| 33RD WARD WEEKLY NEWSLETTER - October 09, 2026 |
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| Translate // Traducir // 번역하다 |
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| Dear 33rd Ward Community, |
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| What a week we have had! On Wednesday, I had the pleasure of visiting the Senior Suites of Ravenswood Manor alongside Mayor Brandon Johnson. It was wonderful to speak with our neighbors and provide updates on projects we’ve undertaken, such as advocating for and winning the Kedzie route extension for the #93 California/Dodge bus route. Providing this bus service allows our senior homes along and near Kedzie Ave to access the Blue Line in Logan Square, the Brown Line at Kedzie and Leland, and access to Swedish Hospital.
While we were there, we also had an opportunity to share more information about our upcoming Senior Resources Fair, which will be next Friday, October 16, between 11:00am - 1:00pm, hosted by Our Lady of Mercy at 4432 N Troy St. The goal is to provide seniors with access to organizations like the HANA Center, the Center for Disability and Elder Law, the Kedzie Center for mental health information, and the Irving Park Food Pantry to subscribe for assistance. The fair will also have a free raffle with prizes and refreshments will be provided!
Yesterday, I was proud to join the Keep Chicago Housed coalition for a press conference. The coalition is advocating to include some essential priorities for the 2027 Chicago city budget that would defend approximately 3,000 people whose housing is at risk due to federal budget cuts. The urgency to defend permanent housing is put in stark relief when you consider that for every person housed with a temporary or homelessness-dedicated unit, there are still ten people who remain unhoused. The coalition is demanding $15 million to defend the affordable housing that is under threat from Trump’s federal cuts, and $13 million for the Chicago Low Income Housing Trust Fund to house families with very low incomes. Finally, they are demanding $2 million for the Flexible Housing Pool to support Chicagoans with serious mental/physical health needs, as well as for people returning from incarceration and in need of housing. 
As a reminder, it is time for our annual Halloween Decoration Contest! Every year, we accept nominations from around the ward to celebrate the spooky decorations our talented neighbors have designed for their homes. We encourage neighbors to nominate themselves or others, submit photos of the internal and/or external home decorations. We will be accepting nominations until October 26 at 11pm. We will then open up voting for the top three entries between October 27 - 30. Finally, we will announce the winners on October 31, just in time for Halloween! If you would like to join in the festivities, please fill out the nomination form, here. Lastly, on Sunday, I had the honor of receiving an award from the American Muslims for Palestine for championing the Ceasefire Resolution at City Hall in January, 2024. |
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| | I accept this award, not just as an individual, but as a child of a colonized nation. My path to that work began at age six in Puerto Rico, when our neighborhood's water was diverted to a US Naval base and my neighbors organized to turn it back on. That taught me that when resources are taken from us, we organize and stand together. Puerto Ricans and Palestinians share that struggle, and my father, a professor and poet blacklisted for his organizing, taught me that our people and our land are worth defending. As Gioconda Belli wrote, "Solidarity is the tenderness of the peoples." The ceasefire resolution was only the beginning, and we will keep working together until full liberation is realized. |
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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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| | 33RD WARD OFFICE INFORMATION |
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| | | | Event details are listed in the newsletter below. October 9 - 25 — Visceral Dance Studio’s “TAKE”, 3031 N Rockwell, Tickets October 10 — Expungement and Sealing Fair, 740 W 63rd St, 8:30am - 4pm October 10 — Holiday Craft Fair at St Mary of Providence, 4200 N Austin, 9am - 2pm October 14 — Property Tax Appeal, 4747 N Sawyer, 10am - 5pm, Call 773-840-7880 for appointment October 16 — Senior Resource Fair, Our Lady of Mercy, 4432 N Troy, 11am - 1pm October 16 — My CHI, My Future Fallapalooza, 401 S Plymouth Court, 5:30pm - 8pm October 17 — Fresa Fest, Movement on Montrose, 2951 W Montrose, 2pm - 7pm October 23 - 25 — IMPACT Chicago self-defense, 2951 W Montrose, Register October 24 — NRC Tree Walk, 3403 W Lawrence, 10am - 11am, RSVP October 27 — New Albany Park Mural, 6:30pm - 7:30pm, RSVP November 6 — Deadline for Youth Climate Action Fund applications, Participate November 14 — Diabetes Awareness at Swedish Hospital, 2751 W Winona, 11am - 3pm
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| | | Chicago versus Philly versus Los Angeles Clean Off!This October, Chicago is going up against Philly and Los Angeles to prove which city can pick up the most trash in just one month! It’s a friendly rivalry with a powerful purpose: cleaning our streets, building pride in our neighborhoods, and ending the culture of litter and dumping. You can participate by joining a group cleanup, running your own group cleanup, or going solo! Learn more about how you can contribute at our group cleanup and resource page. The top individual litter pickers will be eligible for prizes, including tickets to the MSI and Morton Arboretum, bottles of Malort, tickets to the Music Box, gift cards to REI and Dovetail Brewing, and more! Cleanup Club Chicago is leading on the Chicago side, Block By Block Philly is leading on the Philly side, and South Central Clean Up is leading on the Los Angeles side. Special thanks to Independent Recycling Services for sponsoring the Chicago side of this event! |
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| Latine-owned Business Spotlight for Hispanic Heritage MonthWe are highlighting some Latine-owned businesses for Hispanic Heritage Month! Our ward has tons of amazing restaurants and small businesses you can visit. This month, we'd like to highlight the following long-standing businesses in our community! Find more links and images at our Facebook and Instagram accounts! |
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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 info@33rdward.org 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, October 5 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 info@33rdward.org. 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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| Sage BrigadeThe 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 info@33rdward.org 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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| All Chicago Seeking Rental UnitsAll Chicago wants to “make homelessness history” and they are looking for available rental units on Chicago's North and West Sides, and property owners and managers who lease eligible units through the program may qualify for a one-month leasing incentive. Partners are connected with qualified households ready for housing, which helps reduce vacancy time, and they receive dedicated support throughout the leasing process. If you have an available apartment or expect an upcoming vacancy in these areas, contact your All Chicago Landlord Engagement Coordinator or email Chicagorents@allchicago.org to learn about eligibility and help more Chicago residents find safe, stable housing. |
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| Avondale on Chicago.comAvondale is one of five pilot communities launching on Chicago.com, Chicago Public Media's new digital community platform, this fall. Free and stewarded by Avondaliens, this platform is local-first, offering space to share resources, events, and recommendations, as well as opportunity to connect with neighbors outside of corporate, ad-clogged social media platforms. Join the Avondale.chicago.com waitlist to get in early! |
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| Legal SupportFor over 20 years, Administer Justice has helped 80,000+ clients find freedom from their legal problems. Schedule an appointment to get your questions answered. For a one-time copay of $30 you will get clear legal guidance and support on next steps. We serve several types of cases.
Call toll-free (855) 818-4554 or visit https://www.administerjustice.org/gethelp/ |
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| | | Current Proposals In Review3256 N Elston Ave:
Project webpage: link
Application Type: Type 1 Map Amendment
Change Request: RS-3 to B2-2 |
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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 Resurfacing Project with Pedestrian Improvements Anticipated Start Date: August 10, 2026 Anticipated Completion Date: September 30, 2026 Location: North California Ave. from W. Byron St. to W. Montrose Avenue.
The work will include ADA sidewalk improvements, curb and gutter removal and replacement as needed for ADA and drainage compliance, pavement patching, milling and paving the existing asphalt pavement, and striping. During construction, temporary “No Parking” signs will be periodically installed as required for each activity listed above. These temporary signs will restrict parking during working hours, while adhering to rush hour restrictions, for the completion of the work.
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| Intersection Construction - Curb Bump-OutsThe four corners of Hibbard Elementary, bounded by Spaulding Ave, Argyle St, Sawyer Ave, and Ainslie St, are anticipated to begin work next week (the week of 09/14). There are no anticipated street closures. Pick-up and drop-off times should be unaffected as construction will not occur at those times.
If there are any questions or concerns, please reach out to our office during regular business hours. 
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| Alley Reconstruction - 1The 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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| Alley Reconstruction - 2The Mayor’s Office, Alderperson Rossana Rodriguez Sanchez, and the Chicago Department of Transportation are pleased to announce the reconstruction of an alley serving the 33rd Ward. Alley construction is scheduled to begin September 8, 2026. No alley access will be granted after September 8, 2026, please make accommodations to relocate your cars out of the garages. There will be saw cutting and minor asphalt demolition taking place September 3, 2026 but garage access is still permitted and allowed during those days only.
Alley bounded by: W. Leland Avenue (W. Leland Avenue / W. Wilson Avenue / N. Central Park Avenue / N. Drake Avenue)
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 TrimmingThe 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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| Center for Changing Lives - October WorkshopsThere will be a various workshops available throughout the month of October! Please see the graphics below and visit their Linktree at https://linktr.ee/cclchicago |
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| | Visceral Dance Studio’s “TAKE” ReturnsSet to an electronic recorded score mixed with live music, TAKE brings dancers and audiences together in an intimate, in-the-round setting. At the heart of TAKE is the idea that you can’t take without giving and can’t give without taking. Audience members become part of a shared experience, invited to connect with the dancers and with one another as individuals.
October 9 - 25
The Space at Rockwell 3031 N Rockwell St Tickets |
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| Expungement and Sealing FairThere will be a Second Chance Summit at Kennedy-King College for expungements and sealing of records. RAP sheet(s) and/or IL State Police Criminal History Record must be uploaded by September 25 to participate.
Get your RAP sheet by calling CPD headquarters at (312) 745-5508 or call the Illinois State Police Bureau of Identification at (815) 740-5160. Space is limited, so pre-registration will be strictly required.
Saturday, October 10 8:30am - 4:00pm
Kennedy-King College 740 W 63rd St, Building U RSVP here |
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| | Holiday Craft FairThere will be handmade crafts at St Mary of Providence. Stock up now for gifts and decorations to celebrate Halloween, Thanksgiving, and even get a head start on Christmas shopping!
Saturday, October 10 9:00am - 2:00pm
St Mary of Providence, 4200 N Austin |
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| Property Tax Appeal SupportIn collaboration with the office of Cook County Commissioner Jessica Vásquez, our office will be hosting a property tax appeal event. Anyone interested in property tax appeal support is encouraged to book an appointment by calling our office and bringing a valid State ID or Drivers License.
Wednesday, October 14 By Appointment Only - call (773) 840-7880 4747 N Sawyer |
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| Senior Resource FairThis event will bring together seniors, families, community organizations, and local service providers to connect with valuable resources and learn about programs and services available to older adults in our community.
Friday, October 16 11:00am - 1:00pm
Our Lady of Mercy, Basement Hall 4432 N Troy |
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| | My CHI My Future FallapaloozaMy CHI. My Future. is excited to kickoff of Chicago’s 2026 Fall Fest initiative with Fallapalooza, a teen-focused celebration planned by young people from The Alliance 98 and Urban Male Network in partnership with the Mayor’s Office.
Designed for teens ages 14–19, Fallapalooza provides a safe, fun and welcoming environment for young people to connect with peers and enjoy an evening of engaging activities, including:
Friday, October 16 5:30pm - 8:00pm
Harold Washington Library Center, Winter Garden 401 S Plymouth Court Register today! |
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| Fresa Fest - Ghoul’s Night Out!Presented by @fresafestsbyjojo (Instagram), stop by Fresa Fest at Movement on Montrose to shop from 35+ local vendors!
Saturday, October 17 2:00pm - 7:00pm
Movement on Montrose 2951 W Montrose |
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| | IMPACT Chicago3-day, trauma-informed self-defense program at Movement on Montrose
October 23 - 25
Movement on Montrose
2951 W Montrose Ave Register |
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| NRC Tree WalkJoin the North River Commission and The Morton Arboretum to learn about the different types of trees and their benefits to Albany Park!
October 24
3403 W Lawrence Register |
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| | New Albany Park MuralThe North River Commission is working on a new mural in the neighborhood - and they need YOU to help shape it.
Join them for a community meeting to share your ideas, stories, and vision for a mural that reflects the people and character of Albany Park. No art experience necessary - just come ready to share, listen, and be part of the process.
Tuesday, October 27
6:30pm - 7:30pm Register |
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| Chicago Youth Climate Action FundThe Department of Environment is excited to announce the 2026 Chicago Youth Climate Action Fund (YCAF). Through Bloomberg Philanthropies’ global Youth Climate Action Fund, Chicago will award $1,000–$5,000 microgrants to young people ages 15–24 to turn their climate ideas into action.
Eligible projects must: · Be led and implemented by young people ages 15–24 · Take place within the City of Chicago · Align with at least one of the City’s climate goals · Demonstrate a clear climate or environmental benefit
Key Dates: · Application Deadline: November 6, 2026, at 11:59 PM · Project Completion Deadline: April 15, 2027 |
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| | Diabetes Awareness DayJoin Endeavor Health for a community event featuring expert presentations, health screenings, nutrition education, wellness resources and opportunities to connect with healthcare professionals. Learn practical ways to prevent and manage diabetes while accessing resources to support your health and well-being.
Saturday, November 14 11:00am - 3:00pm
Swedish Hospital, Anderson Pavilion 2751 W Winona RSVP: 630-527-6363 |
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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.
Online Applications To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov 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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| 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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| 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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| | | 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 info@33rdward.org 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: dbmontoya12@yahoo.com 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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