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WARD SERVICE OFFICE
1447 W. MORSE AVE
CHICAGO, IL 60626
773-338-5796
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Good morning neighbors,
This was my first full week back to work and it was a good one. I met with both our Youth Leadership and Aldermanic Advisory Council to set goals and talk about current events and how they're effecting our community. Both made it clear to me that they want me and my office to be out and present in our ward this year as much as possible. We need to redouble our efforts at community building so that we can protect and care for one another. And with community support, that's exactly what I plan to do.
In Housing Committee on Wednesday, we approved several new projects, selling city-owned lots for $1 to small developers who are building new 3-flats creating 3 and 4-unit buildings for affordable home ownership on the South and West sides of the city. We also heard from the Mayor's Office on Homelessness on the release of their . It was great to hear about the year of work that 34 groups and agencies put into this analysis and framework. Reducing and preventing homelessness in Chicago should be a priority for us all. The public comment period is open now through January 30. Please review and submit your feedback!
Yesterday, I celebrated with leaders around the city at the 40th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Interfaith Breakfast. We honored champions of democracy Rev. David Black and the amazing Jacqueline Jackson. And we were also joined by former Vice President Kamala Harris as the keynote speaker. It was a great way to kick off MLK weekend and inspiring to hear from others fighting to defend and improve our city and our country. You can .
On Monday, I'll be out supporting our youth at the 5th Annual MLK Jr. Day Middle School Basketball Tournament this Monday at Sullivan High School from 9am - 5pm! Thanks to the Friends of Sullivan and the Rogers Park Builders Group for supporting this fantastic community event.
Lastly, next Wednesday, January 21 is our first City Council meeting of the year. You can find details for how to sign up for public comment and watch virtually on
Have a safe and restful weekend,
Alderwoman Maria Hadden
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Click the links below to select the section that you want to read!
- CELEBRATIONS & APPRECIATIONS - good news for the week!
- WARD UPDATES - Community announcements, city services, and zoning/development updates
- INFRASTRUCTURE UPDATES - City services and infrastructure notices
- COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT - local events and ways to get involved
-NEED TO KNOW INFO - alerts, services, and government resources
- ROGERS PARK ARTS - events, theatre, and other public arts news
- YOUTH SHINE IN 49 - school news, scholarship opportunities, and youth employment offerings
- COMMUNITY AID - organizational and personal requests for support,
- VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES - Opportunities to give back to the community
- EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES - link to the employment opportunities section of our website
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Celebrations & Appreciations
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Remembering Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
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This Monday, January 19th, is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which offers us an opportunity to reflect on his life’s work and how we can continue his mission today. You can learn more about Martin Luther King Jr. Day by visiting published by The King Center, the nonprofit organization founded by Mrs. Coretta Scott King. In the spirit of Dr. King’s activism and commitment to building community, we encourage you to check out our “Community Aid” section of the newsletter for local organizations seeking volunteers and aid. We are stronger together.
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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
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Office Closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day
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Please note that our office will be closed on Monday, January 19, in observance of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. We will reopen on Tuesday, January 20, at 9 a.m. If you have any questions or concerns, please email [email protected] or leave a message at 773-338-5796, and we will respond to you when we return.
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Change to Refuse Schedules for City Holiday
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As we approach Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday holiday, please note that there will be adjustments to trash and recycling collection schedules. You can view your personalized collection schedule by visiting the trash and recycling service schedule () or by visiting .
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Submit Feedback On The 400 Theater Opening
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The 400 Theater, formerly the New 400, will be opening at 6746 N Sheridan this year. Currently, residents can share feedback with our office for 35 days, which we will share with the owner. We will be accepting this feedback until Friday, February 6th. If you wish to share your thoughts on this theater, please email our Infrastructure and Communications Coordinator, Zach Joseph, at [email protected].
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Recycle Your Holiday Lights With The City
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The holidays are over, but as you take down decorations, don't just throw them away! Please drop off your non-working holiday string lights between now and January 29th at our office (1447 W. Morse Ave), and Reduce Waste Chicago will take them to be properly recycled. Be sure your lights are separated from other decor and are free from other packaging. No plastic bags, please!
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Need assistance with snow shoveling this winter?
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The 49th Ward is proud to bring back its Snow Squad for this winter season! This program will connect interested volunteers and those who need assistance to shovel walkways and keep sidewalks safe 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 .
If you would be interested in volunteering to shovel snow for your fellow neighbors, please complete .
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.
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DWM Sewer Rehabilitation Work
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Neighbors, please be advised that the Department of Water Management (DWM) began a Sewer Lining project on November 24, 2025, and will have 75 calendar days to complete their work. This work will occur on the sewer west of N Greenview Ave from the alley south of W Pratt to W North Shore.
DWM will be sending letters to residents located in the immediate area to provide notification of the work once they begin lining the sewer mains. No parking signs will be posted in the immediate area one workday prior to the start of any scheduled work. It will be necessary to close some lanes, but the streets will remain open to traffic. Work is typically completed during working hours, and Cure In Place Pipe (CIPP) is non-destructive and requires little to no excavation, limiting the impact to residents.
The rehabilitation work includes cleaning the sewers and the installation of CIPP. The installation of CIPP consists of lining the existing sewers and generally does not require excavation, except when repairs are required prior to lining of the sewer main, catch basin lateral connections, catch basin structures, or manhole structures.
Typical work includes the following:
• Main sewer cleaning and televising
• Catch Basin (drainage structures on the curbside) cleaning, televising, and lining of the pipe connections to the main sewer
• Catch Basin and Sewer Manhole structures lining
• Main Sewer Lining immediately followed by the reinstatement of house drain services and catch basin pipe connections
• The lined sewer will be televised to ensure that the work was done properly
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our office at [email protected] or at 773-338-5796.
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Culture of Safety Self-Defense Workshop Today
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Join Culture of Safety today, January 17th, from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. for their next Self-Defense workshop. Learn how to feel and be safer, stronger, and more self-confident through their empowerment-based workshop. This workshop for adults (age 18+) includes both physical resistance skills to slow down an attacker and get away to safety, as well as communication strategies to deter violence before it starts. Their workshops are always interactive, engaging, accessible for all bodies and abilities, and trauma-informed. Open to adults of all genders and gender identities. Register online:
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24th District Movie Screening January 21
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The 24th District is excited to announce their January 2026 movie feature: Rudy! The screening will take place at the 24th District Police Station, 6464 N Clark Street, at 1:00 p.m. on January 21. Spots are limited, so please RSVP as soon as possible by emailing Daniel.Gajewski.
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Chicago Public Library Film Reflection January 21
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Join the Chicago Public Library for a special event celebrating the release of 40 Years, 40 Films with author in attendance! Award-winning film critic and beloved Chicago broadcaster Nick Digilio has passionately reviewed movies, championed underappreciated gems, and entertained audiences across radio, podcasts, theaters, and live events. Now, in this deeply personal collection, he reflects on 40 years of moviegoing, movie reviewing, and movie-loving — one film at a time. The event will be on January 21 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Rogers Park Library (6907 N Clark). You can sign up to attend .
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Culture of Safety Classes Start January 19
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Weekly community Tai Chi classes at Culture of Safety resume Monday, Jan 19th. Start your new year with improved calm, coordination, balance, and more! Classes are on Mondays at 7 p.m., taught by Sifu Rodrigo. Suggested donation of $15/session. Learn more or register online:
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49th Ward Night with the Ramblers February 3
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Watch Loyola Men’s Basketball take on the La Salle Explorers at Gentile Arena (6525 N Sheridan) on Tuesday, February 3 at 7:00 p.m. for 49th Ward Night! Residents of the 49th Ward can get $7.73 tickets in Section 207.
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Loyola’s National Girls & Women in Sports Day February 7
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Join Loyola Athletics for their annual National Girls & Women in Sports Day event on Saturday, February 7, for a free pregame youth clinic and women’s basketball game vs. VCU! Clinic participants get a free t-shirt and free ticket to the game. The clinic begins at 12:30 p.m. with the game tipping off at 2:00 p.m. at Gentile Arena (6526 N Sheridan).
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C24/7 Pregnancy Support Group Starts January 26
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C24/7 Father's Arms Ministries is partnering with Holding Hope Birthing Services to create a safe and supportive community among pregnant women. C24/7 wants to invite you into a space to unite with others who are walking in the same season as you and bring educational support, as well as emotional support, in your pregnancy journey. You can register at . Please email [email protected] with questions.
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Glenwood Sunday Market Survey
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Each year, asks shoppers like you to share feedback on your market experience and the Rogers Park neighborhood. It only takes 2 minutes to complete their short survey. Help them make the market even better! Take the survey .
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14th District Small Business Security Infrastructure Grant Program: Door Entry Control
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The 14th District Small Business Security Infrastructure Grant has launched an emergency door-buzzer initiative in response to the fear and disruption caused by recent ICE/CBP operations in local commercial corridors.
Funded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and led by State Representative Kelly Cassidy in partnership with Rogers Park Business Alliance (RPBA), the program has already delivered over $320,000 in security support to 45 neighborhood businesses.
You can find more information and apply .
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Take the 2025/26 Loyola
Community Engagement Survey
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Last year, Loyola invited neighborhood communities to share their priorities and perspectives about the future of Rogers Park and Edgewater. The campus planning team keeps neighborhood priorities in mind as the future of campus takes shape. This survey revisits key questions to see what’s changed and how they can continue strengthening our relationship. The survey has a deadline of January 31, and you can access it .
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Free Weekday Admission To Art Institute
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From now until February 27, Illinois residents enjoy Free Winter Weekdays at the Art Institute. You can reserve your free tickets in advance or stop by the admissions desks on the day of your visit for assistance.
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Free Meditation Beginner Classes
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Join Culture of Safety for a FREE Meditation Beginners Series in the samatha tradition. They meet Sundays, 10 am-11:30 am, Jan 11th-March 22nd. Visit them online for more info or the sign up:
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GeNarrations Writing Workshop February 3 and 4
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Goodman Theatre will be hosting GeNarrations, a free seven-week writing and performance class at Willye B. White (1610 W Howard), starting on February 3rd and 4th. The class will take place Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. You can begin registering for the fall session today. For more information, contact [email protected].
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Local School Council Election Deadline January 20
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If you are a parent of a current student at your school, or a community member in your school's attendance boundary or voting district, CPS encourages you to consider running as a candidate in your school's Local School Council Election!
Learn more and apply at . Applications are due by 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.
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Events at the Rogers Park Branch Library
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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 .
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Paws in Pajamas Event January 18
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Chicago Animal Care and Control will be hosting their upcoming adoption event, Paws in Pajamas, on Sunday, January 18, to encourage the community to help more animals move from the shelter into homes. The pajama themed adoption event will take place at Chicago Animal Care and Control (2741 S Western Ave). Adoption fees will be waived for the event. Adoption hours are 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily. City of Chicago residents adopting a dog are required to pay a $5 dog license fee, which cannot be waived.
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Rep. Cassidy Hosts SNAP Changes Presentation January 22
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The federal government passed a new law that makes significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as Link in Illinois. The Office of State Representative Kelly Cassidy is partnering with the Greater Chicago Food Depository to give a community presentation on what these changes are, how they may affect you, and what you should do by February 1st to ensure that you maintain your benefits.
When: Thursday, January 22nd, 2026, from 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
Where: 1507 W Morse and Online
Please register at
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Be a Vendor in the 2026 Chicago Farmers Markets
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Calling all local growers and artisans! Be a part of the 2026 Chicago Farmers Markets season — running May through October across the city. The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs is looking for passionate producers and creators of handmade and natural goods to join their community of vendors. Showcase your craft, connect with your neighbors, and grow your business! Apply now to secure your spot — the deadline is Friday, January 30:
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Apply for DPD Grants by February 13
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The Chicago Department of Planning and Development has two grants available to apply to, each with different funding levels and purposes. You can click the links below to read about each grant, and make sure to apply by the February 13 deadline.
Community Development Grants (CDG):
Neighborhood Opportunity Fund (NOF):
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Greencorps Chicago is Recruiting!
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Greencorps Chicago, the City of Chicago’s green industry job training program for individuals with barriers to employment, is hiring! Greencorps Chicago is currently recruiting potential candidates for this year’s Employment & Training Program. During the nine-month program, Greencorps Chicago trainees earn a starting wage of $18.50, and receive practical experience, professional development, and classroom & field training in a variety of environmentally-related jobs with skills that are easily transferable to other industries. Trainees are offered several professional certifications including Defensive Driving, First Aid/CPR, HAZWOPER, OSHA 10-Hour Safety, Chicago Wilderness Prescription Burn Class, and the Illinois Pesticide license. Throughout the program, trainees are supported with wrap-around social services, a stable income, and assistance finding full time employment upon completion of the program.
More information and how to apply can be found on the attached flyer and at .
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OEMC Winter Preparation Tips
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The Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) encourages residents to be prepared for the winter season. Public safety is the top priority, and staying safe during the winter months requires taking steps now to winterize our homes and cars and prepare our families when the cold, wind, ice, and snow come our way. You can find the warming center nearest you by visiting the Warming Center Portal ()
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Sidewalk Shoveling Requirements
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As a reminder to all residents and businesses, per the Municipal Code of Chicago, . Many of our neighbors rely on walking and public transportation as their primary way to get around the city. Without a wide, clear path through the snow and ice, it makes it difficult for pedestrians (especially people with disabilities, seniors, and children) to walk to their destination safely.
If you have a neighbor who needs assistance clearing the sidewalk, pitch in to help out!
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March 17 Primary Election Info
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A Midterm Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, March 17. Voter registration for the election is currently open, and Vote By Mail applications are now being accepted.
You can register to vote , in person on Election Day, at an early voting site, or . for more information about registering to vote.
Vote-by-mail applications are now available online . The Board of Elections will begin mailing Vote By Mail ballots in February, and you will be able to return your ballot by mail or using one of the secure drop boxes that will be in place at every early voting site.
PLEASE NOTE: You will not automatically receive a new vote-by-mail ballot unless you are already on the permanent vote-by-mail roster. If you want to vote by mail and are not on the permanent roster, you must apply again now. To join the Vote By Mail Permanent Roster, click .
For more information about the upcoming election, visit .
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Become an Election Judge for the March 17 Primary Election
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Are you interested in being a poll worker for the March 17, 2026, Midterm Primary Election? Visit to learn more and apply. You must be a US citizen and a registered voter in Cook County - and you can earn up to $230 for your service. If you are bilingual in Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Polish, Korean or Tagalog, the Board of Elections is requesting your support. Do you know a high school junior or senior with a GPA above 3.0 and an interest in government? Let them know they can serve as an election judge and see how democracy works from behind the polling place curtain.
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DOH Emergency Heating Repair Program Now Available!
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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 .
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New Art Center Opening Close to Rogers Park
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6311arts is a new Chicago-based art center housing over 3000-square-feet of gallery, retail, and workshop space. Located at 6311 N. Clark St., they are an inclusive center focused on supporting and empowering local artists. The gallery spaces feature rotating exhibitions of work by Chicago’s northside residents, giving them a platform to share their work and reach a wider audience. Artworks include painting, ceramics, sculpture, collage, and woodworking. Check out their website, , to see all the artists represented in the galleries and shop.
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Choose The Theme For Artists of The Wall 2026
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The Loyola Park Advisory Council is beginning planning for Artists of the Wall 2026, and they need your help choosing this year’s theme!
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High Jump Applications Close January 20
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High Jump empowers Chicago middle schoolers to grow as well-rounded leaders through their 100% FREE academic enrichment program. High Jump offers unique experiences, valuable resources and supportive guidance for curious, motivated 7th and 8th graders who are ready to challenge themselves academically and personally. The deadline for current 6th graders to apply is January 20, 2026! You can do so
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Student Employment Opportunities Available for Summer 2026
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WEC Energy Group is hiring interns for summer 2026! If you know a college student looking for work in the energy industry, please direct them to to review available opportunities.
To learn more about the student program and eligibility requirements, review the .
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Pro Bono Therapy for Immigrant & Refugee Communities
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A local Chicago student, Kaiyen Arana, recently founded Healing Without Fear, an initiative to provide compassionate, trauma-informed mental health care to individuals and families affected by the current immigration, detention and deportation crisis here in Chicago.
Healing Without Fear is a confidential network of mental health clinicians who volunteer their time and talent to offer pro bono therapy sessions. These sessions are available to children, adolescents, and adults experiencing stress, trauma, or other mental health challenges related to the current immigration, detention, and deportation threats.
HWF is for individuals and families affected by immigration-related stress or concerns about deportation, and consists of at least five therapy sessions (with the possibility of extension), provided by licensed clinicians at no cost. Spanish-speaking therapists are available but in limited quantities. If you or someone you know may benefit from these services, you can contact Healing Without Fear by filling out this . Once a referral form is received, it will be reviewed and forwarded to a volunteer clinician to initiate services.
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Trilogy Winter Clothing Drive 2025
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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.
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State Sen. Mike Simmons Mutual Aid Food Drive
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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.
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Loyola University ICE Map Tracker Live!
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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 and read more about using the map .
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Protecting Chicago Resources Available!
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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: 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.
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Opportunities to Volunteer for Our Office!
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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
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Help Senn High School Students With Work-Based Learning!
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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:
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Speaking at career day events
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Mentoring students one-on-one
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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:
We look forward to helping students find success within our community. For questions, please reach out to Dr. Fink at [email protected]
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Volunteer to be a Partner In Learning Tutor/Mentor!
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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.
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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!
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Cook County:
State of Illinois:
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Federal Government:
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