|
| Use the table of contents to navigate through our newsletter! |
|
| | March 6, 2026
Dear Neighbors,
Happy Women’s History Month! This month is a time to honor the women who paved the way, the women doing the work right now, and the young girls watching and dreaming about what’s possible. Serving as the first woman of color to represent the 46th Ward, I stand on the shoulders of the many women who fought to make space at tables that were never built for them. Women’s history matters because it reminds us that progress doesn’t happen by accident, it happens because women organize, advocate, nurture, build, and lead.
I was honored to kick off the week as the keynote speaker at Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU), where we reflected on leadership, community, and the responsibility we each carry to show up fully and authentically. It felt like a powerful way to begin a month dedicated to celebrating the strength, resilience, and brilliance of women everywhere. Thank you to the Pedroso Center for inviting me to share my story and connect with students.
Let’s celebrate loudly, intentionally, and together. |
|
| |
|
Women’s leadership and vision continue to shape our communities in powerful ways and there are countless examples in the 46th Ward. I was honored to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Rita Simó, who founded The People’s Music School in 1976, at their 50th Anniversary Gala last week. For five decades, this incredible Chicago institution has been providing free, high quality music education to young people across our city, opening doors for thousands of students to explore their creativity and build confidence through music regardless of their family’s ability to pay. Congratulations to The People’s Music School on 50 amazing years and to the students, educators, and supporters who continue to make this work possible. Here’s to the next 50 years of music, opportunity, and creativity in our city. |
|
|
|
And because no week is complete without connecting directly with neighbors, we spent time at 4640 N. Sheridan for a meet and greet with Eastwood Towers residents. There’s something special about gathering right where people live, hearing what’s working, what needs attention, and what ideas are bubbling up in the building. From questions about city services to conversations about safety and infrastructure, it was a meaningful reminder that community is built one conversation at a time. Thank you to everyone who joined us, shared their thoughts, and help keep us grounded in what matters most. Special thank you to building management for hosting us! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
After a wonderful evening connecting with neighbors on Sheridan, I visited the Chicago Maritime Museum alongside fellow city officials the next morning. The visit grew out of an interview with the museum’s team earlier this year for their Making Waves series and touring the museum offered a fascinating look at Chicago’s maritime history. As an Alderperson representing a lakefront ward, understanding the history and stewardship of Lake Michigan is especially meaningful, and deepens my appreciation for the role our waterways continue to shape our city’s development and neighborhoods.
I am especially grateful to the Chicago Maritime Museum team for hosting us and for their thoughtful tour. Their work to preserve and share the stories of Chicago’s relationship with Lake Michigan helps keep an important part of our city’s history alive for future generations. |
|
|
|
I also want to make sure neighbors know we have two important events on Monday March 9th, at Clarendon Park. From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., in partnership with the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office, we’re bringing the DMV to you with a Mobile ID event, offering REAL IDs and driver’s license renewals by appointment only. Please note that no driving tests will be administered. This portion of the day is currently fully booked, and we have started a waitlist.
Then from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., in partnership with the City Clerk’s Office, we are co-hosting a CityKey event, where residents can apply for a free City of Chicago municipal ID. Appointments are still available for CityKey, and those interested can book an appointment here or scan the QR code on the flyer to secure a spot. We’re grateful for these partnerships and look forward to serving neighbors next week at Clarendon Park. |
|
| |
Wishing all of our neighbors who celebrate a joyful Purim and a vibrant Holi. May these holidays bring laughter, color, community, and moments of celebration with loved ones
Yours In Service,
Alderwoman Angela Clay
|
|
|
| |
Ward Night at the 46th Ward Office
Join us for Ward Night at the 46th Ward Office on March 19 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. This is an opportunity for neighbors to sit down one on one with Alderwoman Angela Clay to share questions, concerns, or ideas about what is happening in the ward.
Whether you want to talk about neighborhood issues, city services, or ways to get involved in the community, we invite you to stop by and connect.
Ward Night will be held at the 46th Ward Office, 4544 N Broadway Ave.
Appointments are required! Sign up to reserve a spot using one of the options below:
We look forward to seeing you there! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
46th Ward Community Conversation – Join Us March 16
Our first Quarterly Community Conversation of the year is happening this month! We invite neighbors from across the 46th Ward to join us for an evening of connection, conversation, and collaboration around community safety and neighborhood priorities.
This is a great opportunity to share ideas, ask questions, and hear directly from the Alderwoman about the work happening in the ward.
 Monday, March 16
 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
 Truman College, 1145 W. Wilson Ave
All 46th Ward neighbors are encouraged to attend. We hope to see you there!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
Chicago Aldermanic Black Caucus Foundation (CABCF) is now officially accepting applications for our 2026 scholarship program.
The Chicago Aldermanic Black Caucus Foundation awards scholarships totaling up to $10,000 per student that are disbursed over four years, providing meaningful financial support to graduating Chicago high school seniors pursuing their undergraduate degree.
Application Period: February 15, 2026 – March 15, 2026
Application Link: https://tinyurl.com/cabcscholarship26
Eligibility Requirements:
• Graduating senior from a City of Chicago high school
• Accepted and attending a four-year accredited university as a full-time student
• Resident of a CABCF ward
• One letter of recommendation from a teacher, coach, or community leader
• 500-word essay submission
• Completed application submitted by March 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM CST
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Updates |
|
| The new Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) work requirements went into effect on February 1. Up to 450,000 Illinoisians are at risk of losing their benefits under the new requirements. For more information on the changes, visit the IL Department of Human Services’ SNAP Federal Impact Center. Under the new requirements, most adults aged 18 to 64 without dependents under the age of 14, will be required to work, participate in SNAP Employment and Training programs, or volunteer for at least 80 hours per month to receive benefits.
SNAP recipients now have three months to establish eligibility under these new rules, either by demonstrating that they meet work requirements or by submitting a request for exemption form. |
|
|
I. Exemptions from the Work Requirements
Many Chicagoans may be eligible for an exemption to these requirements.
IDHS has a user-friendly screening tool to help individuals determine if they qualify for an exemption or are meeting the requirement: IDHS Exemption tool CLICK HERE.
See the table below for a summary of recent changes |
|
| | II. Ways to Meet the Work and/or Volunteer SNAP Requirements You can find Employment and Training opportunities at this link: IDHS Education and Training DFSS Senior Centers - See the attached flyer for details on the following resources: The Seniors Division at DFSS has opportunities to connect seniors age 55-64 with employment support through the Senior Community Service Employment Program. There are a range of volunteer opportunities for those interested in supporting seniors. For more information on any of the volunteering opportunities contact DFSS at 312-744-4016 or [email protected]
Volunteer opportunities across Chicagoland are available at the following links: Serve Illinois – CLICK HERE Chicago Cares website CLICK HERE Volunteer with the 46th Ward CLICK HERE
Meals on Wheels has launched a new program called, "Snap Together Volunteers," which offers accessible volunteer opportunities for seniors at the Nourish Chicago Pantry, located at 2102 W Ogden Avenue.
III. Food Pantry Resources Below are some additional resources that may be helpful to your residents and anyone no longer eligible for SNAP Find Food Pantries in Chicagoland: CLICK HERE Get Help Applying for SNAP/Link: CLICK HERE Protect Chicago Website: CLICK HERE
Our DFSS Community Service Centers (CSCs) are always available to assist clients with public benefits enrollment, including SNAP. CSCs operate Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. CSC locations can be found here. |
|
| | Early Voting is Now Open in Downtown Chicago for the March 17, 2026 Primary Election
Early Voting for the March 17, 2026 Primary Election is now open in Downtown Chicago at the new Chicago Board of Elections Supersite (137 S. State Street - State & Adams) and the Chicago Board of Elections Offices (69 W. Washington Street, 6th Floor). From February 12 through March 8, these two sites will be open Weekdays from 9:00am to 6:00pm; Saturdays from 9:00am to 5:00pm; and Sundays from 10:00am to 4:00pm. From March 9 through March 16, these two sites will be open for an extra hour on Weekdays from 9:00am to 7:00pm, with the same hours for weekends. The Supersite will be open on Election Day (March 17) from 6:00am to 7:00pm. Early Voting in all 50 Wards in Chicago began on Monday, March 2 at 9:00am and runs through Election Day (March 17). All 50 Ward Early Voting sites will also be open as vote centers on Election Day from 6:00am to 7:00pm. You can see all Early Voting locations and addresses by clicking here. Our Early Voting site is Truman College, 1145 W. Wilson. Voters can still apply to Vote By Mail for the upcoming election, as well as apply online to join the Permanent Vote By Mail Roster and receive their ballot ahead of their preferred elections. Vote By Mail applications will remain open until March 12th at 5:00pm. However, the Chicago Board of Elections recommends you request and return your ballot back as soon as possible - click here for more information related to recent USPS postmark changes. For the upcoming Primary Election, voters must request a specific party ballot either in-person, early, or when requesting a Vote By Mail ballot. When the time comes to select a ballot, a voter may choose any Political Party they wish (but may choose only one party ballot). The Political Party ballots available in Chicago for the March 17, 2026 Primary Election are: Democratic, Libertarian, and Republican. There are no Non-Partisan ballots available for the upcoming election. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
The Board is still seeking poll workers for Election Day on March 17 – Election Judges make up to $230 for the day. Interested voters can learn more and apply at pollworker.chicagoelections.gov.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Are you bilingual in Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Polish, Korean or Tagalog? Then we definitely need your help! Sign up and support all our communities across the city and serve as an election judge in 2026. You must be a US citizen and a registered voter in Cook County. You can earn up to $230 for your service. Click HERE to apply online to serve as an Election Judge for the March 17, 2026 Primary |
|
| | | | | |
Join Sarah’s Circle for their 34th Annual Winter Walk on Sunday, March 8 from 1 pm to 3 pm at Uplift Community High School (900 W Wilson Ave).
The Winter Walk event is a one-mile journey through Uptown “in the shoes” of a woman experiencing homelessness. Attendees will hear the real-life experiences of our clients and learn how Sarah’s Circle is ending homelessness for women in Chicago.
Click here to participate in Sarah’s Circle’s Winter Walk. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | It has come to our attention that large amounts of food are being dumped in various areas of the ward to feed pigeons. We want to remind neighbors that feeding pigeons is a violation of the City of Chicago ordinance.
As a reminder, dumping food in public spaces attracts rodents, creates sanitation issues, and negatively impacts the surrounding area. We ask all neighbors to help keep our ward clean and safe by refraining from feeding pigeons and reporting large food dumping when you see it.
Thank you for doing your part to keep our community healthy and welcoming for everyone.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest FREE filing program. This past tax season, 26,000 volunteers in 3,600 communities across the country helped more than 1.7 million people save over $1.3 billion in tax refunds. The service is aimed at but not limited to taxpayers who are 50 or older. AARP prepares taxes for taxpayers of all ages and income levels. AARP volunteers, trained and certified by the Internal Revenue Service, are offering free tax filing services at the Clarendon Park Community Center (4501 N. Clarendon Ave) on Tuesdays and Fridays from February 3rd through April 14th. Appointments are available from 9:30 to 2:00 PM. Both federal and state tax returns will be prepared and electronically filed. To book an appointment, enter the following link into your computer’s browser and follow the online appointment instructions. https://taxappointment.aarp.org/s/registration?locationId=a1rUv00000Dn158. Alternatively, you can log into AARP.org and search for the Tax-Aide Locator tool. Again, the service is FREE and you do NOT need to be a member of AARP to use the services.
|
|
|
Have you ever wanted to see the inside of an Alderperson’s office?
Now’s your chance. Join our volunteer team. We’re looking for neighbors who are passionate about public service, community engagement, mutual aid, communications, and providing warm, welcoming customer service to our constituents. Volunteers play an important role in helping us stay connected and responsive to the community.
This opportunity is a great fit for retirees who want to stay engaged and give back, or for students interested in learning more about local government and how City Hall works at the neighborhood level.
If you’re ready to serve your community in a meaningful way, we’d love to hear from you. Sign up here! |
|
|
| | | Submit a Lime Scooter Removal Request |
|
|
|
| Please click here to submit a scooter removal request and here for Divvy bike removal. We appreciate your assistance in helping keep our neighborhood clean. By contract, shared bike and scooter companies must remove their property within two hours of a 311 removal request.
Please contact our office directly if you see illegal/dangerous activities on green Lime scooters (riding on the sidewalk, two people sharing one scooter, etc). We are able to work with Lime to potentially administer fines, suspensions, or bans if you can include a photo/video of the behavior, and a time and location. You can also call 1-888-546-3345.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 46th Ward Upcoming Events |
|
|
| | | Houseless Neighbors Updates |
|
| We're looking for donations to help restock our Free Community Cornerstore! Items like baby wipes, dental floss, shampoo, conditioner, and new children’s socks go a long way in supporting our neighbors who need them most. If you're able to contribute, please consider dropping off supplies at our ward office. Together, we can keep this vital community resource going strong! |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | | Our office is in close communication with Edgewater/Uptown Migra Watch, a network of neighbors that does rapid response to confirm potential ICE sightings. Confirming ICE sightings is a critical part of keeping our neighbors safe. If you see activities that you suspect may be ICE, please report it to the ICIRR Hotline so that a team can go out and confirm their presence. This is an important part of how we keep our neighbors safe! |
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | |
Camry Parking Lot ExpansionThe Chicago Cubs recently filed an application to amend their existing Planned Development to expand the Camry Parking Lot by approximately 250 spaces. The Planned Development (PD) is located entirely within the 44th Ward, but I understand that many 46th Ward neighbors, particularly those living on Alta Vista, are deeply impacted by the proposal.
The PD amendment will need to be reviewed by the Chicago Plan Commission before approval and has not yet been granted support from me or Alderman Lawson. I encourage 46th Ward neighbors to continue providing feedback to my office so that we can uplift community concerns to all decision makers.
The Cubs will be presenting their Camry Lot expansion and signage proposal plans at the upcoming East Lake View Neighbors (ELVN) meeting on Tuesday, March 10th at 6:00pm at Our Lady of Mount Carmel School, Casey Hall (728 W Belmont). The presentation will include details on these topics and others, followed by a community Q&A. If you have concerns about the proposed parking lot expansion, I encourage you to attend next week’s East Lakeview Neighbors meeting to provide feedback (see meeting details below).
|
|
|
| | |
Several months ago, a neighbor was critically injured crossing the street at the intersection of Addison and Inner Lakeshore Drive. As soon as my office became aware of this, I requested that the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) conduct a traffic study to review the area — Inner Lakeshore Drive between Stratford and Grace — and suggest any and all potential infrastructure changes at this location that could improve pedestrian safety and reduce the chance of additional crashes. We also shared a petition with more than 500 neighbors’ signatures, and we have reiterated our request for significant measures to improve pedestrian safety at this location.
I want to make sure CDOT is doing all that it can to ensure that nobody else becomes a victim of traffic violence, not only along the lakefront, but across the 46th Ward. A CDOT representative will be present at next week’s East Lakeview Neighbors meeting on Tuesday, March 10th, at 6:00 pm at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Casey Hall (728 W Belmont), and will be available to take questions and feedback from neighbors. |
|
|
|
Good News, Neighbors!
Several weeks ago, the Department of Water Management began conducting emergency repairs to the sewer main on the 4300 Block of Broadway. This work is almost complete, and next week crews will repair the last section of collapsed sewer pipe at the Broadway / Sheridan intersection.
Both Broadway and Sheridan are currently open to northbound and southbound traffic and the CTA 36 bus should now be operating normally. There will be renewed detours to maintain safe working and driving conditions during the last phase of repairs. We will share additional details as soon as we have them.
This work will not impact residents' or businesses' water or sewer service, and sidewalks will remain open during construction.
Crews aim to complete the repairs and fully reopen the intersection for good following restoration soon; however, delays remain possible given the sometimes unclear condition of underground utilities.
Thank you for your patience over the past several weeks! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
| | |
See the images below to find your beat and see meeting dates and locations. Search by address here. See our local 19th District’s website here. Email [email protected] or our office with any questions. |
|
|
| | | | | | |
|
| | Citywide Events & Resources |
|
| |
Applications are now open for the 2026-2028 Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public Service!
The Obama Foundation is looking for current college sophomores and community college transfer students interested in pursuing a career in public service. If you are seeking a transformative leadership development and scholarship program that includes financial aid to ease the burden of college debt, an immersive work-travel experience, and access to a powerful network of mentors, then this program is for you!
We need your help to spread the word! Please apply now or send this to a college sophomore in your life who might be interested. | 
| Started by the Obamas and Brian Chesky, the CEO and co-founder of Airbnb, the Voyager Scholarship gives students with demonstrated financial need a deeper understanding of the issues they are passionate about, exposes them to new communities and perspectives, and inspires them to solve the world’s biggest challenges.
The program has enabled students to travel to every corner of the globe during their Summer Voyages– from Bolivia to work on gender-based violence prevention trainings, to Alaska to learn about indigenous approaches to climate resilience, to Morocco to support migrant education initiatives, and many places in between. The Voyager Scholarship has exposed students to meaningful learning opportunities and ways to engage with the world that would not otherwise be possible.
The application closes on March 17, 2026, and we need your help to spread the word!
Apply today or share with a college sophomore in your life who could benefit from the Voyager Scholarship. | |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 46TH WARD DOG OF THE MONTH |
|
|
| Dallas is a jovial 5-year-old King Charles Spaniel. Dallas' favorite place to go in the 46th Ward is North Buena Deli & loves the NBD turkey! He also loves to go for walks in Clarendon Park. 46th Ward neighbor Savannah brought him by our office recently, and he left such a great impression that he became the highlight of our month! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | | |
|
| | |
| The Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) ensures a fair and vibrant marketplace for businesses, workers and consumers in the City of Chicago. BACP licenses businesses and public vehicles, regulates business activity, protects consumers from fraud, enforces Chicago’s labor laws, partners with business service organizations and provides education and resources for businesses.
BACP is here to support your business today: Business Education Webinars: Chicago.gov/BACPWebinars Entrepreneur Certificate: Chicago.gov/BACPCertificate Neighborhood Business Developments Centers: Chicago.gov/NBDC Small Business Center: Chicago.gov/SmallBusiness
FREE BUSINESS EDUCATION WEBINARS The Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) offers free business education webinars every Wednesday afternoon and Friday morning. Topics include business licensing, operations, financial resources, marketing, and more. Programs are free, hosted online and open to the public and taught by industry professionals, not-for-profit agencies, and government agencies. Upcoming Business Education Webinar Schedule: March 11 - Access Capital to Buy or Renovate Your Small Business Space March 12 - Chicago Small Biz Expo March 13 -Building Your Social Media Strategy & Your Personal Brand to Build Your Business |
|
| Sign up HERE to get the BACP Newsletter for details on upcoming expos and resources, plus get the latest updates about the City’s business initiatives and ordinances that might affect your operation. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 
The Cook County Small Business Source helps entrepreneurs in Cook County navigate the challenges of business growth by connecting them to the right experts, resources and funding opportunities. If you're looking for guidance, sign up for free at cookcountysmallbiz.org and get connected to an expert for one-on-one business advising, events, and more. |
|
| | ChiBizHub, powered by Allies for Community Business (A4CB) helps Chicago entrepreneurs grow and succeed. Their mission is to provide small businesses with FREE business assistance. ChiBizHub connects a large network of nonprofit service providers offering a wide variety of business-building services for small businesses. We match these organizations to early, emerging, and established small businesses throughout the region who visit the site looking for help. |
|
| SAVE THE DATES 
The Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) brings free business resources to the community for new and existing entrepreneurs looking to start or grow their business in the City of Chicago through the Chicago Small Biz Expo Series. The series of expos offers business resources such as City of Chicago business licensing consultants, tax clinic, financial advisors, workshops, professional headshots, networking and much more.
2026 SMALL BIZ EXPO SERIES: Thursday, March 12 at 9 am to 12:30 pm held remotely, register Saturday, May 16 at 8:30 am to 1:30 pm held at Truman College, register Saturday, August 29 at 8:30 am to 1:30 pm held at Malcolm X College, register
|
|
| |
| Visit the American Job Center at Truman College, located at 1145 W. Wilson - Room 1917, to access employment resources, information about job training, and more. The center has knowledgeable staff that provides career assistance and job skills training for youth (ages 18+) and adults. All services are FREE.. Please call (773) 831-5221 in advance to get information about hours, orientation, and workshop details. |
|
| | | | | 
Enjoy a discounted Chicago Bulls game and support the Chicago Park District's Inner City Hoops Program with your purchase. Learn more and purchase your tickets now at https://bit.ly/BullsTix_ICH2025. |
|
|
Housing/Utility Resources |
|
| | | | | | | | | The Department of Family and Support Services’ Senior Services Division provides programs and supports to older adults aged 60 and better to keep them healthy, active and engaged. They have a number of programs to highlight that are available online including:
Creating Dementia-Friendly Buildings - An Online, Self-Directed, Learning Module brought to you by the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) and the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services Senior Services. You can register here!
Benefits are a Click Away! At cityofchicago.benefitscheckup.org - We want to ensure seniors have access to the benefits to which they are entitled!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | 2026 Senior Guide Now Available
Looking for helpful tips, resources, and services tailored for our senior community? The Office of the City Clerk has released the 2026 Senior Guide, filled with valuable information to support older adults across Chicago. From transportation programs and health services to emergency contacts and community activities—this guide has it all. View or download the full guide here: Senior Guide 2026 (PDF) Let’s make sure our elders are informed, connected, and cared for. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | |
| |
| |
The Clerk’s Office is proud to announce an exciting partnership with the Chicago Wolves Hockey Team that honors those who have served our country. Veterans, active-duty military personnel, members of the National Guard, and reservists are now eligible to receive one free ticket to a 2025–26 regular-season Wolves home game, thanks to this special offer coordinated by Clerk Gordon and the Clerk’s Veterans Services team.
To receive a free ticket, veterans must be enrolled in the Clerk’s Military and Veterans Discount Card Program – a free initiative that also provides access to discounts on food, auto repair, legal services, health and fitness, and more. Those already enrolled are eligible, and additional discounted tickets are available for friends and family attending the game.
Getting your ticket is easy:
Sign up for the Veterans Discount Card at cookcountyclerk.com/veterans or by visiting the Clerk’s Veterans Office at 118 N. Clark, Room 120 in Chicago.
Go to cookcountyclerk.com/Wolves to claim your free ticket and purchase additional discounted ones.
Tickets will be emailed and can be shown on your phone at Allstate Arena – no paper tickets needed!
This special offer is valid for Wolves home games through April 19, 2026, and tickets are available while supplies last.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, veterans and military can call the Clerk’s Veterans Services Office at 312-603-5788.
Let’s cheer on our Chicago Wolves—and honor those who’ve served our county and our country.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | | | | | | | |
|
| 
The Cook County Assessor’s Office is currently hiring. Click here to view available positions.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| | | | | | |
|
|
|
| |
|
