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49th Ward Update: November 15th, 2025

Relevance: 6/10
zoning_or_development_meeting_or_approval

Summary

On November 15, Ald. Maria Hadden’s 49th Ward office announced a community meeting on Nov. 19 to discuss a 5‑story affordable‑housing proposal at 7644 N Sheridan Rd that requires no zoning change. The ward also noted upcoming infrastructure work—tree trimming on Nov. 17 and paving of W Farwell Ave (6900 N) scheduled for Nov. 18—along with a reminder of the Chicago Heat Ordinance and CDOT’s e‑scooter safety guidelines. Other highlights include a new “Know Your Rights” training for businesses, a volunteer‑led snow‑shoveling program, and community events such as the CACC Draft Picks pet‑adoption fair and the Rogers Park Singers’ rehearsal schedule.

49th Ward Update: November 15th, 2025

49th Ward Update

November 15th, 2025
WARD SERVICE OFFICE
1447 W. MORSE AVE
CHICAGO, IL 60626
773-338-5796
www.49thward.org
    
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ALDERWOMAN HADDEN IS ON MEDICAL LEAVE

In her absence, Shenicka Hohenkirk, the Director of Ward Services, and Leslie Perkins, the Chief of Staff and Policy Director, will be managing the ward. Continue to contact our amazing team at [email protected] or 773-338-5796 with all your service requests and community questions. Maria will be out through the end of the year, but will be checking in with the team on a weekly basis for any urgent matters.

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 - infrastructure notices, City services, and zoning/development updates
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT - local events and ways to get involved, subsection on Rogers Park theatre and other arts events
YOUTH SHINE IN 49 - school news, scholarship opportunities, and youth employment offerings
COMMUNITY AID - organizational and personal requests for support, and volunteer opportunities
- ADDITIONAL RESOURCES - links to resources included in previous sections of the newsletter

Celebrations & Appreciations

Movie About Rogers Park Available Online!

Congratulations to Northwestern professor, filmmaker, and Rogers Park resident Kyle Henry for his 2018 film, titled Rogers Park. The movie is available for FREE for the next three months via Tubi, which you can access here: https://tubitv.com/movies/100048193/rogers-park

The film follows two Chicago couples who struggle to keep their love alive when secrets and long-simmering resentments rise to the surface. It currently has a 100% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes and gives a fantastic portrayal of our wonderful neighborhood. Congratulations, Kyle!

Sullivan High School Heritage Event

Last week, Sullivan had their Latine x Indigenous People Heritage Celebration! It was a phenomenal show filled with joy and creativity. The MCs gave the audience trivia questions in which winners would have a chance to smash an ICEcube piñata! Students of every grade level sang powerfully and performed wonderful dances. Congratulations to all the students and staff for the great event, you make the 49th Ward proud!

Ward Updates

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.
FOOD ACCESS RESOURCES

Our office recently published a special edition of the newsletter with expanded resources for those experiencing food insecurity in the wake of SNAP cuts due the Trump Administration refusing to continue services. Find our guide here.

Chicago Heat Ordinance Reminder

The Chicago Heat Ordinance mandates that landlords supply heat to any unit in which residents do not have individual control of the thermostat during cold weather months. From September 15 - June 1, the temperature inside a rental residence is required to be at least 68 degrees from 8:30 am - 10:30 pm and at least 66 degrees from 10:30 pm - 8:30 am. Landlords face fines of up to $1000 per day, per violation, for each day they do not supply adequate heat. If you are a renter and your landlord is not providing adequate heat, you may file a No Heat Complaint through 311. The Department of Buildings will inspect your home and will take action against delinquent owners. .

Join the 49th Ward Snow Squad

Our office is currently recruiting volunteers to help some of our senior and disabled residents with shoveling their snow this upcoming winter! If you would be interested in helping out your fellow neighbors, please complete this form.

Need assistance with snow shoveling this winter?

If you are a senior or a person living with a disability and you are a 49th Ward resident who needs help with shoveling snow this winter, please complete this form to potentially get assistance from one of the volunteers from our Snow Squad. Note: This does NOT GUARANTEE snow will be shoveled; rather, our office will share the location you submit with our Snow Squad Volunteers. Once someone is available, they will stop by to shovel for you.

Infrastructure Updates

Tree Trimming Occurring November 17

The Bureau of Forestry, a division of the Division of Streets and Sanitation, will be conducting tree trimming for the 6900 and 7000 blocks of N Ravenswood, the 1700 block of W Greenleaf, the 1600 block of W Pratt, the 1600 block of W Touhy, the 6900 and 7100 blocks of N Paulina, the 6400 and 6500 blocks of N Greenview, and the 6700 block of N Glenwood on Monday, November 17thSimilar to street sweeping notifications, trees will be posted with signage in advance of tree trimming.

7644 N Sheridan Rd Community Meeting November 19

Please join the 49th Ward Office on November 19th at 6 p.m. for a community meeting via Zoom regarding a building proposal for the property located at 7644 N Sheridan Rd.

The applicant will be showing their design for the former Beach View Liquor building, which they hope to turn into a 5-story affordable housing project. No zoning change will be necessary to construct this project.

If you have any questions, please reach out to our Infrastructure and Communications Coordinator, Zach Joseph, at 773-338-5796 or email [email protected].

Please register for the community meeting by clicking here!

Paving Streets Underway

The Chicago Department of Transportation is currently paving the following street in our ward:
  • W. Farwell Ave (6900 N) from N. Sheridan Rd. (1200 W) to the lakefront (1130 W)
W Farwell is scheduled to be paved by November 18th, depending on weather. Parking will be limited on these streets as construction commences, so we advise you to seek alternate parking options for the time being.

CDOT E-Scooter Safety Tips!

The Chicago Department of Transportation promotes safe and responsible scooter use across Chicago. Helmets are strongly encouraged for all scooter riders. Ride scooters in bike lanes or streets, not on sidewalks. Always park upright, to a fixed object, and leave at least five feet of sidewalk space. Divvy and Lime riders must be 18 or older (or 16+ on Divvy with parental consent). If you have experienced a crash or collision on your scooter and are injured, call 911 immediately. Report scooters blocking sidewalks or other parking issues through 311. Learn more at chicago.gov/scooters.

DSS Fall Leaves Tips & Tricks

The Department of Streets and Sanitation is conducting outreach activities to inform residents about the importance of keeping city streets clean and safe as trees begin shedding leaves during the fall season. Consult this graphic for a list of dos and don'ts this fall to keep our infrastructure operating smoothly!

Community Engagement

CACC Draft Picks Event Today

Event Details:
Chicago Animal Care and Control
2741 S. Western Ave, Chicago, IL
Saturday, November 15
12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
If residents plan to adopt a cat, please advise them to arrive by 1 p.m. to support an efficient experience for feline adopters.
If adopting a dog, City of Chicago residents will still pay the required $5 dog license fee.

Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) will host its largest fall adoption event, CACC Draft Picks 2025, on Saturday, November 15, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 2741 S Western Ave. The football-themed event invites potential adopters to draft, adopt, and win by meeting the many dogs and cats currently available for adoption. All pets adopted from CACC are vaccinated, microchipped, and spayed or neutered before going home.

ONE Northside Annual Town Hall November 16

Join ONE Northside on Sunday, November 16, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Senn High School (5900 N. Glenwood) for their annual town hall. They will come together as a north side community, build a vision for the city and country we deserve, and learn what it takes to go from defense to offense against the horrific attacks on our communities — be it from ICE, rapidly rising rent, cuts to vital services or climate extremes. If you need transportation from Rogers Park to Senn, please register and mark the "Rogers Park Meeting Place" on the form. Come join the fight! 

Business KYR Training November 18

The Committee on Immigrant and Refugee Rights (CIRR) will be hosting a Know Your Rights training for local business owners and employees on Tuesday, November 18, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Make sure to register here to attend and share this flyer with neighbors!

Please note this event will be only in Spanish.

Community Conversation with 24th District
November 18

On November 18, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Chicago Math and Science Academy (7212 N. Clark St), the 24th District is seeking your input to shape our District’s Strategic Plans for 2026. Register at this link: https://www.chicagopolice.org/community-conversations/

VACCC Office Hours November 19

The VACCC is here to serve the Veterans of Cook County! During office hours, their team will be providing assistance with emergency financial services, including help with rent and mortgage payments, utilities, food, and transportation.

Stop by the 49th Ward Service Office (1447 W Morse) from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, November 19th, to take advantage of these incredible resources.

Mercadito Returns November 22

When: Sat, Nov 22, 10 a.m. -3 p.m.

Where: GROW/PROGRESANDO, 7056 N. Clark St.

Shop local and discover one-of-a-kind treasures at Mercadito, Rogers Park’s creative marketplace celebrating the culture, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit of Camino Clark. Enjoy free gift wrapping (10:30 a.m. - 3 p.m., courtesy of St. Jerome Church) and free poncho from La Casa Vieja while supplies last!

A Just Harvest Turkey Giveaway November 22

A Just Harvest (7649 N Paulina St) will be hosting a Thanksgiving giveaway on November 22nd. Make sure to stop by anytime between 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., and remember to bring your own cart or shopping bag. First-come, first-served, so get there early!

Culture of Safety Open House November 29

Mark your calendars for Culture of Safety's Small Business Saturday Open House on November 29. Free karate classes, shiatsu bodywork demos, a demo Self-Defense class, and more! Check out their schedule and Small Biz Saturday discounts: https://cultureofsafetychi.com/sbs2025/. The classes will be held at 6961 N Clark St.

Small Business Saturday Welcome Station
November 29

When: Sat, Nov 29, 10 a.m. -1 p.m.

Where: Alexander’s Restaurant, 6764 N. Sheridan Rd

Stop by RPBA's Welcome Station for:

  • Free coffee, hot chocolate, and pastries from Alexander’s
  • A free tote bag filled with local goodies + business specials
  • Live music by Becca Jaffe
  • Photos with a 3-D snow globe
  • Spin-the-Wheel prizes worth up to $100 from local businesses

Then explore exclusive specials and events at Rogers Park favorites all day long. Bundle up and join RPBA outdoors. If it’s below 25°, they will move inside!

Empowerment Self-Defense Workshop

The next Empowerment Self-Defense class from Culture of Safety is Saturday, December 6th, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. . The class will be held at the Culture of Safety Dojo & Wellness Center (6961 N Clark St).

Shop Jarvis Square Holiday Market December 6

Jarvis Square, the historic commercial district in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood, announced the return of its beloved holiday tradition: the 17th Annual Shop Jarvis Square Holiday Market. The one-day-only event will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, bringing together over 40 local artisans, festive food, and family-friendly entertainment.
  • What: 17th Annual Shop Jarvis Square Holiday Market
  • When: Saturday, December 6, 2025, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Where: Jarvis Square (Intersection of Jarvis and Greenview), Rogers Park, Chicago, IL 60626
  • Admission: Free and open to the public.
Be sure to stop by!

Winter Wrap-Up: Plate & Pathways Clothes & Food Giveaway

Join Plate & Pathways on Saturday, December 6th, 2025, at Pottawatomie Park for the Winter Wrap-Up: a free community event offering winter clothes, coats, nonperishable food items, and light refreshments to our neighbors and families in need. With SNAP benefits not being fully reinstated, many households are struggling to afford basic groceries. The Winter Wrap-Up aims to bring relief and connection to our community this season. All are welcome to attend, donate, or volunteer. 

Learn more at plateandpathways.org

Chicago Kurdish Film Festival December 14

The second edition of the Chicago Kurdish Film Festival will be taking place on December 14th at Damen Cinema, Loyola University (6511 N Sheridan Rd).

This festival, organized by the Kurdish Cultural Center of Illinois (KCCI)—a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization—will feature a selection of Kurdish films that celebrate the rich culture, history, and artistic expression of the Kurdish people. The event aims to foster cultural exchange, raise awareness, and promote unity within Chicago’s diverse communities. For more info, click here.

Culture of Safety Fall Classes

Looking for a new wellness class? Check out Tai Chi Classes, held weekly on Sundays at 9 am and Mondays at 7 pm, offered by community member Sifu Rodrigo. (Se habla español.) Suggested donation $15 per class. Pay at the door. Online registration is highly recommended: https://cultureofsafetychi.com/taichi/.

Rogers Park Singers Looking For Members

The Rogers Park Singers is a small group of 15+ individuals with a variety of vocal ranges and experience levels who love to sing together. Our goal is to provide an opportunity for singers to participate in a choral community, improve individual vocal skills, and experience choral performances. RPS is an inclusive group that practices and performs a variety of genres, both sacred and secular. Members are not just from Rogers Park but come from across the city. The choir has developed a supportive and fun community while working hard on improving their skills and creating beautiful music. The choir rehearses on Saturdays from 12pm-1:30pm at Immanuel Lutheran Church (1500 W. Elmdale) and performs occasionally at local community events and concerts. Anyone interested in the choir is encouraged to check out our website and fill out an interest form. Each 10 week session costs $120, but no interested members will be turned away for lack of experience or inability to pay the session fee.

Fall 2025 Session Dates: October 25, November 1, 8, 15, 22

Chicago Tap Theatre Winter Tap Classes

Join CTT in their 7-week Winter Session of tap classes at Loyola Park Fieldhouse (1230 W. Greenleaf Ave) on Tuesdays, January 6th-February 17th! 

YOUTH
4:15-5 PM - Ages 6-8 with Molly Smith
5-5:45 PM - Ages 3-5 with Molly Smith

These classes are beginner-focused and will develop a love of dance and music to last a lifetime! Have a little one who loves to move or make noise, but needs an outlet? Enroll for a session to grow, learn, have fun, and exercise both mind and body!

*Youth Classes are a full session registration only, but if you decide to join partway through the session, you can email [email protected] for a prorated fee!

ADULT
6 p.m.-7 p.m. - Adult Beginner with Kelsey Nickens
7 p.m.-8 p.m. - Adult Intermediate with Kelsey Nickens

Join us for Adult Beginner (6 p.m.) or Adult Intermediate (7 p.m.) on Tuesdays to learn tap dance skills, history, and musicality, and to be a part of a welcoming community! 

*Adult classes are available as a full session or drop-in class registration!

LINK TO REGISTER/MORE INFORMATION
https://chicagotaptheatre.com/take-a-class/#loyola

Mayor's Office of Reentry Survey

The Mayor's Office of Reentry is conducting a survey to understand the current barriers for residents returning from incarceration and system-impacted individuals for their transition back to the City of Chicago. The results of this survey will help guide our office in shaping policies for reentry, ensuring that community input is at the forefront of all recommendations. This survey will guide our department in building on work that was started for the Office of Reentry and continuing to develop innovative solutions for the City of Chicago. You can access the survey here.

CDOT EV Framework Public Survey Open

Your voice matters. The Chicago Department of Transportation is asking residents to share their feedback through a short community survey. The results will guide future decisions and help us better serve you. Take the survey here.

Thank you for sharing your perspective and helping shape our community’s future.

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

CPD Community Feedback Survey

Annually, the Chicago Police Department (CPD) conducts training for its officers to ensure their safe and equitable performance of their duties. CPD is requesting your feedback to ensure that officers are benefiting from their training in an effective manner. You can access the voluntary and confidential survey here.

Rogers Park Arts

Theatre Above The Law Presents: Black Comedy

Theatre Above the Law presents Black Comedy, a farce by Peter Schafer at the Jarvis Square Theater (1439 W. Jarvis), November 21 - December 21.

Tickets available at theatreatl.org 

Struggling sculptor Brindsley Miller and his fiancée, Carol, are having a party with the aim of impressing Carol's bombastic father, Colonel Melkett, and millionaire Georg Bamberger. They hope the two men might purchase some of Brindsley's sculptures. Without permission, they have borrowed the furniture of their fussy neighbor, Harold, to make their own flat more presentable. Just before the guests arrive, the main fuse blows, plunging the flat into darkness. What follows is a frantic romp with unexpected visitors, mistaken identities, and surprises lurking in every dark corner. Only we, the audience, can see the action that ensues in the dark. As you might expect, the results are chaotic, disastrous, and downright hysterical.

Lifetime Theater: 2025/26 Season Showings

Lifeline Theater's artistic ensemble announces its 2025-26 season of Big Stories, Up Close. This 43rd year for the Rogers Park nonprofit theater begins in September 2025 and includes three MainStage productions, three KidSeries productions, and three concert readings, as well as the fourth annual BIPOC Showcase.

Main Stage Season:
  • Jacob Marley's A Christmas Carol, Nov. 28-Dec. 21 (opens 11/30/25 at 2:30 p.m.)

KidSeries Season:
  • The Conducters, in association with Kerfuffle, December 6-21 (opens 12/6/25 at 11am)

Youth Shine in 49

Fight Like A Girl

Fight Like a Girl is a boxing and leadership development program that helps girls aged 10 and up build confidence, develop a growth mindset, and, build healthy habits. Participants will learn the fundamentals of boxing and how to transfer lessons from boxing into other areas of their lives. Fight Like a Girl is run by Box United, a nonprofit on a mission to help girls use boxing to build physical and mental well-being.

The following locations are free programs for all Chicago girls.

North Side: Rogers Park 

Sign up here!

Loyola University Center for Research and Child Development Seeks Volunteers

The Center for Research on Child Development (CRCD) at Loyola University Chicago. The CRCD is providing families in our community with the opportunity to take an active part in science by participating with their children in research at Loyola. They are seeking interested families to volunteer for studies on infant and toddler development. To learn more about their work, you can view their website at loyolacrcd.org.

Family Matters Enrollment

Family Matters (7731 N. Marshfield) is accepting new students from PreK - 3rd grade. Your student will receive individualized instruction, opportunities for music, theater, German wheel gymnastics, Latin dance and so much more!

Chicago Youth Service Corps

Chicago Youth Service Corps is a year-round program that provides paid opportunities for youth ages 16-24 to engage in community service, project-based learning, and leadership development. Chicago Youth Service Corps celebrates and welcomes diverse backgrounds and encourages you to bring your experience, background, and traditions to your service.

For more information and to apply, click here!

Mary Crane Center Rogers Park - Enrollment Available for Free Head Start Program

Mary Crane Center's Rogers Park location at 1545 W Morse Ave is currently accepting applications for enrollment in their Head Start program! The free services include year-round childcare for working families and/or students, scholarship opportunities, free nutritional meals and snacks, and much more! Mary Crane Center's services are available all year round, including when school is not in session. 

If you're interested in learning more, you may call the Mary Crane Center team at 773-262-1390

Community Aid

State Sen. Mike Simmons Mutual Aid Food Drive

Senator Mike Simmons’ office is accepting donations of non-perishable food, reusable grocery bags, and new toiletries/diapers/cleaning supplies. Drop off donations Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. -3 p.m. at 1040 W Bryn Mawr. For questions, email s[email protected] or call 773-769-1717.

Circles & Cyphers Benefit Concert December 5th

Join Circles & Cyphers at Juliana's (3001 W. Peterson Ave) on December 5th for Goin’ Legit: In Circles We Trust – From $urvival to $ustainability, a benefit concert fueling C&C’s next phase. This event will last from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., and you can get tickets and donate at this link

The night will merge theatre and hip-hop performances with an orchestral vibe, served up C&C-style: bold, creative, and unapologetically fly. Expect live artistry, food and refreshments, a walk through the history of Circles & Ciphers, and recognition of the youth and legacy leaders who keep the movement alive.

Praxis Team Business Coalition

The Praxis team and other Rogers Park businesses have created a business coalition against ICE that is partnering with community members to provide trainings, supplies, and gathering spaces. Here's more information on Instagram!

If your business wants to sign on, please fill out https://praxischi.com/no-ice/#sign. If you're a community member or group who wants to partner to host a workshop or gathering space, please fill out https://praxischi.com/no-ice-rp/#request 

Community Care Program Through JASC

The Japanese American Service Committee (JASC) is partnering with the Illinois Department of Aging to support seniors through their Community Care Program (CCP). The CCP provides free or low-cost services to eligible older adults, such as homemaking services, adult day services, and emergency home response systems. If you would like more information or want to help, call JASC at 773-275-0097 or email [email protected].

Hamdard Health Alliance Offering PrEP Resources

Hamdard Health Alliance is a Federally Qualified Health Center offering free and confidential PrEP navigation to help people prevent HIV and stay on top of their sexual health. They offer personalized support, affordable care through a sliding scale fee, and a discount pharmacy right next door. You can find them at 1542 W Devon Ave, and can contact them at either 773-465-4600 or at [email protected].

Planting Toolkits for Communities

Are you involved in or know of a community garden, school, club, or other community organization that needs equipment to plant or care for trees and greenery in the Chicago region? The Morton Arboretum’s Chicago Region Trees Initiative is offering FREE Planting Toolkits that include shovels, pickaxes, pruners, loppers, gloves, and additional supplies and instructions. Apply using this form, and they will see if your organization qualifies. Help them maintain and expand the Chicago region green canopy!

ComEd Programs Available

2025 marks the 6th year that the Chatham Business Association (CBA) has been in partnership with ComEd. Their team of Community Energy Assistant Ambassadors (CEAAs) offers residents bill payment assistance & energy efficient programs for those who qualify, as well as tips on how to manage energy use. Check out these programs that the CBA offers! Please visit ComEd.com/SAM

Get Your Flu Shot With CDPH

Flu season is here! The Chicago Department of Public Health is offering FREE flu shots and other vaccines this season for all Chicago residents ages 6 months and up. Check out this list of vaccine clinics to see when the next one closest to you will be!

GoFundMe for 10 ONENorthside Parent Mentor Families!

ONE Northside is home to 60 Parent Mentors who volunteer inside CPS elementary classrooms across 8 Far North Side schools, building stronger relationships between parents, teachers, and students. Currently, 10 Parent Mentor families are at risk of being unable to pay rent at the end of this month due to missing work out of fear for their safety and the delayed voucher payments resulting from the federal shutdown.

Local organizers are raising emergency funds to cover urgent rent payments for 10 Parent Mentor families. If you are able, please donate and share this with the community. It is crucial that we support our community members during this unstable and fearful time. You can access their GoFundMe here.

Rep. Kelly Cassidy's Office Hosting Winter Coat Drive!

The office of State Rep Kelly Cassidy is partnering with R Public House and Women & Children First to collect new and lightly used winter items for Care For Real! You can help out a neighbor in need this winter by donating items such as winter coats, gloves, mittens, scarves, and hats at one of their drop-off locations:
  • District Office of State Rep Kelly Cassidy (1507 W Morse Ave)
  • R Public House (1508 W Jarvis Ave)
  • Women & Children First (5233 N Clark St.)

Whistles Available at Red Vault

Red Vault, located at 6534 N Clark St, is offering free whistles to warn the community when ICE is in the neighborhood. They will be open Monday - Saturday: 10am - 10pm, and Sunday: 11am - 10pm.

Loyola University ICE Map Tracker Live!

The Loyola Phoenix, the official student newspaper of Loyola University Chicago, has launched an ICE tracker where constituents can report ICE sightings in the ward. You can access the map here and read more about using the map here.

DOH Emergency Heating Repair Program Now Available!

The Chicago Department of Housing has launched its Emergency Heating Repair Program (EHRP), which offers income-eligible Chicagoland properties with repairs or replacement of their furnace or boiler. The property must be the homeowner’s primary, owner-occupied residence within the city of Chicago. Qualified contractors perform the work at no cost to the homeowner, with funding provided through the Department of Housing (DOH). For more information on eligibility and applying for the EHRP, call 311 or visit www.chicago.gov/ehrp

New Medical Lending Closet!

We’re excited to share that our community now has a new Medical Loan Closet at 2495 W Howard St, Evanston, IL! This is a free resource where neighbors can obtain items like walkers, wheelchairs, shower chairs, and other medical equipment. Some equipment we currently have includes tub benches, shower chairs, knee scooters, toilet risers and toilet rails, ice boxes, and rollators! 

It’s all about neighbors helping neighbors—making sure that no one has to go without the equipment they need to stay safe and comfortable at home. Items are available by appointment, and the closet also welcomes donations of gently used equipment.

If you’d like to borrow, donate, volunteer, or learn more, call 312-620-7136 or email [email protected]

Protecting Chicago Resources Available!

As part of Mayor Johnson's Executive Order 2025-6 Establishing the Protecting Chicago Initiative, the Mayor's Office has launched the Protecting Chicago website, which can be found at: chicago.gov/protect  Protecting Chicago aims to make available information and resources that allow every resident—regardless of background, immigration status, or neighborhood—to live with safety, dignity, and peace of mind. This initiative is Chicago’s commitment to promote the well-being of our communities and to safeguard the rights of all Chicagoans. 

CEDA Utility Assistance Resources

The Community and Economic Development Association of Cook County (CEDA) has provided us with resources for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)! Apply here and reach out to their office for more questions.

Trilogy Winter Clothing Drive 2025

Trilogy Behavioral Healthcare is accepting donations at their Winter Clothing Drive now through February 2026! You can drop off any gently used winter clothing at their building, located at 1400 W Greenleaf Ave.

Free Legal Services for Chicagoans

The Criminal Justice Legal Services Initiative (CJLSI) aims to increase access to free legal services for Chicagoans who need them most right within your community areas. Led by Cabrini Green Legal Aid (CGLA) in partnership with the Department of Family and Support Services, this initiative provides vital legal education on topics such as criminal record sealing and expungement (for both adults and juveniles), constitutional rights under the 4th, 5th, and 6th Amendments, and navigating interactions with law enforcement.

If you have a criminal record or want to better understand your rights, the Criminal Justice Legal Services Initiative (CJLSI) is here to help. This free program—offered by Cabrini Green Legal Aid (CGLA) provides legal education on topics like sealing or expunging adult and juvenile records, education on your 4th, 5th, and 6th Amendment rights, and what to do when interacting with police. If you're interested in clearing your record, CGLA can also connect you with a free attorney to help start the petition process or if you are interested in having a professional come speak to your community about this topic, contact Cabrini Green Legal Services today to get started, www.cgla.net (312) 738-2452.

Tanggol Migrante Offering Resources for Filipino Migrants

Tanggol Migrante (Defend Migrants) Chicago is a grassroots campaign alliance dedicated to defending the rights and welfare of Filipino migrants. They do know your rights trainings, rapid response and legal defense, and organize to directly support migrants in the Midwest. Tanggol Migrante has achieved recent victories, such as the release of detained migrants Aunty Lynn and Max Lodonio. 

Currently, Tanggol Migrante Chicago is campaigning to directly support 2 Filipino migrants in detention in the Midwest - Tito E and Tita R. You can learn more about them, sign on to letters of support, and donate to support legal fees and the families' living expenses. 
Tito E: 
-  Sign onto their petition & share supportive words tinyurl.com/justice4titoe
- Donate to legal fees, bond and living expense at tinyurl.com/titoe
Tita R: 
- Sign-on to the letter of support & demands at tinyurl.com/freetitar
-  Donate to Tita R’s legal expenses, communications, and other necessities at tinyurl.com/tita-r

If you or someone. you know needs support or would like to volunteer with Tanggol Migrante Chicago, please contact them at 872-246-0392 or [email protected]. You can also find them on Facebook: Tanggol Migrante-Chicago

Access Supplemental Nutrition Programs through WIC CEDA

If you are pregnant, a caregiver, or a mom with a child under 5, you can get access to supplemental nutrition programs through WIC CEDA (1516 W Howard). Reach out via phone at (773) 338-7334 or by email at [email protected].

Request a KYR Workshop

If you or your organization is in need of Know Your Rights resources, scan the QR code on the flyer above to request a workshop!

Food Drive for Swedish Hospital Community Cupboard

The Endeavor Health Swedish Hospital Community Cupboard is in need of donations for their food drive! Requested items include canned vegetables, canned chicken, peanut butter, and more. You can learn more about their food drive and other opportunities at this link.

Support Kilmer Performing Arts

Kilmer Elementary School is developing a thriving performing arts program, from annual musical theater shows to school-wide music, dance and dramatic performances at school assemblies. Our students have so many skills and talents, but our outdated sound system can't keep up with them! Help us replace the auditorium sound system and let our students' voices ring out loud and clear! Funds will be used to purchase updated sound equipment, including speakers, monitors, a mixing board and microphones. Any excess funds after equipment purchases will directly support student and family programming at Joyce Kilmer Elementary School. Visit https://givebutter.com/SX16vj to donate.

DanceWear Share Library Offers Free Dance Apparel

Synapse Arts is excited to share their DanceWear Share Library! Hosted by Synapse and Loyola Park, the library has new and gently used dance shoes, leotards, and other apparel and accessories available for the young generation of dancers - free of charge. The library works on the honor system; community members are invited to take what they need and anyone is welcome to donate gently used dance shoes or apparel, except tights. For more information, and to request dance apparel, please contact Synapse Arts at [email protected].

Volunteer Opportunities

Help Senn High School Students With Work-Based Learning!

Invest in the future of our community and connect with students at Senn High School! Senn is looking to connect our motivated students with local professionals for valuable work-based learning and career experiences.

We are compiling a directory of local professionals interested in:

  • Speaking at career day events

  • Mentoring students one-on-one 

  • Providing job shadow or internship opportunities (some students may be able to leave school up to two hours early for these experiences)

If you are eager to build partnerships and connect with talented students, please take a moment to share your interest through this quick form: https://forms.gle/FJGXnJjDXaukAqkK6

We look forward to helping students find success within our community. For questions, please reach out to Dr. Fink at [email protected]

Volunteer to be a Partner In Learning Tutor/Mentor!

Now recruiting volunteers for Family Matters' Partners in Learning one-to-one tutor/mentoring program!

Adult volunteer tutors/mentors meet with their individually matched youth partner for one 90-minute session per week. All experience levels are welcome. Program staff create a personalized lesson plan for every session, and all training and materials are provided.

Join Sullivan High School's Local School Council!

Sullivan High School is filling parent vacancies on their Local School Council (LSC). This is a great way to get involved in your community! Anyone interested can attend upcoming meetings at Sullivan HS (6631 N. Bosworth) on October 6 at 8:15am or November 3 at 4pm. Learn more about Sullivan here. Learn more about Local School Councils here.

Opportunities to Volunteer for Our Office!

Our office needs you! We have a variety of events coming up and will need your help! If you would like to help our office with tabling, flyering and upcoming events you can sign up to volunteer here.

Volunteering with Seniors with H.O.M.E

Do you enjoy bringing joy to older adults and their families?  Come and volunteer with H.O.M.E.!   

Sharing your Time, Talent, and Joy makes all the Difference in our Intergenerational Senior Communities in Edgewater and Rogers Park.   Sit and Knit, sing a song, or help our staff with a party or activity.  Anyone can participate and share a talent, skill or interest in something special with our community members. H.O.M.E. may be able to provide materials if needed. 

Please contact Nikki Moustafa at [email protected] or 773.262.3389

Howard & Evanston Area Community Center Volunteer Opportunities

Howard & Evanston Area Community Center has a variety of volunteer opportunities to help give back to our community. Their volunteer opportunities include food pantry shifts, adult education tutoring, and reading programs.

For more information and to sign up, call 773-262-6622 or click here

Be a Guest Chef for Seniors with H.O.M.E!

Do you enjoy cooking? Do you enjoy bringing joy to older adults? Become a Guest Chef at H.O.M.E.!

Sharing your Time, Talent and Joy makes all the Difference in our Good Life Senior Living Communities in Edgewater and Rogers Park.   Anyone can participate so bring yourself, your friends and family or your co-workers to cook for our community members (about 10-15ppl). If you need financial assistance, H.O.M.E. can provide ingredients.

Please contact Nikki Moustafa at [email protected] or 773.262.3389

Volunteer for Animal Care and Control

Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) is seeking volunteers to help connect families with pets, walk and play with dogs, care for cats, provide one-on-one enrichment, and assist at special events. All volunteers must be at least 18 years old and attend an orientation. For more information, click here

Nourishing Hope Needs Volunteer Drivers

Nourishing Hope is one of the largest food pantries in Chicago that has been around for over 50 years. The Home Delivery program serves homebound folks who live in our community; many of these clients are elderly, disabled, chronically ill, and/or food insecure. Their program allows clients to receive pantry food by delivering it directly to them at their homes which eliminates barriers for them to receive fresh, quality food.
 
Nourishing Hope is in great need of more delivery drivers for their program. Drivers will get about 8 to 10 food orders for folks in the nearby community that need their food delivered. A typical shift lasts from about 10:30 - 12:30pm on a Saturday morning. The volunteers will show up with their car to our Hub location (located at 5151 N. Ravenswood), load up with their deliveries, and then be on their way to drop them off at each community members' house.
 
For more information and to sign up, please scan the above QR Code or email [email protected].

GirlForward Seeks Volunteer Mentors

GirlForward is seeking dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers for our Mentoring Program, which matches women mentors with girls resettled through the refugee resettlement program. As a mentor, you will be paired with a mentee in grades 9-12 and will meet with her for at least two hours per week to talk about school, relationships, and careers, and to do fun and engaging activities together. As a mentor, you will make a one-year commitment to GirlForward and will receive trainings to prepare you for this role.

To learn more and apply, click here!

Additional Resources

Access these resources by clicking the buttons below!

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!
Alderwoman Maria Hadden 
49th Ward Service Office
1447 W. Morse Ave, Chicago, IL 60626
773-338-5796 | [email protected]

Office Hours

Monday: 9 am - 5 pm
Tuesday: 9 am - 5 pm
Wednesday: 9 am - 5 pm
Thursday: 9 am - 5 pm
Friday: 9 am - 5 pm*
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
*Remote office hours
 
Paid for and authorized by Maria for the 49th Ward.

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Alderwoman Maria Hadden · 1447 W. Morse Ave · Chicago, IL 60626 · USA