Yonkers Insider: Press Release: LEG. JOSE ALVARADO OFFERS RESIDENTS HELP NAVIGATING NEW RENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.

 

PRESS RELEASE

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  June 5, 2021

 

LEG. JOSE ALVARADO OFFERS RESIDENTS HELP NAVIGATING NEW RENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM: Yonkers Emergency Rental Assistance Program Can Help Eligible Residents with the Payment of Up to 12 Months of Back Rent and More.

 

White Plains, NY —   County Legislator Jose Alvarado is offering residents help in applying for aid under the new Yonkers Emergency Rental Assistance Program -- which can help those who have had problems paying rent because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The city has received funds from the U.S. Department of Treasury to assist eligible city residents with the payment of back rent, prospective rent, utilities, past due utility bills, and in some cases, relocation expenses for unsafe or unhealthy living conditions.

Residents may be eligible for up to 12 months of assistance with rent and utilities. Expenses incurred prior to March 13, 2020 are not eligible.

Area renters who may be confused about the application process, or who need any kind of help with the program can contact Legislator Alvarado’s office by phone at (914) 995-2846 or by e-mail at Alvarado@westchesterlegislators.com.

Leg. Alvarado said, “The COVID-19 pandemic has been not just a health crisis but also a housing crisis. Many families and individuals, especially in Southwest Yonkers, are struggling to keep up with their rent, having lost jobs or earnings during the pandemic. Eviction moratoriums have kept people in their homes, but for many, back rent has continued to pile up. This program can be a lifeline for so many in our community, and I want everyone to know that my office is here to help in any way we can to get this important aid to people in the community.”

Eligible recipients must meet the following requirements:

·         Resident of Yonkers

·         An obligation to pay rent

·         You or a household member has been financially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic

·         Experienced or are at risk of housing instability 

·         Your household is at or below 80 percent of area’s median income (that means for a household of four you must have earnings of $90,550 or less).

There are no immigration status requirements to qualify for the program.

Priority will be given to households with incomes less than 50% of area median income or households ($63,750  for a household of four), with one or more individuals that have not been employed for the 90-day period preceding the date of application.

The city has selected five not-for-profit partners to administer the program and help residents with applications. Applications will be accepted by these organizations only. The organizations are:

Cluster Community Services

https://clusterinc.org/how-we-help/housing-resource-center/

Contact:

Ray Addison

(914) 963-6500 ext 230.

raddison@clusterinc.org

 

The Bridge Fund of New York, Inc.

https://thebridgefund.org/westchester/

Contacts:

Sharon Whyte

(914)949-8146 x. 2

swhyte@thebridgefund.org

Manuel Rios

(914) 949-8146 x. 6

mrios@thebridgefund.org

 

Westchester Residential Opportunities

https://wroinc.org/eviction-prevention/

Contact:

Delores Palmer

428-4507 ext. 305

housinghelp@wroinc.org

 

Catholic Charities

https://catholiccharitiesny.org/find-help/need-help-housing

Contact:

Marilyn Lucca

(914) 476-2700

CCCS.Westchester@archny.org

 

For more information about the program, visit https://www.yonkersny.gov/work/department-of-planning-development/development/community-development/emergency-rental-assistance-program

Answers to frequently asked questions about the Yonkers Emergency Rental Assistance Program can be found at:

https://www.yonkersny.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/27328/637581398994353635

 

Greenburgh Insider: Westchester County Legislator MaryJane Shimsky 12th District: Mobile Shredder is coming to Ardsley - Saturday, 6/19.

The Westchester County Shredder will be at the Ardsley Middle School from  10:00 am -1:00 pm on Saturday, June 19, 2021.

THIS EVENT IS FREE TO ARDSLEY RESIDENTS.

All residents attending shredder events must follow these safety guidelines to protect themselves and staff:

• Residents must remain in their vehicles at all times.
• Documents should be boxed and placed in the truck/hatchback of the resident’s vehicle, if possible, or in the back seat of the resident’s vehicle.
• Staff will remove the box(es) directly from the resident’s vehicle and place them in the shredder mechanism.
• Vehicles will be queued at a safe distance from staff and only one vehicle will be serviced at a time.
• Within designated areas, residents are required to wear masks.
• Please be mindful to observe all posted signage and directions from staff.

Westchester Insider: Westchester County Legislator Catherine Parker 7th District: Learn How to Grow a Great Pollinator Garden This Sunday!

 

Yonkers Insider: Endorsement Alert: Yonkers Firefighters Endorse Lakisha Collins-Bellamy for Yonkers City Council President: Elections 2021.

 

ENDORSEMENT ALERT I am deeply humbled and grateful for the IAFF LOCAL 628 Yonkers Firefighters endorsement. Every day these brave men and women put their lives on the line to keep Yonkers safe. I look forward to working together with the them once elected. #YonkersBrave #LakishaForYonkers

Yonkers Insider: Statement from Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano.

 

Dear Friend,

This week, I made a major announcement aimed to provide financial relief to renters and landlords. The COVID-19 pandemic created difficult financial constraints for individuals across the country.

Here in Yonkers, know that we are committed to assisting residents with their payments of back rent, and other expenses due to the pandemic.

 

This is my latest commitment to help struggling renters and landlords.

If you're in need of assistance, please visit, www.yonkersny.gov/yerap for more information.

 

Let's continue to build back a better Yonkers. #StrongerTogether

MIKE SPANO

Mayor

Yonkers Insider: Statement from Yonkers City Council Majority Leader Corazon Pineda Issac 2nd District.

 

Next week, we will have a couple of food distributions in our district to help combat food insecurity. First, I will host a Hot Meal Distribution in partnership with Gullotta House on Monday, June 7, 2020 at 3:30pm at the Oak Street Community Garden, located at 128 Oak Street. On Wednesday, June 9, 2021 at 12:30pm, we will host another Mobile Food Pantry at Nodine Hill in partnership with Feeding Westchester.

These are amazing events that are aimed to help everyone in the community put food on the table. Many of us have struggled greatly during this pandemic, and it is important to address this issue that unfortunately still affects so many people. I am happy to partner with Gullotta House and Feeding Westchester on these events respectively, to bring these services to our community. These are FREE events and open to all. Registration is not required.

Best regards,

Hon. Corazon Pineda-Isaac

E-mail: corazon.pineda.isaac@yonkersny.gov

Tel: (914) 377-6312

Yonkers Insider: Political Ad from Carlos Burgos Democrat for Yonkers City Council 4th District.

 

Vote for Carlos Burgos on Primary Day, June 22nd in the Democratic Party Primary for Yonkers City Council 4th District.

To Learn More about Carlos Burgos Campaign, Visit: https://carlos4yonkers.com/

 Submitted by Campaign of Carlos Burgos Democrat for Yonkers City Council 4th District.

New York State Insider: [PRESS RELEASE] SENATOR ALESSANDRA BIAGGI ISSUES STATEMENT ON VILLAGE OF PELHAM MANOR’S REFUSAL TO DISPLAY THE LGBTQ+ RAINBOW FLAG DURING PRIDE MONTH.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, June 4th, 2021

SENATOR BIAGGI ISSUES STATEMENT ON VILLAGE OF PELHAM MANOR’S REFUSAL TO DISPLAY THE LGBTQ+ RAINBOW FLAG DURING PRIDE MONTH.

PELHAM, NY – Today, State Senator Alessandra Biaggi issued the following statement in response to the Village of Pelham Manor’s refusal to display an LGBTQ+ Pride flag during the month of June in honor of Pride Month. 

“I am disappointed that in 2021, the Village of Pelham Manor has refused to display a rainbow flag in honor of Pride Month this June. The rainbow flag –– a symbol of pride to unite and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community –– is commonly flown throughout the month of June as an act of celebration and solidarity. The LGBTQ+ community has a long history of experiencing discrimination, and continues to face inequality today. It is my sincere hope that all communities within District 34 will not only fly rainbow flags with pride this month, but will renew their commitment to fight for equality for the LGBTQ+ community. I know that Pelham Manor has committed to inclusivity, and now, this is their opportunity to prove that commitment to the people of Pelham.”

Westchester Insider: Westchester County Legislator Colin Smith 1st District: Paving a New Pathway to Homeownership for Underserved Communities.

 

Paving a New Pathway to Homeownership for Underserved Communities.

You may have thought you couldn’t qualify for a home in the past because of credit history, credit score, income, limited down payment, and other potential barriers to homeownership…

Mark your calendar! On Thursday, June 10 from 10am-11am, you are invited to join Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) for a webinar regarding HCR’s "Give Us Credit" (GUC) program and their newly expanded down payment loan assistance program (DPAL PLUS).  The programs are run through the State of NY Mortgage Agency (SONYMA) and are dedicated to increasing homeownership rates in communities that have historically lacked full access to this opportunity, including communities of color.

These programs address some of these issues and are now being offered to all residents of New York State.  

TO LEARN MORE, REGISTER HERE: https://ntpdreg5.typeform.com/to/Wfd2xB2b

Westchester Insider: Westchester County Legislator Catherine Parker 7th District: The Board of Legislators Celebrates LGBTQ Pride Month - Monday, 6/7.

 

The Board of Legislators Celebrates LGBTQ Pride Month - Monday, 6/7.

Please join us Monday night for our annual celebration of LGBTQ Pride Month, streaming live from the BOL Chamber at 7 p.m., prior to the start of our regular Board meeting. The Board is proud to be celebrating Award-Winning Journalist, Attorney and Transgender Advocate Kristen Browde and Real Estate Broker and Fair Housing Diversity Advocate Barry Kramer.

The event will go live at https://westchestercountyny.legistar.com at 7 p.m. To access, click on the link and scroll down to “Board of Legislators Meeting.” Scroll across to the video column and click where it says “in progress."

Promotions for Tasha Young Democrat for Greenburgh Town Supervisor: Election Desk 2021 News: For immediate release - Dromore Lawsuit Statement By Candidate Tasha D. Young: Elections 2021.

BAD MANAGEMENT:  THE INCUMBENT BLAMES OTHERS FOR HIS MISDEEDS!

The current Town Supervisor of Greenburgh , NY’s  management is not up to par or inclusive to the community.  According to the zoning ordinance section 285-7 it was the Supervisors’ job to review the map for correctness, certify and sign it. However, for a decade, it was not done and this settlement is the result of this negligence. The $10.95 million direct cost ( including legal costs but not insurance payments) to taxpayers is the latest domino to fall in his failure to do his job.

This settlement comes on the heels of the 5.5 million Fortress Bible Church settlement in which taxpayers are paying the Town’s liability for interfering with the first amendment rights of the church.  At the time in 2013, that settlement was the largest settlement by a religious institution against a town in US history.

Worst of all, he deflects his responsibility to other people  for his own administration’s negligence.  When the current supervisor blames others without taking responsibility for his own misdeeds, it is immoral and shows a lack of integrity.

This pattern of taxpayers money used for lawsuit debt due to the Supervisor’s negligence, must stop.  At the end of the day at least $28 million of our taxpayers’ dollars will have been used to pay for avoidable settlements since the current Supervisor was elected in 1991. Imagine what this money could have been used for had it been available for the good of the Town. Paul has not held himself accountable nor has he been held accountable for his actions. He does not correct his mistakes and he will do it again because this is his style of leadership!  30 years of this behavior is long enough and the Town of Greenburgh deserves better.  That’s why I, Tasha D. Young, am running for Supervisor on June 12-22.  We deserve a transparent and accountable government.

Vote for Tasha Young in Democratic Party Primary for Greenburgh Town Supervisor on June 22nd.

For More Info on Tasha Young Campaign, Visit: https://www.votetasha.com/

Paid for by Friends of Tasha Young.

New York State Insider: [PRESS RELEASE] SENATOR ALESSANDRA BIAGGI, PLANNED PARENTHOOD, THE BRIGID ALLIANCE, AND LEGISLATORS CALL FOR THE NEW YORK STATE ABORTION ACCESS FUND.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, June 3rd, 2021

SENATOR BIAGGI, PLANNED PARENTHOOD, THE BRIGID ALLIANCE, AND LEGISLATORS CALL FOR THE NEW YORK STATE ABORTION ACCESS FUND.

ALBANY, NY – Yesterday, State Senator Alessandra Biaggi joined legislators and advocates in calling for the passage of the New York State Abortion Access Fund in the final days of the legislative session. Bill S758/A1926 creates a fund which allows taxpayers to voluntarily contribute on their personal income tax returns financial support for organizations that provide financial and logistical assistance to people with limited access to abortion care. 

While abortion access is deemed a right under New York State law, many people face financial barriers such as travel expenses, child care expenses, and the cost of the procedure itself, limiting their access to abortion and reproductive healthcare. Abortion access organizations work to address these obstacles and provide necessary support to those seeking an abortion. These organizations are sustained by donations and are predominantly staffed by volunteers who function as case managers working with patients and providers. If enacted, New York’s Abortion Access Fund would raise money to support local organizations working to ensure the right to an abortion is a reality for all across the state.

“Just a few weeks ago, our country learned the United States Supreme Court plans to take up a case on the right to abortion in the state of Mississippi –– the outcome of which could overturn the precedent set by Roe v. Wade. As abortion rights are under attack across this country, New York State must continue to be a beacon of light for those seeking care by creating an Abortion Access Fund. Far too many low-income New Yorkers, young people, people of color, and undocumented immigrants face financial barriers to accessing abortion care. We must take the next step in our fight for reproductive justice and create the New York State Abortion Access Fund to ensure that access to abortion is not just a right under New York State law –– but a reality," said State Senator Alessandra Biaggi. 

“Although the state provides coverage for abortions through Medicaid, many New Yorkers still face costly barriers due to being just out of range of programs that provide financial assistance. The creation of an Abortion Access Fund would bridge the gap for those unable to afford abortion procedures. We must commit to ensuring that anyone who seeks an abortion does not have to ever consider the cost associated with their procedure. Reproductive health issues are social justice issues that must be addressed by enacting robust solutions that aid those pushed to the margins of our society,” said Assemblymember Karines Reyes.

“Calling for the passage of the New York State Abortion Access Fund is a no-brainer. Increasing abortion access creates equity in sexual and reproductive health, especially in communities with long-standing racial and ethnic disparities in reproductive health access services. Establishing the Abortion Access Fund in New York State will help strengthen the ability of OB-GYNs and other clinicians to provide necessary services and improve outcomes by reducing reproductive health disparities. Let’s get it done!” said State Senator Robert Jackson.

 

"Two years ago we enacted the Reproductive Health Act, affirming that abortion is healthcare.  This Abortion Access Fund, funded not by taxpayer dollars but by voluntary donations from the many New Yorkers who feel strongly about reproductive rights, would provide access to patients who otherwise could not afford this healthcare," said State Senator John Liu.

 

"Guaranteeing abortion access is an issue of justice and equity. Restrictions and other obstacles most acutely impact those with limited resources to navigate barriers to care including individuals with low incomes or no incomes, people of color, those who are undocumented, young people, and people in rural areas. Here in New York, we believe everyone should have the ability to make their own health care decisions and the means necessary to do so. This is why we must support the critical work of abortion access funds – who break down barriers to care and make the right to abortion a reality for those who find it out of reach," said Robin Chappelle Golston, President and CEO, Planned Parenthood Empire State Acts. 

 

"Every person seeking health care in New York should be able to make their own decisions and have the means to do so -- especially when it comes to abortion care.  The Abortion Access Fund would allow everyday New Yorkers to support abortion access with their contributions and send a bold statement normalizing and destigmatizing abortion care at a time when the Supreme Court threatens to dismantle Roe v. Wade," said Andrea Miller, President, National Institute for Reproductive Health Action Fund. 

Westchester Insider: MOUNT VERNON WOMAN FACES ASSAULT & OTHER CHARGES IN INCIDENT INVOLVING A FORMER PARTNER, ALREADY CHARGED WITH ATTEMPTED MURDER OF ANOTHER EX-PARTNER.

 

WESTCHESTER COUNTY OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY

MIRIAM E. ROCAH

 

 

***NEWS RELEASE***

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – June 3, 2021

 

ALREADY CHARGED WITH ATTEMPTED MURDER OF A FORMER PARTNER, MOUNT VERNON WOMAN FACES ASSAULT & OTHER CHARGES IN INCIDENT INVOLVING ANOTHER EX-PARTNER.

 

A 54-year-old Mount Vernon woman who is already charged with the 2019 attempted murder of a former intimate partner was charged this week with assault, menacing and other charges stemming from a second incident earlier this year involving another former intimate partner.

 

Shaun Rhames was indicted in County Court on June 1 on two counts of Assault in the Second Degree, Unlawful Imprisonment in the First Degree, Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree and Menacing in the Second Degree. Bail was set at $50,000 bond / $25,000 cash / $150,000 partially secured bond.

 

“This case is a disturbing reminder that violence in intimate relationships can take many forms and that the victims can be both men and women,” said Westchester District Attorney Miriam E. Rocah.  “We are committed to holding Shaun Rhames accountable for her actions in both of these cases and to getting justice for her victims.”

 

The latest charges stem from a February 21 incident at Rhames’ home in Mount Vernon involving a former intimate partner who was also a long-time friend. As the 65-year-old victim sat at Rhames’ kitchen table, she came up behind him with two knives in hand, held one knife to his neck and threatened to kill him.

 

The two struggled, and Rhames got on top of the victim and tried to cut off one of his fingers. She also beat him on his head and face with the handle of one of the knives. The victim sustained head and hand injuries that required stitches.

 

Rhames then ordered the victim to empty his pockets of his belongings and to disrobe except for a coat and shoes, and forced him outside of the residence. Rhames herself called the police, and was subsequently taken into custody. She has been held at the Westchester County Jail since the February incident.

 

The 2019 attempted murder with which Rhames is charged also took place in Mount Vernon. Bail in that case was set by Mount Vernon City Court at $50,000 cash or bond, and Rhames had been released from custody after meeting bail requirements.

 

The case is before Judge Susan Capeci, and is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Janelle Armentano.

Westchester Insider: WORK WITH AN AWARD-WINNING LIFEGUARD TEAM.

 

Work With an Award-Winning Lifeguard Team.

 

(Ardsley, NY) – Take charge, be a lifeguard! Learn important life-saving skills and be part of an award winning aquatics team at Westchester County Parks’ pools and beaches this summer.

 

The pandemic brought lifeguard trainings to a halt and in turn created a deficit of available lifeguards all over the country. With restrictions beginning to loosen up the Westchester County Parks Aquatics Division is now able to offer training to new guards who accept a position with us, which includes waterfront training for the option to guard at either a pool or beach.

 

Applicants must be 15 years or older, possess current American Red Cross Lifeguarding/First Aid and CPR/AED for Lifeguards certifications or equivalent, and pass the Westchester County practical skills test.

 

During the height of the pandemic, Westchester County Parks Lifeguards were tasked with increased responsibilities to protect the health of visitors at its four pools and two beaches. This dedication led to the American Red Cross naming the Aquatics Division a Top 200 Provider. This is a team worth joining as it lays the foundation of a strong work ethic for young adults as they transition into the work force.

 

For more information visit our website or contact the County’s aquatics team at prc-aquatics@westchestergov.com.