Showing posts with label legal aid. Show all posts
Showing posts with label legal aid. Show all posts
Friday, November 2, 2012
ATTENTION: Legal Aid Society Providing Assistance for Those Affected by Sandy
The Legal Aid Society is providing disaster relief legal assistance for families and individuals affected by Hurricane Sandy. Please visit www.legal-aid.org for a list of our services and local offices in your area or call the central telephone number at 212-577-3300.
Friday, June 8, 2012
ATTENTION: Housing Advocates Rally for BK Housing Court Fairness; 6/14
Please see this 2011 Make The Road report on conditions at Brooklyn Housing Court: http://www.scribd.com/doc/76062986/Home-Court-Advantage-Housing-Court-Report.
WHEN: June 14, 2012
4:00PM
WHERE: In front of Brooklyn Housing Court (141 Livingston Street)
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
CM James Submits FOIL Request to ACS for EarlyLearn NYC RFP Information
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
May 15, 2012
Contact Simone Hawkins at (212) 788-7081 or shawkins@council.nyc.gov
Council Member Letitia James Submits FOIL Request to ACS for EarlyLearn NYC RFP Information
The New York City Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) released a concept paper and Request for Proposal (RFP)– EarlyLearn NYC- that aims to improve educational standards, raise supports for families, strengthen professional and instructional development for teachers, and encourage socio-economic diversity among participating centers.
On May 4, 2012, ACS released their recommended awardees for EarlyLearn NYC. The 149 selected sites are a combination of existing private and public early care and education services providers. The Administration for Children’s Services evaluated each proposal using three major criteria, which included multiple considerable factors: Demonstrated Quantity and Quality of Successful Relevant Experience (20%), Demonstrated Level of Organizational Capability (40%), and Quality of Proposed Approach (40%). These criteria were pre-approved by the Mayor’s Office of Contract Services, better known as MOCS.
“While I support ACS’ vision for EarlyLearn NYC, I believe the selection methodology and funding formulas set forth in the RFP is contrary to its goal and has ultimately led to the decimation of community staples formerly supported by the City. Centers that served communities for thirty plus years were not selected as ACS devalued a proposer’s relevant experience in the community and its commitment to diversity and culturally sensitive practices as only being worth a sixth of 20% of their total score.
Several centers in my district will be closed as a result of this RFP and many others have been significantly downsized as slots have been diverted to lesser known centers in and around the community. The citywide effect is even more detrimental. Over 6,500 children will be left without a slot come this November as a result of EarlyLearn. I believe something is extremely wrong with this picture and it is our time now to stand up and say enough is enough.
I requested under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) Request for Records that ACS release any and all scored proposals to the EarlyLearn NYC RFP, justification for specific scores and its relative rank for each proposal, as well as, any and all records of the conduct of negotiations with Agency Chief Contracting Officer and the basis for every determination to continue or suspend negotiations. I expect to receive a response within five business days of ACS’ receipt of my request.
In the interim, I ask that all non-awarded centers request a debriefing date and appeal accordingly. I urge community members to attend the upcoming public hearing and families to participate in the parent forums. The salvation of our communities begins with us.”
###
May 15, 2012
Contact Simone Hawkins at (212) 788-7081 or shawkins@council.nyc.gov
Council Member Letitia James Submits FOIL Request to ACS for EarlyLearn NYC RFP Information
The New York City Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) released a concept paper and Request for Proposal (RFP)– EarlyLearn NYC- that aims to improve educational standards, raise supports for families, strengthen professional and instructional development for teachers, and encourage socio-economic diversity among participating centers.
On May 4, 2012, ACS released their recommended awardees for EarlyLearn NYC. The 149 selected sites are a combination of existing private and public early care and education services providers. The Administration for Children’s Services evaluated each proposal using three major criteria, which included multiple considerable factors: Demonstrated Quantity and Quality of Successful Relevant Experience (20%), Demonstrated Level of Organizational Capability (40%), and Quality of Proposed Approach (40%). These criteria were pre-approved by the Mayor’s Office of Contract Services, better known as MOCS.
“While I support ACS’ vision for EarlyLearn NYC, I believe the selection methodology and funding formulas set forth in the RFP is contrary to its goal and has ultimately led to the decimation of community staples formerly supported by the City. Centers that served communities for thirty plus years were not selected as ACS devalued a proposer’s relevant experience in the community and its commitment to diversity and culturally sensitive practices as only being worth a sixth of 20% of their total score.
Several centers in my district will be closed as a result of this RFP and many others have been significantly downsized as slots have been diverted to lesser known centers in and around the community. The citywide effect is even more detrimental. Over 6,500 children will be left without a slot come this November as a result of EarlyLearn. I believe something is extremely wrong with this picture and it is our time now to stand up and say enough is enough.
I requested under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) Request for Records that ACS release any and all scored proposals to the EarlyLearn NYC RFP, justification for specific scores and its relative rank for each proposal, as well as, any and all records of the conduct of negotiations with Agency Chief Contracting Officer and the basis for every determination to continue or suspend negotiations. I expect to receive a response within five business days of ACS’ receipt of my request.
In the interim, I ask that all non-awarded centers request a debriefing date and appeal accordingly. I urge community members to attend the upcoming public hearing and families to participate in the parent forums. The salvation of our communities begins with us.”
###
Monday, April 30, 2012
Friday, April 13, 2012
CM James Comments On Appellate Courts Findings Regarding Atlantic Yards Project, Phase II
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
April 12, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Comments On Appellate Courts Findings Regarding Atlantic Yards Project, Phase II
(New York, NY)— On April 12, 2012, a New York State Appellate Court found— in a unanimous decision— that the state must conduct a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) regarding the second phase of the 2009 Atlantic Yards plan, as well as re-approve the second phase of the project. The case, Matter of Develop Don't Destroy (Brooklyn), Inc. vs. Empire State Dev. Corp., was led by Develop Don't Destroy Brooklyn and Brooklyn Speaks. Today's finding upheld a lower court's decision to require the Empire State Development Corp. (ESDC) to conduct an SEIS.
The goal of an SEIS is to examine new or additional environmental impacts related to development, furthering the findings in the initial Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Through re-evaluating Phase II of the Atlantic Yards project, significant impacts will likely be found. The court’s findings state that the ESDC failed to consider changes in the project schedule, which would almost certainly place development beyond the 10-year construction estimate. Furthermore, the court found that developer Forest City Ratner Companies (FCRC) “failed to show that [they] had the financial ability to complete the project in 10 years.”
“It seems clear to me that if the facts regarding the impact of the development had been accurately presented two years ago, the resulting decision would’ve halted construction,” said Council Member Letitia James. “We can be almost certain at this point that the jobs and affordable housing originally promised will not come to fruition anytime soon, and instead Prospect Heights and surrounding residents will have to live with vacant lots and construction for years to come.”
The ESDC waited nine months to take action after the findings of the lower court, during which time issues related to impacts of the surface parking lot (planned for Block 1129) could have been addressed in an SEIS. FCRC has yet to release a plan for the lot.
###
April 12, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Comments On Appellate Courts Findings Regarding Atlantic Yards Project, Phase II
(New York, NY)— On April 12, 2012, a New York State Appellate Court found— in a unanimous decision— that the state must conduct a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) regarding the second phase of the 2009 Atlantic Yards plan, as well as re-approve the second phase of the project. The case, Matter of Develop Don't Destroy (Brooklyn), Inc. vs. Empire State Dev. Corp., was led by Develop Don't Destroy Brooklyn and Brooklyn Speaks. Today's finding upheld a lower court's decision to require the Empire State Development Corp. (ESDC) to conduct an SEIS.
The goal of an SEIS is to examine new or additional environmental impacts related to development, furthering the findings in the initial Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Through re-evaluating Phase II of the Atlantic Yards project, significant impacts will likely be found. The court’s findings state that the ESDC failed to consider changes in the project schedule, which would almost certainly place development beyond the 10-year construction estimate. Furthermore, the court found that developer Forest City Ratner Companies (FCRC) “failed to show that [they] had the financial ability to complete the project in 10 years.”
“It seems clear to me that if the facts regarding the impact of the development had been accurately presented two years ago, the resulting decision would’ve halted construction,” said Council Member Letitia James. “We can be almost certain at this point that the jobs and affordable housing originally promised will not come to fruition anytime soon, and instead Prospect Heights and surrounding residents will have to live with vacant lots and construction for years to come.”
The ESDC waited nine months to take action after the findings of the lower court, during which time issues related to impacts of the surface parking lot (planned for Block 1129) could have been addressed in an SEIS. FCRC has yet to release a plan for the lot.
###
Friday, September 16, 2011
CM James Comments on ESDC & FCR Appeal Of Court Decision On Ordering Additional Environmental Review Of AY Project
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
September 15, 2011
Contact: Amyre Loomis at (718) 260-9191
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES COMMENTS ON EMPIRE STATE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION AND FOREST CITY RATNER COMPANIES’ APPEAL OF COURT DECISION ORDERING ADDITIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW OF ATLANTIC YARDS PROJECT
(Brooklyn, NY)— “The drawn out Atlantic Yards project in Prospect Heights has anguished local affordable housing advocates, and become a hardship to businesses, residents, pedestrians and drivers. Residents in the area remember when community voices first rose together against the corporate will of Bruce Ratner’s Atlantic Yards. This project from its inception has posed a series of threats to the community.
As time moves forward, the mounting distance of Ratner’s promises becomes more apparent with this project. Ratner is not delivering on the 2,250 affordable housing units he promised, and Ratner has not fulfilled his promise of 17,000 jobs for the community. Simply put, ESDC and FCRC have not delivered much to the community, and continue to do an injustice to central and downtown Brooklyn residents by disregarding their voices. Will any of the affordable housing and jobs expectations - promises that Ratner originally proposed ever come to pass?
Now, advocates for affordable housing around the Atlantic Yards site will just have to wait; this appears to be the message sent by the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) and Forest City Ratner Companies (FCRC) at this time. Surprisingly, they will fight a court decision made last July that ordered additional environmental review of the Atlantic Yards project (a ruling that came after two years of litigation, which protested ESDC's plans to increase the length of the projection construction from 10 years to 25 years).
In filing the appeal, the ESDC will now have no obligation to obey the court order voiding New York State Supreme Court Judge Marcy Friedman’s direction to slow down/stop construction until the state agency conducts a new phase of environmental review of the project, including a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS); as well as a determination on whether to approve the MGPP for Phase II of the project, which constitutes the bulk of the project.
This potentially means that FCRC is able to continue building the arena until the appeals court hears the case - which could take a year or longer. Again, the community’s wishes are simply not considered by the ESDC and FCRC, who see no problem to burden the community with 25 years of construction. FCRC and ESDC are showing once again their commitment to using corporate power to block the community.
An environmental review of the project provides checks and balances, and is a process to protect community. It is obvious that the ESDC and FCRC do not want to spend time and money on a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement because they know other issues might come up that would need to be negotiated. Fighting the court decision ordering additional environmental review of the Atlantic Yards project is yet another stalling tactic by FCRC and ESDC that undermines the protection of the community provided by the New York State Supreme Court. Also, the community continues to wait for Governor Cuomo to follow through on his promises to reform State government, and make the Atlantic Yards project a benefit for Brooklyn.”
###
September 15, 2011
Contact: Amyre Loomis at (718) 260-9191
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES COMMENTS ON EMPIRE STATE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION AND FOREST CITY RATNER COMPANIES’ APPEAL OF COURT DECISION ORDERING ADDITIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW OF ATLANTIC YARDS PROJECT
(Brooklyn, NY)— “The drawn out Atlantic Yards project in Prospect Heights has anguished local affordable housing advocates, and become a hardship to businesses, residents, pedestrians and drivers. Residents in the area remember when community voices first rose together against the corporate will of Bruce Ratner’s Atlantic Yards. This project from its inception has posed a series of threats to the community.
As time moves forward, the mounting distance of Ratner’s promises becomes more apparent with this project. Ratner is not delivering on the 2,250 affordable housing units he promised, and Ratner has not fulfilled his promise of 17,000 jobs for the community. Simply put, ESDC and FCRC have not delivered much to the community, and continue to do an injustice to central and downtown Brooklyn residents by disregarding their voices. Will any of the affordable housing and jobs expectations - promises that Ratner originally proposed ever come to pass?
Now, advocates for affordable housing around the Atlantic Yards site will just have to wait; this appears to be the message sent by the Empire State Development Corporation (ESDC) and Forest City Ratner Companies (FCRC) at this time. Surprisingly, they will fight a court decision made last July that ordered additional environmental review of the Atlantic Yards project (a ruling that came after two years of litigation, which protested ESDC's plans to increase the length of the projection construction from 10 years to 25 years).
In filing the appeal, the ESDC will now have no obligation to obey the court order voiding New York State Supreme Court Judge Marcy Friedman’s direction to slow down/stop construction until the state agency conducts a new phase of environmental review of the project, including a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS); as well as a determination on whether to approve the MGPP for Phase II of the project, which constitutes the bulk of the project.
This potentially means that FCRC is able to continue building the arena until the appeals court hears the case - which could take a year or longer. Again, the community’s wishes are simply not considered by the ESDC and FCRC, who see no problem to burden the community with 25 years of construction. FCRC and ESDC are showing once again their commitment to using corporate power to block the community.
An environmental review of the project provides checks and balances, and is a process to protect community. It is obvious that the ESDC and FCRC do not want to spend time and money on a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement because they know other issues might come up that would need to be negotiated. Fighting the court decision ordering additional environmental review of the Atlantic Yards project is yet another stalling tactic by FCRC and ESDC that undermines the protection of the community provided by the New York State Supreme Court. Also, the community continues to wait for Governor Cuomo to follow through on his promises to reform State government, and make the Atlantic Yards project a benefit for Brooklyn.”
###
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
CM James Calls on Home Health Agencies to Restore Senior/Disability Services
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
MAY 4, 2011
Contact Amyre Loomis at (718) 260-9191
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES CALLS ON HOME HEALTH AGENCIES TO IMMEDIATELY RESTORE SERVICES TO THE ELDERLY AND DISABLED
Many have lost home care due to arbitrary, illegal decisions and are currently at grave risk
(Brooklyn, NY) Last month, the way Certified Home Health Agencies (CHHAs) are reimbursed by Medicaid was changed. In response, CHHAs have illegally reduced the services they provide. In some cases they have stopped providing care altogether.
Regarding this sad situation, Council Member James stated, “Can you imagine being a 90-year old person, living alone, and having no one to care for you? People who had been receiving 24-hour care for years are suddenly receiving only 12 hours of care, or worse. I am appalled that this is happening in a country that prides itself on taking care of our own.”
James continued, “New York Legal Assistance Group filed a lawsuit recently, and I trust the courts will ultimately put an end to this terrible mistake. But until that happens, dozens of disabled and elderly people are in grave danger. I urge the CHHAs to immediately restore all services to those affected by their recent, arbitrary decisions. Our most vulnerable should not suffer because of greedy corporations trying to pinch pennies.”
NYLAG's press release is attached and includes stories of those actually affected by these changes, including a 90-year old holocaust survivor whose care was terminated with no notice, as well as an 87-year old with severe dementia whose care was cut in half, also without notice.
###
MAY 4, 2011
Contact Amyre Loomis at (718) 260-9191
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES CALLS ON HOME HEALTH AGENCIES TO IMMEDIATELY RESTORE SERVICES TO THE ELDERLY AND DISABLED
Many have lost home care due to arbitrary, illegal decisions and are currently at grave risk
(Brooklyn, NY) Last month, the way Certified Home Health Agencies (CHHAs) are reimbursed by Medicaid was changed. In response, CHHAs have illegally reduced the services they provide. In some cases they have stopped providing care altogether.
Regarding this sad situation, Council Member James stated, “Can you imagine being a 90-year old person, living alone, and having no one to care for you? People who had been receiving 24-hour care for years are suddenly receiving only 12 hours of care, or worse. I am appalled that this is happening in a country that prides itself on taking care of our own.”
James continued, “New York Legal Assistance Group filed a lawsuit recently, and I trust the courts will ultimately put an end to this terrible mistake. But until that happens, dozens of disabled and elderly people are in grave danger. I urge the CHHAs to immediately restore all services to those affected by their recent, arbitrary decisions. Our most vulnerable should not suffer because of greedy corporations trying to pinch pennies.”
NYLAG's press release is attached and includes stories of those actually affected by these changes, including a 90-year old holocaust survivor whose care was terminated with no notice, as well as an 87-year old with severe dementia whose care was cut in half, also without notice.
###
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
ATTENTION: Manhattan DA Sponsors HS Legal Summer Internship Program
Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus R. Vance, Jr. announces a 2011 Summer Internship Program called "The Legal Bound Program". The program is designed for rising high school juniors and seniors who reside in Manhattan.
Eligible students should send a resume, and an essay explaining their interest in law to:
The New York County District Attorney's Office
Community Affairs Unit
Attention: Ms. Carol Ragsdale
One Hogan Place, Room 824New York, New York 10013
OR they may email it to:
legalbound@dany.nyc.gov
legalbound@dany.nyc.gov
Applications must be sent by April 29, 2011. Those students asked to interview must bring 2 recommendations.
For more information, contact The Office of Council Member Letitia James at (212) 788-7081 or teamtish@gmail.com
ATTENTION: Project Safe Surrender
You are invited to participate in "Project Safe Surrender", a collaboration between Brooklyn clergy and Brooklyn District Attorneys Charles Hynes, in partnership with the New York State Office of Court Administration, the Legal Aid Society and the NYC Police Department.Project Safe Surrender is a community program that helps individuals resolve summons/warrants. It also helps individuals re-enter society by connecting them with vital social assistance in the areas of health, housing, employment, employment training and education. This program was inspired by a successful United States Marshall’s initiative in 2006 called “Fugitive Safe Surrender” in which 14 cities participated and over 40,000 people surrendered voluntarily. The program offers the opportunity for individuals with warrants/summons to turn themselves in to clergy and law enforcement and to have their warrants/summons lifted and their cases adjudicated in a safe environment. This is not a pardon; but rather a solution that is favorable.
On April 22-23, 20011, from 9:00AM- 5:00PM, Project Safe Surrender will open its doors at Antioch Baptist Church and Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church for people who have open warrants/summons for the following charges:
· Unlawful possession of Alcohol under age 21
· Consumption of Alcohol in Public
· Aggressive Solicitation
· Unlawful possession of handcuffs
· Littering
· Riding a bicycle on the sidewalk
· Making unreasonable noise
· Animal nuisance
· Failure to have a dog license
· Unleashed dog
· Spitting
· Trespassing
· Disorderly conduct
· Loitering
· Unlawfully in a park after hours
· Failure to comply with posted signs in park
Please call (718) 250-3888 for more information.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
ATTENTION: NYC and NYS Announce Public Housing Restorations
Recently, New York City and State announced a major plan to restore Section 8 vouchers for more than 6,000 families across the five boroughs.
Last December, the NYC Housing Authority (NYCHA) was forced to withdraw its offer of Section 8 vouchers for roughly 2,500 approved families as a result of a major shortfall in its Section 8 budget. Vouchers for an additional 4,000 families were also at risk of being terminated. Upon learning of this problem, the NYC Council held two hearings, entered into discussions with NYCHA and the NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development (HPD), and has now committed to providing $7 million so that these low-income New Yorkers won't end up on the street.
The full plan includes: using $23 million in HPD Section 8 reserves; transferring 750 vouchers from the NYS Division of Housing & Community Renewal (DHCR) to HPD; using federal HOME program funding to fund additional vouchers; and allocating Council capital funding to replace the shifted HOME funds. This plan will restore or save all 6,500 vouchers. Because of the steps that we're collectively taking today, thousands of New Yorkers will soon receive the vouchers they need to remain safe and sheltered.
And in another major victory for NYC tenants, last week the NYS Supreme Court's Appellate Division upheld Justice Emily Jane Goodman's decision earlier this year striking down the Rent Guidelines Board's (RGB) 2008 supplemental increase. In June 2008, the RGB approved rent increases of 4.5 and 8.5 percent for 1-and 2-year renewal increases respectively. The board also approved a $45 to $85 supplemental increase on tenants who've lived in their apartment for 6 years or more and pay less than $1,000 in rent. As a result, these tenants were forced to pay a higher increase than what's legally allowed under current RGB guidelines. The NYC Council has long denounced this supplemental increase as a "poor tax" on working and middle-class New Yorkers, and were proud to work with the Legal Aid Society and Legal Services of New York to help take this unjust burden off of tenants.
The Council joins tenants and advocates across the five boroughs in applauding the Appellate Division for recognizing that the RGB had exceeded its authority under city and state housing laws when it attempted to unfairly penalize tenants for living in their homes too long.
You can read more here and here.
Last December, the NYC Housing Authority (NYCHA) was forced to withdraw its offer of Section 8 vouchers for roughly 2,500 approved families as a result of a major shortfall in its Section 8 budget. Vouchers for an additional 4,000 families were also at risk of being terminated. Upon learning of this problem, the NYC Council held two hearings, entered into discussions with NYCHA and the NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development (HPD), and has now committed to providing $7 million so that these low-income New Yorkers won't end up on the street.
The full plan includes: using $23 million in HPD Section 8 reserves; transferring 750 vouchers from the NYS Division of Housing & Community Renewal (DHCR) to HPD; using federal HOME program funding to fund additional vouchers; and allocating Council capital funding to replace the shifted HOME funds. This plan will restore or save all 6,500 vouchers. Because of the steps that we're collectively taking today, thousands of New Yorkers will soon receive the vouchers they need to remain safe and sheltered.
And in another major victory for NYC tenants, last week the NYS Supreme Court's Appellate Division upheld Justice Emily Jane Goodman's decision earlier this year striking down the Rent Guidelines Board's (RGB) 2008 supplemental increase. In June 2008, the RGB approved rent increases of 4.5 and 8.5 percent for 1-and 2-year renewal increases respectively. The board also approved a $45 to $85 supplemental increase on tenants who've lived in their apartment for 6 years or more and pay less than $1,000 in rent. As a result, these tenants were forced to pay a higher increase than what's legally allowed under current RGB guidelines. The NYC Council has long denounced this supplemental increase as a "poor tax" on working and middle-class New Yorkers, and were proud to work with the Legal Aid Society and Legal Services of New York to help take this unjust burden off of tenants.
The Council joins tenants and advocates across the five boroughs in applauding the Appellate Division for recognizing that the RGB had exceeded its authority under city and state housing laws when it attempted to unfairly penalize tenants for living in their homes too long.
You can read more here and here.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
The Center for New York City Neighborhoods
The Center for New York City Neighborhoods (CNYCN) here to help!Created by Mayor Bloomberg, the New York City Council and corporate leaders to provide free, local non-profit housing and legal services to residents who are at risk of losing their house to foreclosure.
CNYCN has helped thousands in the 5 boroughs each year. The sooner you take action the more options you will have; CNYCN will connect you with free local non-profits working in your community that can provide one-on-one support and help you avoid scams.
CALL 311, it is the simplest, fastest way to access resources that are safe, reliable and ready.
The CNYCN call center number is 646-786-0888, alternatively you can visit forclosurehelpNYC.org for more information.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
CMs Join Legal Aid Society In Call for Immediate Solution For Cancelled Section 8 Vouchers
For Planning for February 9, 2010
Contacts: Anna Deknatel, (646) 200-5311, Amyre Loomis, (718) 260-9191
SIX WEEKS LATER, STILL NO HOUSING SOLUTIONS FOR 2,600 NYC’ERS WITH CANCELLED SECTION 8 VOUCHERS
Electeds, Advocates & Impacted Families to Demand NYCHA & City Find Housing for Low-Income & Formerly Homeless Families
Six weeks after New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) abruptly rescinded Section 8 vouchers for 2,600 New Yorkers, elected officials, local legal agencies, and housing advocates will join together to call on NYCHA to provide solutions for the impacted low income and formerly homeless families.
In December, NYCHA announced they would issue no new Section 8 vouchers this year, including for emergency applicants. The announcement left nearly 3,000 families and individuals without alternate housing— and, in many cases, facing homelessness.
Never in the 35 year history of the Section 8 voucher program has there been a mass termination of Section 8 vouchers.
The Housing Choice Voucher Program, also known as the Section 8 voucher program, is the largest rental subsidy program in the country. The program, created by the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, is funded by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered by local housing authorities.
WHEN: Rally at Noon
Oversight Hearing on the recent loss of Section 8 vouchers at 10am
Tuesday, February 9th
WHERE: Steps of City Hall
WHO: Council Member Rosie Mendez, chair of Committee on Public Housing
Council Member Annabel Palma, chair of Committee on General Welfare
Council Members including Margaret Chin, Danny Dromm, Letitia James, Brad Lander, Stephen Levin, Ydanis Rodriguez, James Van Bramer
Legal & Housing Advocates: Legal Aid Society, Legal Services-NYC, Coalition for the Homeless
Impacted Low Income & Formerly Homeless New York City Families Denied Section 8 Vouchers
###
Contacts: Anna Deknatel, (646) 200-5311, Amyre Loomis, (718) 260-9191
SIX WEEKS LATER, STILL NO HOUSING SOLUTIONS FOR 2,600 NYC’ERS WITH CANCELLED SECTION 8 VOUCHERS
Electeds, Advocates & Impacted Families to Demand NYCHA & City Find Housing for Low-Income & Formerly Homeless Families
Six weeks after New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) abruptly rescinded Section 8 vouchers for 2,600 New Yorkers, elected officials, local legal agencies, and housing advocates will join together to call on NYCHA to provide solutions for the impacted low income and formerly homeless families.
In December, NYCHA announced they would issue no new Section 8 vouchers this year, including for emergency applicants. The announcement left nearly 3,000 families and individuals without alternate housing— and, in many cases, facing homelessness.
Never in the 35 year history of the Section 8 voucher program has there been a mass termination of Section 8 vouchers.
The Housing Choice Voucher Program, also known as the Section 8 voucher program, is the largest rental subsidy program in the country. The program, created by the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, is funded by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered by local housing authorities.
WHEN: Rally at Noon
Oversight Hearing on the recent loss of Section 8 vouchers at 10am
Tuesday, February 9th
WHERE: Steps of City Hall
WHO: Council Member Rosie Mendez, chair of Committee on Public Housing
Council Member Annabel Palma, chair of Committee on General Welfare
Council Members including Margaret Chin, Danny Dromm, Letitia James, Brad Lander, Stephen Levin, Ydanis Rodriguez, James Van Bramer
Legal & Housing Advocates: Legal Aid Society, Legal Services-NYC, Coalition for the Homeless
Impacted Low Income & Formerly Homeless New York City Families Denied Section 8 Vouchers
###
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
ATTENTION: FREE LGBT(Q) Panels, Workshops
The Brooklyn Community Pride Center, Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office, and National AIDS Education & Services for Minorities to Co-Sponsor Panel Discussion on LGBT Youth in Out-of-Home CareWED, JANUARY 20, 2010
The Brooklyn Community Pride Center (BCPC)- in collaboration with the Brooklyn District Attorney's Charles Hynes' Office, and the National AIDS Education & Services for Minorities- proudly presents the following event as the third installment in BCPC's community education panel discussions.
Did you know that LGBT youth are disproportionately exposed to violence in the home, which can lead to eventual homelessness? 11.5% of gay and lesbian youth report being physically attacked by family members, and 44% of LGBT youth report having been the target of anti-gay physical abuse, discrimination and/or harassment in their family of origin.
Once in out-of-home care these youth are at higher risk for victimization, mental health problems, and engaging in unsafe sexual behavior than their straight counterparts. Aging out of the foster care system can be very difficult for LGBT youth, and many experience periods of homelessness or may resort to survival crimes, such as prostitution. Any involvement with the criminal justice system resulting in incarceration can lead to further abuse within the system.
This panel will be geared toward parents, social services providers, legal and law enforcement professionals, and will address the specific issues related to working with LGBT youth in out-of-home care. This is both an important and timely issue, and we look forward to the opportunity to engage Brooklyn’s LGBT community in a productive discussion.
Event Details: LGBT Youth in Out-of-Home Care.
Wednesday, January 20th at 7pm
Brooklyn Borough Hall
209 Joralemon Street & Court Street
Brooklyn, New York 11201
2nd floor courtroom
2nd floor courtroom
___________________________________________
Brooklyn's Own Transgender Name Change Clinic
THU, JANUARY 21, 2010 at 7pm
BCPC, in conjunction with LeGal (Lesbian and Gay Law Association of Greater New York) and the West Village Trans Name Change Clinic (awesome clinic at The Center), has begun a pro se transgender name change clinic, which started in November 2009 and will operate on the 3rd Thursday of every month.
The clinic will assist transgender individuals with filling out the paper work to file for a legal name change. This clinic is only for residents of NYC. The clinic itself is free, but individuals are responsible for filing and publication fees. Please contact le_gal@earthlink.net with any questions.
___________________________________________
Anti-Violence Project Offering LGBTQ DV Legal Clinic
The Anti-Violence Project (AVP) is now offering a free LGBTQ DV Legal Clinic for clients! Click links below for more information.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
ATTENTION: LIFT SPONSORS FREE GRANDPARENTS SUPPORT GROUP
FREE GRANDPARENTS SUPPORT GROUP!A support group especially for grandparents, aunts, uncles and other relative caregivers with Family Court experiences.
- Support while navigating through the Family Court system.
- Share your thoughts on the joys and challenges of parenting a second time.
- Learn tips for coping with changing family dynamics.
- Learn effective ways to negotiate with outside systems.
When: Every other Monday at 11:30 a.m.
First three meetings: November 16th, November 30th, December 14th
Pizza will be served Metro cards will be provided.
Where: Legal Information for Families Today (LIFT)
New York, NY 10013
For more information about the group or other LIFT programs:
212-343-1122
Or
FLC@LIFTonline.org
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
ATTENTION: Legal Aid Overpayment Clinic
LEGAL AID OVERPAYMENT CLINIC
If you have been told by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that you have been paid too much in SSI or Social Security benefits then the Legal Aid Society may be able to assist you.
To be screened for their October 2009 overpayment clinic please call-
Jocelyne Martinez
718-422-2745
Supervising Attorney
Disability Assistance Program
Friday, October 9, 2009
ATTENTION: DDDB Hosts BK Walkathon To Support AY Legal Battle
DEVELOP DON’T DESTROY BROOKLYN WALKATHON
On October 17th, a walkathon will be taking place to stop the Atlantic Yards project, end eminent domain abuse, massive over-development, and the destruction of the Brooklyn we know and love.
The Walkathon will feature hundreds of walkers and start at Borough Hall and finish with a community party in Fort Greene's Habana Outpost.
For more information or to sign up for the walk or to sponsor a walker visit:
http://dddb.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=323520
All money raised will go towards Develop Don’t Destroy Brooklyn’s legal battle against the Atlantic Yards Project.
Monday, August 31, 2009
ATTENTION: FREE LEGAL ASSISTANCE FOR GUARDIANS OF MINORS
Kinship Caregiver Law Project, which partners families in which children that are being raised by grandparents and other relatives, with legal counsel, is offering legal assistance.
FREE legal advice, counsel and representation in court for:
CUSTODY– GUARDIANSHIP– ADOPTION
First MONDAYS of the month 9AM-1PM at Dr. White's office
Kick off: Monday, October 5, 2009
Additional dates: October 12th, 19th, and 26th
200 Gold Street
Brooklyn NY 11201
As a part of our new Healthy Families Initiative, Catholic Charities of Brooklyn and Queens invites you to our Dr. White's Community Center.
If you are a grandparent, aunt, sibling, or other relative caring for a related child outside the formal foster care system please come to this no-cost legal clinic provided by MFY Legal Services and the Kingship Caregiver Law Project.
For more information and to make an appointment please contact the Ms. Saddiqa Beyah at 718-875-8801x. 110 Walk-ins also welcome between 9AM and 12PM on the dates listed above.
The Office of Council Member James is not responsible for any legal advice you may be given.
FREE legal advice, counsel and representation in court for:
CUSTODY– GUARDIANSHIP– ADOPTION
First MONDAYS of the month 9AM-1PM at Dr. White's office
Kick off: Monday, October 5, 2009
Additional dates: October 12th, 19th, and 26th
200 Gold Street
Brooklyn NY 11201
As a part of our new Healthy Families Initiative, Catholic Charities of Brooklyn and Queens invites you to our Dr. White's Community Center.
If you are a grandparent, aunt, sibling, or other relative caring for a related child outside the formal foster care system please come to this no-cost legal clinic provided by MFY Legal Services and the Kingship Caregiver Law Project.
For more information and to make an appointment please contact the Ms. Saddiqa Beyah at 718-875-8801x. 110 Walk-ins also welcome between 9AM and 12PM on the dates listed above.
The Office of Council Member James is not responsible for any legal advice you may be given.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Workshop: Legal Structures for Latin Entrepreneurs
A Workshop for Aspiring Latin Entrepreneurs on Legal Structures
This workshop will be for aspiring Latin entrepreneurs and existing business owners regarding legal structures of a business. The entire workshop will be presented in Spanish.
Este "workshop" será para los aspirantes a empresarios Latin y propietarios de negocios existentes con respecto a las estructuras jurÃdicas de una empresa. La totalidad del "workshop" serán presentados en español.
Wednesday, August 26
5:30PM- 7:30PM
Williamsburg Market
110 Moore Street
Brooklyn, NY 11206
Miercoles, 26 de Agosto
5:30PM- 7:30PM
La Marqueta de Williamsburg
Monday, January 12, 2009
Legal Aid Society in NYC- Brooklyn Office for the Aging
The Legal Aid Society in New York City is the largest and oldest provider of legal services to low-income individuals in the United States. The Legal Aid Society's Brooklyn Office for the Aging provides services to vulnerable seniors in areas such as:
Housing
Health Care
Government Benefits
Disability Benefits
Family Law
The office is available for advice and individual appointments by telephone only. Please call (718) 645-3111. For those seeking such services, it may also be helpful to reach out directly to the New York City Department for the Aging. See here: http://www.nyc.gov/html/dfta/html/home/home.shtml.
Housing
Health Care
Government Benefits
Disability Benefits
Family Law
The office is available for advice and individual appointments by telephone only. Please call (718) 645-3111. For those seeking such services, it may also be helpful to reach out directly to the New York City Department for the Aging. See here: http://www.nyc.gov/html/dfta/html/home/home.shtml.
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