| 33RD WARD WEEKLY NEWSLETTER - September 11, 2026 |
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| Translate // Traducir // 번역하다 |
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| Dear 33rd Ward Community, |
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| Shanah Tovah! Today we start to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, which marks the beginning of the High Holy Days and is one of the most important holidays in Judaism. Traditionally, it is a time for reflection, repentance, and renewal.
There is so much to reflect on from this past year. This same time, last year, we were kicking off our annual Participatory Budgeting (PB) program. Since then, we’ve seen several programs come to fruition, including six bus benches that were added at various locations around Albany Park! Other items that were voted on and won are still in process of implementation and we look forward to sharing the updates as they are made available. On that note, we are also closing in on a kick-off date for this year’s round of PB. We anticipate starting the ideation phase in 2-3 weeks, in which neighbors submit ideas for potential PB items to vote on and implement. You can learn more about Participatory Budgeting and get involved in our coordinating committee through our website www.33rdward.org.
This same time last year, we were also bracing ourselves as Trump threatened to send the National Guard to Chicago. We all lived through the following Operation Midway Blitz, as federal agents, especially ICE, were sent instead. But our community, and our office, rallied to defend our neighbors and each other. As community organizers, local groups, and several of our progressive electeds worked together to stand up rapid response networks, we were able to demonstrate what solidarity looks like in the face of federal intimidation.
Whether we’re talking about voting in hyper-local participatory budgeting or at federal elections: every vote matters.
Which is why I wanted to take a moment to remind everyone that the November elections are almost here. This year’s general election will involve voting on races scaling from Chicago’s elected School Board, to State-level elections for Springfield, to Federal elections for congressional seats in Washington, DC.
Early voting begins October 1 at two of Chicago’s early voting locations:
Early voting extends to the 50 ward locations on October 19. In the 33rd ward, our early voting location is the American Indian Center - 3401 W. Ainslie St. However, all voters are able to vote at any early voting location. To see the full list of early voting locations by ward, please visit the Chicago Board of Elections website.
Early voting ends on November 2, and election day is Tuesday, November 3. In IL, you can do same-day voter registration at a polling location as long as you provide two forms of identification, and one of them has your current address. Otherwise, you can learn more about registering to vote by clicking this link.
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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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| Ongoing Donation Collection for Unhoused Neighbors During these hot summer days, our unhoused neighbors are in extreme need of a few essential items. We are currently accepting donations of any non-perishable food items, including bottled water, hand fans (battery powered), and bus cards.
Donations can be dropped off at the 33rd Ward Office during business hours. If you would like to coordinate a special drop-off time, please reach out to 773-840-7880. We are not requesting donations outside of the above list. Donations can also be made to: Albany Park Mutual Aid | PRP Shower Connect Wish List |
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| | 33RD WARD OFFICE INFORMATION |
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| | | | Event details are listed in the newsletter below. September 12 — Blood Drive at Christ Lutheran Church, 4541 N Spaulding, 9am - 1pm September 12 — Manor Music Crawl, various locations, 10am - 7pm, Schedule September 13 — Community Meal at Queen of Angels, 2330 W Sunnyside, 6pm - 7pm September 14 — Neighbor Night, 4747 N Sawyer Ave, 4:30pm - 6pm September 15 — Chicago Film Screening of No Country for Mothers at 5:30 – 8pm, Independence Branch Public Library, 4024 N Elston Ave. Tickets October 6 — Get Covered IL at our office, 4747 N Sawyer - 11am - 3pm, RSVP TBD October 10 — Expungement and Sealing Fair, 740 W 63rd St, 8:30am - 4pm October 10 — Holiday Craft Fair at St Mary of Providence, 4200 N Austin, 9am - 2pm October 16 — Senior Resource Fair, Our Lady of Mercy, 4432 N Troy, 11am - 1pm November 14 — Diabetes Awareness at Swedish Hospital, 2751 W Winona, 11am - 3pm
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| | | Ronan Park UpdatesIn 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. |
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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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| 33rd Ward Spring and Summer 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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| | Neighbor NightNext Neighbor Night: Monday, September 14 at 4747 N Sawyer Ave
Neighbor Nights offer appointments with the Alderperson between 4:30-6:00pm by appointment only. Call or email our office for an appointment at 773-840-7880 or [email protected]. Appointments will be offered in 15 minute segments, with the final time slot at 5:45pm.
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. If you would like to coordinate an event related to your organizing work with an upcoming Neighbor Night, please reach out to our office. |
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| Sage BrigadeThe Sage Brigade needs volunteers to help pack groceries for seniors. This is a commitment of 2 hours a month, once a month, in person, at the Irving Park Food Pantry. If you are interested in volunteering, please email [email protected] with the subject line: SAGE BRIGADE VOLUNTEER FOR FOOD PANTRY. Someone from our office will follow up with you! |
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Join the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN)Looking for a lower-risk way to help protect your neighbors from ICE? The Northwest Side Rapid Response Network is launching a new neighborhood-based, people powered alert system. To join the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN), download the Telegram app on your phone. Then, join the channel using this link. WARN is open to everyone, so please don't hesitate to share. |
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| | | INFRASTRUCTURE ANNOUNCEMENTS |
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| 2026 Street SweepingStreet 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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Street Resurfacing Project with Pedestrian Improvements Anticipated Start Date: August 10, 2026 Anticipated Completion Date: September 30, 2026 Location: North California Ave. from W. Byron St. to W. Montrose Avenue.
The work will include ADA sidewalk improvements, curb and gutter removal and replacement as needed for ADA and drainage compliance, pavement patching, milling and paving the existing asphalt pavement, and striping. During construction, temporary “No Parking” signs will be periodically installed as required for each activity listed above. These temporary signs will restrict parking during working hours, while adhering to rush hour restrictions, for the completion of the work.
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Intersection Construction - Curb Bump-OutsThe four corners of Hibbard Elementary, bounded by Spaulding Ave, Argyle St, Sawyer Ave, and Ainslie St, are anticipated to begin work next week (the week of 09/14). There are no anticipated street closures. Pick-up and drop-off times should be unaffected as construction will not occur at those times.
If there are any questions or concerns, please reach out to our office during regular business hours. 
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| Alley Reconstruction - 1The Mayor’s Office, Alderperson Rossana Rodriguez Sanchez, and the Chicago Department of Transportation are pleased to announce the reconstruction of an alley in the 33rd ward. Please know that alley construction is scheduled to begin July 29, 2026. No alley access will be granted after July 29, 2026, please make accommodations to relocate your cars out of the garages. There will be saw cutting and minor asphalt demolition taking place July 27 & 28, 2026 but garage access is still permitted and allowed during those 2 days.
The alley is bounded by Wilson Ave and Montrose Ave, and by Sacramento Ave and Richmond St. Once started, construction is expected to take approximately six (6) weeks, weather permitting.
Due to construction, the following changes will occur: During construction, residential garbage will be curbside and we ask that the homeowner relocate cans to the front of the property. There will be no access to the alley for approximately six (6) weeks depending on the weather conditions. Barricades will block all entrance to the alley. Homeowners are advised to seek alternative parking.
This project will be managed by the Public Building Commission of Chicago. If you require any additional information regarding this project, please contact Capitol Cement Company, Inc. at 773-478-2200.
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| Alley Reconstruction - 2The Mayor’s Office, Alderperson Rossana Rodriguez Sanchez, and the Chicago Department of Transportation are pleased to announce the reconstruction of an alley serving the 33rd Ward. Alley construction is scheduled to begin September 8, 2026. No alley access will be granted after September 8, 2026, please make accommodations to relocate your cars out of the garages. There will be saw cutting and minor asphalt demolition taking place September 3, 2026 but garage access is still permitted and allowed during those days only.
Alley bounded by: W. Leland Avenue (W. Leland Avenue / W. Wilson Avenue / N. Central Park Avenue / N. Drake Avenue)
Once started, construction is expected to take approximately six (6) weeks, weather permitting. Due to construction, the following changes will occur: During construction, residential garbage will be curbside and we ask that the homeowner relocate cans to the front of the property. There will be no access to the alley for approximately six (6) weeks depending on the weather conditions. Barricades will block all entrance to the alley. Homeowners are advised to seek alternative parking.
This project will be managed by the Public Building Commission of Chicago. If you require any additional information regarding this project, please contact Capitol Cement Company, Inc. at 773-478-2200. 
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| Grid-Based Tree TrimmingThe 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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| Chicago Front Yard Survey
Research is being done by a University of Oxford DPhil (PhD) student from Chicago. They are exploring how residential green space can reduce local flood risk, and how we can encourage the adoption of better practices. This survey is aimed at households within the city of Chicago who have a front yard. Complete the survey for a chance to win a $100 gift card!
Complete the survey here |
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| Neighborhood Market Grant ProgramMayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) launched a new grant program designed to support small business owners and farmers market operators, providing funding to strengthen local food systems and expand access to fresh, healthy food across the city. Through the Neighborhood Market Grant Program, one-time grants will be provided to small food businesses operating in priority geographies across Chicago.
The program will focus on businesses that are both economic anchors and food access points in neighborhoods historically impacted by disinvestment. Applications in English are available as of Friday, August 28 and applications in Spanish will be available beginning Wednesday, September 2. Applications will be accepted through Friday, September 25, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. CST. Small business owners and market operators interested in applying can find eligibility requirements, funding amounts, and application materials by visiting Chicago.gov/BACPRecoveryPlan. |
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| | Blood DriveChrist Lutheran Church's quarterly blood drive is coming up! Every donation has the potential to help save multiple lives in our Chicagoland area hospitals. Patients undergoing cancer treatments, surgery, trauma care, and other medical emergencies depend on volunteer blood donors every day.
Walk-ins are welcome anytime, or save time by preregistering here. Enter through the side door at 4541 N Spaulding Ave.
Saturday, September 12 9:00am - 1:00pm Christ Lutheran, 4541 N Spaulding Ave |
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| | Manor Music Crawl
Performances in the 33rd Ward: 2pm - 4500 Block of Francisco - Richard Bandini 3:15pm - 4450 N Mozart St - John Postlewait - Original & Americana covers 3:15pm - 4539 N Francisco - The Pippins - Vocal choir performing Renaissance madrigals to celebrate summer. Hear cheerful songs in English, Spanish, German and more 5:15pm - 4544 N Francisco - John Buck -Original Songs and Classic Covers
Saturday, September 12 7:00am - 10:00pm Full Schedule here |
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| Community Meals at Queen of AngelsShare a hot meal and community with us every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month! And pick up a bag of sandwiches and other food to eat the next day. Next meal is:
Sunday, September 13 6:00PM - 7:00PM Queen of Angels 2330 W Sunnyside |
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| | Chicago Film Screening of NO COUNTRY FOR MOTHERSNo Country for Mothers explores the culture wars surrounding American motherhood and the growing national movement to reunite moms across divisions and win the kind of support families actually need.
Tuesday, September 15 5:30pm-8pm
Independence Branch Public Library, 4024 N Elston Ave
Tickets |
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| | Expungement and Sealing FairThere will be a Second Chance Summit at Kennedy-King College for expungements and sealing of records. RAP sheet(s) and/or IL State Police Criminal History Record must be uploaded by September 25 to participate.
Get your RAP sheet by calling CPD headquarters at (312) 745-5508 or call the Illinois State Police Bureau of Identification at (815) 740-5160. Space is limited, so pre-registration will be strictly required.
Saturday, October 10 8:30am - 4:00pm
Kennedy-King College 740 W 63rd St, Building U RSVP here |
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| | Holiday Craft FairThere will be handmade crafts at St Mary of Providence. Stock up now for gifts and decorations to celebrate Halloween, Thanksgiving, and even get a head start on Christmas shopping!
Saturday, October 10 9:00am - 2:00pm
St Mary of Providence, 4200 N Austin |
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| Senior Resource FairThis event will bring together seniors, families, community organizations, and local service providers to connect with valuable resources and learn about programs and services available to older adults in our community.
Friday, October 16 11:00am - 1:00pm
Our Lady of Mercy, Basement Hall 4432 N Troy |
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| Diabetes Awareness DayJoin Endeavor Health for a community event featuring expert presentations, health screenings, nutrition education, wellness resources and opportunities to connect with healthcare professionals. Learn practical ways to prevent and manage diabetes while accessing resources to support your health and well-being.
Saturday, November 14 11:00am - 3:00pm
Swedish Hospital, Anderson Pavilion 2751 W Winona RSVP: 630-527-6363 |
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Disaster Loan Outreach The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will establish Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) for residents and businesses impacted by the severe storm that occurred on June 10, June 11, and June 17, 2026, to apply for low-interest loans.
Online Applications To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email [email protected] for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is September 8, 2026. The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 12, 2027.
Note: All impacted residents, regardless of where they live can go to any Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) site, even if it is not their Ward, county or municipality. Each location will have a Spanish translator available. |
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| Impact for Equity — Property Tax AppealsThe property tax appeal system in Cook County is complex and difficult to navigate, so few homeowners appeal and even fewer succeed. Impact for Equity has developed a set of checklists and resources to simplify the process and empower homeowners to challenge inequitable property tax practices. (Available in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Tagalog at this website.) |
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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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| | | 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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| | 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 Rebecca Rios, Deputy Chief of Staff, Director of Zoning and Housing Kenneth Barrios, Director of Policy and Communications Abraham Espino, Director of Business Services Camila Garcia, Neighborhood Services Intake Coordinator Ariana Aguilar, Neighborhood Services Representative Eric Ramos, Ward Superintendent
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