In this newsletter
26th Ward Office Updates • Community Events • Public Notices • Ways to get Involved • Job Opportunities • Resources.
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Dear Neighbors,
On Thursday, I partnered with The People's Lobby, faith leaders, and immigration advocates to hold a press conference to discuss the importance of our commitment to Chicago's sanctuary city status. Joined also by Alders Vásquez, Burnett, Gutiérrez, Hadden, Hall, Manaa-Hoppenworth, Ramirez, Ramirez-Rosa, Robinson, Rodríguez and State Senator Robert Peters, we were able to speak on the importance of Black and Brown solidarity in order to ensure the safety of asylum seekers, immigrants, undocumented, and families who have been historically disenfranchised. Building multiracial coalition to oppose the right-wing and white nationalist forces is how we maintain safety for all.
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We are also fighting for Parole for All, demanding that President Biden keep his promise by immediately offering parole and granting parole in place to the 11 million living and working undocumented workers. This is absolutely necessary for undocumented workers who work hard, risk their lives, and pay income taxes. We were able to successfully pass the resolution out of the Committee on Immigrant and Refugee Rights, and are excited to see it pass in City Council tomorrow.
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Building off our One Fair Wage steam, Alder Ramirez-Rosa and I ventured to the east coast with OFW President Saru Jayaraman to meet with the sponsors of bills in their respective governing bodies. We began at the tailend of the national coalition for OFW with an inspiring "People's History of the Restaurant Industry" performance as interpreted by Susan Sarandon, Radha Blank, Russel G. Jones, Staceyann Chin, J. Hoard, and Wallace Shawn. We then held a press conference with Connecticut State Senator and Labor Committee Co-Chair Julie Kushner to talk about the collaborative process of passing OFW. Prince George's County Councilmember Edward Burroughs, Del. Adrian Boafo, and other legislators welcomed us in Maryland to build connections with the Maryland OFW advocates.
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We wrapped up our evening with brief comments with Democracy Partners. Our final event for the trip was with Montgomery County Councilmember Will Jawando, who has been working tirelessly to move OFW in his county. This trip leaves me feeling hopeful that OFW will continue its legacy throughout the country.
Last week in the 26th Ward, a historic event unfolded as the steel Puerto Rican flags, standing since 1995, were illuminated for the first time. Over 350 attendees gathered, including representatives from the Puerto Rican Cultural Center and Choose Chicago, marking a proud moment for the community. I had the absolute privilege of hitting the switch to turn the lights on as the crowd counted down the moment. We encourage everyone to not only support the small businesses on Paseo Boricua but bring your holiday cheer as we embrace this season of giving.
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On Saturday, seven promotores canvassed the ward, knocking on 150+ doors and collecting 75+ service requests, demonstrating a commitment to bringing city services directly to residents. Promotores are the outreach workers from our office with the support of MiJente. They will continue to doorknock throughout the ward for the next three months encouraging residents to request a water test kit and to Bring Chicago Home.
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Additionally, a united front of elected officials, community leaders, and religious figures stood together for Las Posadas at the Logan Square eagle, rallying for affordable housing and supporting the Bring Chicago Home (BCH) coalition. BCH seeks to restructure the Real Estate Transfer Tax (RETT) to generate dedicated funds for permanent affordable housing, with voters deciding on this initiative on March 19, 2024. The proposal involves decreasing taxes for properties under $1 million and increasing them for properties exceeding $1 million. The 26th Ward stands in full support of this initiative, emphasizing the importance of providing dignified and safe housing for all residents, particularly those experiencing homelessness. The community is counting on widespread support to Bring Chicago Home. Click here to read the language on the referendum. If you have any questions, please contact my office.
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I was excited to speak at Community as a Campus' Girls Day at Play Sports Clinic where 69 young women from Chase Elementary, Jose de Diego Elementary, Moos Elementary, West Park STEAM Academy, Rowe Elementary, and Barreto's Boys and Girls Club. Roberto Clemente Community Academy hosted the volleyball, basketball, soccer, and cheer events. Special thank you to Laureus for sponsoring the clinic!
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If you are a senior, I invite you to attend this year’s Winter Senior Gala on Thursday from 12-4pm. Senator Aquino and I have planned an afternoon of fun that includes food, live music, games and raffles. Please call my office to pick up your tickets. (See the flyer and registration link below.)
Lastly, I have teamed up with the Board of Review to bring two property tax appeal events in the neighborhood. As we see our property taxes skyrocket, it is important to appeal them especially if you believe you have been taxed improperly. Join me and my team next week at the Humboldt Park Fieldhouse on Wednesday, December 20 at 5pm or on Thursday, December 21 at 6:30pm at the West Town Library.
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Your 26th Ward Alderperson,
Jessie Fuentes
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26th Ward Community Safety Town Hall
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Save the date for a 26th Ward Community Safety Town Hall on Monday, December 18th at Mcauliffe Elementary, 1841 N Springfield. At this Town Hall there will be reports from the Deputy Mayor of Community Safety, updated from violence prevention organizations, and information on ways to get engaged. Register at bit.ly/safety26.
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Join us on Thursday, December 14, 2023 from 12pm - 3pm for a Winter Senior Gala to be held at Regency Inn Banquets located at 5319 W. Diversey Ave. Guests can RSVP at: bit.ly/26gala. If you have any questions, please call 773.292.0202. Each senior (65+) needs to register individually. We look forward to celebrating with you all!
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Workshops for School Leadership
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You are invited to join the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) for interactive workshops tailored for school leaders who work directly with migrant students and families. Share strategies, networks, and partnerships so we can better serve our newcomers. This workshop will take place on Thursday, December 14th from 8am to 11am at the RCCA Welcoming Center (1147 N Western Ave). RSVP at marie@the26thward.org.
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Property Tax Appeal Workshop
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Learn about the tax appeal process and how to appeal! Join us for this property tax appeal workshop on December 20th, from 5pm to 7pm at the Humboldt Park Field house. Analysts will be on hand to assist with your appeal and answer questions in English and Spanish.
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17th Annual Paseo Boricua Parranda
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Join us for the 17th Annual Paseo Boricua Parranda featuring La Escuelita Bombera de Corazón on Saturday, December 23rd at 4pm beginning at Teresa Roldán Apartments (1154 N Campbell).
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Connect with the 26th Ward Office
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The 26th Ward Office will be closed on Thursday, December 14th, 2023 as staff will be hosting a Senior Gala to be held at Regency Inn Banquets. Normal operations will resume Friday, December 15th from 9am-3pm.
The 26th ward office is located at 2511 W Division St. The office's regular hours of operation are as follows:
- Monday 1 pm - 7 pm*
- Tuesday 10 am - 5 pm
- Wednesday 1 pm - 5 pm
- Thursday 10 am - 5 pm
- Friday 9 am - 3 pm.
*Ward Night: Monday's 5 pm - 7 pm
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Ward nights are an opportunity to meet with Alderperson Fuentes to talk to her about local or city issues and they take place every Monday from 5pm - 7pm. Ward night meetings are by appointment only and on a first come, first served basis.
If you would like to meet with Alderperson Fuentes during ward night, please call or email the ward office at 773-395-0143 or info@the26thward.org.
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We are excited to inspire our young people to get involved in government and organize in the community. If you are a youth (12-24 years old) that resides in the 26th Ward and wants to have a say in how we spend infrastructure money and what type of policies I champion, please sign up for our youth council by applying at bit.ly/youth26. Stay stunned for our next meeting date.
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Winter Supplies Needed for Asylum Seekers
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Donations of winter clothing and supplies for asylum seekers can be dropped off at our office (2511 W Division St) or any of the other drop off locations listed on the flyer above. Winter coats, blankets, winter gear and sleeping bags are especially in need.
Click here to purchase donation items.
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The 26th Ward community-based zoning process requires that anyone requesting a zoning change must first complete a zoning intake form. Once their intake form has been reviewed they will be invited to present their zoning request to the 26th Ward Zoning Advisory Committee and must answer additional questions posed by the committee. When applicable, the person requesting a zoning change may also be required to present their zoning request to the broader public during a community input meeting. For more information go to: the26thward.org/zoning.
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Join Alder. Fuentes and La Casa Norte for a Community Meeting to discuss a new short-term emergency housing program and youth center on Wednesday, January 10th from 6-7pm at La Casa Norte Community Center at 3533 W North Ave. RSVP at: rebrand.ly/LCN-RSVP.
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Bombazo Navideño + Art Market
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Celebrate the holiday season Bombazo Navideño + Art Market event at el Schomburg. Join us on Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 2538 W Division St for evening filled with music, art, and festive cheer. Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms of Bomba music, a traditional AfroPuerto Rican genre along with some traditional parranda songs that will have you dancing and singing all along. But that's not all! Explore the Art Market, where local artists share amazing work, you'll find the perfect gift for your loved ones or a special treat for yourself. Indulge in delicious street food and refreshing drinks from various vendors, adding a culinary delight to the festivities. Bring your friends and family to this lively event and create lasting memories together. Click here for tickets.
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California Clipper Music and Parranda Night
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Come out to the California Clipper on December 15th from 9pm to 12:30am for a special evening of music featuring artist Marizaida and her band Piraguas y Piropos followed by a parranda at 11pm.
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Palenque LSNA Panel on Gentrification and Demolitions
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Join us next Tuesday, December 19th 6pm-8pm, for a panel discussion around the complexities of gentrification and demolitions.
Click here to register. This panel will explore the multifaceted dimensions of gentrification and demolitions. Alder. Jessie Fuentes will be speaking on the panel.
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Spray Paint & Sing Holiday Party
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Join Chicago a cappella at The Graff (3525 W. Grand Ave. Chicago, IL 60651) on Friday, December 15 at 7 pm for a unique all-ages, family-friendly holiday party featuring an interactive spray paint workshop led by Studio W.I.P., photo booth, raffle prizes, drinks, local food, and singing! Chicago a cappella is a non-profit choral ensemble dedicated to advancing the art and appreciation of ensemble singing. Tickets are available on a sliding scale. Click here for more information.
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Family Night at Humboldt Park Health
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Join Humboldt Park Health for a festive evening on Thursday, December 21st (5-8pm). There will be free gifts including childrens coats and other fun surprises. For more information contact the HPH foundation at 312-824-6715 or foundation@hph.care.
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Winter Parking Ban Started Dec 1st
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Beginning December 1st, if you see a posted sign that says no parking between 3AM and 7AM that means that the winter overnight parking ban is in effect on this street, whether it snows or not. In the 26th Ward, Division Street is effected. Do not park at these locations between 3AM & 7AM from now until April 1st or you will be ticketed and towed. You should also avoid parking here during heavy snow storms when more than 2 inches of snow has fallen. If you believe that your vehicle has been towed you can dial 311 for more information or consult the City of Chicago’s homepage at www.Cityofchicago.Org.
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Now Open: Emergency Heating Repair Program
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The Emergency Heating Repair Program (EHRP) is a grant program available to income-eligible Chicago homeowners for service to repair or replace their furnace or boiler heating system. Grant funds are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. The program is open to Chicagoans who own and occupy a 1-to-4 unit residential property within the city limits. The property must be in habitable condition and not at risk of foreclosure. Commercial and mixed-use properties do not qualify.
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Postponed: Mobile Hours with Team Jimenez
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Mobile hours with State Rep. Lilian Jimenez's team are postponed this month.
For assistance with state services please contact their office or fill out a Constituent Service Request form: bit.ly/4thofficehelp
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If you are facing hard times, please review this list of pet support services, which are designed to keep you and your pets together. For additional resources please email askcacc@cityofchicago.org.
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The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) has introduce a new and improved interactive calendar, which you can click here to access. One of the key features of this calendar is the inclusion of the yearly meeting calendar for both the Commission for Public Safety and your local District Councils. By simply visiting this website, you can find the dates, times, and locations of all scheduled meetings.
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District Council Members and the Community will meet on December 21st at 6pm at 5217 W Diversy Ave. You can propose new meeting location ideas, other times to hold meetings, propose new speakers to come, suggest trainings you want to take during these meetings and propose goals for the Year 2024.
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Back to Business New State Business Grant Program
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Illinois B2B NewBiz will provide financial relief to businesses that started during the pandemic in the industries most impacted by the pandemic. Businesses that started during the pandemic have not been eligible for state grants and most federal emergency support provided for emergency relief to small businesses thus far. For information on eligibility and how to apply go to b2bnewbiz.com/.
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CPS Community Roundtables
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CPS will host Education Facilities Master Plan community roundtable sessions to provide information regarding the state of school facilities and gather feedback from families & members of the community. Register today to attend in person or virtually at: bit.ly/47ZhT8w.
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Run for your Local School Council
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As a former educator, I recognize the pivotal role that parental and community involvement plays in shaping a child's education. Research consistently highlights the positive impact of such engagement, leading to improved academic performance, attendance, and enhanced self-esteem for students. Local School Councils (LSCs) are instrumental in this regard, overseeing crucial aspects such as evaluating school principals, approving budgets, and endorsing improvement plans. In the 26th ward, I am dedicated to ensuring that every school benefits from a robust and complete LSC. Your participation in these councils is vital to sustaining the seamless operation of daily school functions. I encourage you to consider running for the LSC, as your input can contribute significantly to the educational landscape of our community. LSC elections are scheduled for April 10 at elementary schools and April 11 at high schools. The deadline to submit your application is February 8, 2024, at 3 pm. Visit cps.edu/lsc to learn more and apply.
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You could earn $275 a day working as a LSC Election Judge. Chicago Public Schools is looking for election judges for the Spring 2024 Local School Council Elections. Elections will be conducted in person at individual schools in April. For more information, contact the office of LSC relations at 773-553-1400 or email Iscrelations@cps.edu.
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El Arbol Generoso Mutual Aid Fundraiser
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Hermosa Neighborhood Association Fundraiser
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HAPPENING NOW! End of year 2023 fundraising for Hermosa Neighborhood Association. Donate now to help HNA's efforts for community engagement and outreach, youth program development, violence prevention initiatives, senior social programs, and to cover general operational costs. Any donation amount goes a long way. Donate at ourhermosa.org/donate.
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Paid Youth Peace Ambassador Program
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Applications are open for the Peace Ambassadors program at Alternatives. They are looking for 4-6 young people within the Humboldt Park zip codes. The program's main objective is to train young individuals on restorative justice practices, offer professional development for them to become restorative justice practitioners in their community, and provide mentorship. Through these comprehensive support systems, the Peace Ambassador program aims to promote young individuals to transform their lives and community, as well as provide stable income. If you or a young person you know are interested, apply at alternativesyouth.org/peace-ambassadors.
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Paid Youth Health Ambassador Program
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La Casa Norte is now accepting applications for their Spring 2024 Public Health Ambassadors Program. Youth 17-24 years old are encouraged to apply at bit.ly/PublicHealthAmbassadors2024.
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ESL Position at Clemente High School
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CCC is looking for an adult educator for English as a second language (ESL) to teach parents and community at Clemente High School (Tuesdays & Thursdays 9a-12). To apply or to share this job SCAN QR Code above or go here: bit.ly/teaching_esl.
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Other Career Opportunities
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Local Jobs
- New Life is hiring for several positions (Near Jackson
Blvd & Central Park Ave). They need help as they work to receive new arrivals. Bilingual language skills are required. For more information contact (773)531-4411.
- Monitor from 6pm-10pm - $16 per hour
- Security 10pm -6am - $20 per hour.
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Deadline:Small Business Grants
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The West Side United Small Business Grant was piloted in 2018 with the goal of increasing economic opportunities in Chicago’s West Side neighborhoods by offering unrestricted grants to entrepreneurs and small businesses. For-profit entrepreneurs and small business owners located in Humboldt Park, Belmont Cragin, and Hermosa are among those eligible to apply. West Side United will be awarding one (1) $10,000 grant to each selected business. Applications are due December 15, 2023. Click here to apply.
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New Program Connects Landlords and Vacant Apartments To Folks In Need
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Chicago Rents is a program that connects landlords to tenants through multiple housing subsidy programs, allowing property partners to receive guaranteed rent, fill vacant units, and access individualized support. Chicago Rents is a program that was created in response to COVID-19 to centralize property partner relationships across multiple housing programs. Through Chicago Rents, property partners are connected with Chicagoans in need of housing, filling unit vacancies and making a real difference in Chicago's neighborhoods. For additional information, please visit: allchicago.org/chicagorents.
If you are a landlord interested in joining the Chicago Rents program, you can click here to apply.
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If you know someone looking for reproductive justice resources in Chicago, they can go to this Department of Public Health resource page to use the City’s digital community resource directory. There is also a free talkline (1-888-493-0092) where operators are available to share information on various reproductive justice options.
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