Dear Friend,

It has been an incredible delight to interact with my constituents throughout the summer season who have shared their struggles, but also their vision for the growth and development our community. It is my number one priority to increase community involvement and ensure that people of all ages can fully participate in building the future of the 35th Council District.

With less than one month before the legislative session resumes, I am happy to share a new initiative that my office is launching as early as next week. We have partnered with Community Boards 2, 3, 8, and 9 to provide constituent services on-site in their offices. I believe that in order for us to strengthen our community, we must address the needs of the local residents. We are excited to bring these services directly to you every month. I want to encourage you to take note of the schedule enclosed in this e-newsletter, as we look forward to seeing you and addressing your concerns.  

I hope that you will continue to engage with my office, exchanging ideas and solutions to improve our district, city, and state.

Yours in Partnership,

Laurie A. Cumbo

Member of the New York City Council 

• SNAP is the new name for the Food Stamp Program. There are about a half-million NYC residents eligible for this program who are not enrolled. Could you be one of them?  SNAP benefits are placed on a debit card, can be used at most supermarkets and farmers' markets, and can help free up money for other household expenses.  It's easy to find out if you're eligible and, if so, to get help submitting an application. The NYC Coalition Against Hunger can provide a quick, confidential screening over the phone and various options for submitting an application.  You'll need to provide some basic information such as household income, rent / mortgage expense, childcare expenses, etc. Call (212) 825-0028 ext 207, 213 or 245, or 213.
• The Community-Based Early Childhood Center Pre-Kindergarten Directory contains information about pre-kindergarten programs that are available for the 2014-2015 academic year.
• The New York City Department of Education has extended the application deadline for certified teachers in the arts and other subject areas. Interested educators should apply here.
• We all know that the key to a strong community is a feeling of connectedness. Fresh in Brooklyn, a campaign of University Settlement, is focused on highlighting key community partnerships, programs and businesses that are working together every day to keep Brooklyn strong, healthy and fresh - and to keeping you connected to what's happening in your backyard.  FreshinBrooklyn.org provides one place that showcases the people and events that are working together to grow a stronger community. Sign up today to receive exclusive content, tips and deals from University Settlement and their Fresh in Brooklyn partners! Everyone who signs up during the month of August will receive 10% off of dinner at Franny's. 
• DRIE Update: The maximum household income is now increased to $50,000 (regardless of household size) and is retroactive to July 1, 2014. The DRIE program helps disabled renters stay in their apartments by freezing the tenants rent. To qualify you must:
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Live in a rent regulated apartment:
    • o   Rent stabilized
    • o   Rent controlled
    • o   Hotel stabilized apartment
    • o   Mitchell-Lama
    • o   HDFC Cooperatives
    • o   A building with a federally insured mortgage under Section 213 of the National Housing Act
    • Have a combined household income that is $50,000 or less
    • Pay more than 1/3 of their household income on rent and
    • Have been awarded federal SSI, SSDI, VA Disability Pension or Disability related Medicaid.

Monday         Appointment Only

Tuesday        10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Wednesday    4:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Thursday        1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Friday             Appointment Only