39th Ward Updates

39th Ward Newsletter
August 7, 2026

Dear Neighbor,

Back-to-school season is here, and my office is excited to help families across the 39th Ward get ready for a successful school year. We know this time of year can be both exciting and expensive, which is why we're looking forward to hosting our annual Back-to-School Summer Bash on Monday, August 10, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Hollywood Park (3312 W. Thorndale Ave.).

Every student should walk into the classroom feeling prepared and ready to learn. Our Summer Bash is designed to make that a little easier by bringing together free resources, healthcare services and a fun evening for the whole family. We'll have a backpack giveaway (while supplies last), free pediatric vaccines and school physicals, student and parent resources, a bike raffle, a live DJ, delicious food (halal options available), and community organizations ready to connect families with programs and services throughout the year. I hope you'll join us as we celebrate the start of another school year and help set our students up for success.

I also want to thank everyone who has been working hard to recover from last week's severe storms. I'm grateful to the City crews, first responders, utility workers and neighbors who have helped clear debris, remove downed trees and restore our community. While cleanup continues in some areas, your patience and willingness to lend a hand have been greatly appreciated. With the potential for additional storms next week, I encourage everyone to stay weather aware, secure loose outdoor items and report non-emergency issues to 311. If you encounter a downed power line or another emergency, please call 911.

As always, my office is here to help. We are located at 4200 W. Lawrence Ave. and are open Mondays from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Fridays from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Please contact us at 773.736.5594 or [email protected] if you need any city services or have any questions.

Best,

Alderman Samantha Nugent

39th Ward Updates

39th Ward Back to School Bash

We are excited to host our third annual Back-to-School Summer Bash on Monday, August 10th from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM at Hollywood Park (3312 W. Thorndale Ave.). Come on by for a backpack giveaway (while supplies last), pediatric vaccine clinic, free health physicals, free food, live music, and more.

If you are interested in scheduling an appointment for a Free School Physical, provided by American Indian Health Service of Chicago, please email our office.

To schedule an appointment with the Pediatric Vaccine Clinic, facilitated by the Chicago Department of Public Health CareVan, please use the link below.

Vaccine Clinic Appointments

Palmer Summer Celebration

It was wonderful to see neighbors at the Palmer Summer Celebration, hosted by the Friends of Palmer. This was a fun opportunity to get families together and get excited for another great school year.

Jacqualine "Jackie" Kostrzewa

I am honored to dedicate the 5100 block of N. Kolmar Ave. in honor of Jacqualine "Jackie" Kostrzewa. Jackie was a dedicated volunteer in the community. Members of her family and neighbors gathered with me to celebrate the dedication.

Filipino Luncheon

Thank you to Namit Cafe for hosting my luncheon with members of the Filipino American community from across the 39th Ward. Stop by Namit Cafe at 3346 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. to enjoy delicious food with neighbors.

FACA Picnic

I enjoyed attending the Queen of All Saints' Filipino-American Community Association Picnic. This is one of my favorite events each summer with good times, delicious food, and great friends.

Block Parties

Around the Ward

The Eve Fries Foundation: Cubs Charities Nominee

The Eve Fries Foundation has been named a finalist in the 2026 Cubs Charities Community Awards!

Now they need our help. Community members can vote once a day through August 21, and every vote helps determine this year's winners.

Vote Here

39th Ward Community Markets

Sugar Rae's Back to School Giveaway

CPS Summer Meals

Night Out in the Parks

City Announcements

District Councilor Elections

Help Shape Public Safety and Policing in Your Neighborhood.

Want to make a real difference in how public safety and policing work in your community? District Councils (DCs) are locally elected, 3‑member bodies that give residents a stronger voice in shaping both neighborhood‑level and citywide decisions.

DCs partner closely with the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (Commission), which provides oversight of the Police Department, the Police Board, and the Civilian Office of Police Accountability. Together, they help ensure transparency, accountability, and meaningful community input.

District Councilors stay active year‑round:

Hosting monthly public meetings
Listening to neighbors and elevating community concerns
Meeting with local stakeholders and police leaders
Developing community‑centered policing initiatives
Promoting restorative justice
Collaborating with fellow Councilors
Offering recommendations to the Commission

If you’re curious about how DCs work, or you’re thinking about becoming a candidate, join an upcoming information session during lunch, in the evening or on a Saturday. You’ll learn what the role involves, how DCs strengthen local voices, and what steps to take if you’re interested in running.

17th District Council Monthly Meeting

Rabies Vaccine and Microchip Clinic

Know Your Rights

Everyone in Chicago—regardless of immigration status—is protected by rights under city, county, state, and federal law. This guide is designed to help you understand those rights. For immediate assistance or more information, please call the ICIRR Family Support Network Hotline at 855-435-7693 or visit the link below.

More Info