Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson - Community Resources & Updates

 

Dear Neighbor,

Thank you for joining us for another week in review.

 

This week, we issued a strong statement condemning the White House’s proposal to abolish the Department of Education. The DOE plays an essential role in supporting our youth and families, particularly for underserved students who depend on these resources to thrive. We are committed to investing in education and are proud to have invested over $50 million in our Bronx schools and scholars. Our schools are the backbone of our communities, providing critical services and opportunities that uplift students and create pathways to success. We must stand firm in preserving and strengthening this vital institution that ensures every child has access to a quality education.

I also want to invite both visitors and residents alike to Savor the Bronx, returning from February 18th to February 23rd. This is an exciting opportunity to support our local small businesses while experiencing the rich, diverse cuisines that make our borough so unique. Whether you're a Bronx native or a first-time visitor, this event is the perfect way to explore the flavors of our neighborhoods and celebrate the talented chefs and restaurateurs who make the Bronx a culinary destination.

Additionally, for those seeking new career opportunities, I invite you to join us on Wednesday, February 19th from 10 AM - 2 PM at Bronx Borough Hall (851 Grand Concourse) for our Health Career Opportunities Fair, hosted in partnership with the New York State Department of Labor. Whether you're exploring a career change or taking your first step in the healthcare field, this event will connect you with employers and resources to help you on your journey. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about exciting positions in a growing and essential industry!

Stay engaged, stay inspired, and let’s continue building a stronger, more vibrant Bronx together!

As always, if you need support from our office, you can call 718-590-3500 or email us at webmail@bronxbp.nyc.gov.

In partnership,

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

IN THE COMMUNITY

Grateful to all who joined us at Borough Hall for World Hijab Day of Solidarity! A heartfelt thank you to our incredible partners for their support and to the inspiring women who showed up to celebrate empowerment, unity, and choice.

Investing in the Future of STEM & Sustainability! Yesterday, we took a significant step in expanding hands-on learning for our students by supporting the NY Sun Works Hydroponic Classroom at PS X811! This innovative program not only enhances STEM education but also teaches students about sustainability, climate change, and the importance of fresh, healthy food.

I'm proud to have funded this initiative and look forward to seeing the next generation of Bronx leaders thrive in this green, cutting-edge learning environment!

Thank you to NYIC, Afrikana, Afrilingual, and everyone who joined our Know Your Rights Virtual training. Now more than ever, it's essential for immigrants to stay informed and empowered. We remain committed to providing the resources and support our communities need.

UPCOMING EVENTS

GENERAL INFORMATION

NYC PUBLIC ADVOCATE RESPONDS TO THE MAYOR'S ADDRESS ON HIS CASE

 

"The mayor is simply lying to New Yorkers – the good news is, he’s never given them a reason to believe him before, so I hope they don’t start now. 

"He is still entitled to prove his innocence, but that is not what happened here. The Department of Justice did not drop this case because they believe the mayor to be innocent, they explicitly stated that this decision is not based on a review of evidence. Nor is it gone forever – the request is to dismiss without prejudice, with the ability to bring the case back in the future. Dropping this case is purely a political favor to a man who can now be leveraged and threatened, a practice that should concern all Americans. 

"The mayor is trying to sell misinformation to a city he’s already decided to sell out. This is not in fact over, it’s just being held over his head. He refuses to even address the conduct that led to the indictment in the first place, or how he could hope to govern while under Donald Trump’s thumb. We don’t have a mayor who cares enough to be honest about his case or his inability to lead – the truth is, we barely have a mayor at all. 

"I would call for the mayor to resign, but that would mean him putting the interests of the city first. At this point it is beyond clear that he can't or doesn't care enough to, and that should anger every New Yorker."

EDITOR'S NOTE:

It should be noted that If Mayor Adams was to resign the person with the most to gain would be the current Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, who would then become the Mayor of New York City. 

MAYOR ERIC ADAMS DELIVERS ADDRESS

 

Mayor Eric Adams: My fellow New Yorkers, as you may have heard, the Department of Justice has directed that the case against me be dismissed, finally ending a months-long saga that put me, my family, and this city through an unnecessary ordeal. 

As I said from the outset, I never broke the law, and I never would. I would never put any personal benefit above my solemn responsibility as your mayor. It is worth repeating the facts because many sensational and false claims have been made. So let me be clear, I never asked anyone to break the law on my behalf or on behalf of my campaign, never. And I absolutely never traded my power as an elected official for any personal benefit. 

No witness ever came forward publicly to make claims against me. None of the baseless threats from prosecutors of new charges and new evidence ever materialized. And this case will no longer continue. 

Psalms 34:1 says, I will bless the Lord at all times. His praise shall continually be in my mouth. So I thank the Justice Department for its honesty. Now we can put this cruel episode behind us and focus entirely on the future of our city. It's time to move forward. 

But despite the fact that I am no longer facing legal questions, I also understand that many New Yorkers will still question my character. And I know that I must continue to regain your trust. I've learned a lot over the last year, and this experience has been humbling. But as we have been dragged through this unfortunate prosecution, I never took my eyes off what was important, you and your family's future. And because of that, our city government has never been stronger. Just look at the figures. 

We have achieved record drops in crime, record increases in affordable housing, and the highest number of jobs in New York City history. And I want to repeat that, double-digit drops in shootings, homicides, and subway crimes. The most new housing built in a three-year period ever, and the most jobs ever. We moved more than 185,000 migrants through our system and out of our care. 

We helped put $30 billion back into the pockets of New Yorkers through direct assistance. And we enrolled more children than ever into early childhood education programs while reducing the cost of childcare to less than one-tenth of what it was when we came into office for working families. We put thousands of new police officers on our streets and in our subways, and we connected thousands struggling with mental illness to services. 

That's right, hidden beneath all the shocking headlines full of rumors and accusations, all the innuendos and insinuations, the real news is that the women and men of my administration have delivered for the working people of New York, just like I promised we would. Those are the facts. Many people continue to feed whatever false narratives they want, but no one can dispute the numbers. 

Continuing to improve those numbers even more, month after month, and dedicating myself to the values and fights that New Yorkers believe in, is how I will restore the faith in those who have lost it in me, and it will be how I reward the faith of those who believed in me for four years ago. Giving hope again to all New Yorkers who want to see their city thrive. 

If you want to know who I am, all you have to know about me is where I am from. Who I am is not in the headlines, it is in my history. It's the same place as you, working class, struggling to survive, in love with this city, even when it lets us down. I grew up in a place where justice always seemed out of reach. My family was betrayed by a city that didn't care enough about us, and that's why I fought for you and will keep fighting for you, because I am you, and that is why you can trust me to keep moving this city forward. 

This has been the most difficult 15 months of my life, but my inspiration was knowing that I was fighting for the people of this city. So many of those people are still facing their own difficult challenges every day, just like my own mother did when she worked three jobs to raise six children. If you work hard enough, New York City should give you a chance to succeed. This is our great promise. This is my promise to you. Hard work, real results, and a city and a mayor you can be proud of. Thank you, New York.

CONSUMER ALERT: New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection Warns New Yorkers About Romance Scams

 

New State Law Effective February 19th Increases Consumer Protections Against Online Dating Fraud

Secretary Mosley: “Before you begin your online search for your soulmate, make sure to read our tips from the Division of Consumer Protection so you can spot the common signs of a romance scam and learn how to avoid them.” 

As Valentine’s Day approaches, the New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is warning New Yorkers about romance scams. Romance scams occur when a criminal uses a fake identity and romantic interest to prey on emotions and trust, manipulate or steal from a victim. In 2024, New Yorkers reported over $25 million lost in connection with romance scams. Romance scams can affect anyone, but some groups are more commonly targeted, such as older adults— and especially widows, widowers and recent divorcees. Romance scams are especially common online since criminals can create fake accounts on many platforms to find potential victims.

“Online dating has become extremely popular in today’s society, making it easier than ever to match with potential partners,” said Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley. “With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, many New Yorkers may be turning to these platforms to find a special someone to share the holiday with. But finding love online can sometimes lead to falling victim to a scam instead. Before you begin your online search for your soulmate, make sure to read our tips from the Division of Consumer Protection so you can spot the common signs of a romance scam and learn how to avoid them.”

Effective February 19, 2025, a new state law goes into effect to help fight fraud on online dating platforms. This new law is designed to strengthen protections for New York consumers who have received and responded to messages from members who have been banned from an online dating platform due to fraud or violation of terms of use. The online dating site must share certain information regarding the ban and scam prevention tips with the affected consumers. This law also requires online dating platforms to delete a user’s data when their membership ends.

The Division of Consumer Protection is providing the following tips to help New Yorkers recognize and avoid romance scams.

Common Signs of a Romance Scam:

• Fake Online Profiles: Scammers create the illusion of someone you would be attracted to and trust. They create profiles on many online platforms including social media, dating sites, messaging apps and porn sites. They may find images online to use in their profile to lure unsuspecting victims. They may also create deepfakes - convincing fake images or videos made with AI or photo or video editing software.
• Unexpected Contact: Scammers may reach out online and use a variety of methods to learn about their victims. They will do online research or use the information on your social media profile to tap into your interests and emotions, spark a conversation and build a relationship.
• Build Trust: Scammers are patient and may communicate for weeks or months until they’ve earned your trust.
• Unavailable to meet in person: Scammers may propose an in-person meeting, even offering to travel to see you, but then claim a last-minute emergency preventing it from happening. Scammers will often say they are working outside of the country creating a convenient reason not to meet in person. Be suspicious of anyone who says they want to meet but then always makes excuses for why they can’t.
• Request Money: Scammers often start by requesting small amounts of money and paying it back quickly to build trust. Eventually, the scammers may request a large sum of money, usually as a loan, to be wired to them for things ranging from business investments, property, debts, illness and more. They may even ask for money for airfare so they can visit you. Once they receive the money, the scammer will often ask for more or create a new reason they need to borrow money. This will continue until the victim becomes suspicious, at which point the scammer will usually stop all contact and disappear.
• Fake Cryptocurrency Investment: The FBI has identified a trend in which criminals are increasingly pressuring victims to invest in cryptocurrency. The scam starts as an online relationship, but instead of asking for cash, the scammer convinces the victim to investment in cryptocurrency. To demonstrate the returns on investment, victims are directed to fake websites that trick victims into believing these investment opportunities are legitimate. Once the victim makes a purchase, they are denied the ability to cash out their investments and the scammer vanishes.
• Liability: Scammers may convert their victims into unwitting criminals by convincing them to launder and move fraudulent funds, which the victim may then be liable for both financially and potentially criminally.

Tips to Avoid Romance Scams:

• If someone you haven’t met in person asks you for money, assume it is a scam, even if they say they need it for an emergency or traumatic life event. Never give or loan money to someone that you have not met in person. Remember that prepaid cards, gift cards and cryptocurrency are all equal to sending cash that you cannot get back. If someone asks for these types of payments, assume it is a scam.
• Do not give out personal information to someone online, including payment and banking information, especially if you have not met them before.
• Use trusted online dating sites, but still exercise caution. Beware of online interactions that quickly ask you to leave a dating service or social media site to communicate directly.
• Be cautious of people you meet online who say they are an American abroad.
• Schedule a live video-chat early in the relationship to ensure they are the person they are presenting in their profile. Live video is more difficult to fake than pre-recorded videos or phone calls.
• Research anyone in whom you have an interest. Ask questions. Look them up online. Verify details where you can.
• Do a reverse image search of the person’s profile picture. If it is linked to another name or details that don’t line up, it’s likely a scam.
• Familiarize yourself with privacy settings for all your online platforms and consider limiting who has access to your personal information, contact lists and location.
• Turn off or cover your web cameras when you’re not using them.
• Don’t keep it a secret. Talk to a friend or relative about online interactions.

 

About the New York State Division of Consumer Protection

Follow the New York Department of State on Facebook, X and Instagram and check in every Tuesday for more practical tips that educate and empower New York consumers on a variety of topics. Sign up to receive consumer alerts directly to your email or phone here.

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection provides voluntary mediation between a consumer and a business when a consumer has been unsuccessful at reaching a resolution on their own. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding State Holidays, and consumer complaints can be filed at any time at www.dos.ny.gov/consumerprotection. The Division can also be reached via X at @NYSConsumer or Facebook.

NYC PUBLIC ADVOCATE'S RESPONSE TO THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE ORDERING THE CASE AGAINST MAYOR ADAMS DROPPED

"According to the Department of Justice's recent directive, Mayor Adams adopted a strategy of selling out marginalized New Yorkers and our city’s values to avoid personal and legal accountability. Well, it worked. I hope it was worth it. 

 

"The mayor has always had the presumption of innocence – something he has rarely extended to the New Yorkers he’s detained on Rikers pre-trial, or wanted deported based on accusations. He said he wanted his day in court, but instead sidestepped that system using the privilege and power that so few people have access to. This is obscene and obvious – the White House doesn’t want to lose their deputy in New York City.  

"It seems clear that the person we’ve had in City Hall the last several months is the real Eric Adams, and New Yorkers shouldn’t forget that. He owes New Yorkers what he has refused to demonstrate to date: honesty, transparency, humility, and some assurance that he can make up for his many bad decisions that got us here. But he knows what we all know – the person he really owes, a fealty that should anger and worry us all, is Donald Trump, and the worst of his policies." 

NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ISSUES WEATHER ALERT FOR TUESDAY NIGHT INTO WEDNESDAY MORNING

 

The New York City Emergency Management Department has issued a weather alert from the evening of Tuesday, February 11 through the morning of Wednesday, February 12, 2025, with a winter storm expected to impact the region. About 1 to 2 inches of snow accumulation is expected throughout the city during this time, with a reasonable worst-case scenario of up to 4 inches. Another snow event is currently forecasted for Wednesday night into Thursday, for 0.5 to 1.5 inches of snow. Snow is forecast to transition into a wintry mix and rain Thursday morning and taper off by Thursday afternoon. 

  

“New Yorkers can expect freezing temperatures and snowfall this week, and our city agencies are ready to answer the call to keep our city safe,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “We’re expecting snow Tuesday evening into Wednesday morning, and thanks to our men and women at the Department of Transportation, Department of Sanitation, and Emergency Management, we’re prepared to keep our city moving. Remember to sign up for Notify NYC for weather updates and alerts.” 

  

“New York City is expecting two rounds of winter weather, with snow expected Tuesday night and again Wednesday night, potentially lingering into Thursday,” said New York Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol. “New Yorkers should stay informed by closely monitoring forecasts and subscribing to Notify NYC for emergency alerts. Make sure you’re prepared for potentially slippery conditions and exercise caution while traveling, prioritizing mass transit when possible. We also urge everyone to check on their neighbors, especially those who may need extra support in the days ahead. With Code Blue activated, the City is also working to protect our most vulnerable residents. If you see anyone in need of shelter, please don't hesitate to call 311.” 

 

NYCEM warned that forecasted conditions could create slushy, slick roadways, particularly on untreated surfaces, and lead to ponding in areas with poor drainage. The agency advised New Yorkers to exercise caution when traveling, expect delays, allow extra time, and prepare for slippery conditions. Whenever possible, New Yorkers should take mass transit and check for any service changes in advance. Additionally, those driving, biking, or walking should watch for potential icy patches, especially on bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads. 

  

NYC Emergency Management is actively preparing for the approaching winter weather. The plan includes ongoing coordination with the National Weather Service, city and state agencies, and utility partners, as well as increased staffing. DSNY will be issuing a Snow Operations Advisory and is fully prepared for the approaching winter storm. More than 700 million pounds of salt are available for deployment, and collection trucks are equipped with plows that will hit the streets at the two-inch mark. DSNY will use its new Bladerunner 2.0 platform to track operations in real-time, enabling dynamic adjustments to the response. Every street is assigned to a route, and all routes can be dispatched simultaneously, ensuring a coordinated and efficient snow removal effort.  

  

Residential building owners are legally required to maintain indoor temperatures at 68 degrees when the temperatures fall below 55 degrees outside during the day and a minimum of 62 degrees indoors overnight, regardless of outdoor temperatures. If an apartment lacks appropriate heat, a tenant should first attempt to notify the building owner, managing agent or superintendent. If heat is not restored, the tenant should register an official complaint via 311. Tenants can call 311, visit 311 online at NYC.gov/311, or use the 311 mobile app (on Android and iOS devices) to file a complaint. Hearing-impaired tenants can register complaints via a Touchtone Device for the Deaf TDD at (212) 504-4115. 

 

With temperatures forecast to drop below freezing, the Department of Social Services (DSS) will issue Code Blue Weather Alerts to protect vulnerable New Yorkers experiencing homelessness. This alert is activated whenever the temperature or wind chill is predicted to reach 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below between 4 p.m. and 8 a.m., triggering enhanced outreach efforts to encourage those living on the streets to seek shelter. During a Code Blue, highly trained outreach teams work tirelessly to connect unsheltered New Yorkers with critical resources, including shelters, drop-in centers, safe havens, and stabilization beds.  

 

Teams proactively and repeatedly engage individuals on their Code Blue Priority Lists, offering support, transportation to shelter, and ensuring their safety during the extreme cold. An Enhanced Code Blue is declared when even more dangerous conditions are present, such as significant precipitation, heavy snow accumulation, prolonged periods of frigid temperatures, dangerously low wind chills, high winds, or ice storms. During an Enhanced Code Blue, outreach teams increase the frequency of contact with vulnerable individuals to ensure their safety and well-being.  

  

NYCEM offers New Yorkers tips on staying safe before, during, and after winter storms at on.nyc.gov/winterweather: 

  

•   Stay informed. Before and during an emergency, the city will send emergency alerts and updates to New Yorkers through various channels, including Notify NYC. Sign up for emergency notifications online or call 311. You can also follow @NotifyNYC on social media.  

•   If you must go outdoors, dress in warm, dry clothing and cover exposed skin, especially your fingertips, earlobes, and nose. Wear a hat, hood, scarf, and gloves to retain body heat. Shivering is an early warning sign that your body is losing heat—take it as a cue to return indoors. If you have heart disease or high blood pressure, follow your doctor’s guidance before engaging in strenuous activity, as cold weather places extra strain on the heart. Remember, your body is already working hard to stay warm, so avoid overexertion.  

•   Prolonged exposure to cold can lead to serious health issues, including hypothermia, frostbite, and worsening of chronic heart and lung conditions. Hypothermia occurs when body temperature drops dangerously low, with early signs such as shivering, dizziness, and trouble speaking, progressing to confusion and shallow breathing. Frostbite affects extremities like fingers, toes, and the face, starting with redness and pain before leading to numbness and pale, waxy skin. If you suspect frostbite or hypothermia, call 911 immediately. While waiting for help, move the person to a warm place, remove damp clothing, and cover them with blankets.  

•   Outdoor workers, such as those in construction and utilities, face risks from cold-related health impacts. Employers should implement safe work practices, provide appropriate protective equipment, and train workers on recognizing cold-related disorders, prevention strategies, and proper treatment. Ensuring workplace safety during winter conditions helps protect employees from the dangers of prolonged exposure to cold weather.  

•   Allow for extra travel time and expect delays with little to no notice. Use public transportation whenever possible.  

•   If you must drive, drive slowly. Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible. Always have an emergency kit in your car. It should include items like blankets, a flashlight, water, snacks, a first aid kit, and a snow shovel.  

•   Check on friends, relatives, and neighbors, especially older adults and people with disabilities, access and functional needs, or health conditions. Help them to prepare if needed.  

•   For fire safety, ensure every room has a working smoke alarm, test them monthly, and change batteries twice a year. Use only indoor-approved portable heaters, keeping combustible materials like furniture and drapes at least three feet away. Never drape clothes over heaters or leave them running unattended, especially around children. Always plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet—never use extension cords or power strips—and avoid using heaters with damaged cords. Turn off heating devices when not in use to reduce fire risks.  

•   To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, ensure all fuel-burning appliances—such as furnaces, boilers, water heaters, and dryers—are properly vented and in good working condition. If unsure, consult a professional for inspection and repairs. Building owners must install approved carbon monoxide detectors, while occupants are responsible for maintaining them. If you have a fireplace, keep the chimney clean and free of debris. Never use gas stoves, ovens, charcoal grills, kerosene, propane, or oil-burning heaters to heat your home—kerosene and propane space heaters are illegal in NYC. Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms, including headache, nausea, dizziness, trouble breathing, and loss of consciousness, can be life-threatening, with severe cases leading to permanent injury or death.  

•   If you require assistance for daily activities, make arrangements in advance for support during the expected weather, ensuring caregivers are aware of and prepared for the weather conditions.  

•   Charge your phones and keep a flashlight and batteries handy. If you lose power and have a disability and/or use life-sustaining equipment and need immediate assistance, call 911. 

•   To report power outages, downed power lines or damaged electrical equipment, call your power provider immediately to report the outage. Con Edison’s 24-hour hotline is 800-75-CONED (752-6633) (TTY: 800-642-2308). You can also report an outage online on Con Edison's website. National Grid’s 24-hour hotline is 718-643-4050 (TTY: 718-237-2857). PSEG Long Island’s 24-hour hotline is 800-490-0025 (TTY: 631-755-6660) 

  

New Yorkers are encouraged to sign up for Notify NYC, the city’s free emergency notification system, to stay informed about the latest weather updates and other emergencies. NotifyNYC is available in 14 languages, including American Sign Language. To learn more about the NotifyNYC program or to sign up, New Yorkers can visit the NotifyNYC website, call 311, or download the free NotifyNYC app for your Android or Apple device. You can now text to 692-692, using the code NOTIFYNYC, NOTIFYNYCESP (Spanish), and NOTIFYFRE (French) to be instantly enrolled to receive the highest priority, verified alerts across all the five boroughs.