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Neighbors,
This week has reminded me of the strength and compassion that define our ward. Even in the face of hardship, we continue to show up for one another, in meetings that shape our city’s future, in spaces of joy and celebration, and in the daily work of care that keeps our communities alive.
At City Hall this week, my team met with the Civic Federation to better understand how the business sector understands the budget proposal. Our greatest takeaway is while we are experiencing concurrent fiscal crises, it is important to be transparent that the burden of these crises needs to be shared. I am a firm believer in equitable burden sharing and will continue to advocate for such. We are putting the final touches on our budget survey – keep a lookout next week.
Building Safety Through Solidarity As we continue important budget conversations, our focus remains on protecting and uplifting the people who make our neighborhoods strong. This week, the public safety committee met to share community resources, provide safety updates, and propose events that protect our community against external attacks. The City Colleges of Chicago joined us to discuss programs like the early college options, paralegal and architecture programs, and the Star Scholarship for students with a 3.0 GPA or higher.
Education has the potential to change lives, and these opportunities help every young person in our community succeed. Community organizers also discussed ways to respond to ICE activity and keep families safe. Remember to report sightings by calling the Family Support Hotline at 855-435-7693. Join our weekly canvassing sessions every Wednesday from 5–7 p.m. and school patrols to support local safety efforts. We’re also preparing a Community Safety Town Hall on November 19 at 6 p.m. at Iglesia Evangelica Emanuel (5016 W. Armitage Ave). The event will include information about rapid response training, role-playing scenarios, and a hybrid option for those joining remotely.
Exciting community events are coming up! Celebrate with Parents for Peace and Justice at their Holiday Dinner on December 10, or volunteer for BUILD’s Turkey Giveaway and ALSO’s meal and coat giveaway on November 21. Together, we continue to celebrate our immigrant neighbors and organize to protect them against external attacks. As always, WE KEEP US SAFE! |
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Upcoming Street Closure Please note recent updates to the street closure plan for residents along California Avenue between North Avenue and Armitage. There will be a permanent lane closure for northbound traffic, including parking and travel lanes. The tentative detour (effective October 31, 2025) will redirect northbound traffic: Eastbound on North Avenue → Northbound on Western Avenue → Westbound on Armitage Avenue → back to Northbound California Avenue. Southbound traffic will remain open at all times. We will share any future updates as soon as they become available. |
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| ASI Health & Workforce Development Center Thank you to all the neighbors who joined us for Wednesday's community meeting on ASI Healthcare Services’ proposed Health and Workforce Development Center off of North Avenue and St Louis. The project aims to expand access to workforce training, community health resources, and much more.
ASI is committed to thoughtfully incorporating all community feedback shared during the meeting, particularly around parking solutions and maximizing access to other transportation options such as public transit, bike storage, and walkability improvements. Neighbors who have additional questions or feedback about this project are encouraged to contact our office at info@the26thward.org. |
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| The Magic of Halloween That same care and unity came to life this week in celebrations across the ward, where families, schools, and community partners filled the streets with laughter and light. Our community came together for Trunk or Treat at McAuliffe Elementary and tonight’s Haunted Paseo Boo ricua, two spaces filled with laughter, costumes, and care. These moments of joy mean even more right now as so many of our neighbors carry the weight of uncertainty, rising costs, and fear.
Yet here we are, families, teachers, local businesses, and community partners, showing up for one another and reminding ourselves that joy is not a distraction from the struggle but part of the resistance itself. We are especially grateful for the outpouring of support from our community partners, local businesses, and elected officials who donated treats, supplies, and time to make these events shine. Your generosity lifted our spirits here in the 26th Ward and reminded us what solidarity looks like in practice. Thank you to everyone who volunteered, decorated a trunk, passed out candy, or simply showed up to celebrate. Let’s keep creating moments like these. |
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While we continue to find joy together, we also know that many of our neighbors are struggling to meet their most basic needs, especially when it comes to food and daily essentials. Right now many families in our ward are feeling real pressure at the table. Cuts to food benefits and gaps in pay for working people mean that parents are being forced to make choices they should never have to make. You are not alone, help is available.
If you need food assistance, visit chicagosfoodbank.org/find-food to locate free groceries, hot meals, and food pantries near you. You can also connect directly with our local mutual aid networks and community partners: Humboldt Park Solidarity Network El Mercadito UN26 Mutual Aid National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture Coat Drive Logan Square Mutual Aid If you are in a position to give, please consider donating to the Greater Chicago Food Depository or to any of the mutual aid networks above. Your contribution helps feed families right here in our neighborhoods. For immediate help with food, clothing, or crisis support, call 2-1-1 or text 898-211. Together, we will keep showing up for one another with the care, dignity, and love we deserve. |
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In Solidarity,
Alderperson Jessie Fuentes |
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Fall Leaves Are Falling - Let’s Keep Them Off Our Streets |
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KYR Community Canvass Every Wednesday |
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Join us every Wednesday to distribute Know Your Rights materials with neighbors.
To share possible ICE sightings, Call ICIRR’s Family Support 24-hour Hotline at 855-435-7693
For Updates: Sign up for our newsletter at bit.ly/NWSupdates |
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26th Ward Lighting Improvements |
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| Construction season has begun! Don't forget to check out ChiStreetWork for updates on upcoming work in your neighborhood. |
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Street Sweeping Map & Schedule |
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Street Sweeping takes place between April and November. |
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Boulevard Landmark District Extension Project |
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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. |
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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. |
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We are currently reviewing zoning change requests for the following properties. |
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3446 W. North Ave 1751-53 N Spaulding Ave 3652 W North Ave
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| 1616 N Saint Louis 1118 N California 1739 N Drake Ave
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GoCPS Applications Open for the 2026-27 School Year |
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Chicago Public Schools has opened the GoCPS application window for the 2026-27 school year, allowing families of students entering K-9 to apply through 5 PM on Friday, November 14, 2025.
GoCPS provides access to a wide variety of programs including selective enrollment, International Baccalaureate, STEAM, Fine & Performing Arts, Career & Technical Education, Dual-Language, and more. Students applying to selective enrollment must complete required admissions testing, with scores released before the application deadline. |
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Next Up Workshops at Humboldt Park Library 11/15 |
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Be a Student Election Judge |
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| 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 |
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SANA Healing Collective Open House 11/1 |
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We love seeing community-centered healing grow! Our friends at @sanahealingcollective are expanding their space and celebrating 4 years of care. You can support their work by donating to their Community Care Fund or purchasing items from their Gift List to help furnish their new space.
Save the date for their Open House: Saturday, November 1 3324 W. North Ave, Chicago |
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Men: Voices of Change Summit 11/5 |
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Chicago Fire Dept. Community Outreach 11/10 |
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Apprenticeship Fair 11/11 |
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Short Term Guardianship Workshop 11/12 |
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Crosstown Trail Town Hall - 11/13 |
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Chicago Park District Fall Events |
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National Family Caregiver Month |
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DFSS will be partnering with delegate agencies, community partners, and senior centers to offer different events in October and November to honor and support family caregivers. They will also be distributing caregiver kits at some of the events! |
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Artesanos del Coquito 11/29 |
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Free Flu and Covid Vaccinations |
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Free Flu Shots at Participating Jewel Pharmacies |
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Community Support Youth Soccer |
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| 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 |
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| 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 |
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| 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 aging@cityofchicago.org for more help |
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Domestic Violence Resources |
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CEDA Utility Relief Programs |
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Seniors Community Care Program |
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🌼 Help Keep Hermosa Beautiful! 🌼
Join your neighbors in beautifying Hermosa by adopting a traffic circle or corner! Let’s work together to keep Hermosa vibrant, safe, and welcoming!
📩 Email: info@ourhermosa.org | 🌐 ourhermosa.org | 📱 773-295-7790
Let’s make our community shine! ✨ |
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NEW Illinois Immigration Info Hub |
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Cannabis Expungement Project |
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| 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. |
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Avoid Bird Alert: Protect Yourself & Your Pets |
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| 🐦 H5N1 Bird Flu: What You Need to Know 🦠 Protect yourself and your pets from H5N1 bird flu by avoiding contact with sick or dead birds and their droppings. If handling is necessary, wear protective gear like gloves, goggles, and an N95 mask. 🐾 Keep pets safe! Don’t let dogs or cats interact with wild birds or contaminated areas. If they come into contact, wash them immediately and monitor for symptoms. 🍗 Always cook poultry and eggs thoroughly to kill any potential virus. For more info, visit: Chicago Department of Public Health |
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City of Chicago - Know Your Rights Guide |
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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 |
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Intake for People Experiencing Homelessness |
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| 🏠 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) |
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Court-Based Rental Assistance Program |
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Chicago Senior Risk Assessment Program |
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| 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 |
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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. |
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12 District Police Oversight |
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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. |
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| 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. |
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| The Illinois Department of Human Services is hosting virtual and in-person recruitment events in English and Spanish. Register here, and apply for open positions here. |
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| HIRE360 is recruiting candidates into union trades apprenticeship program and preparing them for work opportunities in upcoming Chicago construction projects. This 8-week program is for Illinois residents 17 and a half or older that are authorized to work in the U.S., have a flexible schedule, a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license and the ability to travel to various locations. More information here. |
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| Chicago Board of Elections is HIRING!
Various full-time positions avilable.
Apply by sending your resume to HR@CHICAGOELECTIONS.GOV
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| OEMC currently has four job postings on the City’s website
Apply HERE |
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| Ready for a new career?
GWTP has trained over 2,000 people for good jobs with real career paths. No high school diploma or GED required, and programs are free for eligible applicants.
✔️ Short-term training
✔️ Industry certifications
✔️ Job placement support
✔️ Background friendly
✔️ Transportation and other services included
📲 Call 312-563-9570 to schedule a tour or register online today!
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| 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 |
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| Click Here to view and apply for Chicago Department of Public Health jobs |
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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. |
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| 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. |
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Requirements:
HS diploma or equivalent
