33RD WARD WEEKLY NEWSLETTER - JULY 31, 2026 |
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Translate // Traducir // 번역하다 |
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Dear 33rd Ward Community, |
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This week I was able to join our community at Roosevelt High School for a town hall event that was organized by the Collaborative for Community Wellness and the Treatment Not Trauma campaign about the developments of the campaign and the recent expansion of the CARE program.
Over the past two terms, I have worked alongside the Collaborative for Community Wellness, neighbors, community organizations, service providers, and many advocates to develop the Treatment Not Trauma campaign that fights for a city where everyone has free, accessible, public resources for help responding to mental and social distress.
The conversations we shared that evening were power examples of the realities our neighbors are living every day: gohomelessness, economic uncertainty, and struggles to access health care and other basic needs. I am grateful to everyone who took the time to join us, share their experiences, and help shape the work ahead.
These challenges require us to strengthen the systems of care that keep our communities healthy and safe. That means investing in harm reduction strategies that meet people where they are, expanding access to mental health care and crisis response, supporting our unhoused neighbors with compassion and housing-first solutions, and ensuring families have the resources they need to survive these difficult times. |
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This weekend you can join us at our summer shredding event in partnership with State Senator Graciela Guzman’s office, which will include the ability to recycle old electronics. We will set up outside of the Our Lady of Mercy Parish located at 4432 N Troy Street starting at 11:00am until 1:00pm. |
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Lastly, I want to take some time to celebrate our 33rd Ward Office’s former Deputy Chief of Staff, John Cruz Barcenas. This was his final week with our office, and I am so grateful for all of the contributions he has made to our team, our office, and our communities over the past 5 years. He began interning at the office through three summers starting in 2021, where he worked alongside our neighborhood services team while in college.
During the beginning of this term, he joined the Committee on Health and Human Relations as a member of our policy team, helping shape the direction of the committee’s work and supporting in essential research for our key policy goals, like the Treatment Not Trauma campaign. Over the past year, he has lead our ward office through many challenging moments. John has been an invaluable part of our team. His thoughtfulness, dedication, and commitment to serving the people of Chicago have made our office stronger in countless ways. While we’ll miss him greatly, we’re incredibly proud of all he’s accomplished and grateful for everything he’s given to our office and our community. We know he’ll continue serving Chicago with the same integrity, compassion, and care that have defined his time with us. |
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Thank you for doing this work with me. Please take a moment this week to help out a neighbor in need. You can always contact my office if you have any questions. We are here to help.
In solidarity, Rossana Rodríguez Sánchez 33rd Ward Alderperson |
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Ongoing Donation Collection for Unhoused Neighbors During these hot summer days, our unhoused neighbors are in extreme need of a few essential items. We are currently accepting donations of any non-perishable food items, including bottled water, hand fans (battery powered), and bus cards.
Donations can be dropped off at the 33rd Ward Office during business hours. If you would like to coordinate a special drop-off time, please reach out to 773-840-7880. We are not requesting donations outside of the above list. Donations can also be made to: Albany Park Mutual Aid | PRP Shower Connect Wish List |
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Detour Notice The current, active detour related to the closure of Kimball Avenue at Ainslie Avenue will be modified slightly to accommodate a block party on the 4800 block of N St Louis Ave. Traffic will be diverted through the north-south alley to the east of the 4800 block of N St Louis Ave. This temporary detour will be enforced through the weekend. For more details on the full detour plan, please see below in the newsletter. |
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33RD WARD OFFICE INFORMATION |
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Event details are listed in the newsletter below. August 1 — Shredding Event, 11am - 1pm, Our Lady of Mercy, 4432 N Troy Street August 7 — Get Covered Illinois (Health Insurance Clinic), 11am - 3pm, 33rd Ward Office, 4747 N Sawyer Ave August 8-9 — Ecuadorian Festival at Horner Park Hill, 12pm - 10pm August 9 — Annual Ecuadorian Parade, 12pm kickoff at California and Montrose — Street closures posted below August 10 — Neighbor Night. Appointments with the alderwoman are available by email at [email protected] from 4:30-6:00pm. August 10 — Please note, the Horner Park outdoor basketball courts will be closed starting on August 10 until October 2 for renovations and replacement of the courts sponsored by the Chicago Bulls. Signage will be available on site for more information. August 11 — 17th District Council Monthly Meeting, 1pm, 3403 W Lawrence, Virtual meeting
August 24 — First Day of School for CPS August 24 — Utility Bill Clinic with Citizens Utility Board, 4-6pm, 33rd Ward Office, 4747 N Sawyer Ave - Register
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Street Closure Notice - Ecuadorian ParadeSunday, August 9 - 8am staging - 3pm dispersal
The annual Ecuador Parade will return this year on Sunday, August 9. Please note the following parade route. Streets will be closed to traffic along the parade route during the parade. Traffic will be impacted by parade staging and dispersal. 8am: Staging on California Ave south of Montrose Ave 12pm: Parade steps off at Montrose Ave and California Ave. The parade will travel westbound on Montrose Ave toward Kimball Ave. The parade will disperse on Kimball Ave, south of Montrose.
No Parking Signage will be installed to indicate No Parking Zones between 5am - 3pm along the parade route on Sunday, August 9. Any cars parked along the parade route will be towed. |
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Ronan Park UpdatesIn March, we have received many residents from the former Legion Park encampment into our ward as they wait for their assigned housing. I understand that this encampment has caused great concern for many neighbors. When this community moved into our local park, my office began working in close, daily collaboration with many local organizations, mutual aid groups, nonprofit agencies, and government partners to ensure that our neighbors most in need receive the care, attention, and resources they deserve.
For updates, please check in on our website. |
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Immigrant Rights and Deportation Defense Resources: If you see immigration enforcement or suspect immigration enforcement, first call the Family Support Network (FSN) at 855-435-7693. We encourage you to save this number in your phone. |
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VOLUNTEER WITH THE WARD OFFICE |
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Volunteer with the 33rd Ward OfficeJoin us in strengthening our community! We are excited to offer a range of community engagement opportunities with our office. Whether you’re passionate about connecting neighbors or eager to make a positive impact, we’d love for you to volunteer with us. Help us build bridges and foster a stronger, more connected community. Your involvement can make a real difference.
Our office maintains several programs for neighbors to come together to care for each other and to learn about resources available to our communities. You can sign up to volunteer with our office by filling out our volunteer form by clicking here. |
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33rd Ward Spring and Summer resources: Clean and Greens: Please email [email protected] to request resources to help clean up your block, like garbage bags, grippers, and gloves. Street Sweeping began April 1. You can view our interactive sweeping schedule and map by clicking here. To apply for a block party permit, please fill out this form. You can also get small whistle kits for your neighbors if you wish to include them in your block party festivities to encourage safety and support in your community during these difficult times. To apply for a yard sale, please stop by our office or fill out this form.
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Neighbor NightNext Neighbor Night: Monday, August 10 at 4747 N Sawyer Ave Upcoming: Monday, August 24 at 4747 N Sawyer Ave
Neighbor Nights offer appointments with the Alderperson between 4:30-6:00pm by appointment only. Call or email our office for an appointment at 773-840-7880 or [email protected]. Appointments will be offered in 15 minute segments, with the final time slot at 5:45pm.
The Neighbor Nights are an effort by the 33rd Ward Office to create opportunities for organizations in our ward to teach neighbors about their work and help people get involved. If you would like to coordinate an event related to your organizing work with an upcoming Neighbor Night, please reach out to our office. |
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Health Insurance Workshop with Get Covered Illinois
Friday, August 7 from 11:00am - 2:00pm 33rd Ward Office, 4747 N Sawyer Ave
A representative from Get Covered Illinois will be at the 33rd Ward Office to help assist our neighbors with finding health insurance that meets their needs and is affordable. No appointment necessary. |
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Sage Brigade
The Sage Brigade needs volunteers to help pack groceries for seniors. This is a commitment of 2 hours a month, once a month, in person, at the Irving Park Food Pantry. If you are interested in volunteering, please email [email protected] with the subject line: SAGE BRIGADE VOLUNTEER FOR FOOD PANTRY. Someone from our office will follow up with you! |
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Join the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN)Looking for a lower-risk way to help protect your neighbors from ICE? The Northwest Side Rapid Response Network is launching a new neighborhood-based, people powered alert system. To join the Whistle Alert Response Network (WARN), download the Telegram app on your phone. Then, join the channel using this link. WARN is open to everyone, so please don't hesitate to share. |
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Community Driven Zoning and Development
Please follow our Facebook and other social media accounts for the most up to date notices on public meetings and input surveys regarding zoning changes in the ward. You can also regularly check our Zoning page on our website by clicking here. |
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Current Proposals in Review
3007-11 W Irving Park Rd– Project Website Status: Community Meeting will be held Date: TBA Application Type: Type 1 Change Request: B3-1 to B3-3
3446 W Irving Park Rd– Project Website Status: Community Meeting will be held Date: TBA Application Type: Type 1 Change Request: B3-1 to B3-3
4634-36 N Avers Ave– Project Website Status: Feedback is in Review Application Type: Type 1 Change Request: RS-3 to RT-4 |
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INFRASTRUCTURE ANNOUNCEMENTS |
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2026 Street SweepingStreet Sweeping season will officially begin on April 1st. Here is the interactive map our Ward Superintendent made to keep track of scheduled street sweepings! |
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ChiStreetWorksWondering what construction is taking place near you? Try the ChiStreetWork tool which allows you to view all the construction work happening anywhere in Chicago. The ChiStreetWork tool allows you to view all the active and permitted construction work taking place near you. You are also able to opt into updates to receive real-time notifications related to construction work. |
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Street Closure Notice - Kimball and Ainslie
Duration of the project - 6 weeks Closure July 13 - August 24 (start of school)
(CDOT) is expected to begin work on seven street renovations on Monday, July 13. One of the renovations will be a raised intersection at Kimball and Ainslie, which will require a detour for six weeks. The raised intersection will be both a beautification update as well as a way of increasing traffic safety at the intersection. The work will also include the installation of curb extensions, detached bump-outs, and detached concrete bike lane medians, ADA ramp reconstruction, sewer work, asphalt resurfacing, signage and pavement markings.
To help you plan for this, please note that temporary “No Parking” signs will be periodically installed as required. These temporary signs will restrict parking during working hours, while adhering to rush hour restrictions, for the completion of the work. If you require any additional information regarding this project, please leave a message for CDOT at 312-722-6590 and someone will return your call.
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Alley ReconstructionThe Mayor’s Office, Alderperson Rossana Rodriguez Sanchez, and the Chicago Department of Transportation are pleased to announce the reconstruction of an alley in the 33rd ward. Please know that alley construction is scheduled to begin July 29, 2026. No alley access will be granted after July 29, 2026, please make accommodations to relocate your cars out of the garages. There will be saw cutting and minor asphalt demolition taking place July 27 & 28, 2026 but garage access is still permitted and allowed during those 2 days.
The alley is bounded by Wilson Ave and Montrose Ave, and by Sacramento Ave and Richmond St. Once started, construction is expected to take approximately six (6) weeks, weather permitting.
Due to construction, the following changes will occur: During construction, residential garbage will be curbside and we ask that the homeowner relocate cans to the front of the property. There will be no access to the alley for approximately six (6) weeks depending on the weather conditions. Barricades will block all entrance to the alley. Homeowners are advised to seek alternative parking.
This project will be managed by the Public Building Commission of Chicago. If you require any additional information regarding this project, please contact Capitol Cement Company, Inc. at 773-478-2200.
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Grid-Based Tree TrimmingCurrent Grid Area: N044, W032
4400-4700 N St Louis (Block)
4400 N Bernard (Block)
4500 N Drake (Block)
The Bureau of Forestry is no longer receiving individual tree trimming requests and has shifted to a grid-based maintenance schedule similar to the street sweeping schedule. You can view the map here. If you’re worried about the immediate safety of the area around a given tree due to its conditions, you can reach out to 311 or our office so the appropriate service request can be made.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS AND RESOURCES |
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Disaster Loan Outreach The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will establish Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) for residents and businesses impacted by the severe storm that occurred on June 10, June 11, and June 17, 2026, to apply for low-interest loans. There will be two locations in the City of Chicago and two located in suburban Cook County municipalities – Alsip and Blue Island. In Chicago, centers will be established at two Chicago Public Library locations, the Pullman Branch at 11001 S. Indiana and the Thurgood Marshall Branch, 7506 S. Racine Ave.
All centers will open on Wednesday, July 15, operating daily (Mon-Sat) through Thursday, July 30.
SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center in the primary county of Cook to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process, and help individuals complete their application. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment in advance at appointment.sba.gov.
Online Applications To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email [email protected] for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is September 8, 2026. The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 12, 2027.
Note: All impacted residents, regardless of where they live can go to any Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) site, even if it is not their Ward, county or municipality. Each location will have a Spanish translator available. |
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Wright College Adult EducationSee the flyers below for more information about registration and classes based on each campus. |
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Get Medicaid FactsThe Cook County Medicaid Impact Workgroup, a coalition convened by Cook County Health, has launched “Get Medicaid Facts," a new website and communications toolkit designed to help people understand upcoming changes to Medicaid eligibility and what steps they can take now to keep their coverage. These resources come at a critical time. Federal policy changes are expected to significantly impact Medicaid, and an estimated 400,000 Illinois residents could lose coverage in the coming years if they are not prepared or informed.
https://getmedicaidfacts.com/ |
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My CHI. My Future: Get Into Summer 2026On behalf of the Mayor's Office Education and Youth Services team, check out the Get Into Summer 2026 flyer which highlights multiple helpful youth resources and opportunities lasting throughout the summer, and we hope it can be a helpful tool as you communicate with community and residents about what is available for youth this summer.
In collaboration with the Mayor's Office of Community Safety team, the Mayor's Office is consistently updating the My CHI. My Future website and mobile app with community safe space events, open safe spaces for youth, summer opportunities, jobs, and resources on a daily basis. As it stands, the My CHI. My Future. Digital resources currently have over 8,000 youth opportunities available.
You can easily see safe spaces supported by MOCS, EDYS and others here as well as overall summer events here. The My CHI. My Future. mobile app includes interactive maps to view these opportunities as well. |
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Impact for Equity — Property Tax AppealsThe property tax appeal system in Cook County is complex and difficult to navigate, so few homeowners appeal and even fewer succeed. Impact for Equity has developed a set of checklists and resources to simplify the process and empower homeowners to challenge inequitable property tax practices. (Available in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Tagalog at this website.) |
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Our 33rd Ward Office maintains resources pages on our website as a helpful starting point for anyone that needs support. We are also available by phone call or email to help you explore any options that work best for you.
If for any reason our office is unavailable, please call 2-1-1 or visit www.211metrochicago.org. 2-1-1 is a hotline that is staffed 24/7 by trained resources navigators to help you find information and programs related to a wide variety of needs including utility billing relief and housing assistance. |
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Albany Park Mutual Aid - Free StoreLocated at 3000 W. Lawrence
Hours: Mondays 5-9pm, Wednesdays 5-9pm, Saturdays 12-4pm
You can learn more about Albany Park Mutual Aid, support their work, or find help at www.albanyparkmutualaid.com. |
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The 33rd Ward Office Has a Notary on Staff
If you are in need of notary services, our team is happy to help. Please reach out to [email protected] or give us a call at 773-840-7880 to set up an appointment. |
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Free Narcan and Drug Test Strips Available at Our Ward Office
They are available free of charge by visiting our office at 4747 N Sawyer Ave. |
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Free Gun Safety Locks Available at Our Ward OfficeLocks are available free of charge by visiting our office at 4747 N Sawyer Ave. |
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Connect with our local Chamber of CommerceSign up for the Albany Park Chamber of Commerce newsletter by clicking here. |
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Monthly Newsletter for “Service Members, Veterans, their Families, and Supporters”We are happy to feature the following community-managed resources guides for service members, veterans, their families, and supporters including events and services for veterans in Chicago and surrounding municipalities. Please email: [email protected] to be added to their monthly emails. You can view this month’s updates, a calendar, and fliers by clicking here. |
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Meet our 33rd Ward Office Staff Jonathan Nagy, Chief of Staff Rebecca Rios, Deputy Chief of Staff, Director of Zoning and Housing Kenneth Barrios, Director of Policy and Communications Abraham Espino, Director of Business Services Camila Garcia, Neighborhood Services Intake Coordinator Ariana Aguilar, Neighborhood Services Representative Eric Ramos, Ward Superintendent
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