|
|
|
|
WARD SERVICE OFFICE
1447 W. MORSE AVE
CHICAGO, IL 60626
773-338-5796
www.49thward.org
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Good morning neighbors,
Happy Father's Day weekend! I'm away spending some time with my Columbus family for a few days so Natalia and I will miss you all at Artists of the Wall Festival this year. Make sure to go out and enjoy all or community has to offer on this glorious weekend. Check out happenings below.
Have a safe and restful weekend,
Alderwoman Maria Hadden
|
|
|
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Click the links below to select the section that you want to read!
- CELEBRATIONS & APPRECIATIONS - good news for the week!
- WARD UPDATES - Community announcements, city services, and zoning/development updates
- INFRASTRUCTURE UPDATES - City services and infrastructure notices
- COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT - local events and ways to get involved
- ROGERS PARK ARTS - events, theatre, and other public arts news
- YOUTH SHINE IN 49 - school news, scholarship opportunities, and youth employment offerings
- NEED TO KNOW INFO - alerts, services, and government resources
- ADDITIONAL RESOURCES - links to resources housed on the 49th Ward website
|
|
|
Celebrations & Appreciations
|
|
|
Happy Father's Day to all of our dads, grandpas, and father figures. Your compassion and strength are so essential for our community! Wishing you the best Father's Day from Alderwoman Hadden and the 49th Ward.
|
|
Juneteenth, or Freedom Day, is a significant date in American history and the African-American experience. Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, when on June 19th, 1865, the last major general ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas, even though the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect over 2 years prior. Juneteenth 2026 is on Friday, June 19th. We wish all who celebrate a happy Juneteenth!
On Tuesday, June 16, Alderwoman Hadden attended a flag-raising at Daley Plaza to commemorate Juneteenth and honor the invaluable contributions of the Black community in Chicago. Check out the above photos from a wonderful ceremony!
|
|
|
“We wanted the center to be a vibrant, living celebration of community, where we can learn together and share the joys of art and music and sport and play, because it’s in those moments that we’re reminded of our common humanity and strengthen the bonds of trust that not only make our lives richer, but make our democracy stronger.”
- President Obama
On Thursday, June 18th, the Obama Presidential Center held their grand opening ceremony! Located at 6001 S. Stony Island Ave. A star-studded celebration with live performances from some of our country's greatest artists, the event was one for our history books. You can watch a recorded broadcast here. And visit the Center.
|
|
|
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS RESOURCES
As Operation Midway Blitz continues and ICE agents have been active around the City, we want to remind neighbors of our Fighting Against Fascist Occupation resources. Know your rights, stay safe, and stay informed. Find our guide here. |
|
|
|
There are so many events in the 49th Ward this summer! Summer is always full of fun opportunities hosted throughout our ward at our parks, beaches, and even some streets! Here is a list you can use to keep track of some of the events that are being hosted through the ward. Be sure to check out the Rogers Park Business Alliance, the Park District, and the Rogers Park Library for information on other events as well!
|
|
North Side Queer Pride Coming June 27-28
|
|
North Side Queer Pride (NSQP) is a coalition of community members hosting a radically welcoming and culturally significant Pride celebration weekend. Guided by the results of a comprehensive community survey, NSQP includes something for everyone, with diverse and inclusive events throughout the Rogers Park community during Pride Weekend, June 27 - 28, 2026.
NSQP will feature a wide range of events throughout Rogers Park, including live music, drag and performance art, dance parties, film screenings, educational programming, immersive art tents, community discussions, family-friendly activities, sober spaces, and local business participation. Built “for the community and by the community,” NSQP aims to celebrate the creativity, resilience, diversity, and radical spirit that have long defined Rogers Park and Chicago’s North Side queer communities. Northside QueerPride is coordinated by the Glenwood Avenue Arts District (501c3).
The full schedule of events is available HERE.
|
|
Keep Your Dog On A Leash: It's The Law!
|
|
|
As the weather gets nicer and pet owners are heading outside for longer walks, remember that Chicago law requires dogs to always be on leashes when they are off the owner’s property. Rescue and law enforcement dogs are exempt from this law. Even without any damage to persons or property, the base fine for a violation of Chicago leash laws is $300. If your unrestrained animal damages property, the fine is between $300 and $1,000, as well as possible responsibility for damage repairs. The fine for an animal attack or bite is between $300 and $10,000, with possible incarceration or community hours required by the owner.
If you want to let your dog off-leash and run around, check out one of Chicago's many dog-friendly areas in public parks! Our closest dog-friendly park is in Pottawattomie Park (7340 N Rogers), but for a complete list of Park District dog-friendly areas, click here!
|
|
Glenwood Sunday Market Is Back!
|
|
|
The Glenwood Sunday Market (6962 N Glenwood) is back for the season! The market will operate every Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., until October 25 (except for June 28 and August 16). We love this fantastic annual tradition and are excited to celebrate its 17th year in the Rogers Park community!
|
|
2026 Glenwood Ave Arts Fest Poster Design Contest
|
|
|
Submit your entry now for the 2026 Glenwood Ave Arts Fest poster design contest! This image will be used to showcase this year’s festival on bulletin boards and in public spaces, as well as digitally. It should be easy to read, stylish, and radically welcoming to everyone in our community. Submit your entry by Wednesday, July 1, 2026, to [email protected]. Click here for more information.
|
|
Neighbors, as you may be aware, recent federal changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) mean that up to 250,000 neighbors in Illinois are at risk of losing their SNAP benefits due to new work requirements and other eligibility changes. These changes went into effect on May 1.
If you or someone you know relies on SNAP, take action to protect your benefits today.
- Click here to see if you are meeting the new SNAP work requirements.
- If you qualify for an exemption from the new work requirements, you can apply for this exemption here.
- If you are subject to the SNAP Work Requirements, you must do one or a combination of the following activities for an average of 20 hours per week (total of 80 hours per month):
- Work (paid or unpaid)
- Volunteer to take part and comply with an approved qualifying work program that offers activities such as basic education, vocational training, and work-based learning.
- Do self-initiated community service or volunteering with a community-based organization (see more information below)
- Any combination of the above.
|
|
Glenwood Ave Arts Fest Artist Applications Open
|
|
|
Artist applications are now being accepted for the 25th Annual Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest! The Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest is Rogers Park’s annual outdoor celebration of arts and community, run by a volunteer planning committee to showcase our neighborhood’s arts, talents, and businesses. Interested in applying? Click here: https://gaaf2026.artcall.org/
|
|
1721 W Greenleaf Zoning Change
|
|
On May 28, 2026, the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) Commissioner Ciere Boatright announced that a café and event space is the winning proposal to repurpose the former Rogers Park firehouse at 1721-23 W Greenleaf Ave. The $3 million project by developer Ryan Cummings will reuse the 111-year-old, City-owned structure as a 2,000-square-foot coffee house with more than 4,000 square feet of event space and offices on the second level. The proposed purchase price is the building’s market value of $350,050.
The project was one of five responses to an October 2025 DPD Request for Proposals (RFP) that prioritized the 6,323-square-foot structure’s adaptive re-use. Submissions were evaluated based on the proposed concept as well as the development team’s financial capacity, relevant experience and overall project feasibility, among other factors. The project team also includes Michael Salvatore of Chicago-based Heritage Hospitality Group.
Above, you can see the firehouse as it currently stands on the left, and the rendering of the proposed space on the right.
In order for the development team to repurpose the firehouse, the building will need to be rezoned from RT-4 (a primarily-residential zoning designation) to B3-4 (a more business-oriented zoning designation). Alderwoman Hadden wishes to gather the community's feedback on this zoning change to allow for this new café/event space and hear your thoughts on this adaptive reuse proposal.
You can fill out this survey here, which will be open for two weeks and close on Sunday July 5.
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our Infrastructure and Communications Coordinator, Zach Joseph, at [email protected], or call our office at 773-338-5796.
|
|
|
Neighbors, please be aware that, as part of their new Nursing and Science Center construction at 1123 W Loyola Ave, Loyola University is closing W. Loyola Ave from N Sheridan to the alley between the new Sciences Center and 1120 W Loyola Ave until mid-August. There will be a cement truck parked along their construction site to create the ground floor of the Sciences Center. Vehicular traffic will be prohibited from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and crews will open up the street when not operating. Pedestrian traffic on the south sidewalk will remain accessible at all times.
If you have any matters you wish to discuss with me or my office, please feel free to contact me at [email protected] or 773-338-5796.
|
|
Joyce Kilmer Triangle Monument Improvements
|
|
While not completed in time for Memorial Day, we're excited that construction improvements for the Joyce Kilmer Triangle Monument began. Joyce Kilmer was a celebrated American Poet best known for his poem, "Trees." He also enlisted and served in the New York National Guard during World War I and was deployed to France in 1917 with the 69th Infantry Regiment. He was killed in battle at the Second Battle of the Marne in 1918 at the age of 31. Many schools and parks across the country are named in his honor, including our very own Kilmer Elementary School.
The monument was installed in 1953 and donated by the American Legion Post 780. It is located in a triangle at the intersection of Birchwood, Ashland, and Rogers. Last year, CDOT completed a necessary intersection redesign for pedestrian and vehicular safety. Care and future plans for the monument, including providing a more prominent placement for it, were included in the redesign. Plans include brick pavers, a pedestal for the monument, and natural stone landscaping features that will create a mini-plaza for reflection around the monument. We look forward to hosting opening the newly improved space in a couple of weeks.
|
|
Loyola University Telecom Work Incoming
|
|
After hearing concerns from residents through community surveys of 2024 and 2025, Loyola University will be conducting telecommunication cabling work on the west side of Sheridan Rd to bring upgraded lighting and safety features to the 1200 block of West Loyola Avenue.
The next phase of this work will take place south of the L-embankment from mid-June until mid-July. For intermittent short periods of time, commuters and pedestrians should be aware of temporary sidewalk closures and temporary vehicle lane closures as crews push cable under the street from east-to-west; seen as a red line in the above diagram. Please exercise caution and awareness in the area once construction begins.
|
|
Kilmer Nature Play Area Construction Ongoing
|
|
|
Just to the west of Kilmer Elementary, the school’s new playground is taking shape! There will be two separate play areas with age-appropriate equipment, funded by CPS, located on Kilmer's current playground space. Adjoining these two areas will be a nature play space, made possible by $200,000 won by Kilmer parents through our Participatory Budgeting process. Already, the entire space has been fenced off and the old play equipment removed, with the full project scheduled for completion in time for the fall semester. There will be a temporary No Parking restriction during work hours on the east side of N Bosworth, directly in front of the playlot, while construction is in effect. The result will be a wonderful asset both to Kilmer students and to the surrounding community!
|
|
Loyola University Construction at 6347 N Broadway
|
|
|
Loyola University is currently undergoing several construction projects, including one at 6347 N Broadway. Construction at this address resulted in the northbound lane closure at N. Broadway on April 4. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Loyola at [email protected].
|
|
Artists of the Wall This Weekend
|
|
|
The long-awaited Artists of the Wall festival is back for its 33rd year! This year's theme is "We Are All Neighbors," and it aims to be a true celebration of community, creativity, and music that is kept going by the work of the Loyola Park Advisory Council's dedicated volunteers. Everyone can participate in the weekend’s events. The festival will take place at 1096 W Pratt today, June 20, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and tomorrow, June 21, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Review the festival information for the music lineup, food, kids’ art tent, and other activities here.
|
|
Leone Beach Park Event June 24
|
|
|
On Wednesday, June 24th, local author Michael McColly will read from his book Walking Chicago's Coast: A 63-Mile Journey to the Indiana Dunes. Michael will present his book at the Loyola Park fieldhouse (1230 W. Greenleaf) at 7:00 p.m. Consider checking this event out!
|
|
Festival of Chariots Parade June 21
|
|
|
We welcome everyone in the community to join us in celebrating the annual Festival of Chariots! Brought from the cultural heart of India, this ancient festival is a free yearly cultural offering in the Rogers Park community. Experience joyful live mantra music, graceful classical Indian dance, and creative stage performances. Enjoy a full day of festivities, including kids' activities, balloon twisters and magic shows, Henna, face painting, and more! The parade starts at Birchwood Ave at 11:30 AM, ending at the Morse/Sheridan intersection. Save the date for Sunday, June 21, 2026!
|
|
Teen Pride Space Tabling June 20-21
|
|
|
Chicago Pride Fest will be holding a Teen Pride Space on June 20 and June 21 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Chicago Pride Fest, located at the intersection of Waveland and Broadway. There will be free food, music, drag performances, and more. If you are heading to the Chicago Pride Fest, consider stopping by the Teen Pride Space!
|
|
Beat Meeting for Beat 2432 on June 24
|
|
|
On June 24, at 5:00 p.m., the 24th District Community Policing Office will be hosting a bilingual beat meeting in St. Jerome Church (1709 W Lunt) to address safety concerns in the neighborhood. Come stop by this event to share your thoughts and hear from the 24th District.
|
|
Rogers Park Neighbors United Happy Hour June 24
|
|
|
Rogers Park Neighbors United is a casual neighborhood happy hour series focused on bringing together people who live, work, and spend time in Rogers Park and nearby communities. Whether you’re new to the area or have been here for years, it’s a relaxed way to meet neighbors, make connections, support local businesses, and enjoy a good night out with friendly people from the community. This month, they will be gathering at Ward Eight (629 W Howard St, Evanston, IL) on Wednesday, June 24, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. RSVP here to attend.
|
|
Pickles Pickin' In The Park June 27
|
|
|
The Deep Fried Pickle Project Jug Band brings hand-built music to our Chicago neighbors through fun and play. They will begin with an interactive performance showcasing our upcycled homemade instruments. During this performance, they will highlight their historical musical inspirations and discuss how they turn common household elements, including “trash”, into functional, fun instruments. Next, the Pickles will host a "make-and-take" instrument-building workshop. During this workshop, attendees will have the opportunity to build a simple jug band instrument. It all culminates when performers will teach builders how to play a parade song, and then everyone will march in the Pickle Park Parade. This event will happen on June 27 at Paschen Park (1932 W Lunt) from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., and is free for all attendees.
|
|
June Events At Rogers Park Library
|
|
|
Summer is right around the corner, and the Rogers Park Library (6907 N Clark) has plenty of special events just for you! Interested in any of the above events? Click here for more details.
|
|
|
Join the Rogers Park Library (6907 N Clark) on Wednesday, July 8, for a house music jam in their community garden. The event will last from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and will feature DJ Nicky D'Vine, a respected DJ, radio personality, and entrepreneur whose passion for house music has made a lasting impact across Chicago, Detroit, Houston, and beyond. As the founder of D’Vine One Enterprises, Nicky D’Vine created more than a social networking group—she built a vibrant community centered around music, culture, connection, and celebration. Bringing together DJs, music lovers, and partygoers alike, D’Vine One Enterprises has become synonymous with good vibes, unforgettable events, and a deep love for house music.
|
|
Join the Rogers Park Business Alliance for a fun-filled taco crawl and spice up your taste buds!
RPBA is throwing a fiesta for tacos and all the incredible Rogers Park spots along Camino Clark that serve up this beloved handheld treat! Tacos aren't just a meal, they're a cultural treasure and a delicious tribute to Mexico's vibrant culinary heritage. Come and enjoy an afternoon dedicated to tacos, with plenty to savor and celebrate!
Choose from two tempting routes, each showcasing local culinary gems. Limited tickets will be available. The crawl will take place along Clark St. between Devon Ave. and Rogers Ave.
All ticket sales are final. Tickets are non-refundable. Taco Crawl is held rain or shine. Get tickets here!
|
|
Culture of Safety Workshop July 18
|
|
|
Join Culture of Safety on Saturday, July 18th, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for their next self-defense workshop. Learn how to feel and be safer, stronger, and more self-confident through our empowerment-based workshop. This workshop includes both physical resistance skills to slow down an attacker and get away to safety, as well as communication strategies to deter violence before it starts. Workshops are always interactive, engaging, accessible for all bodies and abilities, LGBTQIA-affirming, and trauma-informed. Open to adults of all genders and gender identities (age 17+). Sliding Scale pricing! Register online: https://bit.ly/CoSSelfDefense26
|
|
Dance In The Parks July 24
|
|
|
Dance in the Parks will be performing a FREE, professional dance concert at Touhy Park (7348 N Paulina) on Friday, July 24th, at 6:30 p.m.! The show features seven professional dancers performing six world‑premiere contemporary dance works by Chicago choreographers. The professional company will be joined by youth guest dancers from Synapse Arts. This family‑friendly, come‑as‑you‑are performance invites casual viewing, curious newcomers, and joyful dancing‑along from your lawn chair or blanket. Pack a picnic, grab a seat, and join them for an evening of dance in your park!
|
|
It's summertime, which means trees need care more than ever! Check out these tips from the Urban Forestry Advisory Board on proper tree care:
- Proper mulching is one of the simplest ways to care for a tree. Follow the 3-3-3 Rule: apply mulch 3 inches deep, in a 3-foot-wide circle, while keeping it 3 inches away from the trunk. This creates a donut-shaped mulch ring that helps trees thrive. Avoid creating "mulch volcanoes" by piling mulch against the trunk. Excess mulch around the base of a tree can trap moisture against the bark, encourage decay, promote circling roots, and create conditions favorable to pests and diseases. Spending a few minutes flattening a mulch volcano into a donut-shaped ring can help prevent common tree health issues and support long-term growth.
- To support healthy growth and establishment, provide 10–15 gallons of water each week at the base of the tree—about 2–3 five-gallon buckets. Water slowly and deeply so the moisture penetrates the soil and reaches the developing roots rather than running off the surface. During drought periods, watering can also help established trees stay healthy.
More information can be found here.
|
|
Purchase A Square For Chalkfest
|
|
|
Chalk Howard Street is back! This vibrant event invites national and local street artists, neighbors, families, and art lovers to transform Howard Street in Rogers Park into a creative canvas. Want to be part of transforming Howard Street? Express your creativity by purchasing a 4’ x 4’ square for $25. Chalkfest will be on Saturday, August 22, from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Howard Street between Paulina & Ashland. Learn more here!
|
|
Culture of Safety Summer Offerings
|
|
|
Are you wondering what your child should do for the summer? Consider registering for Culture of Safety's (6961 N Clark) summer karate and empowerment camps for ages six and up! These sessions will teach students the basics of karate and self-empowerment. All camps are offered at sliding scale/tiered pricing. Register here.
For non-students, don't forget about weekly meditation on Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., led by Kyren Epperson. These classes are free of charge and open to beginners on a drop-in basis. You can register here. Additionally, Culture of Safety offers community Tai Chi classes on Mondays at 7:00 p.m., taught by Sifu Rodrigo, with a suggested donation of $15/session. Learn more or register here.
|
|
Join Community Corner Gardens Today
|
|
|
Do you want to connect with the Earth and help beautify your neighborhood, but aren't sure where to start? A Rogers Park community garden group is looking for neighbors to help maintain and/or expand corner gardens around Hoyne, Seeley, Damen, Jarvis, Fargo, and Birchwood. For more info, please email [email protected].
|
|
North Side Queer Pride Volunteer Form Available
|
|
|
Are you interested in volunteering for the inaugural weekend of North Side Queer Pride? NSQP plans to have a whole weekend of events for Pride Month to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, and they're asking for your help to make it a reality. Sign up here to volunteer and be part of this wonderful event.
|
|
Rogers Park Artists Cooperative Seeking Volunteers
|
|
|
Rogers Park Artists Cooperative (RPAC) is a new organization to empower our local artistic community by providing support and promoting collaboration to ensure sustainability through shared resources and culture. They are seeking volunteers to serve on our Board of Directors. Please contact [email protected] for details.
|
|
Events at the Rogers Park Branch Library
|
|
|
The Rogers Park Branch Library (6907 N. Clark) offers a variety of events and programming for people of all ages. Make sure to check out a list of their upcoming events and register to attend one. More information is available on its website here.
|
|
Midsommar Presents: As You Like It
|
|
Midsommer Flight is excited to return to Touhy Park this year for their 14th season of free Shakespeare in the park as part of Night Out in the Parks. Shakespeare's As You Like It will tour for free to six Chicago parks this summer, including our very own Touhy Park (7348 N Paulina) on July 31, August 1, and August 2. All performances are at 6:00 p.m. Bring blankets, chairs, and picnics. The show runs 100 minutes with no intermission.
Midsommar Flight will also be coordinating with the Chicago Board of Elections to have a Voter Registration table on site at all Friday evening performances. More info about the production, including a link to make a free reservation, is on their website at https://midsommerflight.com/as-you-like-it-2026/
|
|
Strawdog Theatre Company Presents: Hit Factory 2026
|
|
|
Join Strawdog Theatre Company for Hit Factory 2026, their annual fundraising event, on Wednesday, June 24th at Rogers Park Taproom (1615 W Howard). Doors open at 6:00 p.m. and their performance begins at 7:00 p.m.
Every ticket helps support Strawdog's productions, artists, and the work they have planned for the seasons ahead. You can purchase tickets here.
|
|
Factory Theater Presents: Two Out Of Three Falls
|
|
|
In 1988, wrestling legend King Kong Bruiser was murdered. His killer walked away clean. In 2019, Johanna Goodish, daughter of the Bruiser, can’t seem to step out of his shadow. So she’s going to do the one thing that might shake off the ghost: she’s going to kill the man who killed her dad. And she’s going to do it in the middle of the ring, live on pay-per-view.
Show dates: June 11-July 18, Thursday, Friday & Saturday @ 8:00 pm
You can purchase tickets here!
|
|
Willye B White Call For Artists
|
|
|
Calling all musicians! Make Music Chicago, a summer solstice musical event on June 21, will take place at Willye B. White Park (1610 W Howard), and they are looking for performers! This free opportunity to perform is available for all musicians. To be included, please send your demo to [email protected].
|
|
Theatre Above The Law Presents: The Matchmaker
|
|
Thornton Wilder’s classic work, "The Matchmaker," has been reimagined by Theatre Above the Law, in alignment with their mission to challenge the norms of theater by presenting classic stories in relatable ways. The play has been condensed into an inventive 90-minute production, divided into four scenes.
Wealthy merchant Horace Vandergelder enlists the services of Dolly Levi to find him a suitable wife. What follows is a series of comical mishaps—all in the name of adventure!
Directed by Tony Lawry, with stage management by Reagan Stevenson. The cast includes: Justine Serino, Caleb Ryan Jones, Ross Compton, Stephanie Stockstill, Izzy Shafer, Teddy Nielsen, Mery Drilling Coren, and Elijah Warfield.
"The Matchmaker" will run from May 29 to June 28 at Theatre Above The Law (1439 W. Jarvis), and tickets will be priced between $15 and $25. You can purchase tickets here. Use the special District 49 code, OhHorns!, to receive a $10 discount off the regular ticket price ($25); subject to availability and valid for online purchases only.
|
|
Sullivan Summer Program Opportunities
|
|
|
Are you a student still looking for something to do this summer? Sullivan High School (6631 N Bosworth) has plenty of art, sports, college prep, and other kinds of activities available! Check about the above flyers and try something new this summer!
|
|
Free Access to the YMCA for Teens
|
|
Chicago teens ages 12-18 are eligible for a free membership at a city YMCA location this summer. No fees. No barriers. In addition, all current YMCA members ages 12–18 in the city will receive a complimentary membership in July and August.
WHAT’S INCLUDED: Access to sports, fitness, creative activities, and a place to connect. Try something new, spend time with friends, or just hang out — the Y is yours all summer long! Register in person at one of our seven city YMCA Locations.
PARTICIPATING CHICAGO LOCATIONS-
IRVING PARK YMCA- 4251 W. Irving Park Rd.
KELLY HALL YMCA- 824 N. Hamlin Ave.
LAKE VIEW YMCA- 3333 N. Marshfield Ave.
McCORMICK YMCA- 1834 N. Lawndale Ave.
RAUNER FAMILY YMCA- 2700 S. Western Ave.
SOUTH SIDE YMCA- 6330 S. Stony Island Ave.
WEST GARFIELD PARK YMCA- 4305 W. Madison St.
AGES: 12–17 yrs. old, a parent or guardian must be present and bring a driver’s license, State ID, or City Key with a Chicago address. Teens aged 18: register on your own with a driver’s license, State ID, or City Key with a Chicago address.
|
|
|
A student is eligible for Summer EBT 2026 without an application if they meet one of the following criteria:
- The student's birthday is between 07/02/2007 and 08/14/2020, AND they've received SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid between 07/01/2025 and 08/14/2026
OR
- They attended a school that participated in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) this school year, and received free or reduced fare lunch
If you want to check if you're eligible, you can fill out this screening tool: Illinois Summer EBT: EBT Screener IDHS can help you fill out the application! Below is the information you will need for your appointment:
- Names and birthdays for everyone who lives with you
- Income information for all members of the household
- Social Security Number (if you have one)
- Contact information
- Social Security Number (if you have one)
- Name of school they are enrolled in for the 2025-2026 school year
- Student's school district
For more information, please visit the IDHS website.
|
|
CTA Bus Reroutes For Pride Parade June 28
|
|
|
To accommodate the 2026 Pride Parade, the CTA will be rerouting bus lines that run alongside the parade route on June 28 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. While the reroutes will not occur in the 49th Ward, we know bus lines that many residents use will be affected, including the #22 Clark and #36 Broadway. Keep in mind these reroutes when traveling on June 28!
|
|
OEMC Thunderstorm Damage Survey Available
|
|
Cook County’s Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security (EMRS) and the City of Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) are reviewing damage from the severe thunderstorms that occurred between June 10 and June 11, 2026, and asking that residents who have been impacted by these storms submit an initial damage assessment.
EMRS and OEMC are partnering with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency – Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) to compile additional information. This supplemental information will help determine if the County, along with partners at OEMC and IEMA-OHS, can pursue any options for additional assistance for residents. The objective of this survey is to help State and local emergency management officials across Illinois identify and gain an understanding of the damages that occurred during recent natural disaster activity. Reporting damages to emergency management is voluntary. It is not a substitute for reporting damage to your insurance agency and does not guarantee disaster relief assistance.
To fill out a survey, please visit the Illinois Residential Self-Assessment Survey online.
|
|
49th Ward School Supply Drive Through July 30th
|
|
|
Help support our students by donating school supplies! Our office is hosting a school supply drive in collaboration with State Representative Kelly Cassidy's Office, State Senator Mike Simmons' Office, and C24/7 Father’s Arms Ministries, starting Monday, June 15th, through Thursday, July 30th. All items must be sealed or brand new.
You can stop by our offices any time between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday to drop off donations:
-
49th Ward Office: 1447 W Morse Ave
-
State Representative Kelly Cassidy Office: 1507 W Morse Ave
-
C24/7 Office: 1543 W Howard St (between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday)
All supply donations will be distributed at our 49th Ward Back to School Bash on August 8th at Willye B White Park. More details regarding this event will be published later in July.
|
|
Homegrown Purchase Assistance Program
Open June 8
|
|
Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Department of Housing have announced the HomeGrown Purchase Assistance Program, which aims to help low- and moderate-income Chicagoans achieve homeownership by providing direct financial support. The HomeGrown program will provide up to $70,000 in forgivable grants to eligible homebuyers to purchase a 1-2 unit home in Chicago.
Applications for the HomeGrown program are open. You can learn more and apply here.
|
|
|
The Department of Planning and Development (DPD) and SomerCor will roll out the Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) grant program for applications for the Devon/Sheridan corridor, serving Edgewater and Rogers Park. Applications open at 9 a.m. on Monday, June 1, and close at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30. The SBIF program uses revenue from TIF districts to help owners of commercial and industrial properties to repair or remodel their facilities for their own business or on behalf of tenants. Tenant businesses are also eligible to apply on their own.
Program participants can receive grants for 30 to 90 percent of project costs, with a maximum grant of $150,000 for commercial properties and $250,000 for industrial properties. The grants are administered by SomerCor on the City's behalf and do not have to be repaid. Those interested in applying can verify that their property is located in an eligible district by using the SBIF Locator Map tool.
DPD and SomerCor will host an informational webinar to review program requirements and the application process. For additional information, visit www.chicago.gov/sbif.
|
|
OEMC Flood Relief Funds Available
|
|
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved a disaster declaration for the severe storms and flooding that impacted six counties in northeastern Illinois from July 25–28, 2025. This declaration will allow homeowners, renters, businesses, and certain non-profit organizations to apply for low-interest loans to help cover damages not covered by insurance.
Homeowners and renters can apply for up to $500,000 in low-interest loans to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners or renters can apply for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property such as appliances and furniture. Businesses and some not-for-profits can borrow up to $2 million for physical damages.
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is June 22. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Jan. 25, 2027. Residents can apply for disaster assistance at sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance now.
|
|
Connect with Your Elected Officials
Want to get connected with your other elected officials? Find links to sign up to their newsletters and website information below!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
