|
|
Dear Neighbors,
This week, we cut the ribbon on a new affordable housing development in Humboldt Park. Forty new affordable units. Families are already moving in. Many of you have reached out with concerns about homelessness in our community. I hear the frustration. I hear concerns about safety, stability, and the future.
Homelessness does not begin on the street, in a tent, or on a train. It begins when housing becomes unaffordable. It begins with displacement. It begins when working families are one emergency away from losing everything. If we are serious about reducing homelessness, we have to build and preserve affordable housing. This development is preventive and stabilizing. It is the difference between sleeping in a car and having a key. Real solutions require investment, policy, and partnership. That is the work underway in the 26th Ward.
|
|
|
|
EARLY VOTING IS OPEN I know many people are feeling powerless right now. In this administration, the pace of threats, the fear, the legal battles, the constant headlines can leave people wondering where to fit in or how to help. It can feel like decisions are being made far away from our neighborhoods.
And I also know that “just vote” does not always feel like a powerful answer. But if voting did not matter, we would not see repeated efforts to limit access to it. We would not see challenges to who gets to vote, how ballots are cast, or when (or if) they are counted. Access is contested because participation is powerful.
You are not powerless. Early voting is open. For those eligible to vote, that means you can cast your ballot now, on your schedule, without waiting for Election Day. When other systems feel out of reach, this is one place where your voice still directly shapes what happens next. Make a plan. Bring someone with you. Vote early.
Find locations and hours at chicagoelections.gov
|
|
|
|
Palenque’s Parent Mentor Group at Stowe Elementary Today I had the honor of attending a professional development for parents at Stowe Elementary. Palenque's Parent Mentor Group, in partnership with the school's Parent Advisory Council (PAC) and the Bilingual Advisory Committee (BAC), regularly facilitates professional development for parents. Palenque has supported parents at Stowe in earning their paraprofessional certificates and substitute licenses. Parents are encouraged to invest in themselves so they can be the best they can be for their children and families. When families are given meaningful opportunities to grow, entire school communities grow with them. I am grateful to the parent leaders, organizers, and educators who continue to create pathways for achievement and empowerment. Their commitment reminds us that supporting parents is one of the most powerful ways to support students. |
|
|
|
SENIOR VALENTINE’S LUNCH Today was beautiful. We gathered for our Senior Valentines Brunch with Representatives Jiménez and Delgado, Senator Aquino, Alderperson La Spata, Commissioner Tara Stamps and Clerk Spyropoulous to celebrate the people who built this community, our seniors. Our seniors did not just attend. They showed up. They ate, they danced salsa and cumbia, they laughed loudly, they won prizes, and they connected with neighbors and local resources. Our elders deserve joy, they deserve to age in place with community. They deserve music and movement. They deserve to feel seen, valued, and to be surrounded by love. Aging in place means more than housing; it means belonging. Thank you to every senior who joined us, we are proud to celebrate YOU! |
|
|
|
Also, please note that my office will be closed MONDAY, FEBUARY 16th in observance of Washington’s birthday. My office will reopen Tuesday at 9 am. |
|
|
|
In Solidarity,
Alderperson Jessie Fuentes |
|
|
|
|
|
Businesses Know Your Rights 2/26 |
|
|
|
Good Vibes Save Lives - 3/4 |
|
|
|
Tree Planting in Hermosa 4/25 |
|
|
|
The 26th Ward Office is partnering with Openlands, an organization dedicated to protecting natural areas and expanding Chicago’s tree canopy, along with the 35th Ward Office, the Office of Cook County Commissioner Jessica Vásquez, and Nixon Elementary School to host a community tree-planting day on April 25th. We are currently identifying Hermosa residents who are interested in having a tree planted in front of their home at no cost. Increasing tree coverage helps reduce extreme heat, improve air quality, and manage stormwater in our neighborhoods.
The Hermosa neighborhood has been identified as a high-priority area for tree planting due to its relatively low tree canopy coverage. On April 25th, residents, students, and partners will come together to take action and invest in the long-term health of our community.
If you are a Hermosa resident interested in having a tree planted in front of your home, or if you would like to volunteer during the tree-planting day on April 25th, please email [email protected]. If you are interested in a tree planting but do not live in the Hermosa community, please contact the 26th Ward Office at [email protected] or call or text 773-395-0143 for assistance.
|
|
|
Development Feedback - 3251 W. Division |
|
|
| Submit feedback on the proposed zoning change request to build 44 affordable housing unit.
Submit here. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
California Ave Construction Alert |
|
|
|
Immigration Rights Resources |
|
|
|
|
|
| Construction season has begun! Don't forget to check out ChiStreetWork for updates on upcoming work in your neighborhood. |
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Boulevard Landmark District Extension Project |
|
|
|
The “Logan Square Boulevards District” is a significant part of our community's history and character. An extension of this Landmark District is currently being considered. This process typically takes 6 to 9 months and includes communication and notices throughout the process.
This project builds on decades of historic preservation work and reflects the ongoing commitment of the 26th Ward to encouraging sustainable development and maintaining the unique identity of our neighborhoods.
You can learn more about the project, review FAQs, and submit your thoughts at the26thward.org/boulevard-landmarking. |
|
|
|
The 26th Ward's zoning process requires anyone requesting a zoning change to first complete a zoning intake form. After review, they present their request to the Zoning Advisory Committee and answer questions. In some cases, they may also present at a community input meeting. |
|
|
|
We are currently reviewing zoning change requests for the following properties. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Chicago Latino Caucus Foundation |
|
|
|
Lens on Love - Youth & Healthy Relationships |
|
|
|
ASM: Spanish Dance Experience |
|
|
|
Palenque Youth Opportunities |
|
|
|
City Cruises College internships |
|
|
|
|
|
Be a Student Election Judge |
|
|
| High school students, your voice matters, even before you can vote! 🗳️
Serve as a Student Election Judge in the 2026 Election and help run your local precinct. Gain leadership experience, earn community service credit, and make an impact in your community. You can also pre-register to vote at 16 so you are ready on Election Day.
Find out more |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Center for Changing Lives Events |
|
|
|
|
|
Family Preparedness Plan Workshops |
|
|
|
Community Resource Fair 2/28 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Chicago Food Justice Summit |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bilingual Foster Homes Needed |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Calling all emerging real estate developers in Chicago! Ready to grow your business? The Chicago EDI Program will give you the skills, mentorship, and network to take the next step. ✨ Hands-on training and advising ✨ One-on-one mentorship ✨ Connections to peers and partners ✨ Pathways to financing Brought to you by Chicago Community Loan Fund and Community Investment Corporation, with Capital Impact Partners, and funded by MacArthur Foundation and U.S. Bank. Spots are limited 👉 Apply today |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Every child deserves a safe and loving home. 💙 Association House’s Foster Care Program ensures that children in our community are cared for, supported, and connected to families who will walk with them toward healing and stability. Learn more about becoming a foster parent or supporting the program at
👉 associationhouse.org/foster |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Seniors 60+ — Need help at home?
The City of Chicago offers free chore services to help you stay safe and independent: Light help like cleaning, laundry, errands, or personal care after an illness One‑time heavy‑duty fixes like deep cleaning, clutter removal, moving furniture, or major tidying Find eligibility info and how to apply on the City’s Help In Your Home page. Or call 312-744-4016 or email [email protected] for more help |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Domestic Violence Resources |
|
|
|
|
|
CEDA Utility Relief Programs |
|
|
|
Seniors Community Care Program |
|
|
|
NEW Illinois Immigration Info Hub |
|
|
|
|
|
Cannabis Expungement Project |
|
|
| New Leaf Cannabis Expungement Project is a network of 17 nonprofits that helps anyone ever charged with a cannabis offense anywhere in Illinois clear eligible cannabis and non-cannabis cases from their record.
Our services are free.
New Leaf is state-funded and was formed after the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act was passed in 2019. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
City of Chicago - Know Your Rights Guide |
|
|
|
|
|
The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) provides this Rights Card to protect you during interactions with law enforcement or immigration officials. 📞 Family Support Hotline:
Call 1-855-HELP-MY-FAMILY (1-855-435-7693) for assistance in English, Spanish, Korean, or Polish. ✅The right to remain silent. ✅The right to refuse answering questions without legal representation. ✅The right to contact an attorney or organization for help. Print and carry this card to assert your rights and ensure your safety in uncertain situations. For more information, visit www.icirr.org/family-support |
|
|
Intake for People Experiencing Homelessness |
|
|
| 🏠 24/7 Intake Location for People Experiencing Homelessness
For single adults in need of shelter, the Shelter Placement and Resource Center (SPARC) offers:
✅ Open 24/7 with a 200-person capacity
✅ Meals, showers, laundry, and shelter placement services
✅ On-site assistance and 3-1-1 shelter requests available around the clock
📍 Location: 2241 S. Halsted St. (S Halsted St. & W 23rd) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Court-Based Rental Assistance Program |
|
|
|
Chicago Senior Risk Assessment Program |
|
|
| The Chicago Seniors At Risk Assessment Program provides free fire/fall safety assessments for individuals ages 65 or over and those with a disability.
Chicago Fire Department members will assess the home for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as other fire and fall hazards.
Call to schedule an appointment. Phone: (312) 747-6691 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Chicago Rents connects landlords with tenants through various housing subsidy programs, offering guaranteed rent, vacancy filling, and personalized support. Created in response to COVID-19, it centralizes property partner relationships and helps Chicagoans in need of housing. If you are a landlord interested in joining the Chicago Rents program, you can click here to apply. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12 District Police Oversight |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) has introduced a new and improved interactive calendar, which you can click here to access. One of the key features of this calendar is the inclusion of the yearly meeting calendar for both the Commission for Public Safety and your Local District Councils. By simply visiting this website, you can find the dates, times, and locations of all scheduled meetings. 14th Police District Council Join elected District Councilors every first Saturday of the month at 1pm to work for better police accountability, restorative justice, and evidence based approaches to public safety. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Aligned candidates will be excited about supporting a community of founders, manufacturers, and industry leaders committed to commercializing hardtech solutions. They'll be inspired by creating economic opportunity locally while deploying solutions to impact the world. They'll come with energy and enthusiasm to join a team during a moment of growth and bold new ideas. Is that you or someone you know? |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Casa Central has several openings in both our teaching and nursing that are critical in our programs and they may be of interest to our residents. Teaching Positions: Nursing Positions: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
What if your everyday work directly protected public health, improved our waterways, and helped millions of people across Cook County? At the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD), that’s exactly what you do. What if you could build a stable, rewarding career and make a meaningful impact on your community at the same time? At the MWRD, you can—and that’s what makes it such an exceptional place to work. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Greater West Town Project is offering a Shipping and Receiving Training Program with full-time classes that run for 12 weeks. Illinois residents who are 18 years old or over and low-income eligible can train at no cost. For 33 years, Greater West Town programs have successfully equipped community residents with in-demand job skills and placed them in jobs in industry with recent wages averaging $18-20 per hour. Apply here. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Chicago Board of Elections is HIRING!
Various full-time positions avilable.
Apply by sending your resume to [email protected]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Are you a skilled and passionate healthcare professional looking to make a meaningful impact in the community? Humboldt Park Health (HPH) is seeking dedicated Physicians and Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs) to join our team.
View open position HERE |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 📣 The City of Chicago’s Department of Law is hiring!
Join a team committed to justice, equity, and service to our communities. Explore open positions and apply today. ⚖️🔗 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| The City of Chicago is committed to assisting residents in their pursuit of finding a job. This page contains information on where residents can find job opportunities in the public, private,and nonprofit sector. Click HERE to view job opportunities in various sectors. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Chicago Transit Authority employees keep Chicago and 35 suburbs moving every day. This would not be possible without our skilled and dedicated workforce. Learn what qualities make a great CTA employee and find a career opportunity that matches your professional skill set and interests. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Click Here to view and apply for Chicago Department of Public Health jobs |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
If you know someone looking for reproductive justice resources in Chicago, they can go to this Department of Public Health resource page to use the City’s digital community resource directory. There is also a free talkline (1-888-493-0092) where operators are available to share information on various reproductive justice options. |
|
|
|
|
| If you need assistance with a city service, let us know! You can submit your request through our website, by giving us a call, or submitting a request directly to 311.chicago.gov. Our team is here to provide the support you need and ensure our community thrives. |
|
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Requirements:
HS diploma or equivalent
