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Neighbors,
From housing and public safety to job opportunities and preservation, our office is hard at work turning policy into progress together with you. On Wednesday, I joined 8th District Commissioner Jessica Vásquez and 35th Ward Alderman Anthony Quezada to host a "Know Your Rights: Criminal Records" informational session led by Cabrini Green Legal Aid. Community members came to learn how to begin the process of expunging their records, some denied employment well into their 30s because of decisions made as teenagers. No one should face a lifetime of punishment for a past they’ve already paid for.
Our communities are asking for more events like this, and alongside fellow elected officials and CGLA, we are committed to making them happen. |
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Green Social Housing While we work to remove barriers to opportunity through expungement, we’re also building bold new models for what equitable, sustainable housing can look like in our city. At City Council this week, I voted YES to the Green Social Housing Ordinance, which will provide $135 million from the Housing and Economic Development (HED) Bond to support permanently affordable, environmentally friendly, publicly funded and owned tenant-governed housing. The Residential Investment Corporation (RIC) will operate the model independently of the City’s Department of Housing. RIC will own and operate the developments, with profits reinvested into future projects or used to increase affordability. The City plans to break ground on the first Green Social Housing development in 2026, making Chicago the largest city in the nation to implement the social housing model. The housing crisis is complex and will take hundreds of ideas to resolve, and I’m proud to support GSH as one of the solutions. |
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Coffee with Seniors As we take major steps toward housing justice at City Hall, I’m also connecting directly with residents right where they are, including our beloved seniors. Last week, I had the joy of spending time with seniors at one of the senior buildings in the ward. I make it a priority to visit senior homes because not everyone can make it to the office and our elders deserve to be heard where they are. It’s so important to take the time to listen deeply and respond with care. Thank you to the staff at Hispanic Housing for organizing the coffee and conversation. I look forward to visiting more senior homes across the ward in the weeks ahead.
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Ward at Your Door Whether it’s sharing un cafecito or knocking on doors, staying grounded in the daily experiences of our neighbors is what drives my work forward. As part of Ward at Your Door, I have been walking east through the ward, knocking on each door, stopping to talk with neighbors, and getting a front row view of our streets' beauty and challenges. From warm conversations to friendly cats, dogs, chickens, and generous neighbors offering us water, these walks remind us of how strong and welcoming our community truly is. We have heard from many of you about concerns like tree trimming and parking, and our office is already stepping in to support you. These visits are not just about conversations. Walking the ward helps us see what is needed on the ground, like sidewalk panels that need repair or other infrastructure issues that need attention. If you see us walking through your neighborhood, come say hello and let me know what’s on your mind. I am out here to listen, help, and stay connected to what matters most, you. |
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Protecting and Uplifting Our Youth Just as we walk block by block to hear from you, we’re also sitting at the table with citywide partners to make sure our youth are safe, seen, and supported this summer. On Thursday, over 130 people from city departments and organizations met with the Mayor’s Office of Community Safety (MOCS) for the second table top exercise about youth curfew. Attendees were able to walk through one of the areas of concern, understand and add to the communications plan of action, and proactively begin planning for alternative events that engage young people. Alongside MOCS, UCAN and Metropolitan Peace Initiatives provide on the ground support for young people, both in home neighborhoods and during teen gatherings, and they offered substantial insight about what their work with teens looks like. From bringing games to offering summer job opportunities to de-escalating heated moments, these youth outreach workers are vital parts of the safety plan. We will continue to attend the MOCS engagements and look forward to the next Committee on Public Safety meeting about the curfew. Special thanks to Lori from ALSO who was in attendance and is always willing to provide expertise about what our young people need. |
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Boulevards Landmark District Extension Update 5/8 From public safety to preserving public history, we’re working across the board to make sure every part of our ward is protected, celebrated, and invested in. Yesterday, the Commission on Chicago Landmarks reviewed a detailed report from the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) supporting the proposed extension of the Logan Square Boulevards Landmark District into Humboldt and Sacramento Boulevards. This proposed extension is a powerful tool to protect the history of Logan Square and Humboldt Park from erasure, prevent displacement, and encourage sustainable development that respects the character of our community. As the next step in the process, DPD will mail a cover letter and consent form to all property owners in the district next week. If you have questions about what this means for your property, I’m here to help! My office is offering one-on-one meetings with preservation experts, and you can request one by signing up at bit.ly/expertmeet26. |
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Humboldt Park Traffic Safety Update Speaking of protecting what matters, I am also working to make our historic boulevards safer and more accessible for everyone who walks, rides, and rolls through them. Thank you to everyone who attended last week's Traffic Safety meeting to review CDOT's proposed traffic safety improvements in Humboldt Park. Your feedback was critical to shaping the department's next steps. We’re excited to share that CDOT will be moving forward with safety improvements along Humboldt Boulevard from Grand to North Avenue, with construction slated to begin later this year. These improvements will help calm traffic, protect pedestrians and cyclists, and improve mobility through the park. As for Division Street, CDOT is still in the evaluation phase and no changes will take place along Division Street this year. CDOT will continue collecting data and will return to the community with an updated proposal before any work moves forward. We remain committed to ensuring that any changes made reflect the needs and concerns of our community. Click here to learn more, view maps, and track the project status. |
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Youth Job Fair While we make our streets safer, I’m also focused on creating brighter futures starting with access to jobs and career pathways for our youth. Our upcoming Spring Employment Expo and Job Fair is going to be jumping! With nearly 500 registrants and over 30 vendors, I hope that every young person who attends leaves with an employment plan. Chicago Urban League is graciously providing free headshots, so make sure you dress up. Sign up to attend. |
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Rummage Sale
I love that summer is just around the corner and that each day brings more warmth and sunshine. As I walk through the ward and meet neighbors, I’m constantly in awe of the blooming gardens, the number of people who are choosing native and prairie plants over traditional lawns, and the breathtaking tree canopies on some blocks. As we spend more time outdoors, I want to invite everyone to a family-friendly event tomorrow at the Humboldt Park Boathouse: the Humboldt Park Advisory Council’s first Spring Makers Market!
Proceeds from this event will help HPAC continue hosting beloved community traditions like the Pumpkin Patch and Easter Egg Roll. Hope to see you there! |
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This is what community power looks like and I will keep showing up to ensure every corner of our ward is heard, supported, and celebrated.
In solidarity, Alderperson Jessie Fuentes |
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Ward Community Meeting 5/10 |
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Ward Night @ Tropical Taste 5/22 |
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Spring Employment Expo Job Fair for Youth 5/15 |
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Community Safety Town Hall 5/21 |
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Walk for Peace & Cook Out 5/24 |
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| Join us on Saturday, May 24 from 1 to 5 PM at Division and California for ALSO’s 30th Annual Walk for Peace and Cookout. This is not just an event. It is a movement for safety, unity, and joy in our streets.
Come through for the music, the art, the food, the free t shirts, but most of all, come for each other. |
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Housing Preservation Ordinance Webinar 5/28 |
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We Are Our Own Medicine 7/7 |
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| I am is honored to join the government panel at the 2nd Annual Gun-Violence Prevention Conference, “We Are Our Own Medicine,”
Saturday, June 7, 2025 9 AM - 3 PM BUILD Chicago (5100 W. Harrison St).
This gathering brings together community leaders, educators, healthcare providers, and policymakers to develop collaborative strategies for a safer Chicago.
Join us in this critical conversation. |
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⛔️ Hermosa Park located at 2240 N Kilbourn is under construction and CLOSED to the public. All programming has been moved to Blackhawk Park, including day camps. For more information, call 312-746-5014. |
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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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1739 N Drake Ave 3208-3214 W Armitage Ave 1751-53 N Spaulding Ave
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| 3300 W. Pierce Ave 1631 N. Spaulding Ave
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Chicago Builds Deadline June 2nd |
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Humboldt Park Patriots Camp |
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| 🏈 The Humboldt Park Patriots are back with 2025 Skill Camps for young athletes ages 7 to 13!
📍1301 N Humboldt Dr, Chicago
📅 Saturdays in May | 10 AM to 12 PM
May 3 – Offensive Skills
May 10 – Defensive Skills
May 17 – QB & WR Skills
💻 Register now at www.humboldtparkpatriots.com
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Provident Scholarship Fund 5/18 |
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| 📣 The Provident Scholarship Fund 2025 is now open! Medical and allied health students can apply for scholarships of $10,000 to $20,000 to support their education and careers in healthcare.
🗓️ Apply by May 18 at cookcountyhealth.org/providentscholarship
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| This event is for high school students, recent grads, young adults starting college, and anyone figuring out what comes next.
Businesses looking to hire will be in attendance, volunteer and leadership opportunities, and free headshots
Register early to get your free headshot. |
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Youth Summer Job Opportunities |
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Human Resources Business Workshops 5/8 |
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| Looking for a fresh start?
ALSO is offering gang tattoo removal sessions for just $20 May 10 and May 24 3154 W. Chicago Ave 3 PM to 5 PM.
First come, first served |
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Spring Makers Market 5/10 |
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Immigrant & Refugee KYR 5/14 |
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Free Self Defense Workshop 5/10 |
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| Looking to build confidence and learn real-life skills to protect yourself and your loved ones?
Join the 14th District Council and Thousand Waves for a free self defense workshop on Saturday, May 10 from 1 to 4 PM at Pulaski Park Fieldhouse. Open to adults and teens 12 and up.
Sign up for the workshop
Let’s keep each other safe by staying ready and informed. |
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Race Your Heart for the Arts 5/17 |
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| ChiArts first ever 5K on May 17 in Humboldt Park, Race Your Hearts for the Arts!
The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) was founded on the belief that arts education and the transformative power of the arts should be accessible to all youth in Chicago. As the city’s first public arts high school, ChiArts nurtures young talent, diversifies the city’s cultural landscape, and prepares scholar-artists to lead with creativity and purpose. We’re thrilled to announce that this year, we’re “Racing Our Hearts for the Arts” with our very first 5K Run/Walk in Humboldt Park on May 17, 2025 at 8am! |
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LoSAH Birthday Open House 5/20 |
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Wellness Walks starting 5/21 |
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Tenant Rights & Fair Housing 5/22 |
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| Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago (NHS) is excited to partner with the Chicago Area Fair Housing Alliance, South Suburban Housing Center, and the Center of Disability Law to provide an informative and empowering webinar on Tenant Rights and Fair Housing as it is RIGHT NOW!
Date: 5/22 Time: 6pm Where: virtual Whether you live in the City of Chicago or the surrounding Cook County Suburbs, this session will help you understand your rights and resources as a tenant or landlord.
Do not miss this webinar! |
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Fiestas Patronales Starting June 12th |
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|  PUERTO RICAN FESTIVAL!
 Parade Day On La Division St.
Stay Tuned! Updates Everyday!
 JUNE THURSDAY 12th COMMUNITY DAY!
 JUNE FRIDAY THE 13th!! GET READY!
 JUNE SATURDAY 14th PARADE DAY!
 JUNE SUNDAY 15th PAPA DE LA SALSA! PICNIC
 Tickets On Sale NOW!!!! 
http://freestylefriday2025.eventbrite.com
You Don’t Want To Miss All The New Attractions!!! Live Music Concerts, Talent Shows, Pop Ups!!
 PuertoRicanFest.com
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Certification: Youth Mental Health First Aider |
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| 🧠✨ Become a certified Youth Mental Health First Aider!
Join LoSAH Center of Hope for a free 8-hour training on June 12 to learn how to support youth facing mental health and substance use challenges. Open to the public. Only $20 for the manual.
📍 3555 W. Armitage Ave.
🗓️ June 12, 2025 | 9 AM – 5 PM
📩 Contact Gisel Romero at gromero@losahcenter.org or (773) 433-1995
🔗 Become a Certified Youth Mental Health First Aider
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| 🚨New Pantry Alert! 🚨
The Food pantry at Le Moyne Church of God, 3301 W Le Moyne is now open.
Thursdays: 3pm to 6pm Saturdays: 1pm to 4pm
Participants must live in one of the following zip codes: 60651, 60639, and 60647 |
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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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5k Delinquent Tax Program |
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| 🏡 Delinquent Tax Program – Get Up to $5K in Assistance!
Struggling with property taxes? The Northwest Home Equity Assurance Program (NWHEAP) and Northwest Center are offering grants up to $5,000 to help homeowners on Chicago’s Northwest Side pay off delinquent property taxes and keep their homes.
📍 Eligibility: Must live within NWHEAP boundaries
📞 Apply today! Call 773-622-0700 or 773-283-3888 for more details. 🔗 Learn more: nwheap.com |
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City of Chicago Resources |
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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. For additional information, please visit: allchicago.org/chicagorents. 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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| OEMC currently has four job postings on the City’s website Clinical Therapist III- open till May 5 Senior Emergency Management Coordinator - open through May 7 Police Communications Operator II (9-1-1 Dispatcher) - open through May 8 Traffic Control Aide-Hourly – applications accepted till July 31
hese positions posted at: chi.gov/oemcjobs. recruitment videos for each of our divisions: City of Chicago :: Join Our Team |
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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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💼 Want to become a Medical Assistant debt free? NIMAA and Erie Health are offering hands-on training starting this fall. No fees, paid externship, and free tuition if you stay and serve! Deadline is May 28th
📲 Apply now: erie.health/apply-nimaa
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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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| Shipping & Receiving Training - visit sr.gwtp.org for more info 12-week training at no cost, includes supportive services once enrolled Average $18+/hour wage upon job placement Training Includes:
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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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