as a one-day installation on all five event dates. Selected artists shall receive up to $20,000 to cover all expenses to design, fabricate, and present the artwork including, but not limited to, costs associated with the following: labor, materials, fabrication, engineering, installation, equipment rental, storage, and transportation. Large-scale installations with potential to be displayed at all seven locations across all five weekends may be eligible for a budget of up to $50,000.

Review the Summer Streets Art Interventions RFP (pdf) for more information.

Interested artists must submit their proposals by Sunday, April 27, 2025 before 11:59pm EST through the NYC DOT Art Submittable portal: nycdotart.submittable.com/submit.

March 2025

2024-2025 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Regular and Emergency Benefits Closing Monday, April 7th at 5:00pm

New York State has announced the 2024-25 HEAP Regular and Emergency Benefits will close on Monday, April 7, 2025, at 5:00pm. All applications submitted online via ACCESS HRA or postmarked on or before the deadline will be processed.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership, and for all that you do every day to help New Yorkers in need.

Sincerely,

Office of Community Outreach

NYC Department of Social Services

2025 Free Tree Giveaways Kick Off April 5 🌳

The time has come! You can now register for our 2025 free tree giveaways, which run from Saturday, April 5 until Sunday, May 4.

Tree species vary by giveaway event, and this year, we are proud to offer: Allegheny Serviceberry, American Persimmon, American Plum, Bald Cypress, Basswood, Beach Plum, Black Cherry, Chestnut Oak, Common Ninebark, Eastern Redbud, Flowering Dogwood, Hazelnut, Lowbush Blueberry, Nannyberry, Northern Bayberry, Pawpaw, River Birch, Silky Dogwood, Silky Willow, Smooth Alder, Spicebush, Sweetbay Magnolia, Sycamore, Tulip Poplar, Washington Hawthorn, and Witchhazel.

Browse our site to find an event near you!

Register Now

Sunday, March 30th: The First Irving Square Cleanup Of 2025

We’re finally back with our monthly cleanups in Irving Square! Join us this Sunday from 12-2. The loo is open and the construction fencing down, the gardens are starting to bloom, and we need to scrub some of that winter crustiness away! We’ll also have an opportunity to help with Participatory Budgeting for our district by collecting ballots from park goers. All equipment provided, just bring yourself!

¡Por fin volvemos con nuestras limpiezas mensuales en Irving Square! El baño está abierto, la cerca de la obra ya está abajo, los jardines están empezando a florecer, ¡y necesitamos limpiar un poco la suciedad del invierno! También tendremos la oportunidad de ayudar con el Presupuesto Participativo de nuestro distrito recolectando papeletas de los visitantes del parque. ¡Todo el equipo está incluido, solo tienes que traerlo tú mismo!

NYC DOT Summer Streets 2025: Open call for public art and programming proposals

[On Wednesday, March 26th], NYC DOT opened a call for public art and programming proposals to help shape Summer Streets 2025.

Submission Deadlines:

Artists are invited to submit Public Art Proposals by Sunday, April 27 at 11:59 P.M.
Programming Partners must submit applications by Friday, June 6

Please see the release below (and linked here) for more information. We would appreciate it if you shared this release with your communities.

Release:

New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez today opened a call for artists to submit proposals for art installations and for programming partners to help shape Summer Streets 2025. Summer Streets is an annual celebration of New York City’s most valuable public space – our streets, taking place on select Saturdays from the morning to the afternoon. Miles of NYC’s streets are open in both directions for people to play, walk, and bike along while taking a break at the route rest stops to enjoy free activities.

Under the Adams Administration, Summer Streets has expanded its footprint to all five boroughs for the first time ever, as well as increased the hours of operation every year. These evolutions of the initiative were the first such expansions since the Summer Streets program was launched in 2009.

Artist Submissions

NYC DOT Art invites all professional artists to submit proposals for new or existing artwork to be installed along the Summer Streets event routes at sites designated by NYC DOT as a one-day installation throughout all five Summer Streets event dates. The agency is conducting the search through a new Summer Streets Art Interventions Request for Proposals (RFP). Up to two artists may be selected. The agency may provide up to $20,000 to selected artists to cover project-related costs. Large-scale installations with potential to be displayed at all seven locations across all five weekends may be eligible for a budget of up to $50,000. The RFP is open through April 27, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Artists are invited to propose design and installation plans via the Summer Streets Art Interventions Request for Proposals on Submittable. For examples of previous public art installations at Summer Streets, visit NYC DOT’s Flickr page.

Programming Partner Submissions

NYC DOT invites performers, fitness professionals, nonprofits, artists and community-based organizations, to help shape NYC's annual summer celebration in every borough. Programming partners will need to provide their contact information, the type of activity they will provide, any materials they will need, and their preferred boroughs to participate in. Partners must submit the application form no later than Friday, June 6.

About NYC DOT Art

The New York City Department of Transportation’s Art Program (NYC DOT Art) partners with community-based, nonprofit organizations and professional artists to present temporary public art on NYC DOT property throughout the five boroughs for up to eleven months. Artists transform streets with colorful murals, dynamic projections, and eye-catching sculptures. Sidewalks, fences, triangles, medians, bridges, jersey barriers, step streets, public plazas and pedestrianized spaces serve as canvases and foundations for temporary art. Since 2008, NYC DOT Art has produced over 475 temporary artworks citywide. For more information, visit @nyc_DOTArt.

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Office of Council Member Sandy Nurse Participatory Budgeting Vote Week starts this weekend!

This year, we have 10 projects on the ballot and from Saturday, March 29th to Sunday, April 6th, YOU get to decide how to spend $1 million on capital improvements to schools, parks, public spaces and more - across District 37.

We have 8 school projects on the ballot and they need all the help they can get! Starting this Saturday, cast your vote for your top 3 choices via vote.pbnyc.org.

FREE Construction Training!

Registration is NOW OPEN for FREE construction training at Positive Learning Center!

PLC offers OSHA and Site Safety Training, Skilled Trade Training, Carpentry, Electrical and Plumbing, and other construction industry training.

OSHA and Site Safety Training will be scheduled monthly.

Skilled Trade Trainings will circulate through the end of November 2025.

Please visit us at www.plc-nyc.org/training to register online or use the direct links below:

Electrical Training BEGINS Monday, April 7*

Plumbing Training BEGINS Monday, April 7*

Carpentry Training BEGINS Monday, April 21

OSHA and SST Training BEGINS Monday, April 28

*Please note, students may register for the Electrical and Plumbing training that begins on Monday, April 7, but will only be eligible to attend one of the two trainings at a time. This applied to all future trainings that run concurrently.

Brooklyn Coop Free Workshops in March

Understanding your Medical Debt

Wednesday, March 26th 6pm to 7pm

Remote via Zoom link Sign Up Now

Join host Bk Coop & presenter Neighborhood Trust for this free virtual workshop.

Do you have medical debt that is impacting your ability to move forward financially? You’re not alone. In this workshop you will:

- Hear about medical debt relief programs

- Discover steps you can take today to address your debt

- Learn how you can sign up for free financial counseling

Protect Your Money: Debt Collection & Financial Scams

Thursday, March 27th 5:30pm to 7:30pm

BK Coop - 1474 Myrtle Avenue, Brooklyn Sign Up Now

Join host Bk Coop & presenter New Economy Project for this free workshop.

Debt collectors & scammers use intimidation & deception to scare people, but we have the power to push back!

Join us to learn your rights & how to protect yourself & your loved ones from scams.

DSNY Mandatory Curbside Composting

Curbside Composting is Mandatory Enforcement Begins April 1, 2025

Avoid a Fine!

Buildings with 1 to 8 Units

$25 for the first offense
$50 for the second offense
$100 for the third and subsequent offenses

Buildings with 9 or More Units

$100 for the first offense
$200 for the second offense
$300 for the third and subsequent offenses

All NYC residents are currently required to separate yard waste, food scraps, and food-soiled paper from trash and recycling. Starting April 1, 2025, property owners will be subject to fines. Curbside Composting is free and collected weekly in every borough on the same day as your recycling.

For more information visit, nyc.gov/CurbsideComposting or call 311

Applications Open: Commercial Revitalization Grants

Is your organization looking to improve your commercial corridor?

Applications are now open for commercial revitalization grants from the NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) to support New York City neighborhoods!

Review the following programs and apply to the one that best fits your goals and previous work in this field:

Avenue NYC Commercial Revitalization Grants
Public Realm Grants
Merchant Organizing Grant Program

Applications for all three programs are due on April 20, 2025.

Learn More & Apply for Avenue NYC

Learn More & Apply for Public Realm Grants and/or Merchant Organizing Grants

Brooklyn's 2025 State of the Borough

Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso invites you to attend Brooklyn's 2025 State of the Borough address on Thursday, April 10, 2025 at 7pm - Boys and Girls High School 1700 Fulton Street. RSVP at BIT.LY/BKSOTB25

Become a NYC Parks Lifeguard

Qualifying tests start this winter for summer 2025

Rise to the Challenge: Keep New Yorkers safe as an NYC Lifeguard.

Are you ready to answer the call? We're looking for dedicated, mission-driven individuals to play a critical role in keeping a close watch on our pools and beaches, making summer happen for millions of New Yorkers.

It's more than just a job - it's about having the dedication, inner strength, and drive to be your best!

https://www.nycgovparks.org/reg/life-guard-test

Join Us! Register for an IBX Open House near you

The MTA will be kicking off Interborough Express (IBX) preliminary design as the next step in this exciting and transformative project that will create 14 miles of new public transit between Brooklyn and Queens.

To update the community on the latest project news, we're starting our next round of open houses on Thursday, March 27th, 2025. Join us to learn more about the project, ways to stay involved, and how to share your feedback. Register here: IBX Spring 2025 Open Houses.

Upcoming Open Houses

Thursday, March 27th: 6 - 8PM: Queens Public Library at Ridgewood, 20-12 Madison St, Ridgewood, NY 11385

Thursday, April 3rd: 6 - 8PM: South Shore High School, 6565 Flatlands Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11236

Tuesday, April 22nd: 6 - 8PM: Maimonides Medical Center, 10th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11219

Thursday, May 8th: 6 - 8PM: Renaissance Charter School, 35-59 81st St, Queens, NY 11372

RSVP Here

You can learn more about the IBX here.

Lead a Jane's Walk & Share What Makes Your Community Unique

Now Through March 31, Submit a Jane's Walk!

What do you love most about New York City? What inspires you, and makes you feel the most connected to your community? Celebrate all you love about New York City by leading a Jane's Walk this year! This annual festival is a way for folks from across the five boroughs to come together to cultivate community & conversation ❤

Now through Monday, March 31, submit a walk for our 2025 Jane's Walk NYC festival! Anyone can lead a walk! Make a submission >

Check out the Jane’s Walk NYC website for additional information. Questions? Our Jane's Walk NYC Team is here to help. Email us at janeswalknyc@mas.org.

Spring into NYC Housing Answers from HPD

Are repairs on your spring-cleaning list? We have your NYC housing answers. Spring into Housing Information Classes presented by the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) in partnership with NYC Public Schools’ Parent University.

All classes are free and taught over Zoom.

Live interpretation in Spanish, Chinese, and Bangla available for classes in bold below!

We’re ready to help everyone with three sets of classes:

Dates in bold will have interpretation into Spanish, Mandarin, and Bangla.

Tenants Classes:

March 20 at 12pm - Rent Stabilized & Rent Control Tenants: Know Your Rights – REGISTER HERE
March 25 at 6pm - Tenants: Know Your Rights – Market Rate Apartments and Good Cause Protections – REGISTER HERE
March 27 at 12pm – Rental Housing Discrimination and Harassment – REGISTER HERE

Classes for Homeowners:

April 2 at 6pm - Owning a Home in NYC – REGISTER HERE
April 3 at 12pm - Department of Buildings: Rules, Permits, Summons, and More – REGISTER HERE
April 8 at 12pm - Lead-Based Paint Basics for Homeowners – REGISTER HERE
April 10 at 6pm – Avoiding Deed Theft: A Homeowner's Guide – REGISTER HERE
April 15 at 12pm – Avoiding Deed Theft: A Homeowner's Guide – REGISTER HERE
April 17 at 6pm - Department of Buildings: Rules, Permits, Summons, and More – REGISTER HERE
April 22 at 12pm - Owning a Home in NYC – REGISTER HERE
April 24 at 6pm – Energy Efficiency and Solar Power for Homeowners – REGISTER HERE

FDNY DECLARES 2025 "Fire Prevention Year"- Release of Community Risk Assessments

The Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) Commissioner Robert S. Tucker today declared 2025 “Fire Prevention Year” in New York City to mark the 100th anniversary of National Fire Prevention Week. As part of “Fire Prevention Year,” Commissioner Tucker today announced the release of Community Risk Assessments for all 59 community boards in the city, which provides a detailed analysis of each neighborhood’s emergency preparedness and vulnerability to fire incidents.

Utilizing the assessments, the FDNY will institute a Community Risk Reduction program throughout the year to provide a proactive approach of enhancing public safety. In collaboration with community/elected stakeholders, FDNY Community Affairs will strengthen public education efforts utilizing a data driven approach to reduce the occurrence and impact of fire. This program further builds upon the department's existing outreach initiatives that annually engage thousands of New Yorkers through presentations/trainings that raise awareness about and fire and life safety education.

To view your community boards risk assessment please click here.

For more safety tips and/or to schedule a fire safety education presentation for your community please visit www.fdnysmart.org.

DSNY Residential Bin Requirement Information Sessions

Starting on November 12th, 2024, all properties with 1-9 residential units must use bins, 55 gallons or less, with secure lids. By June 2026, all properties with 1-9 residential units will be required to use the official NYC Bins. You can purchase your official NYC Bin at bins.nyc.

If you already ordered your bins please note that delivery is ongoing and your patience is appreciated. Learn more about the residential containerization program here or register to join an online info session.

Upcoming On-Line Info Sessions:

Summer Rising 2025

Summer Rising 2025 is a partnership between New York City Public Schools and the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD). Summer Rising is free and available to all NYC students in grades K-8. Students in Summer Rising will have access to both academic and enrichment programming over the course of the day, including field trips, arts activities, and outdoor recreation. Visit the DOE webpage for more information.

For more information for families and school administrators please visit nyc.gov/summerrising or email questions to summer@schools.nyc.gov.

NYC Council Universal Daylighting

Below are a few upcoming City Council Hearings that might be of interest.

The first hearing, on March 19th, will be a preliminary budget hearing. Daylighting, especially hardened daylighting, will require additional funding from the city, and we need your help to ensure that the DOT receives this support. The second hearing, on April 21st, will be on Intro 1138, which would implement daylighting city-wide. You have been extremely helpful securing Community Board support, and now we must ensure that this safety measure is fully codified.

Budget Hearing:

What: Preliminary Budget Hearing - Transportation and Infrastructure Committee

Date: March 19, 2025

Time: 10:00 AM

Location: Council Chambers - City Hall - City Hall Park, New York, NY 10007 or virtually

Committee Hearing:

What: Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Hearing

Date: April 21, 2025

Time: 10:00 AM

Location: Council Chambers - City Hall - City Hall Park, New York, NY 10007 or virtually

RSVP for our webinar on April 10 at 6 pm - Testifying 101: Support CM Won's Daylighting Bill Int. 1138

Extension of 2024-2025 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Regular and Emergency Benefit Closing Dates

Closing dates for both the Regular and Emergency benefit components have been extended beyond their original closing date of March 17, 2025. It is anticipated that both components will continue to operate until early April, dependent upon available funding. OTDA will continue to closely monitor expenditures and will provide revised closing dates with advance notice.

Regular HEAP applications continue to be accepted by mail, in-person, and online. The online Regular HEAP Application will remain available to applicants through ACCESS HRA. Applications for First and Second Emergency benefits will be accepted by phone, mail, and in-person.

More information, including 2024-25 benefit amounts and eligibility requirements for all HEAP components, can be found here and here. Our dedicated webpage is updated with instructions on how to apply for each HEAP component and future opening and closing dates for each.

Increase in EBT Phone Scams

Lately there has been an increase in clients receiving phone calls from individuals "spoofing" the EBT Customer Service phone number (888-328-6399) and the DSS OneNumber (718-557-1399). Spoofing is when a caller deliberately falsifies the information transmitted to your caller ID to disguise their identity.

The caller ID on these calls may appear to be the EBT Customer Service number or the DSS OneNumber, but the call is actually originating from a different source. Please emphasize to clients that legitimate EBT Customer Service and DSS OneNumber representatives will never call a client to request account or EBT card information. Clients should never provide such information in response to unsolicited phone calls, even if the caller ID appears to be from EBT Customer Service or DSS OneNumber.

To help secure their EBT cards, if clients suspect their account may have been compromised, they can freeze their card through their ebtEDGE account. For more information, click here.

NYC Landlords & Managing Agents’ Guide to Supporting Residents with Potential Mental Health Conditions

The Mayor’s Office of Community Mental Health offers a comprehensive guide to mental health services for landlords and managing agents, which can be found here. If a landlord or managing agent feels comfortable addressing a mental health challenge with a resident, they can encourage the tenant to seek help by referring them to NYC 988 to identify mental health provider organizations and services by geographic location. The landlord can also call NYC 988 to speak with a counselor if a tenant does not seem to be getting the help they need, or symptoms worsen. Depending on the situation, NYC 988 may recommend sending a Mobile Crisis Team to visit the resident or facilitate a referral to a Short-term Mental Health Crisis Residence. Click here for a full list of mental health and substance use resources guides, palm cards, and flyers.

Community Partnership Concept Paper

The NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) is excited to announce the release of our Community Partnerships Concept Paper. The comment period is now open and will close April 21, 2025 at 5:00pm. We invite you to share feedback and encourage others to do the same. Please feel free to share this communication broadly. Comments from community residents and provider agency representatives are especially encouraged, as they will help inform an upcoming Request for Proposals (RFP).   

Since their inception in 2007, the Community Partnerships (Partnerships) have demonstrated their value as diverse and inclusive community planning hubs, rich in knowledge of local resources and supported by a network of invested stakeholders. They have built strong communication networks – locally and citywide – that help match Partnership resources to community members’ needs, create strategic partnerships, and increase Partnership members’ ability to collectively deliver a wide range of culturally appropriate well-being responses that residents desire.

In 2019, the redesigned (and current) model includes core strategies in three areas:

Facilitating service referral and organizing community events, such as resource fairs, food pantries, and family-centered activities, that seek to strengthen family well-being while creating stakeholder cohesion;
Investing in the development of leaders to organize and implement community-defined solutions, namely Community Ambassadors – residents with deep knowledge of their community - who co-lead Partnership strategies with member organizations and stakeholders; and
Leveraging Partnership networks so ACS can connect to community audiences in trusted venues and engage with community leaders and residents to inform program practice and policies.

This Concept Paper describes the ways in which ACS aims to build on what exists and enhance the model, demonstrating our commitment to families and community building. You can find the Concept Paper using the PASSPort Procurement Navigator at 06825Y0347-Community Partnerships Concept Paper. Please note, to respond to the forthcoming RFP and all other Human/Client Services RFPs, organizations must have an account and an approved HHS Prequalification application in PASSPort. Proposals and Prequalification applications will ONLY be accepted through PASSPort. If you do not have a PASSPort account or an approved PASSPort HHS Prequalification Application, please visit  www.nyc.gov/passport  to get started. 
 
There are two ways in which to provide feedback:

1.    PASSPort: Organizations can submit written feedback on the Partnership concept paper, after locating it via the link in PASSPort. Questions regarding PASSPort can be submitted through MOCS support desk at MOCS Support. 

2.    CONCEPT PAPER MAILBOX: Comments could be sent via email to CommunityPartnerships-CP@acs.nyc.gov .

Thanks in advance for your feedback.

File with NYC Free Tax Prep!

Maximum credits.
Full refund.
Your family deserves it.
Get it back.

NYC FREE Tax Prep offers free, professional tax preparation that can help you file an accurate tax return and claim these valuable tax credits. We offer multiple filing options, including in-person tax prep, drop-off service, virtual tax prep, and assisted self-preparation.

Use NYC FREE Tax Prep today to file for free and keep your whole refund.

For families with income of $93,000 or less in 2024.
For single filers with income of $65,000 or less in 2024.

Don’t wait! Visit nyc.gov/taxprep today!

March 16-22, 2025 is National Poison Prevention Week

Join us during Poison Prevention Week for our webinar, Poison Prevention and Medicine Safety, which will be offered in English, Spanish and Chinese Cantonese. This webinar focuses on ways to keep your family safe including safe storage and safe use of household products and medications as well as carbon monoxide poisoning prevention. Register on the link here.

Free March Webinars
Join us in March! The NYC Health Department's Education and Community Partnership Unit and Poison Center offer FREE multilingual workshops on poison prevention and medicine safety tips, home safety and more. All participants receive a certificate. The full schedule and the links for registration can be accessed here .

Exciting Update: 1:1 Business Advisory Sessions Near You!

Pace University Small Business Development Center continues to expand reach to better serve small businesses across New York City through the launch of our six satellite locations. Meet in-person with a Pace SBDC Business Advisor at an upcoming free business advisory sessions.

Upcoming Satellite Sessions:

3/12/25

Sunset Park (Industry City – Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce’s office)
Williamsburg, Brooklyn (Grand Street BID's office - 246 Graham Ave)

3/13/25

New York Public Library - Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library
Brooklyn Public Library’s Grand Army Plaza branch

3/20/25

Brooklyn Public Library’s Grand Army Plaza branch
Bushwick (Riseboro’s office)

3/27/25

Flatbush (Assemblymember Bichotte Hermelyn’s office)
Brooklyn Public Library’s Grand Army Plaza branch

Through these satellite locations, small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs can access one-on-one business consultations with our experienced advisors, covering everything from funding opportunities and business planning to marketing strategies and operational growth.

By joining us, you'll have the opportunity to receive personalized support tailored to your business needs, in English or Spanish — all at no cost.

Secure your spot today: please complete the SBDC counseling request form, mentioning your desired location for a 1:1 session.

Green Cart Permits Available for Mobile Food Vendors

The NYC Health Department is now offering mobile food vending Green Cart permits for the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Staten Island. These permits allow vendors to sell fresh fruits and vegetables, including prepackaged sliced and cut produce, bottled drinking water, and plain nuts.

To apply for a Green Cart permit, vendors must:
✔ Hold a valid Mobile Food Vending License
✔ Submit the Green Cart Waiting List Application Form to join the waiting list (applications accepted on a rolling basis)

Interested vendors can complete the waiting list application at nyc.gov/greencarts.

The NYC Health Department will announce when Green Cart permits become available for Queens and Manhattan.

For more details, visit nyc.gov/greencarts. Please feel free to share this information.

Mark your Calendars

National GrowTogether Conference: Thursday, June 5 – Sunday, June 8
CUNY Graduate Center, 365 Fifth Ave. New York, NY 10016
The 2025 National GrowTogether Conference: Planting Seeds of Resilience —
an inspiring four-day gathering of community gardeners and leaders nationwide to celebrate the power of urban green spaces and community gardening. 
Presented by NYC Parks GreenThumb in partnership with the American Community Gardening Association, Urban Garden Project, and with support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Join us as we celebrate the resilience of our communities and cultivate a greener, healthier, and more connected future. Stay tuned for registration and more information about this exciting event!

To learn about all the exciting free events that we have planned in 2025, see our January Newsletter.

Volunteer with NYC Parks GreenThumb

Next month, join GreenThumb for EarthMonth! We have several GreenThumb-led volunteer events planned, in addition to community garden hosted volunteer events, to celebrate Earth Day all month long! Use the skills you gain in our free workshops at these volunteer workdays, while finding ways to get involved in your local community garden. Visit the EarthMonth event page to see a list of all the EarthMonth workshops and volunteer events in April.

Garden groups can sign up to host your own volunteer events in April! Fill out the 2025 EarthMonth at GreenThumb Form by March 15, 2025.

If you are new to community gardening, this is a great opportunity to get to know community gardeners at these gardens and learn how to become a member. Volunteers will work alongside gardeners and GreenThumb staff to assist in different activities such as planting, mulching, and building raised beds.

To sign up for a group of 10 or more, please contact Volunteer Program Coordinator Kyleen.Sanchez@parks.nyc.gov.

Join Us at the GreenThumb Garden Recognition Awards Ceremony

Celebrate our exceptional gardeners and community garden groups who have made a lasting impact in 2024 and beyond! This award ceremony will be open to the public, so anyone can celebrate with the volunteers who have beautified neighborhoods, grown healthy food, protected the environment, and helped heal their communities.

8th Annual GreenThumb Garden Recognition Awards
Saturday, March 29, 2025
7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

The New York Historical Society
170 Central Park West
at Richard Gilder Way (77th St.)
New York, NY 10024

Registration is required. Please register on Eventbrite.

February 2025

NYC Small Business Services Sign UP for Free Legal Assistance

We are partnering with the Lawyers Alliance for New York to provide free legal, compliance, and governance support to community-based organizations.

Whether you have questions about how to operate your organization, what to know when signing your lease or contract, or understanding the roles and responsibilities of your organization’s leadership, we will put you in touch with an attorney who can offer free services.

Who Can Apply

Nonprofit community-based organizations operating in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods within the five boroughs of New York City
Nonprofit organizations incorporated in New York State
Organizations compliant with annual state and federal filing requirements

How to Apply

Email neighborhoods@sbs.nyc.gov with a brief description of the legal support your organization is looking for. Requests will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis through May 1, 2025.

Last Day to Enroll in Pre-K & 3-K: February 28

I want to remind everyone that Pre-K & 3-K applications are open! The deadline to enroll is the last day of the month, TODAY February 28. You can apply in three ways:

Online at MySchools.nyc
At any Family Welcome Center
Call 718-935-2009

All NYC children born in 2022 can apply for the 2025-2026 school year, regardless of current program, special needs, language ability, or housing status. Children do not need to be toilet trained to attend 3-K. Visit nyc.gov/3k and nyc.gov/prek for more assistance.

DSS-HRA-DHS - Important Update: EBT Phone Scam Alert

This email is to inform you of recent reports received by our agency of clients receiving phone calls from individuals "spoofing" the DSS OneNumber customer service phone number (718-557-1399). Spoofing is when a caller deliberately falsifies the information transmitted to your caller ID to disguise their identity.

The caller ID on these calls may appear to be the DSS OneNumber customer service number, but the call is actually originating from a different source. Please emphasize to clients that legitimate DSS OneNumber representatives will never call a client to request account or EBT card information. Clients should never provide such information in response to unsolicited phone calls, even if the caller ID appears to be from the DSS OneNumber.

Clients can protect their benefits by freezing their EBT card through their ebtEDGE account. For more information, click here.

JOIN US: Virtual Service Provider Workshop on Supporting Families Towards LGBTQ+ Acceptance

CAMBA's LGBTQ+ Education and Acceptance Project is excited to invite you to an upcoming virtual workshop designed to help service providers strengthen their skillset in supporting families on their journey towards acceptance. This workshop will focus on helping us understand what barriers families face regarding acceptance of their LGBTQ+ youth, and what practical strategies service providers can use to foster greater understanding, focusing on the unique needs of BIPOC parents and families.

Date: Thursday, March 13, 2025

Time: 2:00 PM - 3:30 EDT

Location: Online (Zoom link provided upon registration)

What You’ll Gain:
- Tools to create more affirming spaces for youth and families
- Culturally responsive approaches tailored for BIPOC communities
- Actionable strategies to strengthen family bonds

Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your impact and better serve the families in your community!

REGISTER NOW!

Feel free to share this invitation with your team and network. We look forward to seeing you there!

Fifth Avenue Committee (FAC) Affordable Housing Info-Sessions

FAC will be virtually hosting more public information sessions in 2025 about affordable housing.

We will cover topics such as area median income (AMI), affordable rents and rent limits, the application screening process, and Housing Connect.

They will be held on the last Thursday of every month until July, Tonight’s session will be from 6pm-7:30pm.

The following link can be used to register for the Zoom meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/AJNudJrdQiKlTcSfzFSsmg#/registration

The link can be used to register for any of the upcoming sessions. Please share with all those who you believe may be interested in learning about the affordable housing process in NYC.

Brooklyn M/WBE Borough Forum – February 28th

The NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS), in partnership with the Mayor’s Office of M/WBEs and the Brooklyn Public Library, is hosting the 2025 M/WBE Borough Forum in Brooklyn on Friday, February 28^th!

Please help us spread the word of this event through your network – attached are flyers in English, Spanish and Simplified Chinese.

Overview

This event will connect certified Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (M/WBEs) to government contracting opportunities, educate and recruit non-certified firms about M/WBE certification and how to get started, and highlight resources available for both certified and non-certified Minority and Women-owned businesses. The schedule of activities includes:   

Networking with representatives from City Agencies to understand upcoming contracting opportunities.  
Onsite Support to help start business owners with their NYC M/WBE Certification Application. 
Learn about business resources that can help you grow your business when you are #CityCertified.

Logistics and Registration Details

Date: Friday, February 28^th, 2025

Venue: Brooklyn Public Library, Central Library

Address: 10 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn, NY 11238

Time: 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Registration Link: https://2025BrooklynMWBEForum.eventbrite.com/?aff=BrooklynPartner

Thank you for your support in helping build awareness of the City’s M/WBE Program!

DEADLINE EXTENDED: Submit Your Application to Run for a Seat on a Community or Citywide Education Council by February 27!

Let us hear your voice!

Apply to run for a Community or Citywide Education Council now!

Do you want to be a part of shaping policies and priorities for New York City Public Schools (NYCPS)? It’s not too late to apply to run for a seat on a Community or Citywide Education Council! The deadline to submit your application has been extended to Thursday, February 27, 2025!

Members of the 32 Community Education Councils and 4 Citywide Education Councils are advocates for New York City students and families. They help make decisions regarding education in their communities in important ways—including by reviewing educational programs, approving school zoning lines, and making recommendations to improve services to NYCPS students.

Submit your application today: just log in to your NYC Schools Account (NYCSA) at schoolsaccount.nyc to complete the quick and easy application and submit your brief recommended personal statement.

Don’t have a NYC Schools Account (NYCSA)? Create your account now at schoolsaccount.nyc; then, contact your school’s parent coordinator to complete the process and make sure your children are added to the account. To learn more about how to create and verify your account, please visit schools.nyc.gov/nycsa.

We encourage all parents in our school community to take this opportunity to make your voice heard. Don’t wait; submit your application to run for an education council seat before the new deadline on February 27,2025!

Want to learn more about Education Councils?

Find an upcoming meeting to attend on the Council Meeting Calendar.
Visit the Election Homepage for additional updates and information about participating in this year’s elections, including an Eligibility Checklist for potential candidates.

Help spread the word: cleanup tool grants for community groups

We are excited to announce the 2025 NYC Big Spring Clean, a series of volunteer litter cleanups and community stewardship resources launching this spring. We would love your help to spread the word.

Between April 22 - May 31, we’ll be teaming up with community partners, schools, and leaders across the city to host and support 120 events activating New Yorkers interested in stepping up to care for our city.

Know local community or youth cleanup groups looking for tools, training, and outreach resources? We’re offering tool grants to new and established neighborhood groups through our Community Stewards and Youth Education programs. Applications are due by 3/1.
Are you hosting an Earth Day/Earth Month volunteer event that you’d like us to promote? Share your event details here and we’ll include your cleanups and greenups on our citywide community calendar and map.

In March, we’ll share the full calendar of upcoming Big Spring Clean events across the city and a Partner Promo kit that you can use to help get the word out.

Thank you again for helping us create a cleaner, more sustainable NYC for all New Yorkers!

EARN YOUR ASSOCIATE DEGREE

Register for hybrid two-year degree with CUNY Kingsborough Community College.

Why Enroll?

Earn college credits while maintaining your schedule
Hybrid format: Two in-person courses at RiseBoro, two online at KCC
Financial aid available for eligible students

Key Details

Classes Start: March 5, 2025
Application Deadline: February 19, 2025
Apply in Person: RiseBoro Youth Center, 1474 Gates Ave, Brooklyn
Contact: Denise Cantos at 718-381-9653 ext. 3222

If you or someone you know is ready to start or continue their college journey, this is a great opportunity to earn a degree with the support you need.

For more information or to start your application, reach out to Denise Cantos today!

Go to the Website

FREE Associate Degree at NYU -- Career Pathways Bridge Program

We are reaching out to share an exciting opportunity open to our high school seniors and recent graduates interested in earning their associate degrees for FREE! Please see further information on the program and application process below.

The Career Pathways Bridge Program at NYU’s School of Professional Studies provides a structured and supportive pathway to college success, offering academic and financial resources to help students thrive.

Key Benefits of the Program:

✅ Dedicated coaching and advising to help students stay on track
✅ A supportive learning community with small class sizes and academic support
✅ Career-connected learning opportunities that build real-world skills
✅ Affordable access to an NYU education with full scholarship

Financial Support for Students:

💰 Monthly MetroCards
📚 Stipends for books and emergency expenses
🍽️ Meal plans
💼 Paid internship opportunities

Eligibility Requirements:

✔️ Must be a current high school senior or recent high school graduate
✔️ Must be a New York resident, able to commute to campus
✔️ Interested in pursuing an associate degree at NYU’s School of Professional Studies
✔️ Receiving Pell and TAP funding (must complete FAFSA)

If interested NYU will be hosting an In-Person Instant Decision Day on Wednesday, February 19, where students with completed applications can receive an admissions decision on the spot, helping to expedite the admissions process. Please use the registration link below if you will be attending.

Registration Link

In-Person Instant Decision Day
Wednesday, February 19
3:30 - 5:30 PM
7 East 12th Street

If there are any questions or clarification needed, please contact Rebecca Drossman-Associate Director of Partnerships via email at rd3487@nyu.edu

Green Cart Waiting List Re-Opening March 3

Green Cart Permits Are Available for the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Staten Island

The NYC Health Department is offering mobile food vending Green Cart permits for the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Staten Island. This permit allows you to vend fresh fruits and vegetables — including prepackaged sliced and cut fruits and vegetables — bottled drinking water, and plain nuts.

To get a Green Cart permit, you must have a valid Mobile Food Vending License and submit the Green Cart Waiting List Application Form to join a waiting list. You can apply for the waiting list at any time. To fill out the waiting list application, visit nyc.gov/greencarts.

When Green Cart permits become available for Queens and Manhattan, the NYC Health Department will make an announcement.

For more information, visit nyc.gov/greencarts.

Don't Miss the M/WBE Forum - 2/28!

Overview

Networking with representatives from City Agencies to understand upcoming contracting opportunities.  
Onsite Support to help start business owners with their NYC M/WBE Certification Application. 
Learn about business resources that can help you grow your business when you are #CityCertified.

Logistics and Registration Details

Date: Friday, February 28^th, 2025

Venue: Brooklyn Public Library, Central Library

Address: 10 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn, NY 11238

Time: 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Registration Link: https://2025BrooklynMWBEForum.eventbrite.com/?aff=BrooklynPartner

If you have any questions please contact Karen Nieves.

DSS-HRA-DHS Update: First Phase of the Fair Fares NYC Program Transition to OMNY

We are pleased to announce the first phase of the full transition of the Fair Fares program to OMNY, the MTA’s contactless fare payment system, following the conclusion of a successful Fair Fares pilot on OMNY between the DSS and the MTA.

The Fair Fares discount is available to New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status, between the ages of 18 and 64 whose income falls at or below 145 percent of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Visit the Fair Fares website to check for eligibility, apply online and begin saving 50 percent on subway and eligible bus fares or MTA Access-A-Ride paratransit trips.

The switch to OMNY will make it easier for working-class New Yorkers to manage their transit funds and help participants save even more with automatic fare capping, which ensures that no Fair Fares client will pay more than $17 per week to ride the subway and eligible buses when using their Fair Fares-issued OMNY card.

During the first phase of the transition to OMNY, the Fair Fares discount will be available on Fair Fares-issued OMNY cards. All new program enrollees will receive a Fair Fares OMNY card instead of a MetroCard and will immediately be able to tap into the subway system or eligible buses after loading funds onto the card. Clients can add money to their Fair Fares OMNY card in the following ways:

at one of the more than 470 OMNY vending machines installed in subway stations across the city,
select retail locations,
online by creating an OMNY account at https://omny.info/register,
or by calling OMNY customer service at 877-789-6669.

Current Fair Fares Metrocard holders may request an OMNY card at their convenience via ACCESS HRA. Otherwise, they will automatically receive one when they renew their program enrollment or request a replacement card. Clients can continue to use any active Fair Fares MetroCard until they either expire, or 30 days after the OMNY card request or program enrollment renewal, whichever comes first.

In the second phase of the transition, participants will be able to apply their Fair Fares discount to preexisting OMNY cards, bank cards, or mobile devices, making it even easier and more convenient to save on transit costs.

Updated FAQs are now available for reference, along with an instructional video to help amplify this update.

As part of the switch to OMNY, the NYC Department of Social Services – Human Resources Administration (DSS HRA) is pleased to announce the following ACCESS HRA updates went live on Saturday, February 15, 2025:

Clients will receive a new OMNY card for their subways and eligible buses discount one of several ways via the ACCESS HRA Fair Fares portal:

Selecting the subways and eligible buses discount type in a Fair Fares enrollment application
Selecting the subways and eligible buses discount type in a Fair Fares renewal
Reporting a MetroCard lost or stolen
Switching discount type from Access-A-Ride to subways and eligible buses
Completing the new ‘Switch Fair Fares Discount from MetroCard to OMNY’ form found in the Quick Links section of the portal homepage

Other OMNY-Related Fair Fares Portal Enhancements:

Brand new re-designed Fair Fares portal homepage for OMNY clients
Viewable OMNY card information
New OMNY card statuses
OMNY card expiration date
OMNY card serial number and transit account number (TAN)
New links to open and manage an OMNY account and reload card
New ‘Card is Damaged’ option for clients reporting a card issue
New Fair Fares and OMNY help section
New and improved alerts and messaging for greater clarity on case activity

New functionality for clients to re-use previously issued Fair Fares OMNY card
Clients who have an unexpired FF OMNY card on file can choose to re-use this card at application, renewal, or when switching discount types from Access-A-Ride to subways and buses

The ACCESS HRA client portal can be found here.

To go directly to the Fair Fares NYC application or home page, go here.

We continue to offer trainings on ACCESS HRA, the Fair Fares NYC program and other topics. Community and advocacy organizations, municipal agencies, and Elected Officials' office staff can register for an upcoming session here.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership, and for all that you do every day to help New Yorkers in need.

MTA Accessibility updates

Informational webinar: accessibility and the MTA’s 2025-2029 Capital Plan: February 20.

Join us as we share more about the importance of the MTA’s 2025-2029 Capital Plan, which is currently being discussed by the state legislature, and how you can share your feedback about which stations to prioritize for accessibility improvements. Register for the webinar on February 20 at 12pm.

Accessible station priorities in-person workshop: February 26.

Join us in person as we discuss which stations to prioritize in the 2025-2029 Capital Plan. Our proposed plan has more than 60 stations to be made accessible, but only half of them have been selected. We hope to incorporate public feedback as we select the next 30 stations including the feedback we've already received at our Open Houses and from the station selection feedback form. Register for this in-person event on February 26 at 6pm at 2 Broadway in the 20 floor boardroom.

We look forward to seeing you at these events!

DSNY Issues Winter Operations Advisory for Thursday, February 20 Beginning at 9:00 a.m.

While major snowfall no longer expected, Department of Sanitation planning for the worst to keep New Yorkers safe

The New York City Department of Sanitation has issued a Winter Operations Advisory for Thursday, February 20, beginning at 9:00 a.m. A Winter Operations Advisory is the Department’s “lower level” snow-fighting notification, as opposed to the “higher level” Snow Alert.

While forecasts for this event have steadily trended downward as the storm system has trended to the south, some meteorologists believe one to three inches of snow may still fall on New York City tomorrow beginning during the end of the morning commute. New York’s Strongest must always plan for the worst case scenario, and with bitterly cold temperatures already here, brining operations will begin at 4:00 this afternoon.

Salt spreading will begin at the first sign of snow, and plows will be ready to go if and when two inches of accumulation are observed.

The Department has approximately 700 million pounds of salt on hand, a historically high wintertime headcount, and new high-tech ways of tracking snow operations.

New Yorkers should know: while DSNY does our part, you can do yours by staying off the roads or, if you absolutely must drive, by doing so slowly, safely, and carefully.

In a snow event, New York City’s Sanitation Workers cover our streets, highways, and bike lanes, but all residents should remember that clearing snow from sidewalks is the property owners’ responsibility. Property owners must make sure that the sidewalks are passable.

All winter weather information and information about the City’s response to the storm can be found by visiting the City’s Severe Weather website at nyc.gov/snow or by calling 311.

Operations Update

Thanks to historic investments in DSNY, the Department’s Workers and equipment are more prepared for winter weather than ever before.

If and when plowable depths of 2” or more are reached, residents will be able to track the progress of DSNY snow removal vehicles at nyc.gov/PlowNYC. Remember, a plowed or salted street will not show blacktop right away.

Trash/Recycling Collection:

There is no change to DSNY collection or to bin requirements at this time, however delays are possible given a snow event so soon after Monday’s holiday. Residents should place material out for collection on their regular schedule.

Snow Clearing Information

If the snow stops falling between:

7 a.m. and 5 p.m., property owners must clear sidewalks within 4 hours
5 p.m. and 9 p.m., property owners must clear sidewalks within 14 hours
9 p.m. and 7 a.m., property owners must clear sidewalks by 11 a.m.

The fine for failure to clear sidewalks is $100 for the first offense, $150 for the second offense and $250 for the third offense.

Alternate Side Parking

Alternate Side Parking is in effect at this time.

Find information on Sanitation snow operations along with residents’ responsibilities during and after snow at nyc.gov/snow.

DSNY Issues Winter Operations Advisory for Saturday, February 15 Beginning at 12:00 p.m.

“Flakey February” continues with sixth snow event of the month

The New York City Department of Sanitation has issued a Winter Operations Advisory for Saturday, February 15, beginning at 12:00 p.m. and continuing until 6:00 a.m. Sunday. A Winter Operations Advisory is the Department’s “lower level” snow-fighting notification, as opposed to the “higher level” Snow Alert.

Saturday afternoon, snow will once again return to the City, transitioning to rain closer to midnight. Depending on the exact timing of this change, parts of the City may see anywhere from a coating to four inches of accumulated snow. DSNY will begin applying brine to roadways and bike lanes this afternoon, Friday, in anticipation of yet another unpredictable weather event with a wide range of possible accumulations.

Salt spreading will begin at the first sign of snow, and plows will be ready to go if and when two inches of accumulation are observed.

The Department has approximately 700 million pounds of salt on hand, a historically high wintertime headcount, and new high-tech ways of tracking snow operations.

New Yorkers should know: DSNY plans for the worst-case scenario. Do your part by staying off the roads or, if you absolutely must drive, by doing so slowly, safely, and carefully.

All winter weather information and information about the City’s response to the storm can be found by visiting the City’s Severe Weather website at nyc.gov/snow or by calling 311.

Operations Update

Thanks to historic investments in DSNY, the Department’s Workers and equipment are more prepared for winter weather than ever before.

Trash/Recycling Collection:

There is no change to DSNY collection or to bin requirements at this time, however delays are possible given the back-to-back snow events and collection holidays on both the 12^th and 17^th. Residents should place material out for collection on their regular schedule.

Snow Clearing Information

If the snow stops falling between:

7 a.m. and 5 p.m., property owners must clear sidewalks within 4 hours
5 p.m. and 9 p.m., property owners must clear sidewalks within 14 hours
9 p.m. and 7 a.m., property owners must clear sidewalks by 11 a.m.

The fine for failure to clear sidewalks is $100 for the first offense, $150 for the second offense and $250 for the third offense.

Alternate Side Parking

Alternate Side Parking is in effect Saturday, 2/15, given that winter weather is not expected until the afternoon.

Find information on Sanitation snow operations along with residents’ responsibilities during and after snow at nyc.gov/snow.

NYC Industrial Plan Survey Closing in Two Weeks!

The NYC Department of City Planning is collecting data for a report on industrial land use and business service policies in NYC. The survey is open until 2/28/25 and we urge you to submit a response to ensure the City hears from many businesses. They have heard from some of you but more responses will only make the plan and its policies for growth and innovation better. Please share your challenges, concerns, and opinions by taking this survey!

Businesses should indicate that they operate a business in an industrial area when responding on Page 1 to ensure you get the most detailed set of questions about the challenges and opportunities of operating a business in industrial NYC.

If you have any questions, contact Stephen Fabian to discuss this and any other issue facing your business!

Help RiseBoro Support 10,000 New Yorkers Every Day!

Every day, RiseBoro serves 10,000 New Yorkers—providing housing, meals, healthcare, job assistance, and so much more. Now, we need your help to continue this work!

We’re participating in Project For Awesome 2025, and your vote can help us secure critical funding to expand our impact. By voting for RiseBoro, you’re ensuring thousands of people continue receiving the support they need to thrive.

It takes ten seconds, no registration required, it's simple and it helps your community! Simply click and vote!

Vote Now

DSNY Issues Winter Operations Advisory for Wednesday, February 12 Beginning at 4:00 p.m.

ANOTHER slushy evening expected tonight – but the Strongest are ready!

The New York City Department of Sanitation has issued a Winter Operations Advisory for Wednesday, February 12, beginning at 4:00 p.m. and continuing until 6:00 a.m. Thursday. A Winter Operations Advisory is the Department’s “lower level” snow-fighting notification, as opposed to the “higher level” Snow Alert.

This afternoon or early evening, snow will hit parts of the City for the third time this week, putting down a slushy coating before transitioning to sleet and rain closer to midnight. Coming on the heels of multiple other winter weather events, New York’s Strongest are already on 12-hour shifts, 700 salt spreaders are filled and ready to go. The Department has approximately 700 million pounds of salt on hand, a historically high wintertime headcount, and new high-tech ways of tracking snow operations.

New Yorkers should know: DSNY plans for the worst-case scenario. Do your part by staying off the roads or, if you absolutely must drive, by doing so slowly, safely, and carefully.

All winter weather information and information about the City’s response to the storm can be found by visiting the City’s Severe Weather website at nyc.gov/snow or by calling 311.

Operations Update

Thanks to historic investments in DSNY, the Department’s Workers and equipment are more prepared for winter weather than ever before.

In the unlikely event that plowable depths of 2” or more is reached, residents will be able to track the progress of DSNY snow removal vehicles at nyc.gov/PlowNYC. Remember, a plowed or salted street will not show blacktop right away.

Trash/Recycling Collection:

There is no change to DSNY collection or to bin requirements at this time, however delays are possible given the back-to-back snow events. Residents should place material out for collection on their regular schedule.

Snow Clearing Information

If the snow stops falling between:

7 a.m. and 5 p.m., property owners must clear sidewalks within 4 hours
5 p.m. and 9 p.m., property owners must clear sidewalks within 14 hours
9 p.m. and 7 a.m., property owners must clear sidewalks by 11 a.m.

The fine for failure to clear sidewalks is $100 for the first offense, $150 for the second offense and $250 for the third offense.

Alternate Side Parking

Alternate Side Parking is suspended Thursday, 2/13 to facilitate snow operations.

Find information on Sanitation snow operations along with residents’ responsibilities during and after snow at nyc.gov/snow.

NYCEM ISSUES WINTER WEATHER ALERT FOR TUESDAY NIGHT INTO WEDNESDAY MORNING

The New York City Emergency Management Department has issued a weather alert from the evening of Tuesday, February 11 through the morning of Wednesday, February 12, 2025, with a winter storm expected to impact the region. About 1 to 2 inches of snow accumulation is expected throughout the city during this time, with a reasonable worst-case scenario of up to 4 inches. Another snow event is currently forecasted for Wednesday night into Thursday, for 0.5 to 1.5 inches of snow. Snow is forecast to transition into a wintry mix and rain Thursday morning and taper off by Thursday afternoon.

NYCEM is asking that Advance Warning System (AWS) service providers take the following proactive steps to ensure the safety of themselves and their clients:

Conduct outreach to ensure clients are aware and prepared for the weather. Help them to prepare if needed. Older adults and people with disabilities, access and functional needs, or health conditions are most vulnerable.

Encourage staff and vulnerable clients to stay indoors. Consider rescheduling non-emergency appointments and activities. Providers should consider pivoting in-person services to remote where appropriate. Providers should adjust services for clients as needed, including consideration for clients who are homebound and may need access to supplemental meal delivery or medical services. If staff or clients must go outdoors, they should wear dry, warm clothing and cover exposed skin. Keep fingertips, earlobes, and noses covered. Wear a hat, hood, scarf, and gloves. Shivering is an important first sign that the body is losing heat. Shivering is a signal to return indoors.

Cold weather puts extra strain on the heart. Providers and clients should exercise caution when shoveling snow. Those with heart disease or high blood pressure should follow the advice of their healthcare provider.

A stove or oven should never be used to heat a home. Anyone using an electric heater should make sure it is plugged directly into a wall outlet (not an extension cord or power strip) and keep it away from any flammable items (such as clothing). Ensure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and working properly. Heat or hot water complaints should be directed to landlords and building management. If the problem is not resolved, complaints can be submitted to 311.

Allow for extra travel time. New Yorkers are urged to use public transportation whenever possible. Expect delays with little to no notice, especially during times when snow is expected to be heaviest. Staff or clients who use paratransit or car services should prepare for the possibility of longer wait and ride times.

Drive slowly. Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible. Wet roadways may freeze, causing icy and dangerous road conditions.

Always be prepared for potential power outages. If an outage occurs, turn off all appliances, keep refrigerator/freezer doors closed to prevent food spoilage, and do not use generators indoors. Clients who use life sustaining equipment (LSE) and need immediate assistance should dial 911.

Report outages, downed power lines, and damaged electrical equipment to power providers immediately. Con Edison’s 24-hour hotline is 800-75-CONED (752-6633) (TTY: 800-642-2308). Outages can also be reported online on Con Edison's website. National Grid’s 24-hour hotline is 718-643-4050 (TTY: 718-237-2857). PSEG Long Island’s 24-hour hotline is 800-490-0025 (TTY: 631-755-6660)

Report downed trees and damaged tree limbs to 311; if there is immediate danger, call 911.

Stay informed. Before and during an emergency, the city will send emergency alerts and updates to New Yorkers through various channels, including Notify NYC. Notify NYC is available in 14 languages, including American Sign Language (ASL). Sign up for emergency notifications online or call 311 and encourage clients to do so as well.

Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping New Yorkers safe.

DSNY Issues Winter Operations Advisory for Tuesday, February 11 Beginning at 4:00 p.m.

New York’s Strongest working hard during back-to-back snow events; stay off the roads and let them work safely!

The New York City Department of Sanitation has issued a Winter Operations Advisory for Tuesday, February 11, beginning at 4:00 p.m. and continuing until 6:00 a.m. Wednesday. A Winter Operations Advisory is the Department’s “lower level” snow-fighting notification, as opposed to the “higher level” Snow Alert.

Current forecasts suggest that snow will begin in the mid to late afternoon Tuesday, and that 1-4 inches of accumulation are possible by Wednesday morning. Brine operations will begin at midnight tonight, with salting to follow as necessary. Plows will be dispatched when depths of 2 inches are reported.

Coming on the heels of multiple other winter weather events, New York’s Strongest are already on 12-hour shifts, 700 salt spreaders are filled and ready to go, and thousands of collection trucks are fitted with plows. The Department has approximately 700 million pounds of salt on hand, a historically high wintertime headcount, and new high-tech ways of tracking snow operations.

New Yorkers should know: DSNY plans for the worst-case scenario. Do your part by staying off the roads or, if you absolutely must drive, by doing so slowly, safely, and carefully.

All winter weather information and information about the City’s response to the storm can be found by visiting the City’s Severe Weather website at nyc.gov/snow or by calling 311.

Operations Update

Thanks to historic investments in DSNY, the Department’s Workers and equipment are more prepared for winter weather than ever before.

When a plowable depths of 2” or more is reached, residents will be able to track the progress of DSNY snow removal vehicles at nyc.gov/PlowNYC. Remember, a plowed or salted street will not show blacktop right away.

Trash/Recycling Collection:

There is no change to DSNY collection or to bin requirements at this time, however delays are possible given the back-to-back snow events.

Snow Clearing Information

If the snow stops falling between:

7 a.m. and 5 p.m., property owners must clear sidewalks within 4 hours
5 p.m. and 9 p.m., property owners must clear sidewalks within 14 hours
9 p.m. and 7 a.m., property owners must clear sidewalks by 11 a.m.

The fine for failure to clear sidewalks is $100 for the first offense, $150 for the second offense and $250 for the third offense.

Alternate Side Parking

Alternate Side Parking is already suspended Tuesday to facilitate snow operations.

Find information on Sanitation snow operations along with residents’ responsibilities during and after snow at nyc.gov/snow.

DOHMH Environmental Home Health Hazards February Webinar Schedule 2025

In the month of February, join the NYC Department of Health Education Programs for free virtual webinars on environmental home health hazards. Our February calendar will have a webinar topic on Cleaning Your Home Safely and Lead Poisoning Prevention. Our webinars are in English, Spanish, Bengali, Russian and Urdu.

To register, visit: https://www.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/environmental/healthy-homes-trainings-workshops-2025.pdf. After completing the webinar, a certificate will be provided.

If you have any questions, email: healthyhomesecp@health.nyc.gov or call 646-632-6023.

Service Alert: No Trash, Curbside Composting or Recycling Collection on Lincoln’s Birthday, Wednesday, February 12, 2025

The New York City Department of Sanitation announced that in observance of Lincoln’s Birthday, Wednesday, February 12, 2025, there will be NO trash, curbside composting nor recycling collection on the holiday.

Residents who normally receive Wednesday trash, curbside composting, or recycling collection may place their material at the curb Wednesday evening, for collection beginning Thursday, February 13. Residents should understand collection delays may occur after holidays. We appreciate patience as we work to collect the backlog of material.

For questions about Sanitation services and holiday schedules contact 311 or visit nyc.gov/sanitation.

About the New York City Department of Sanitation

✨ Don't Miss Out: Free Services for Nightlife Businesses!✨

Are you opening or operating bar, club or restaurant? Start the new year knowing your business is fully compliant with all regulations and ready for any inspections by scheduling a free compliance consultation with our NYC Business Express Service Team (NYC BEST).

Here at the NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) we also offer free legal and commercial lease assistance with legal experts to help you review your lease and negotiate the best contract for your business.

Take advantage of these free services. Reach out to us — we’re here to support you throughout the every stage of your business, from opening to full operation. And stay connected with us on Instagram to see what we're up to and learn about upcoming meetings and events. We look forward to helping your business thrive in 2025!

Request Free Services

New York City Transit MTA Construction Bulletin: Myrtle Avenue Line Painting and Steel Repair

The MTA is investing in steel repair work and a new coating system on the Myrtle Avenue line between Myrtle-Broadway and Fresh Pond Road to renew and increase the longevity of the elevated structure.

Abrasive Blasting and Painting on Myrtle Avenue between Hart Street and Central Avenue.

Beginning on or about Monday, February 17th for approximately 4 weeks.

This project involves comprehensive painting and steel repairs at six stations, spanning from Myrtle Avenue Station to Fresh Pond Road Station along the M train line. By addressing structural steel needs and applying new protective coatings, we aim to improve the appearance, reduce corrosion, and extend the lifespan of this vital elevated structure. Construction activities will take place 7 days a week, typically between 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

Contact Us
646-212-2024 | MyrtleAvenueLineRehabilitation@gmail.com
For all inquiries related to other MTA projects, please dial 511.

MTA Releases Fall 2024 Survey Results with Strong Improvements in LIRR Customer Satisfaction and Safety Among Subway Riders

Subway Scores Increase in Safety on Trains and Stations
LIRR Customers Reporting Improvement in On-Time Performance and Transfer Experience
Overall Satisfaction with Metro-North Increases on All Lines
See Results of Fall 2024 NYC Transit Customer Counts Survey
See Results of Fall 2024 Metro-North and LIRR Customer Counts Survey

The MTA announced the results of the Fall 2024 Customers Count Survey, which launched on Tuesday, Oct. 15, and received responses from 82,222 customers. The results showed increased overall satisfaction for Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North riders and increases in feeling safe on subways and buses.

MTA Releases Fall 2024 Survey Results

NYC Votes will be hosting Civics Week trainings across the city.

February 3, 2025 — Join NYC Votes and Civics For All for a set of interactive Voter Registration Trainings across New York City. Attendees will be trained on how to plan and host a voter engagement event during Civics For All’s annual Civics Week (March 10-14). Refer to the list below for training times, dates, and locations:

Brooklyn Training: February 4th, 4:30-6:30 pm
Location: Public Library Central Branch, Info Commons Lab 10 Grand Army Plz Brooklyn, NY 11238

Queens Training: February 5th, 3:30-5:30 pm
Location: Long Island City Library (2nd Floor Meeting Room)
37-44 21st St Queens, NY 11101

Staten Island Training: February 11th, 4-6 pm
Location: St. George Library Center 5 Central Ave Staten Island, NY 10301

Bronx Training: February 13th, 4-6 pm
Location: 910 Morris Ave The Bronx, NY 10451

Manhattan Training: February 25th, 4-6 pm
Location: Campaign Finance Board, 12th Floor 100 Church St New York, NY 10007

Students who attend will be provided with refreshments and the opportunity to earn service hours for the training and for planning/hosting an event. If you cannot attend an in-person session, we are also offering two virtual sessions on February 6 and February 27. Please RSVP for these events in advance on the NYC Votes events page.

For questions, please contact the NYC Votes Youth Programs Team at youth@nyccfb.info.

New Year’s Resolution: Get your housing questions answered

Complete your New Year’s Resolution – get your NYC housing answers from Housing Information Classes. Presented by the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) in partnership with NYC Public Schools’ Parent University.

All classes are free and taught over Zoom.

Live interpretation in Spanish, Chinese, and Bangla available for classes in bold below!

We’re ready to help everyone with three sets of classes:

Dates in bold will have interpretation into Spanish, Mandarin, and Bangla.

General NYC Housing Classes:

February 11 at 6pm - NYC Housing Connect: The Affordable Housing Lottery – REGISTER HERE
February 13 at 12pm – NYC Housing Connect: The Affordable Housing Lottery - REGISTER HERE
February 19 at 6pm – Financial Empowerment to Access Housing – REGISTER HERE
February 20 at 12pm – Housing Court: What to Expect – REGISTER HERE
February 24 at 6pm – Housing Court: What to Expect – REGISTER HERE
February 27 at 12pm - Pests: Eliminate Rodents, Bedbugs, and Roaches Using Integrated Pest Management – REGISTER HERE
March 4 at 12pm – Financial Empowerment to Access Housing – REGISTER HERE
March 5 at 6pm – Pests: Eliminate Rodents, Bedbugs, and Roaches Using Integrated Pest Management – REGISTER HERE

Tenants Classes:

March 11 at 6pm - Rent Stabilized & Rent Control Tenants: Know Your Rights – REGISTER HERE
March 13 at 12pm - Tenants: Know Your Rights – Market Rate Apartments and Good Cause Protections – REGISTER HERE
March 18 at 6pm – Rental Housing Discrimination and Harassment – REGISTER HERE
March 20 at 12pm - Rent Stabilized & Rent Control Tenants: Know Your Rights – REGISTER HERE
March 25 at 6pm - Tenants: Know Your Rights – Market Rate Apartments and Good Cause Protections – REGISTER HERE
March 27 at 12pm – Rental Housing Discrimination and Harassment – REGISTER HERE

Classes for Homeowners:

April 2 at 6pm - Owning a Home in NYC – REGISTER HERE
April 3 at 12pm - Department of Buildings: Rules, Permits, Summons, and More – REGISTER HERE
April 8 at 12pm - Lead-Based Paint Basics for Homeowners – REGISTER HERE
April 10 at 6pm – Avoiding Deed Theft: A Homeowner's Guide – REGISTER HERE
April 15 at 12pm – Avoiding Deed Theft: A Homeowner's Guide – REGISTER HERE
April 17 at 6pm - Department of Buildings: Rules, Permits, Summons, and More – REGISTER HERE
April 22 at 12pm - Owning a Home in NYC – REGISTER HERE
April 24 at 6pm – Energy Efficiency and Solar Power for Homeowners – REGISTER HERE

January 2025

MTA Capital Projects Public Hearing

On February 4, 2025, the MTA will hold a public hearing on its request for federal financial assistance from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for certain capital projects.

The hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, February 4, 2025, and begins at 6:00 pm registration closes at 6:30 pm. CART Captioning and American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting services will be available.

This will be a hybrid hearing with in-person participation as well as via Zoom’s online platform and conference call feature, with a livestream available on the MTA 2025 Capital Projects hearing website at https://new.mta.info/2025-capital-projects-hearing.

Thank you for your continued support.

MTA Government & Community Relations

NYC Commission on Gender Equity Know Your Rights

The NYC Human Rights Law prohibits discrimination based on a person's actual or perceived gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, immigration status, race, disability, veteran status, and age. NYC is committed to supporting all New Yorkers.

LGBTQ health Care Bill of Rights: Learn about the rights you have in NYC health care settings.
Sexual and reproductive Health Care Bill of Rights: Learn about your right to access sexual and reproductive health care, including abortion.

Workers Bill of Rights: Learn about your labor and employment rights, regardless of immigration status.

Be #FDNYSmart this Winter

On Wednesday, January 22, 2025, FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker and Department officials shared winter safety tips as cold weather continues to impact in New York City. To view the press briefing please click here

The winter season brings about many changes in your home, including the need to stay warm during the cold weather. The winter and holiday season is also the fire season, with more than one-third of home fires occurring during the months of December, January and February. Most fires and injuries are preventable by taking precautions to keep you and your family safe.

Be #FDNYSmart this winter by following/sharing these safety tips:

Safely Heat Your Home

Never use the kitchen oven or gas range to heat your home or apartment. Such improper use could cause dangerous levels of carbon monoxide to accumulate, causing severe illness and possible death.
Have a qualified technician install all new equipment.
Have a qualified professional inspect your equipment annually. The inspection will ensure that the system is maintained in proper working order and identify any parts that require repair or replacement.
Schedule regular cleaning of your boiler, furnace and hot water heater, including the chimney and chimney connectors.
Have your wood-burning stove or fireplace, including the chimney and connectors, inspected every year by a professional.
Keep a glass or metal screen in front of fireplace openings to prevent embers or sparks from jumping out

Electric Space Heaters:

GIVE SPACE HEATERS SPACE. Heaters should be placed at least three feet from any combustible material, such as bedding and furniture.
Never use an extension cord with a space heater.
Inspect the electrical cord for damage before each use.
Keep young children and pets away from space heaters.
Only use equipment that has the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Mark.
Avoid using electric space heaters in bathrooms or other areas where they may come in contact with water.
Turn off/unplug the space heater whenever you leave the room or go to sleep.

Electric Blankets

Use only electric blankets that have the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Mark.
Replace all electric blankets that are more than 10 years old. (99% of blanket fires have been caused by blankets 10 years or older.)
Purchase blankets with an automatic safety shut off. (The device will shut off the blanket if the temperature gets too high.)
Always buy new electric blankets; second-hand blankets may not be safe.
Replace any electric blanket that has broken or frayed cords or scorch marks.
Avoid tucking the electric blanket in at the sides of the bed.
Avoid placing other blankets or comforters on top of an electric blanket while in use.
Warm the bed with your electric blanket and turn it off before going to bed.

Remember always to have and maintain working Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors in your home.

For more winter fire safety tips, translatable in over 80 languages please visit Seasonal Safety - FDNY Smart

Thank you in advance for sharing our safety information. To get more information about hosting a fire safety education event, please visit www.fdnysmart.org

Update Work Zone Safety Billboard Contest

The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) is pleased to invite all New York City high school students in grades 9-12 to participate in the We’re Working Here: Work Zone Safety Billboard Design Competition. The design contest encourages students to develop public service announcements that remind the public to slow down and take caution in work zones. With the majority of New Yorkers coming across work zones daily, we are calling on the next generation of drivers to help educate all roadway users about ways to change dangerous behaviors and prevent work zone intrusions that can lead to injuries and fatalities for both the public and work crews. Please read the agency’s full announcement HERE.

Contest application materials are available at www.nyc.gov/WorkZoneSafety
Submission deadline is Friday, January 31, 2025.
Winning design will be featured on a large-scale billboard as part of New York City’s recognition of National Work Zone Awareness week in April 2025. Cash prize will be awarded to the student’s school.

Mark your calendar, NYC Children Youth Development Specialist Hiring Event is on February 20, 2025

The Administration for Children’s Services is hosting a Youth Development Specialist Hiring Event on Thursday, February 20, 2025, from 10:00AM-3:00PM. This in-person hiring event offers qualified candidates the chance to meet with hiring managers, interview, and receive a HIRING DECISION AND CONDITIONAL JOB OFFER ON THE SPOT!

Here, at NYC Children, we are looking to hire for the position of Youth Development Specialist. This is an amazing career for anybody who wishes to be a role model and a champion for youth while making a difference and giving back to their community.

Registration is now open for NYC Children Youth Development Specialist Hiring Event!

Applicants are required to preregister by or before Monday, February 17, 2025: https://forms.office.com/g/1bA2rgsfHK

NOTE: To attend this event, applicants must meet the minimum qualifications for the Youth Development Specialist position to be considered for an interview. Human Resources will prescreen applicants to ensure they meet these requirements, therefore, eligible candidates deemed qualified will receive an interview invitation.

To learn more about the Youth Development Specialist position, applicants can visit: https://www.nyc.gov/site/acs/about/work/yds.page

Know anyone who’s a good fit? If so, high school graduates, current college students, recent college graduates, or alumni in the following majors or minors are highly preferred: social work, counseling, education, recreation, criminal justice, psychology, biology, sociology, human services.

Only professional satisfactory experience working directly with juveniles or young adults (ages 10-24) in one of the following: Educational setting; Juvenile or young adult detention, or; Community services setting performing juvenile detention, education, vocational rehabilitation or education, antiviolence work, mental health, counseling, mentoring, youth/young adult leadership development, recreation, sports or athletics, health promotion, community organizing, and/or closely related activities are acceptable. Which can include internships, volunteer work, athletic programs, or closely related experience.

CAMPTOPIA - Brooklyn's biggest summer camp fair Tickets, Sun, Feb 2, 2025 at 11:00 AM | Eventbrite

Looking for somewhere to bring your child for the summer while you work. Mommy Poppins and Brooklyn Bridge Parents have partnered up to host CAMPTOPIA, NYC's biggest summer camp fair ever with 30+free kid's activities! Unlike traditional camp fairs, this event provides an opportunity for families to experience camps in person. They will have 30+ free kid's activities for all ages including STEM fun, games, face painting, DJ, crafts, dance lessons, freebies and more. Plus, lots of information and early bird specials for summer camps '25. The camp fair will take place at Atlantic Terminal Mall on the ground floor next to Party City at 625 Atlantic Ave (opposite Barclay's Center), a shopping destination and main transit hub located at the junction of popular Downtown Brooklyn/Prospect Heights/Fort Greene neighborhoods.

If interested, please copy the link to reserve a spot-

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/camptopia-brooklyns-biggest-summer-camp-fair-tickets-1079357159319

Teen mental health support group starting Thursday, January 30

For over 40 years, the National Alliance on Mental Illness of New York City (NAMI-NYC) has offered life-changing support, education, and advocacy programs to families and individuals affected by mental illness.

NAMI-NYC is proud to announce that we are now offering FREE peer-led support services to youth ages 14-18 living with mental health challenges throughout the five boroughs. Our programs include:

Teen Mental Health Support Group: Facilitated by young people close in age, teen participants will discuss what’s on their minds and how to get support. Meets weekly and virtually starting Thursday, January 30, 4-5 PM. Link to join.
Helpline for Teens: Looking for a therapist or concerned about a friend? Another peer – someone close to your age – will respond to your mental health questions: naminyc.org/helpline.

To receive reminders about the upcoming support group and other teen mental health news from NAMI-NYC, please fill out this interest form.

NYC Green Fund Grassroots Grant Spring 2025 - NOW LIVE

We’re excited to announce that the next round of the NYC Green Fund Grassroots Grant Spring 2025 is LIVE and accepting applications! This program supports community groups across NYC in activating and enriching parks and open spaces in all five boroughs.

Program Overview:
The NYC Green Fund Grassroots grant program is intended to advance the viability of grassroots initiatives across parks and open spaces in all five boroughs and to foster a resilient network of equitable public green spaces. The NYC Green Fund Grassroots grant program provides support for a range of programming areas including open space stewardship, environmental action, organizational development, health and wellness, youth development, arts and culture, and Urban Forest Grants brought to you by Con Edison. With direct funding and technical assistance, diverse community groups will receive support in their work to activate and enrich parks and open spaces across NYC.

Organizations whose total operating expenses were under $175,000 in the last calendar year may be awarded one- or two-year grants of up to $40,000 per year. The average grant size in 2024 was $5,000, and the largest grant awarded was $36,800.

How to Apply:
Please visit our Grants Portal to submit an application. In the meantime, feel free to reach out with any questions at GreenFundGrassroots@cityparksfoundation.org or to share this grant opportunity with your network.

Key Dates:

Application Opens: Wednesday,January 22, 2025
Application Deadline: Friday, February 28, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET
Public Info Sessions:
- Session 1 Monday, January 27, 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm — Register Here
  Session 2 Thursday, February 6, 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm — Register Here
  Session 3 Wednesday, February 12, 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm — Register Here
  Session 4 Tuesday, February 18, 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm — Register Here
  Session 5 Monday, February 24, 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm — Register Here

Key Links:

We look forward to supporting your impactful work in NYC parks and open spaces!

2024-2025 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Regular Benefit Closing Tuesday, January 21 at 5:00pm

New York State has announced the 2024-25 HEAP Regular Benefit will close today, Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at 5:00pm. All applications submitted online via ACCESS HRA or postmarked on or before the deadline will be processed.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership, and for all that you do every day to help New Yorkers in need.

Sincerely,

Office of Community Outreach
NYC Department of Social Services

Funding Opportunity from the Bureau of Health Equity and Community Engagement

Below is a funding opportunity available through the Bureau of Health Equity and Community Engagement. Applications are due by 11:59pm on Feb 3, 2025.

Name of Funding Opportunity: Funding to Conduct Focus Groups with Parents and Caregivers of Children with Disabilities (Medicaid-Eligible)

Number of awards available: up to 13 awards

Funding amount: up to $8,200 each

Contract period: 4/1/2025 – 8/31/2025

Summary: Funding to support organizations who can conduct in person or virtual guided discussions and/or focus groups for parents and caregivers of children with disabilities who receive Medicaid in New York State, and do not live in New York City.

Please read funding opportunity carefully to determine whether your organization is eligible to apply.

Click here for more information and to apply: https://www.healthresearch.org/request-for-bids-focus-groups-with-parents-and-caregivers-of-children-with-disabilities/

Thank you,

Bureau of Health Equity and Community Engagement

DSNY Issues Snow Alert for Sunday, January 19 at 7:00 a.m.

Massive Number of New York’s Strongest Reporting to Work on Holiday Weekend as Forecasts Predict Plowable Snowfall Across Much of the City; Do Your Part by Driving Safely – OR NOT AT ALL!

The New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) has issued a Snow Alert for Sunday, January 19, 2025, beginning at 7:00 a.m. and continuing until 2:00 a.m. Monday. A Snow Alert is the Department’s “higher level” snow-fighting notification, as opposed to the “lower level” Winter Operations Advisory. While there have been several Winter Operations Advisories this winter, this is the first storm to warrant a Snow Alert.

Current forecasts suggest that precipitation may begin as early as 7:00 a.m. as a wintry mix, becoming all snow by noon and reaching plowable depths of two inches in parts of the City by 4:00 p.m. Precipitation is expected to cease citywide by approximately 2:00 a.m. Monday.

In order to prepare for this plowable snow event, the entirety of New York’s Strongest will be working on 12-hour shifts beginning at midnight Sunday. Sanitation Workers will affix plows to collection trucks and spread up to 20 million pounds of salt across the City using more than 700 salt spreaders to prevent ice accretion. As soon as depths of two inches are reported, nearly 2,000 plows can begin rolling across the City – driven by the heroes in green.

Thanks to a historic investment in personnel, equipment, and technology, the Department is able to salt and plow every neighborhood at the same time and level of service as warranted, and to treat both bike lanes and car lanes simultaneously.

For this weather event, DSNY is also activating snow equipment at NYC Parks, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, and the New York City Department of Transportation.

New Yorkers should know: DSNY is working to ensure your safety. Do your part both for yourself and for the Strongest by staying off the roads or, if you absolutely must drive, by doing so slowly, safely, and carefully.

Additional information about the City’s winter weather response is available at nyc.gov/snow.

Operations Update

Thanks to historic investments in DSNY, the Department’s Workers and equipment are more prepared for winter weather than ever before.

When plowable depths of 2” or more are reached, residents will be able to track the progress of DSNY snow removal vehicles at nyc.gov/PlowNYC. Remember, a plowed or salted street will not show blacktop right away.

Trash/Recycling Collection:

There is no change to DSNY collection or to bin requirements at this time, however, there is no collection Monday due to the MLK Jr. Day holiday. Residents can find more information about post-holiday collection here.

Snow Clearing Information

If the snow stops falling between:

7 a.m. and 5 p.m., property owners must clear sidewalks within 4 hours
5 p.m. and 9 p.m., property owners must clear sidewalks within 14 hours
9 p.m. and 7 a.m., property owners must clear sidewalks by 11 a.m.

The fine for failure to clear sidewalks is $100 for the first offense, $150 for the second offense and $250 for the third offense.

Alternate Side Parking

There is no Alternate Side Parking on Sundays, and Alternate Side Parking rules are suspended Monday, January 20, due to the MLK Jr. Day holiday.

Find information on Sanitation snow operations along with residents’ responsibilities during and after snow at nyc.gov/snow.

NYC DOT Art Car-Free Earth Day Art Interventions: Request for Proposals

NYC DOT Art recently released the Car-Free Earth Day Art Interventions Call for Artists: Request for Proposals. On Saturday, April 26, 2025, NYC DOT will host its annual Car-Free Earth Day event, transforming NYC streets into active and attractive public spaces. As part of the event, NYC DOT Art is seeking environmentally conscious professional artists to submit proposals for new or existing artwork to be presented as a one-day installation along the event route. Selected artists may receive up to $10,000 to cover all expenses to design, fabricate, and present the artwork.

Application deadline: Sunday, February 9, 2025 before 11:59 pm EST

NYC DOT Art Car-Free Earth Day Art Interventions RFP PDF: https://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/downloads/pdf/cfed-rfp-2025.pdf

NYC DOT Art Car-Free Earth Day Art Interventions RFP application: https://nycdotart.submittable.com/submit

New Year’s Resolution: Get your housing questions answered

All classes are free and taught over Zoom.

Live interpretation in Spanish, Chinese, and Bangla available for classes in bold below!

We’re ready to help everyone with three sets of classes:

Dates in bold will have interpretation into Spanish, Mandarin, and Bangla.

General NYC Housing Classes:

February 11 at 6pm - NYC Housing Connect: The Affordable Housing Lottery – REGISTER HERE
February 13 at 12pm – NYC Housing Connect: The Affordable Housing Lottery - REGISTER HERE
February 19 at 6pm – Financial Empowerment to Access Housing – REGISTER HERE
February 20 at 12pm – Housing Court: What to Expect – REGISTER HERE
February 24 at 6pm – Housing Court: What to Expect – REGISTER HERE
February 27 at 12pm - Pests: Eliminate Rodents, Bedbugs, and Roaches Using Integrated Pest Management – REGISTER HERE
March 4 at 12pm – Financial Empowerment to Access Housing – REGISTER HERE
March 5 at 6pm – Pests: Eliminate Rodents, Bedbugs, and Roaches Using Integrated Pest Management – REGISTER HERE

Tenants Classes:

March 11 at 6pm - Rent Stabilized & Rent Control Tenants: Know Your Rights – REGISTER HERE
March 13 at 12pm - Tenants: Know Your Rights – Market Rate Apartments and Good Cause Protections – REGISTER HERE
March 18 at 6pm – Rental Housing Discrimination and Harassment – REGISTER HERE
March 20 at 12pm - Rent Stabilized & Rent Control Tenants: Know Your Rights – REGISTER HERE
March 25 at 6pm - Tenants: Know Your Rights – Market Rate Apartments and Good Cause Protections – REGISTER HERE
March 27 at 12pm – Rental Housing Discrimination and Harassment – REGISTER HERE

Classes for Homeowners:

April 2 at 6pm - Owning a Home in NYC – REGISTER HERE
April 3 at 12pm - Department of Buildings: Rules, Permits, Summons, and More – REGISTER HERE
April 8 at 12pm - Lead-Based Paint Basics for Homeowners – REGISTER HERE
April 10 at 6pm – Avoiding Deed Theft: A Homeowner's Guide – REGISTER HERE
April 15 at 12pm – Avoiding Deed Theft: A Homeowner's Guide – REGISTER HERE
April 17 at 6pm - Department of Buildings: Rules, Permits, Summons, and More – REGISTER HERE
April 22 at 12pm - Owning a Home in NYC – REGISTER HERE
April 24 at 6pm – Energy Efficiency and Solar Power for Homeowners – REGISTER HERE

Service Alert: No Trash, Curbside Composting or Recycling Collection on Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Monday, January 20, 2025

The New York City Department of Sanitation announced that in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Monday, January 20, there will be NO trash, curbside composting nor recycling collection on the holiday.

Residents who normally receive Monday trash, curbside composting, or recycling collection may place their material at the curb Monday evening, for collection beginning Tuesday, January 21. Residents should understand collection delays may be common after holidays. We appreciate patience as we work to collect the backlog of material.

For questions about Sanitation services and holiday schedules contact 311 or visit nyc.gov/sanitation.

About the New York City Department of Sanitation

Run for a Seat on NYC Community & Citywide Education Councils, beginning Jan. 2025

Starting on January 13, 2025, parents will be able to apply to run for a seat on any of the 32 Community Education Councils and 4 Citywide Education Councils for which they are eligible. Then, candidates will campaign from late February through April, and finally, voting will take place from late April through May 13.

Visit on.nyc.gov/Elections2025 to stay tuned for further updates as these dates approach and to sign up for a New York City School Account (NYCSA) which is necessary to run for a seat and vote.

Become a Community Board Member

If you’re an NYC resident aged 16 or older, you can apply to join a Community Board now through February 14, 2025!

Apply Here

Applying to Kindergarten for next year? The Application process is now open

Below are the key dates for families applying during the 2024-2025 school year for admission to the 2025-2026 school year. Children born in 2020 will be eligible for kindergarten in September 2025.

Tuesday, December 10, 2024: Kindergarten and Kindergarten G&T Application Opens
Friday, January 24, 2025: Kindergarten and Kindergarten G&T Application Closes
Wednesday, April 2, 2025: Kindergarten and Kindergarten G&T Offer Release

Gifted & Talented (G&T)

Families are able to apply to kindergarten Gifted and Talented programs on the same general kindergarten application. If you listed G&T programs on your application, eligibility will be determined after you apply. Learn more about G&T programs here

For information about the 2025 kindergarten admissions process click here.

El Puente Blood Drive - January 29th at the Bushwick Leadership Center (311 Central Avenue)

To schedule an appointment, please use the following link: https://donate.nybc.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/326704

Friends of Irving Square Park 2025 Kickoff Meeting

Join us as we discuss plans for 2025. We’re looking for neighborhood input as we’ll discuss grant applications, brainstorm yearly programming, and discuss our gardening/planting goals.

Wednesday January 22nd 7-9pm @ St. Michel’s Cafe 462 Irving Ave

We’d love to have your voice in our group chat! Follow this link to join our Signal chat for more regular info on the park.

Get Capital for Your Small Business – LAST CALL!

Event Details:

Date: January 15, 2025, from 9:00 AM-1:00 PM
Location: Pace University, One Pace Plaza – Student Center.

This free event will bring together more than a dozen lenders, including:

Banks and Credit Unions:Flushing Bank, Valley National Bank, TD Bank, Carver Bank, Brooklyn Cooperative Federal Credit Union, and Spring Bank.

CDFIs and Alternative Lenders: Accompany Capital, Ascendus, Grow America, Lendistry, Pursuit, and TruFund Financial Services.

Attendees will hear directly from lenders about their financing programs and have the opportunity to connect with them individually during the networking session.

NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ISSUES WINTER WEATHER ALERT FOR MONDAY JANUARY 6 FOR SNOW WITH POTENTIAL IMPACTS TO THE EVENING COMMUTE

The National Weather Service Is Forecasting Under 1 Inch

Alternate Side Parking is Suspended for the Three Kings Holiday

January 5, 2025 — The New York City Emergency Management Department today issued a winter weather alert for Monday, January 6. According to the latest National Weather Service forecast, light snow will begin Monday morning and continue into the evening. Snow amounts of under an inch are expected with a reasonable worst-case scenario of 2 inches. Predicted amounts may be adjusted as the storm approaches.

Snowfall will be followed by cold conditions through the end of the week. Temperatures will be five to ten degrees below normal with daily wind chills in the teens.

“We urge New Yorkers to prepare for a challenging morning commute on Monday, as this winter weather system brings some snow accumulation early in the New Year. The snow will cause slippery road conditions, that will impact drivers and pedestrians,” said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “We encourage all New Yorkers to use mass transit, allow for extra travel time, monitor the forecast, and exercise caution.”

The City’s Sanitation Department has filled more than 700 salt spreaders and is already pretreating New York City’s roadways and bike lanes with liquid brine today, Sunday. The Department is prepared for the worst-case scenario, and has staff and equipment ready to deploy plows in every sector in the event of accumulations over 2 inches.

The Department of Social Services has issued a Code Blue Weather Alert for unhoused individuals in New York City in anticipation of the expected cold temperatures. A Code Blue is issued when the temperature or wind chill is forecast to drop to 32 degrees Fahrenheit between 4 p.m. and 8 a.m.

During Code Blue, experienced outreach teams work to connect unsheltered New Yorkers with resources including shelters, drop-in centers and safe havens and stabilization beds. Street homeless outreach teams will proactively contact vulnerable individuals on their Code Blue Priority Lists regularly and repeatedly to ensure their health and safety is protected during the extreme cold and to encourage them to accept services, including transportation to a shelter placement.

Safety Tips

Allow for extra travel time. New Yorkers are urged to use public transportation.
If you must drive, drive slowly. Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible.
Vehicles take longer to stop on snow and ice than on dry pavement.
Pedestrians should exercise caution and avoid slippery surfaces; some ice may not be visible. Wear sturdy boots that provide traction to reduce slipping. Use handrails when using stairs.
Take care when walking on snow and ice, especially if you are an older adult. Older adults should take extra care outdoors to avoid slips and falls from icy conditions.
Have heightened awareness of cars, particularly when approaching or crossing intersections.
Wear layers including a hat, gloves/mittens, and a scarf to stay protected from the cold. And keep clothes and shoes dry, if a layer becomes wet, remove it.
Keep fingertips, earlobes, and noses covered if you go outside.

For more safety tips, visit NYC.gov/SevereWeather. Before and during an emergency, the City will send emergency alerts and updates to New Yorkers through various channels including Notify NYC, the City's free emergency notification system. Through Notify NYC, New Yorkers can receive phone calls, text messages, and/or emails alerts about traffic and transit disruptions and other emergencies. Sign up for Notify NYC to receive free emergency alerts and updates in your preferred language 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.

STAY CONNECTED: Twitter:@NotifyNYC (emergency notifications)

@nycemergencymgt (emergency preparedness info)

Facebook:/NYCemergencymanagement

Save Money on the Congestion Relief Zone Toll

Starting January 5, 2025, vehicles entering the Congestion Relief Zone in Manhattan—local streets and avenues at or below 60 St—will be charged a toll. The program will reduce traffic, improve air quality, and fund better public transit.

The toll amount will depend on the type of vehicle, time of day, whether any crossing credits apply, and the method of payment. Most vehicles with E-ZPass will be charged $9 in the peak period or $2.25 overnight, once daily. Discounts or exemptions may apply– visit mta.info/discounts for more details.

E-ZPass is the best way to pay the toll. Drivers will be able to pay with their existing E-ZPass transponder and account. If you already have an E-ZPass account, make sure it is up to date with your current license plate number to ensure you are charged the E-ZPass toll rate and receive any peak period crossing credits.

For more information, visit congestionreliefzone.mta.info.   Sign up for newsletter updates at mta.info/crznewsletter.

Start 2025 Right: Free Business Support for Your New Year’s Goals!

Start 2025 with action! Take charge of your New Year’s resolution and set your small business venture on the path to success. Whether you're planning to expand your business or just starting your venture, the Pace University Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is here to support your journey.

We offer FREE personalized business counseling to help you navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. Some key areas where we can assist include:

Funding Assistance: Guidance on financing options, from SBA loans to traditional funding, and how to prepare the necessary documents.
Marketing Support: Building a website, developing marketing strategies, and building a brand that resonates.
Business Growth Strategies: Identifying new market opportunities, including government procurement and contract opportunities.
Data-Driven Decisions: Market research insights to help you understand your competition and refine your target audience.

Sessions are available in-person in Manhattan and Brooklyn or virtually for your convenience.

Get Started Today:

Meet With A Business Advisor | Pace University SBDC

News Archive 2025

News Archive 2025

December 2025

DSNY News: No Trash, Curbside Composting or Recycling Collection on New Year’s Day, Thursday, January 1, 2026

DSNY News: Special Christmas Tree Collection is…NO LONGER SPECIAL

DSNY Issues Winter Operations Advisory for Tuesday, December 23 at 1 a.m.

HEAP Applications for the 2025 - 2026 Winter Heating Season are OPEN

DSNY News: No Trash, Curbside Composting or Recycling Collection on Christmas Day, Thursday, December 25, 2025

New York City Contracting Summit - January 14, 2026

DSNY Issues Snow Alert for Saturday, December 13 at 7 p.m.

Notice of Funding Opportunity - EmpowHER: Strengthening Women’s Sexual Health through HIV Prevention RFP

DSS/HRA Announcement: The Relocation of the NYC Department of Social Services-Human Resources Administration (DSS/HRA) Refugee and Immigrant Service Center

ACE Roll Out Notification-B60 B68

You Are Democracy Event: Flourishing Community Meetings

FDNY Control the Bleed Training Program

NYC Trash Academy 2026 - Spread the Word

*NEW DATE ALERT* BUSHWICK FARMERS MARKET

Planned Service Swap on F/M Lines starting December 8th

DSNY News: It’s TIMMMMMMEEEEE! NYC Department of Sanitation’s “Winter Schedule” Begins for 2025

Health Bucks Expire December 31

NYC Commission on Gender Equity Bystander Intervention to Address Gender-Based Street Harassment

2025-2026 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Regular Component Opening Date Update

Two Weeks Remaining: Don't Wait to Submit Your Open Data Week proposal

November 2025

NYC BEST Bootcamp: Start Your Business the BEST Way!

Notice of Commission Meeting Wednesday, December 3, 2025

Thanksgiving Day Office Closures

Your Inside Look at NYC DOT's Bus Accessibility Work

Interborough Express-Design Phase Begins

Virtual Info Session – Improving Bus Stops & Accessibility

DSNY News: No Trash, Curbside Composting or Recycling Collection on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 27, 2025

Idea Generation for The People's Money has been extended to November 26!

Help NYC Sanitation Catch Illegal Dumpers – and Be Eligible for a Financial Reward

October 2025

New York State' Commercial Security Tax Credit - Due Next Friday October 31st

Supporting Survivors: Community Event & Discussion

What to Know About the November General Election

What is this election for?

When is the election?

How do I register to vote?

Can I vote if I don't speak English?

Community Partnerships RFP Now Open – Submit Your Proposals

The People's Money's Fourth Cycle has Begun — Submit Your Idea Now!

Important OMNY Upgrade This Weekend - Reload Your OMNY Cards by this Friday, October 3rd

Stargazing with the Amateur Astronomers Association of New York

Let's celebrate our urban forest together on City of Forest Day 2025!

September 2025

Notice of Funding Opportunity - Concept Paper - Rise Up: Building Capacity for HIV/STI Prevention and Sexual Health in Faith-Based Settings

Make History: NYC Civic Corps Opportunities at DORIS

HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO SPRAY FOR ADULT MOSQUITOES IN PARTS OF BROOKLYN AND QUEENS TO REDUCE RISK OF WEST NILE VIRUS

Con Edison Work Notice

DSNY News: Brooklyn’s Fall SAFE Disposal Event is Sunday, September 21, 2025

Poison Prevention - Sept 2025 Medicine Safety and Falls Prevention

Dining Out NYC Severe Weather Alert

45th Annual GreenThumb Harvest Fair

Stargazing with the Amateur Astronomers Association of New York

Summary of SNAP and Medicaid Changes in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)

August 2025

Stargazing with the Amateur Astronomers Association of New York

NYC Sanitation News: Fall SAFE Disposal Events for 2025

August is National Immunization Awareness Month – Important Resources to Share

No J Service between Crescent Street & Broad

Where We Live NYC 2025

HELP NYC RESPOND AND RECOVER: REPORT FLOOD DAMAGE AND SUBMIT 311 SERVICE REQUESTS

Save the Date for the 45th Annual GreenThumb Harvest Fair

Take Evergreen’s Business Survey – Share Your Priorities and Win a Prize!

Are Operating Costs Impacting Your NYC Small Business?

July 2025

Funding Availability for FY 2026 Brownfields Job Training Grants

Reminder: NYC Delivery Fee Law Changes Take Effect End of July

NYC Department of Social Services Network and Phone Outage – Service Impact Update

Help Improve Community Health in Brooklyn – Please Share this Survey

Take Action: Business Climate Survey

SAVE THE DATE: 4TH ANNUAL CITY OF FOREST DAY!

Free Virtual Hypertension Workshop Series

2025 Community Needs Assessment

Evergreen's Business Engagement Survey 2025

U.S. Internal Revenue Service Announcement

Heat Advisory & Air Quality Alert – July 16–17

NYC Green Fund Grassroots Grant Program Now Open! Deadline is August 22nd

NEW DATE ALERT BUSHWICK FARMERS MARKET