VOL. 47 NO. 5 JULY 2017 INSIDE THIS ISSUE 3 4 8

NextGen Digging in at Less energy, Neighborhoods Coney Island more comfort

Breaking Ground on a New Future

Al-tabar Hudgins SAFETY IS HIS MISSION Al-tabar Hudgins Is Walking the Talk

MARINER’S HARBOR RESIDENT Al-tabar Hudgins, 23, is a young man with a mission to spread the word to his N JUNE 19, NYCHA launched con- Hurricane Sandy and other emergencies. peers about keeping themselves and struction work at Ocean Bay (Bayside) Residents will not have to move while their communities safe. O Apartments in Far Rockaway, a their apartments are being renovated, As a member of the Mayor’s Office of development that houses 3,700 residents. which should take about three years in total, Criminal Justice’s (MOCJ) Peer Leader- Under U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban instead of the 20 years it would have taken to ship Committee for the past three years, Development (HUD)’s Rental Assistance complete this work without PACT. Mr. Hudgins has been getting people Demonstration (RAD) program—known as “Through PACT, we are able to provide talking about gun violence. Peer leaders Permanent Affordability Commitment Togeth- our residents with the necessary repairs while are NYCHA residents under the age of er (PACT) in New York City—a new public- also preserving public housing for future 24 who receive training to become ad- private partnership will provide $325 million generations,” NYCHA Chair and CEO Shola vocates and activists for peace in their to renovate the development’s 24 buildings. Olatoye said. “This innovative partnership will communities. Renovations will include better heating strengthen the Ocean Bay community and “This is something I’m very passionate systems, new roofs, safety upgrades, and new provide almost 1,400 New York families with about. Gun violence is something a lot of kitchens and bathrooms. A portion of the much-needed upgrades and improvements people are dealing with, so to be able to restoration funds includes $194.4 million from for their homes.” talk to them, to see everyone very much FEMA for resiliency improvements including All of the Ocean Bay (Bayside) apartments engaged to talk about (CONTINUED ON PAGE 3) rooftop boilers and solar energy panels that will be converted to Section 8 and managed will help safeguard residents in storms like by Wavecrest Management (CONTINUED ON PAGE 6)

FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.NYC.GOV/NYCHA LETTER FROM THE CHAIR FIGHTING FOR PUBLIC HOUSING

UNFORTUNATELY, the news out of Washington remains Through the federal Rental Assistance Demonstration grim. For the coming year, NYCHA stands to lose program, known as RAD, we’re investing more than $210 million in funding for major repairs, up to $130 million to $325 million at Ocean Bay (Bayside) Apartments by maintain our developments, and 13,000 Section 8 vouchers. converting the property to Section 8 funding. In May, we There is also a proposal to increase residents’ rent. We will released a request for proposals to do the same for another continue to fight these cuts in partnership with our allies who 1,700 apartments across the city, benefiting more than understand the importance of an affordable home. 4,000 residents with elevator replacements, new boilers and These cuts come on top of years of severe underfunding: heating systems, and roof replacements. Since 2001, NYCHA has lost nearly $3 billion in federal Mayor de Blasio continues to lead the way in ensuring funding, and our buildings need $17 billion worth of major that NYCHA is here for the next generation. He announced repair work. To provide the quality of life that residents deserve, we a $355 million investment in façade improvements, on top of the must come up with new and creative sources of revenue. $1.3 billion he committed for more than 950 roof replacements. We’ve made strides in recent months to do just that. As part of the We’ve made a lot of progress over the past few years with our NextGen Neighborhoods program, we announced the developer who NextGeneration NYCHA plan, but there is still so much to be done. will build a 50/50 mix of affordable and market-rate housing at Holmes We will keep working tirelessly to deliver on our promise of safe, clean, Towers on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. We are excited that the and connected communities, and we will not let Washington turn its developer’s plan will connect and benefit NYCHA residents, with more back on public housing. than 14,000 square feet of new playground and open space and a new, Onward, 18,000-square-foot recreational and community center operated by a non-profit partner. This will also generate an expected $25 million in new revenue for NYCHA, half of which will be invested in the repair Shola Olatoye needs at Holmes Towers. Chair and CEO

NYCHA BOARD MEETINGS YCHA’S BOARD MEETINGS, open to the public, take five business days prior to the meeting. For additional information place on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. in the NYCHA 12th floor regarding the calendar of meetings, dispositions, dates, and times, N conference room at 250 Broadway. People who wish to please call 212-306-6088. speak during the public comment period must pre-register at least For those unable to attend the board meetings, please visit 45 minutes before the meeting is scheduled to begin and can only http://on.nyc.gov/boardmeetings at the time of the meeting to comment about items on that meeting’s agenda. Each speaker’s time watch live. You may also watch past board meetings by visiting is limited to three minutes. The public comment period concludes NYCHAnnel, NYCHA’s YouTube page at either when all speakers are finished or after the 30 minutes allotted https://www.youtube.com/c/nycha. by law for public comment, whichever comes first. Copies of the calendar for the upcoming board meeting are Upcoming Meetings: available on NYCHA’s website or can be picked up at the Office of the Corporate Secretary, 250 Broadway, 12th floor, after 3 p.m. on September 27, 2017 November 29, 2017 the Monday before the meeting. Copies of the dispositions of prior October 25, 2017 December 20, 2017 meetings are available on NYCHA’s website or can be picked up from the Office of the Corporate Secretary no earlier than 3 p.m. on the * Note: There will be no board meeting in August. The May Thursday after the board meeting. Any person requiring reasonable and December board meetings are scheduled for the accommodation in order to participate in the meeting should contact second-to-last Wednesday. the Office of the Corporate Secretary at 212-306-6088 no later than

2 FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.NYC.GOV/NYCHA First NextGen Neighborhoods Developer Selected HE DEVELOPER FOR Half of the revenue raised from the first NextGeneration the new building will be used to T(NextGen) Neighborhoods address Holmes Towers’ most development, at Holmes Towers critical capital needs. in Manhattan, is Fetner Proper- Fetner Properties was chosen ties, which proposed a 47-story, after an unprecedented commu- mixed-income building. The new nity engagement process dedi- building will bring in money for cated to understanding resident repairs at Holmes and provide concerns. NYCHA held 23 resi- new affordable housing units at a dent meetings, distributed over time when New York City cannot 1,000 notices, and went door to keep up with demand. door to speak with more than Half of the apartments will be 400 residents. In addition to the affordable to residents earning new units, Fetner will provide an less than $41,000 for an individual 18,000-square-foot recreational or $52,000 for a family of three, and community center, to be and NYCHA residents will have a operated by local non-profit preference for 25 percent of those Asphalt Green. Fetner will also units. Holmes Towers’ residents work with NYCHA to fill a mini- will not need to move or pay in- mum of 50 percent of all per- creased rent. NYCHA retains own- manent jobs at the community ership of the land and will provide center with NYCHA residents. a 99-year lease to the developer. An onsite workforce recruitment With $17 billion in capital center will ensure that residents needs, NYCHA is looking to can easily receive information creative, new sources for funding. on these job opportunities. In Holmes Towers has $35 million in addition, Fetner will build 14,500 capital needs alone. NYCHA ex- square feet of new playgrounds, pects to receive a projected $25 new outdoor seating areas, light- million through this transaction. ing, and plantings.

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) SAFETY IS HIS MISSION gun violence and the value of life, “We talk about healthy rela- defense attorney. He’s work- that’s the most meaningful part.” tionships, empowering people ing on a bachelor’s degree in His experience with MOCJ our age and younger to know political science at the College There’s value in led him to an opportunity with what they want out of a rela- of Staten Island and plans to conversation,“ the Mayor’s Office to Combat tionship, the reason they start then attend law school. Domestic Violence. In January, relationships, the type of signs “When I go to talk to some of because saying it Mr. Hudgins started working to look out for in an abusive re- these kids, especially Black and out loud creates there as a peer educator. As lationship, and just to know how brown kids, it’s the first time a a whole new part of the NYC Healthy Rela- to have a healthy relationship.” lot of them have ever had these tionships Training Academy, he Mr. Hudgins is thankful he conversations. They don’t get dynamic, a whole helps lead workshops on dat- got the chance to do this kind to talk about things that might new culture. ing violence and healthy rela- of important work for his com- be stigmatized. Conversation tionships for teens and young munity, and he hopes to con- creates a whole new dynamic, ” adults across the five boroughs. tinue that work in the future as a a whole new culture.” FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.NYC.GOV/NYCHA 3 Stronger after Sandy at Coney Island Houses NYCHA Breaks Ground on $90 Million Recovery and Resiliency Project URRICANE SANDY get the work started as quickly INFLICTED incredible and safely as possible,” said H damage across New York Lauretta Brumfield, the resident City, including at Coney Island association president of Coney Houses, where it flooded the Island Houses. “As a resident basement, knocked out power leader, I expect to have Coney and heat, and filled under- Island Houses revived, to see ground pipes with sand. In May, people smiling, children laugh- NYCHA broke ground on a $90 ing, playing, and to see resi- million design and construc- dents working to rebuild their NYCHA General Manager Michael Kelly (third from left) and Tenant tion project to fully restore and homes.” Association President Carol Wilkins (third from right) unveil NYCHA’s new strengthen the development. With the largest grant ever kiosks with Property Manager Anita Lal (second from left) and staff from the This involves roof replacements, awarded by the Federal Emer- offices of Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, Assemblymember Catherine installation of standby gen- gency Management Agency— Nolan, and State Senator Michael Gianaris. erators for backup power, new $3 billion—NYCHA is repairing electrical systems and flood- and strengthening its 33 devel- protected boilers, flood-pre- opments that were damaged NYCHA’s New One-Stop vention measures, new lobbies, significantly by Hurricane San- upgraded playgrounds and dy, benefitting 60,000 residents. Kiosk Unveiled at recreational areas, a new multi- The construction at Coney purpose room for residents, and Island Houses is the ninth major Ravenswood Houses new lighting, security cameras, recovery and resiliency project and state-of-the-art security to begin and the third in the NEW SELF-SERVICE KIOSKS NYCHA General Manager Kelly. entrance doors. Coney Island neighborhood. in every development provide “These kiosks are a great step “I have been working closely More than 170 NYCHA resi- residents access to NYCHA’s forward as we work to achieve and diligently with the NYCHA dents have been hired for this online services, including rent a better NYCHA where all fami- Recovery to Resiliency team to work so far. payment, submitting work lies have modern, safe, orders, and recertification of and secure homes.” income. No longer is the lack • 144 kiosks have been installed of a computer or Internet ac- at all developments and the cess an obstacle to using these Brooklyn Walk-In Center, services. Using the kiosks, except for Woodson Houses. residents can also learn about • Woodson Houses’ job training programs, apply management office is currently for NYCHA jobs, and read The under construction but will NYCHA Journal. have a kiosk upon completion. “NextGeneration NYCHA Woodson residents can use represents a promise to our the kiosk at Langston Hughes residents, and improving opera- Houses while their office is tions and modernizing cus- under construction. Shovels in the ground: Sandy recovery construction work is in progress at tomer services is an important • 5 kiosks are designated for the Coney Island Houses. part of our strategic plan,”said Bronx Walk-In Center.

4 FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.NYC.GOV/NYCHA Tracy Lovelace Keeps Bright Lights, an Eye on the Brooklyn Big Improvement Resident Watch Program New Fixtures at 18 Brooklyn Developments TRACY LOVELACE IS the making sure the buildings are Benefit More Than 36,000 Residents coordinator of the Resident safe and that Resident Watch YCHA RECENTLY Watch program in Brooklyn. For volunteers have what they need FINISHED a $16.3 mil- more than 40 years, thousands to be comfortable while sitting N lion energy-efficiency of residents have volunteered patrol, like fans during the sum- lighting project at 18 develop- their time as Resident Watch mer. The presence of Resident ments in Brooklyn, benefiting members, patrolling their devel- Watch members makes a differ- more than 36,000 residents opments and fostering safety, ence in deterring crime. and helping the Authority save security, and community pride I like helping residents. It almost $1.6 million in annual in collaboration with property makes me feel good when they electricity costs. Con Edison management staff. say “thank you” for being there contributed $5.6 million to by their side. You can’t do this cover a portion of the lighting What is your role in making job without caring. You always installation, and 23 additional NYCHA communities safer? have to come in with a smile, developments in Brooklyn We recruit residents for Resi- and you have to be prepared will begin receiving these up- are: Williamsburg, Brownsville, dent Watch, conducting lobby to assist and to stay in contact. grades in September. NYCHA Van Dyke I, Van Dyke II, Coo- and general meetings to ex- You have to let residents know will use the savings in electric- per Park, Tilden, Howard, Pink, plain what Resident Watch is that you’re there for them; this ity costs to fund additional Kingsborough, Kingsborough and get residents involved. We is a volunteer program, and we energy retrofits such as heat- Extension, Cypress Hills, Sum- make buildings safer by having want residents to know that we ing and hot water upgrades at ner, Roosevelt I, Hughes Apart- three to five residents volun- appreciate what they are doing additional developments. ments, Woodson, Low Houses, teer to sit in the lobby and do to keep their community safe. The developments that Glenmore Plaza, and Unity patrol. Some developments received lighting upgrades Plaza (Sites 04-27). don’t have a Resident Watch Why is our NextGeneration supervisor, so my staff and I will NYCHA mission of creating sit with the volunteers and do safe, clean, and connected patrols in the building. We work communities so important? Can you discuss the Com- go-bag, like flashlights, copies with the NYPD on patrols and It’s important for quality of life munity Emergency Response of birth certificates, and a spare for residents to feel comfort- Team (CERT) training provided set of keys. able and safe. Resident Watch by NYC Emergency Manage- As part of the training, there is the first line of defense for ment that many Resident Watch was a simulation of a storm safety – we are the eyes and members completed? scenario at Van Dyke Houses. ears of the community. We About 15 Resident Watch mem- They said I should have received have a lot of grandparents in bers completed the training. an Oscar for my performance the program, which is benefi- They learned so much and were as a victim! I played someone cial for them; we want youth to so grateful for the program that with a dislocated shoulder. The work with their grandparents to they want to do it again! They volunteers had to provide us first make sure they and their neigh- learned how to plan for an emer- aid and apply any other training bors feel safe, and we want gency, how to evacuate and set they learned. It was really phe- everyone to have open lines of up a family meeting place, and nomenal and the instructors said Tracy Lovelace communication with the NYPD. the important things to pack in a it went well.

FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.NYC.GOV/NYCHA 5 A Kids’ Clubhouse Fit for a President UST ACROSS the street gramming to young people from the Polo Grounds ages 6 to 18. There are currently JTowers and Rangel 1,317 Polo Grounds Towers Houses developments, a residents, and 733 Rangel former president has broken Houses residents, who are ground on new resources 19 years or younger. for children. “Nobody ever amounts to On May 24, President Bill much without a hand up now Clinton dug in his shovel for and then, without a pat on the

the unveiling of a new Madison back, without someone looking MADISON SQUARE BOYS & GIRLS CLUB/J.L. GONZELES Square Boys & Girls Club at after them telling them it’s President Bill Clinton (center) is joined by Steven Melton (left), the intersection of West 155th going to be alright,” President Associate Executive Director of Madison Square Boys & Girls and Bradhurst Avenue in Clinton said. “That’s why I love Club, Joe Patuleia (right), Executive Director of Madison Square Harlem, expected to open in the Boys and Girls Club, why I Boys & Girls Club, and students from P.S. 46 in Harlem at the the fall of 2018. love this project.” groundbreaking ceremony for a new facility that will serve the The Boys & Girls Club will The 45,000-square-foot, community, including Polo Grounds Towers and Rangel Houses. provide the Polo Grounds four-story building will Towers and Rangel Houses hold educational spaces basketball court, as well as studio, screening room, and communities with afterschool, and recreational facilities, visual and performing arts technology lab. To learn more, Saturday, and summer pro- including a soccer field and space, including a production visit www.madisonsquare.org.

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) BREAKING GROUND ON A NEW FUTURE West Nile Virus in partnership with NYCHA. NYCHA will keep ownership of Ocean Mosquito Treatment Bay Apartments and continue to administer the Section 8 contract, ensuring that the apartments stay permanently affordable and The New York City Housing Authority will be treating all of guaranteeing that the developments can never be privatized. All rents the catch basins located on Housing Authority developments will remain the same. In addition, social services for residents will be to reduce the mosquito population in an effort to minimize the provided through Catholic Charities and many local residents have transmission of the West Nile Virus. These treatments will take already been hired by Wavecrest or will be hired for construction jobs. place between June and September of 2017. One or more of Lolita Miller, Treasurer of the Resident Association and a retired the following pesticides will be used: 20-year NYCHA employee, participated in numerous resident Vectolex CG, EPA Reg. No. 73049-20, Toxicity Category – “Caution” engagement meetings about changes at the development. She said Summit B.t.i. Briquets, EPA Reg. No. 6218-47, Toxicity Category – “Caution” she’s already seen great things happening and can’t wait to see the Altosid XR, EPA Reg. No. 2724-421, Toxicity Category – “Caution” buildings restored to their original beauty. “NextGeneration NYCHA is coming to life—the things that were Contact information: neglected are coming back,” Ms. Miller said. NYC Housing Authority: NYCHA has also received HUD approval to raise $300 million Debbie Wolf, Administrative Staff Analyst, 718-707-5709 available from 9 am – 5 pm for extensive repairs and quality of life improvements for 1,700 Denise Torres, Technical Resource Advisor, 718-707-8032 available from 8 am – 4 pm apartments in 17 developments throughout Brooklyn and the NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation, Region 2, Bureau of Pesticide Bronx. NYCHA has begun to meet regularly with residents at Management – 718-482-4994 these developments to make sure that not only are their questions National Pesticide Telecommunications Network – 1-800-858-PEST answered, but that they have meaningful input in the process. Ms. Inquiries concerning symptoms of pesticide poisoning Miller advises residents to go get involved in the process—“you get should be directed to the Poison Control Center to sit at the roundtable and list all the things that need to be done 1-800-222-1222 and help make decisions.” 6 FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.NYC.GOV/NYCHA PLAY IT SAFE THIS SUMMER to households meeting the Safety Begins At Home income guidelines and which Extension Cords Beat the Heat HEAT ILLNESS SYMPTOMS include a household member • Extension cords should not run Extreme heat is no joke. Every Hot, dry skin OR cold, with a documented medical under rugs or behind radiators, summer, New Yorkers get sick clammy skin condition that is worsened by be nailed to walls, or be run from it, and it can even be fatal. • Weakness extreme heat. Visit https:// through water. Here are some important tips to • Dizziness otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/ • Replace old, damaged, or deal with the heat this summer: • Nausea or vomiting program.asp#cooling or call frayed extension cords. • Use an air conditioner when • Trouble breathing 800-342-3009 to see if you • Do not overload extension cords. it’s hot out, and use window • Confusion, hallucinations, qualify and find out how to ap- • Never use indoor extension shades to block the sun. or disorientation ply. Apply now through August cords outdoors. • If you do not have an air 31 for this valuable benefit. A • Use cords that are rated to conditioner: limited amount of funding is handle the wattage of the de- ––Go to a cool place like a family ––Stay in the shade and out of available, and assistance will be vices that they’re powering. or friend’s home, library, shop- direct sun. provided on a first-come, first- • Never use a cord that feels hot. ping mall, or NYC Cooling ––Avoid strenuous activity. served basis. • Never use three-prong plugs Center (call 311 or visit • Never leave children, pets, or with outlets that only have two www.nyc.gov/311 for the those who require special care Is Your Air Conditioner Unit slots for the plug. location nearest you). in a parked car during periods Safe to Use? • Don’t plug extension cords ––Use a fan ONLY with the win- of intense heat. • All air conditioners must be together. dows open. • Check in with family, friends, safely installed, properly braced, • Drink lots of water, even if you and neighbors often to see how and conform to the manufactur- Window Guards don’t feel thirsty. Avoid bever- they are doing. er’s installation specifications. • NYCHA requires that every ages with alcohol, caffeine, or • Visit www.nyc.gov/beatthe- • Do not use bricks, wood, cans, window in an apartment have a high amounts of sugar. heat for more information. phone books, or any other object window guard, except windows • Cool showers or baths may to support or level the AC unit. that open onto fire escapes. be helpful, but avoid going Do you qualify for a • If you need info on proper • Notify Property Management from one extreme temperature free AC unit? installation or if you see an AC before removing an AC so an to another. Through New York State’s unit that appears to be im- appointment can be made • When outside: Home Energy Assistance Pro- properly installed, call the CCC to immediately install a ––Wear lightweight, light-colored, gram, you may be eligible for at 718-707-7771. window guard. loose-fitting clothes and a hat. funds for the purchase and in- • During an apartment inspec- • Call the CCC immediately at ––Wear sunscreen rated SPF 15 stallation of one air conditioner tion, NYCHA staff will determine 718-707-7771 if you believe that or higher on your face. or fan – up to an $800 benefit. whether AC units and window a window guard is not secure or This assistance is only available guards are installed properly. installed properly; the L-shaped stops keeping the bottom win- dow from opening too high are Brevoort Houses absent or installed improperly; or there are unguarded openings Clean Up greater than 4½ inches anywhere in the window. THE YOUNGEST BREVOORT Houses residents pitched in to clean their Crime Tips development’s grounds. On June 3, residents, • Report immediately any issues community members, NYPD Neighborhood with building entrance doors Coordination Officers, and CAMBA employees and intercoms or lighting in participated in the clean-up day organized by common areas and grounds to Resident Association President Pansy Nettles. the CCC at 718-707-7771.

FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.NYC.GOV/NYCHA 7 Harborview Terrace Resident Wins First Carey Gabay Award New Partnership Recruits NYCHA High School Students for Internships

UMON MIAH, 21, is the universities and made such an mation technology. During his youngest of seven chil- impact,” Mr. Miah said. sophomore year in college he R dren and will be the first The $2,500 award is given to an worked as a part-time teller at in his family to graduate from Urban Leadership Fellows (ULF) TD Bank, juggling a full course college. The Harborview Terrace alumnus who is a junior or senior load. He also became a finance resident was recently recognized in college with at least a 3.0 GPA. tutor for an introductory course for his academic achievement ULF is an internship program run to help his fellow students, and commitment to community by MFNY that introduces high because “not many students when he was awarded the first Trenelle Gabay, widow of Carey Gabay, school seniors with an interest in realize how great of an oppor- Carey Gabay Excellence Award presented Rumon Miah with the award finance to the municipal securi- tunity they have to be attending by the Municipal Forum of New named in her husband’s honor. ties industry through paid sum- college. I wanted to let them York (MFNY). mer internships. know how fortunate they are The award was created by sel for Governor Cuomo and first At the awards dinner, MFNY and that they shouldn’t take it MFNY to honor the memory of deputy counsel for the Empire and NYCHA also announced for granted, they should do ev- Carey Gabay, a dedicated public State Development Corporation. a partnership to recruit more erything they can to pursue that servant who was killed in 2015 by At the Forum’s annual awards young NYCHA residents to the higher education.” random gunshots at the J’ouvert dinner on May 10, his widow, ULF internship program. To learn more about the ULF Festival. Gabay grew up at Bos- Trenelle Gabay, presented the Mr. Miah completed his ULF program, contact Futures and ton Secor Houses in the Bronx, award to Mr. Miah. internship at investment bank Options at 212-601-0002 or by graduated from Harvard Uni- “I view it as an honor to be Stifel Financial, working in the email at info@futuresandop- versity and Harvard Law School, able to live up to someone like public finance division. He is a tions.org or visit http://themu- and led a career in public ser- him—he grew up in public hous- senior at Baruch College, where nicipalforumofnewyork.org/ vice, including as assistant coun- ing and went to such prestigious he studies finance and infor- ULFProgram.aspx.

Howard Avenue Houses Residents Close the Window on Drafty Discomfort THERE WAS A TIME, not so buildings are provided with long ago, when residents at energy-efficiency upgrades. Rose Clifton in front Howard Avenue Houses in Every apartment at Howard of windows newly Brooklyn weren’t happy with received new windows, air-condi- installed at her their drafty windows, but thanks tioning draft prevention inserts, apartment as part of to $1 million in energy-efficient modern Energy Star refrigera- numerous energy- upgrades recently completed at tors, low-flow showerheads, new efficiency upgrades the development, the drafts have bathroom ventilation fans, energy- made to all apartments been replaced with pleasantly efficient LED bulbs, and combi- at Howard Avenue controlled temperatures, regu- nation carbon monoxide/smoke Houses in Brooklyn. lated heating and cooling costs, detectors. In addition, all of the and even safety improvements. boilers were replaced and energy- “I’m really happy NYCHA did Clifton moved in. “Residents are All 382 residents of Howard efficient LED lighting was installed this. We needed it,” Ms. Clifton, so happy because everything is so Avenue Houses benefited from in lobbies, corridors, and other the development’s resident as- much better around here.” NYCHA’s participation in its first common spaces. These new, sociation president, said. These As part of its Sustainability New York State Weatherization efficient features typically reduce are the first comprehensive build- Agenda, NYCHA will implement Assistance Program (WAP) energy use by 15 to 20 percent, ing improvements made since the weatherization upgrades in project, in which low-income lowering heating and cooling Howard Avenue Houses opened other stand-alone developments single-family or multi-family costs as well as carbon emissions. its doors in 1988, the year Ms. like Howard Avenue Houses.

8 FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.NYC.GOV/NYCHA Salvadori STEAM Program to Expand OOD NEWS FOR young instance, during the past school as 500 children. The new NYCHA residents inter- year, students at Todt Hill sites will be selected based G ested in learning about Houses built their own model on a competitive citywide what it takes to build their own bridge and designed and built application process; interested model bridges or skate parks: a their own skate park. NYCHA community centers free afterschool Science, Tech- Last year, the Salvadori must fill out and return the nology, Engineering, Architec- Center provided programs application by 5 p.m. on Friday, ture/Arts, and Math (STEAM) for 105 third to eighth August 11, 2017. program may be coming to a graders on Staten Island at “After a successful first year community center near you in JCC Cornerstone (serving in Staten Island, we are thrilled the fall. Richmond Terrace), UAU South to expand this program to other The Salvadori Center, a non- Beach Cornerstone (serving NYCHA centers across the city,” profit organization that has South Beach residents), and said Kenneth Jones, Executive taught STEAM in New York City JCC Cornerstone (serving Todt Director of the Salvadori for the past 40 years, provides Hill), as well as a fourth Staten Center. “Helping economically the programming. Children Island location at a non-NYCHA disadvantaged students learn work with Salvadori educators site. Thanks to a grant from how math and science are over 12 weeks to study objects the Pinkerton Foundation, the relevant to their lives is at the found in their communities, Salvadori Center will expand heart of Salvadori’s mission!” If such as buildings, bridges, and its afterschool program to you want your kids to receive a center director to apply for the parks, and learn how they are six more NYCHA community year of free afterschool STEAM program here: part of their everyday lives. For centers, reaching as many classes, tell your NYCHA http://bit.ly/2s0CKYj.

Apply for FREE After-School STEM Programs!

The Salvadori Center will provide 20 dynamic, collaborative, project-based STEM programs FREE of charge to NYCHA community centers across all 5 boroughs of Apply today! New York City. FREE STEM program for your NYCHA center Participating students will develop vital 21st century skills: Short, simple application: http://bit.ly/2s0CKYj collaboration Application deadline: 5:00 pm on Friday, 11 August 2017 critical thinking Contact us: creative problem solving www.salvadori.org They will explore the built environment ~ buildings, bridges, skateparks, etc. ~ 212.870.3970 and see how math and science are part of their lives. [email protected] These programs are provided thanks to a generous grant from The Pinkerton Foundation.

The Salvadori Center’s programs and services are made possible through the generous support of our corporate and individual sponsors - including, but not limited to: the National Endowment for the Arts, the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature, The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, The Pinkerton Foundation, The Hearst Foundations, conEdison, Perrigo, Scranton Area Community Foundation, and public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the City Council.

FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.NYC.GOV/NYCHA 9 Meet Your Zone Coordinators YCHA REES ZONE COORDINATORS are your personal On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, you can find your Zone guides to achieving your economic dreams. They partner Coordinators at the REES office at 787 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn. N with resident leaders and local organizations to connect On Tuesdays and Thursdays, they’re out and about in their zones residents to jobs and job training, adult education, financial visiting residents and partner programs. empowerment, and business development services close to home.

Eileen Cepeda Renee Lindquist South Bronx/Zone 1 Concourse, Highbridge, and Morrisania/Zone 2 (Betances, Jackson, Mill Brook, Mitchell, Morrisania (Forest, Highbridge Air Rights, Mott Haven, St. Gardens, Claremont Rehab, Mary’s Park, and more.) Morris, Morrisania Air Rights, Webster, and more.) Born and raised at Coney Island Houses. She lived She’s been a Zone at the development for 25 Coordinator for three and years but now lives in the residents determined to a half years and a NYCHA bring a holistic approach Kingsbridge section of the find a home will achieve employee for almost 20. to residents. Even though Bronx. Eileen has been a homeownership. Nothing But she got her start with some residents think they NYCHA employee since 2009 is easy­—they have to be NYCHA as a volunteer, need one thing, working and has been a REES Zone persistent and put their best tutoring children in an with our partners we can Coordinator for three years. foot forward. They have afterschool program at help them advance and Zone partners include: to make a conscious effort Sedgwick House. grow in other areas, too.” Phipps Community to say ‘this is what I want Zone partners include: Heartwarming resident Development Corporation, to do’.” Grace Outreach, Hostos success story: “A resident Manhattan Education Resident success story: Community College started working with Phipps Opportunity Center, and There is a young Mill Brook Allied Health Career because he needed a Grace Outreach. resident who was getting Pipeline Program, Phipps better job, he was a single She can’t choose just one involved with gang activity, Neighborhoods, father. But Phipps went favorite partner: She loves but he got involved with SUNY Bronx Educational beyond what they needed the Jobs-Plus program at the Jobs-Plus program and Opportunity Center, The to do, they also helped him Mill Brook and works closely now has a job and is going New Jewish Home, and more. with his daughter. She was with the Director Mustafa to college in September. He “I like them all. It’s not graduating from middle Tabakovic, who takes a is now a provider and role just one,” she says of the school and he didn’t have hands-on approach to build model for his child. partner organizations she money for prom clothes, the Mill Brook community. Her favorite thing about works with. “Every last one graduation. They helped The NYCHA Resident her job? “Being able to of them provides multiple support him with this, in Training Academy and the offer people opportunity, services that the residents addition to helping him Neighborhood Assistance hope, and growth and need and can benefit and with his resume, SNAP, and Corporation of America making that connection. grow from. getting a better job. That (NACA) are two other great There are so many resources Favorite thing about one always sticks with me programs she recommends. and a whole network here her job: “Collaborating because they really cared.” “NACA has an excellent that could really help with other organizations to mortgage program, and someone.”

10 FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.NYC.GOV/NYCHA Diane Lewis-Hinton Milton Martin Jr. Northwest Bronx/Zone 3 Southeast Bronx/Zone 4 (Baychester, Boston Secor, (Castle Hill, Eastchester, Edenwald, Gun Hill, Marble Pelham Parkway, Soundview, Hill, Twin Parks, and more.) Throggs Neck, and more.)

She’s been a ZC for a year He’s been a ZC for a year, and a half, but a NYCHA but this year is his 33rd year employee for 23 years. “My as a NYCHA employee. first position at NYCHA was Milton began his career at with ‘Office of Economic Em- She enjoys working with NYCHA as a community center He has two favorite part- powerment’ prior to it becom- all of her partners: She has a director. Before he became ners to work with: “Goodwill ing REES; where I worked on few favorites but particularly a ZC he had been a Brooklyn Industries/Jobs-Plus because the Family Self-Sufficiency enjoys services provided by the borough administrator for they connect our residents to Program.” Preceding REES, she Bronx Educational Opportunity Community Operations. real jobs and the SUNY Bronx worked in Community Partner- Center and NYCHA Resident He’s a former NYCHA Educational Opportunity Cen- ships and Development on the Training Academy. “When I’m resident, too! He grew up at ter because of the great edu- Tenant Participation Activity connecting residents to various Edgemere Houses (now known cation and training that they funds with the Bronx Districts. education and employment as Ocean Bay-Bayside) and provide for our residents.” She’s never been a NYCHA opportunities it’s extremely lived there until he got married He loves being out and resident, but grew up in meaningful.” in 1982. about meeting people. “I Queens, near South Jamaica Her favorite thing about Zone 4 is set to launch in love going to tables at differ- Houses. In her former days her job? “I love my job; it’s summer 2017, but Milton is ent job fairs, health fairs, and she had plenty of interaction very rewarding working for still out in the developments events our partners have and with NYCHA programs and NYCHA to see people over- connecting residents to infor- getting to meet people and resident events. coming their obstacles and mation sessions and referring share the resources we have Zone partners include: succeeding. Through our them to partner agencies. with them. I like to take about New York Urban League, partnerships we are able to Zone partners include: 25 different flyers for all differ- SUNY Bronx Educational Op- connect residents to resources Phipps Career Network, Jobs- ent things that are going on, portunity Center, Northern and assist them with becoming Plus Goodwill Industries, and including in other zones, and Manhattan Improvement Cor- self-sufficient. There is plenty SUNY Bronx Educational many people are surprised to poration, University Neighbor- of opportunity available for Opportunity Center. know about all the programs hood Housing Program, and residents through the REES we offer.” the Workforce1 Centers. partnerships.”

Hate crimes are illegal and have no place in The NYCHA the NYCHA community. If you or someone you JOURNAL know is the victim of a hate crime, contact 911 ESTABLISHED 1970 • CIRCULATION 200,000 immediately. If you have questions about hate PUBLISHED BY THE NEW YORK CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY crimes, contact the NYPD’s Hate Crimes Task DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS 250 Broadway, New York, NY 10007 Force at 646-610-5267 and the District Attorney’s Hate Crime Hotline at 212-335-3100. www.nyc.gov/nycha

FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.NYC.GOV/NYCHA 11 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)

JOHN DOE 123-45-6789-A MALE

HOSPITAL (PART A) 01-01-2016 MEDICAL (PART B) 12-31-2016 Have Medicare and Medicaid?

Get more benefits at no cost to you — all in one plan $ It’s easy! Enroll in an Empire BlueCross BlueShield plan. You’ll get all the benefits of Original Medicare, plus: • Dental, vision and hearing benefits plan premium 0and copays • An allowance for everyday health care items • $0 copay for many prescription drugs • And more Call today to talk to your local Medicare specialist: Call 1-888-293-5075 (TTY: 711) 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday to Friday

ATTENTION: If you speak Spanish or Chinese, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-888-293-5075 (TTY: 711). ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-888-293-5075 (TTY: 711). 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1-888-293-5075 (TTY: 711)。 We do not discriminate, exclude people, or treat them differently on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in our health programs and activities. Empire BlueCross BlueShield is a Medicare Advantage Organization with a Medicare contract. The D-SNP plans are plans with a Medicare contract and a coordination of benefits agreement with the New York State Department of Health. Enrollment in Empire BlueCross BlueShield depends on contract renewal. Services provided by Empire HealthChoice HMO, Inc., and/or Empire HealthChoice Assurance, Inc., licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans. Part B premium is covered for full-dual enrollees. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premiums and/or co-payments/co-insurance may change on January 1 of each year. The Formulary, pharmacy network, and/or provider network may change at any time. You will receive notice when necessary. This plan is available to anyone who has both Medical Assistance from the State and Medicare. Premium, co-pays, co-insurance, and deductibles may vary based on the level of Extra Help you receive. Please contact the plan for further details. This policy has exclusions, limitations, and terms under which the policy may be continued in force or discontinued. For more information on benefits, please contact your agent or the health plan. Y0114_16_27626_U_043 CMS ACCEPTED 06/25/2016 © Empire BlueCross BlueShield 2017

12 FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.NYC.GOV/NYCHA AD_DSNP16_NoEvent-NY-NYCHA-10.25x10.25-043.indd 1 6/6/17 4:45 PM BE PREPARED FOR HURRICANE SEASON! Knowing What to Do Ahead of Time Can Save Lives EVELOP A PLAN with water or telephone service. TTY: 212-504-4115. Have a plan your household that If you have a disability, or for where you will go if an evac- Dlists what to do, how access or functional need, uation order is issued for your to find each other, and how make sure your plan says how area: http://www1.nyc.gov/ to communicate if a hurricane your needs may affect your abil- site/em/ready/hurricane- strikes. If you have pets, make ity to evacuate, shelter in place, evacuation.page sure they are included in your or communicate with emergency If the City issues an evacu- plan. Use Ready New York: My workers. Arrange help from fam- ation order for your area, do Emergency Plan at NYC.gov/ ily, friends, or service providers so as directed. The City will myemergencyplan. if you will need assistance. If you communicate through local Stay informed by sign- Prepare to be self-sufficient are unable to evacuate on your media specific instructions ing up for Notify NYC (www. for up to seven days without own, contact 311 for assistance. about which areas of the city nyc.gov/notifynyc) to receive help or emergency services. Know your zone. The City’s should evacuate. Use public emergency notifications and Prepare a Go Bag and an hurricane contingency plans are transportation if possible, updates via email, phone, SMS emergency supply kit: based on six evacuation zones, keeping in mind that public /text, or Twitter. Notify NYC http://www1.nyc.gov/site/ ranked by the risk of storm surge transportation may shut down messages are also available in em/ready/gather-supplies. impact, with Zone 1 being the hours before the storm. Learn American Sign Language. page. Assume that streets and most likely to flood. Find your more about when and how to For more information, visit: stores in your neighborhood zone on www.nyc.gov/hurri- evacuate here: http://www1. https://www1.nyc.gov/site/ will be closed. There may be canezones or call 311, 212-639- nyc.gov/site/em/ready/hurri- em/ready/hurricane-evacua- disruptions to electricity, gas, 9675 for Video Relay Service, or cane-evacuation.page. tion.page.

FOR MORE INFO, CONTACT 1-800-856-1043 For Boys & Girls 4-15 QUEENS: www.queenscamp.com Days 2-8 Week Programs Available Operated by Licensed BRONX & Filled Teachers & Administrators MANHATTAN: 1-914-792-6555 With Special Union Member Rates Exciting Trips & Fun Activities BROOKLYN: 718-951-YPDC (9732) Fun & Sports, Arts & Crafts, [email protected] Swim Lessons & More Excitement! NYC Childcare Vouchers (HRA/ACS) Accepted

FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.NYC.GOV/NYCHA 13 NEW RULES ON DOMESTIC NextGeneration NYCHA Job VIOLENCE EMERGENCY Accomplishments SINCE 2010, MORE than 1,700 residents have graduated from TRANSFERS the NYCHA Resident Training Academy, and 649—more than a More Choice, Fewer Requirements third—graduated after the launch of NextGeneration NYCHA. Ninety percent of residents who graduate from the NRTA are HE VIOLENCE AGAINST Women Act (VAWA) is a federal placed in the workforce. The NRTA is a partnership between law that protects survivors of domestic violence, dating NYCHA, Brooklyn Workforce Innovations, and City Tech (CUNY). Tviolence, sexual assault, and stalking. New regulations from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Other jobs-related highlights of the second year simplify the public housing emergency transfer process for VAWA of NextGeneration NYCHA include: victims, as well as intimidated witnesses, intimidated victims, and • 6,000 residents placed in • 18 residents and Section victims of traumatic incidents, and are already in place at NYCHA. jobs citywide; 8 recipients graduated Q: What’s changed? • More than 13,000 residents from the first class of the A: Applicants who are VAWA victims are no longer required to connected to partner Childcare Business Pathways submit third-party documentation to show they are eligible for an services; program; and emergency transfer. NYCHA residents who are eligible for emer- • New partnerships with unions • The launch of gency transfers can choose to be on a NYCHA-wide waiting list (Local 8, Local 3, DC 9); OpportunityConnect, an or they can select to be in a particular borough. They are able to • 119 residents graduated online self-service portal exclude two zip codes in locations where they would not feel safe. from the Food Business that connects residents to Pathways program; NYCHA partner services. Q: Who is eligible for VAWA protection? A: Victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking are eligible for housing and emergency transfers regardless of their sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Q: Who is ineligible for VAWA? A: Guests, unassisted members, and live-in aides of the family are ineligible for VAWA protections. If you have questions about eligibility, visit NYCHA’s website and search for “Emergency Transfer Policy.” Q: What rights do victims have under VAWA? A: A housing authority cannot deny admission to a person, or terminate a person from public housing, because he or she is a VAWA victim. VAWA also allows, but does not require, a housing authority to split a lease to terminate the rights of the abuser while protecting the victim and other innocent household members. FREE 15-week training program for women Q: What is an emergency transfer? First Step Program Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and Publisher Emergency transfer allows a tenant to relocate from their A: Resume Writing ● Interviewing Skills ● Case Management Support present development to another unit in accordance with NYCHA’s 2 Month Administrative Internship ● Job Placement Assistance emergency transfer plan. GED not required ● HRA approved! Q: How and where can a tenant apply for an emergency Continental Breakfast & Metrocards Provided transfer? A: A tenant can apply through NYCHA’s Self-Service Portal, or For more information, please call (212) 776-2074 can visit his/her local property management office. Visit NYCHA’s Self-Service Portal here: selfserve.nycha.info.

14 FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.NYC.GOV/NYCHA