33RD WARD WEEKLY NEWSLETTER - May 01, 2026 |
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Translate // Traducir // 번역하다 |
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Dear 33rd Ward Community, |
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May 1st is recognized each year in Chicago and around the world as International Workers Day. Workers Day was formally established in 1886 to honor the events of the Haymarket Massacre after decades of using May 1st as a day for general strikes for the 8-hour work day. The Massacre occurred on Chicago’s near west side in Haymarket Square, when workers were joined together in protest for humane working conditions at a factory that stood at that location. On the second day of demonstrations, police violently repressed the protests. In the chaos that followed, several people were killed.
This was used to justify the imprisonment and execution of several labor movement leaders under accusations of conspiracy. One such leader that was sentenced to death for his participation in this demonstration, Albert Parsons, was a renowned and well respected organizer that lived and organized alongside his wife, Lucy Gonzalez Parsons, in Avondale. Today, her legacy is honored with an honorary street on Kedzie Avenue between Emmett Street and Addison Avenue, with signs marking the intersection of Kedzie and Emmett. An affordable housing development now stands on this site, carrying her fight for justice into the future.
This trial received international coverage and has since been a rallying cry for labor rights, free speech, and the right to protest. On May 1st, we honor the sacrifices made by workers around the world and recommit to the struggle for safe, resourced communities where all people can thrive.
The struggle continues!
In this spirit, as we continue to see deeper and deeper attacks on our communities’ abilities to organize, care for each other, and speak out against injustice, I wanted to share some updates regarding President Trump’s attacks on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
As of February 1, new work requirements were put in place for “able-bodied adults without dependents” (also known as “ABAWDS”). Additionally, as of today, May 1, ABAWDS who have received SNAP for 3 months and have not met, or were not exempt from work requirements, will lose benefits. This change in policy will impact 600,000 Chicagoans, or about 22% of the city’s population. As pointed out on the chicago.gov website, 45% of SNAP households have children, 44% have a person with a disability, and 37% have older adults living in the home.
These are not just statistics, they are our siblings, our children, our friends, our neighbors, and ourselves. To help provide you with more information and resources to verify if you qualify for SNAP under new restrictions, to find out what work or volunteer requirements you need to meet, to find job opportunities, and to connect with food banks and other organizations, please visit the following websites:
Office of the Mayor’s Protecting Chicago Page with SNAP updates Use the online SNAP screening tool to determine whether or not you are exempt from the updated work requirements Learn more about State of IL resources to meet SNAP work requirements Try JobReadyIL.com for free online job training Find volunteer opportunities to meet the work requirements Connect with the Greater Chicago Food Depository to acquire food and to see how they are advocating to defend SNAP There are also Senior work and volunteer programs Visit Save Our SNAP to learn more about the changes
I understand that these new requirements place an incredible burden on so many of you, and my office is here to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for help navigating these references, or if you can’t reach our office outside of business hours, you can call 2-1-1 or navigate resources on their website, where resources navigators can help you find options to receive support.
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Thank you for doing this work with me. Please take a moment this week to help out a neighbor in need. You can always contact my office if you have any questions. We are here to help.
In solidarity, Rossana Rodríguez Sánchez 33rd Ward Alderperson |
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33rd Ward Spring resources: Clean and Greens: Please email [email protected] to request resources to help clean up your block, like garbage bags, grippers, and gloves. Street Sweeping began April 1. You can view our interactive sweeping schedule and map by clicking here. To apply for a block party permit, please fill out this form. You can also get small whistle kits for your neighbors if you wish to include them in your block party festivities to encourage safety and support in your community during these difficult times. To apply for a yard sale, please stop by our office or fill out this form.
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33RD WARD OFFICE INFORMATION |
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Address: 4747 N Sawyer Ave, Chicago, IL 60625 Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 10am - 5pm; Friday 10am - 4pm Phone: 773-840-7880 www.33rdward.org / Connect with us and access resources by clicking here. |
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Event details are listed in the newsletter below. |
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Ronan Park Updates
In March, we have received many residents from the former Legion Park encampment into our ward as they wait for their assigned housing. I understand that this encampment has caused great concern for many neighbors. When this community moved into our local park, my office began working in close, daily collaboration with many local organizations, mutual aid groups, nonprofit agencies, and government partners to ensure that our neighbors most in need receive the care, attention, and resources they deserve.
For updates, please check in on our website. |
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Immigrant Rights and Deportation Defense Resources: If you see immigration enforcement or suspect immigration enforcement, first call the Family Support Network (FSN) at 855-435-7693. We encourage you to save this number in your phone. Sign up for the ICE Alert System: bit.ly/ILEyesOnICE Follow our local rapid response social media: @northwestsiderrt on Instagram 33rd Ward Resource Page at www.33rdward.org/immigration-resources
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VOLUNTEER WITH THE WARD OFFICE |
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Volunteer with the 33rd Ward OfficeJoin us in strengthening our community! We are excited to offer a range of community engagement opportunities with our office. Whether you’re passionate about connecting neighbors or eager to make a positive impact, we’d love for you to volunteer with us. Help us build bridges and foster a stronger, more connected community. Your involvement can make a real difference.
Our office maintains several programs for neighbors to come together to care for each other and to learn about resources available to our communities. You can sign up to volunteer with our office by filling out our volunteer form by clicking here. |
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Local Mutual Aid, Donation Drives, and Food Distribution2025 Mutual Aid Map | NRC Albany Park Map | 33rd Ward Map |
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Neighbor NightNext Neighbor Night: Monday, May 4 at 4747 N Sawyer Ave
Upcoming: Monday, May 18
Join the 33rd Ward Office for our upcoming Neighbor Night hosted at our office at 4747 N Sawyer Ave. Neighbor Nights offer appointments with the Alderperson between 4:30-5:30pm by appointment only. Call or email our office for an appointment at 773-840-7880 or [email protected]. Beginning at 5:30 we will have a ward office open house. All are welcome to join.
The Neighbor Nights are an effort by the 33rd Ward Office to create opportunities for organizations in our ward to teach neighbors about their work and help people get involved. Meetings with the alderwoman are available by appointment only by emailing [email protected]. |
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Community Driven Zoning and Development
Please follow our Facebook and other social media accounts for the most up to date notices on public meetings and input surveys regarding zoning changes in the ward. You can also regularly check our Zoning page on our website by clicking here. |
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Current Proposals in Review
3007-11 W Irving Park Rd– Project Website Status: Community Meeting will be held Date: TBA Application Type: Type 1 Change Request: B3-1 to B3-3
3446 W Irving Park Rd– Project Website Status: Community Meeting will be held Date: TBA Application Type: Type 1 Change Request: B3-1 to B3-3
4634-36 N Avers Ave– Project Website Status: Feedback is in Review Application Type: Type 1 Change Request: RS-3 to RT-4
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INFRASTRUCTURE ANNOUNCEMENTS |
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You can report any major debris or trash collection issues to 3-1-1 or give our ward office a call for assistance.
We also appreciate all of the outreach we are receiving about neighbors wanting supplies to start helping to clean up. If you are in need of large trash bags or trash grabbers, please reach out.
Street Sweeping season will officially begin on April 1st. Here is the interactive map our Ward Superintendent made to keep track of scheduled street sweepings! |
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ChiStreetWorksWondering what construction is taking place near you? Try the ChiStreetWork tool which allows you to view all the construction work happening anywhere in Chicago. The ChiStreetWork tool allows you to view all the active and permitted construction work taking place near you. You are also able to opt into updates to receive real-time notifications related to construction work. |
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Grid-Based Tree TrimmingCurrent Grid Area: N044, W032
4400-4700 N St Louis (Block)
4400 N Bernard (Block)
4500 N Drake (Block)
The Bureau of Forestry is no longer receiving individual tree trimming requests and has shifted to a grid-based maintenance schedule similar to the street sweeping schedule. You can view the map here. If you’re worried about the immediate safety of the area around a given tree due to its conditions, you can reach out to 311 or our office so the appropriate service request can be made.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS AND RESOURCES |
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Job Opening with City of Chicago CARE Team |
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Business HighlightsWe have so many beautiful and unique small businesses that make the 33rd Ward amazing! As we wrap up April, we wanted to highlight the following: The New Lincoln Antique Mall , Luella's Southern Kitchen , Rosita's Tacos & Cocina , and Sunshine Restaurant.
Be sure to check them out, show some love, and keep supporting local businesses! |
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Albany Park Civic Energy Workshop
Come join My Block, My Hood, My City for pizza, (award winning) chili, and community building. Our founder and CEO Jahmal Cole will share what he is doing across the city, bring ideas from other neighborhoods and listen directly to your neighborhood's ideas.
If you have not already done so please RSVP HERE and fill out the community asset assessment form which will help us gather data on Chicago neighborhoods, which we will analyze and then return to you for your use.
Saturday, May 2, 12:00pm at Bellona’s Pizza, 3447 W Montrose |
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Delia Ramirez Citizenship Workshop
Do you or anyone you know need assistance with the citizenship process? Join us for a Citizenship Workshop on Saturday, May 2nd, where organizations will be available to help navigate the process! Call today to schedule your appointment!
Saturday, May 2, 8:30am - 3:00pm |
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Small Habits Matter in collaboration with Rise Training AcademyJoin us for our in-person, women-focused workshop, What Sustains You, taking place on Sunday, May 3rd, from 1:00–2:00 PM at 8300 S. Halsted St.
This workshop is designed to center women’s experiences with nutrition across different life stages. We’ll explore topics such as hormonal health, PCOS, perimenopause, and menopause, while offering practical, sustainable strategies to support energy, balance, and overall nourishment.
Participants will also have the opportunity to engage directly with Small Habits Matter registered dietitians and founders during a live Q&A.
Registration is $35, and space is limited. Tickets here. |
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Children’s Garage SaleSaint Andrew’s Parish will be hosting a Children’s Garage Sale on Saturday, May 16, from 8:00am - 2:00pm at the Saint Andrew Gym on the corner of Addison and Paulina. |
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Making Great Strides 5kIt’s almost time for the 2nd annual Making Great Strides Run/Walk! Register at link in bio. We will have community orgs sharing info on how to get involved in their work, and 100% of proceeds go towards National Immigrant Justice Center.
Get your tickets here. |
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Embodied Healing SeriesEngage in wellness & self-care in a safe, trusting environment. For folks in the social impact space, this is protected time for you to REST, PLAY, MOVE, REFLECT, & CONNECT.
Sign up for one or more sessions between April 26 and June 7!
Thanks to #Healingillinois, sessions are FREE, but registration & confirmation required. More information: [email protected] |
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5th Annual River Run 5KSaturday, June 13, 10am Start 3400 N Rockwell Street - Clark Park Get your tickets here |
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Flavors of Albany ParkFor one unforgettable evening, Albany Park transforms into a global tasting experience. Known as one of Chicago’s most diverse neighborhoods, Albany Park offers flavors from across the world—without ever leaving the city.
At Flavors of Albany Park, you’ll sample dishes from 60+ local restaurants, each offering a taste of their culture, craft, and community. Whether you're craving bold street food, comforting classics, or something entirely new, every stop is a discovery. This isn’t just a food crawl—it’s a celebration of community, culture, and connection.
Get your tickets here |
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Bands Apply for Lot Jams 2026Apply Here |
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Apply for Youth Jobs - [formerly One Summer Chicago]We are excited to announce that the Chicago Youth Works (CYW) application portal is now open. Chicago Youth Works — formerly One Summer Chicago — reflects the City’s continued investment in expanding youth employment opportunities and strengthening pathways to long-term career success for Chicago’s young people.
Interested youth can apply online at ChicagoYouthWorks.org. Applicants will receive bi-weekly updates with reminders, resources, and interview notifications throughout the application period.
Youth ages 14-15 will have access to stipend paid opportunities while youth and young adults ages 16-24 will be paid an hourly wage. Apply by May 29. |
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Get Medicaid FactsThe Cook County Medicaid Impact Workgroup, a coalition convened by Cook County Health, has launched “Get Medicaid Facts," a new website and communications toolkit designed to help people understand upcoming changes to Medicaid eligibility and what steps they can take now to keep their coverage.
These resources come at a critical time. Federal policy changes are expected to significantly impact Medicaid, and an estimated 400,000 Illinois residents could lose coverage in the coming years if they are not prepared or informed.
https://getmedicaidfacts.com/ |
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Property Tax Exemption Application Now OpenThe Cook County Assessor opened the property tax exemption application for 2026, and he has announced that the exemption application will likely be open for 2 months until May 15. Our County Commissioner’s can help navigate your property tax appeals. You can find you county commissioner’s name through this link. As a reminder, there are several types of exemptions: Homeowner Exemption - homeowner has lived in the property since at least January 1, 2025 Senior Citizen Exemption - homeowner is over 65 Low-Income Senior “Freeze” Exemption - homeowner is over 65 and household makes under $65,000 Persons with Disabilities Exemption - homeowner has documentation of disability Veterans with Disabilities Exemption - homeowner is veteran with disability benefits
You can learn more about each of these exemptions, including eligibility requirements, on the Assessor's website at this link. Residents can still complete a Certificate of Error for any missing exemptions for tax year 2024-2021. If residents would like assistance checking which exemptions they receive or applying for exemptions for 2024-2021, please have them call our office at 312-603-6386. |
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Senator Graciela Guzman’s Legislative Townhall Series (Virtual)The last Monday of every month, from 6-7pm Upcoming Dates: April 27, May 25 Register for Zoom Link
State Senator Graciela Guzman's monthly legislative town halls are back! Her team will be hosting these meetings every last Monday of the month from now until May. Join them from 6-7 via Zoom to hear what they are up to in Springfield, express your opinions, and work to shape the future of our state. *Spanish Translation Available* |
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Chicago Park Tree WalksNorth River Commission is hosting a Chicago Park Tree Walk on May 7 from 7 - 8PM at River Park Field House (5100 N Francisco Ave)!
In partnership with Openlands TreeKeepers, this guided walk will highlight different tree species on site and what makes each one unique - from bark to canopy.
It’s a free, easygoing way to learn more about local trees and spend some time outdoors!
Sign up here: bit.ly/May_TreeWalk |
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Gather Together Free Meal Neighbors cooking and eating together each 2nd Friday 5:30pm - 7:00pm Located in Christ Lutheran Church basement, 4541 N Spaulding |
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Our 33rd Ward Office maintains resources pages on our website as a helpful starting point for anyone that needs support. We are also available by phone call or email to help you explore any options that work best for you.
If for any reason our office is unavailable, please call 2-1-1 or visit www.211metrochicago.org. 2-1-1 is a hotline that is staffed 24/7 by trained resources navigators to help you find information and programs related to a wide variety of needs including utility billing relief and housing assistance. |
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Albany Park Mutual Aid - Free StoreLocated at 3000 W. Lawrence
Hours: Mondays 5-9pm, Wednesdays 5-9pm, Saturdays 12-4pm
You can learn more about Albany Park Mutual Aid, support their work, or find help at www.albanyparkmutualaid.com. |
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The 33rd Ward Office Has a Notary on Staff
If you are in need of notary services, our team is happy to help. Please reach out to [email protected] or give us a call at 773-840-7880 to set up an appointment. |
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Free Narcan and Drug Test Strips Available at Our Ward Office
They are available free of charge by visiting our office at 4747 N Sawyer Ave. |
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Free Gun Safety Locks Available at Our Ward OfficeLocks are available free of charge by visiting our office at 4747 N Sawyer Ave. |
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Connect with our local Chamber of CommerceSign up for the Albany Park Chamber of Commerce newsletter by clicking here. |
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Connect with our local schoolsConnect with our local schools by accessing a list of schools on our website by clicking here. |
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Monthly Newsletter for “Service Members, Veterans, their Families, and Supporters”We are happy to feature the following community-managed resources guides for service members, veterans, their families, and supporters including events and services for veterans in Chicago and surrounding municipalities. Please email: [email protected] to be added to their monthly emails. You can view this month’s updates, a calendar, and fliers by clicking here. |
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Meet our 33rd Ward Office Staff Jonathan Nagy, Chief of Staff John Cruz-Barcenas, Deputy Chief of Staff Rebecca Rios, Director of Zoning Abraham Espino, Neighborhood and Business Services Coordinator Camila Garcia, Neighborhood Services Intake Coordinator Ariana Aguilar, Neighborhood Services Representative Eric Ramos, Ward Superintendent
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