THE 250TH ANNIVERSARY OF OUR INDEPENDENCE
"On this Fourth of July, as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our independence, we honor the spirit of resilience, freedom, and unity that has defined our nation. While there are too many people in power sowing fear and division among our communities, I fully believe in the possibility of a United States that is more just, compassionate, and inclusive for all. We all have a responsibility to recommit to that goal and fight back against those who are threatening our constitutional rights and our foundational values. Hope you celebrate safely and enjoy spending time with family and friends"
- Senator Gustavo Rivera
IMPORTANT UPDATES FROM OUR OFFICE
Senator Rivera's office will be closed this week! We will reopen on July 6 at 10am. You can always leave us a voicemail and we will get back to you when we reopen. In the meantime, have a safe Fourth of July weekend!
SENATOR RIVERA ON LAST TUESDAY'S ELECTION NIGHT RESULTS
Happy Pride Weekend, New York! With Pride Month coming to a close, let's take a moment to celebrate the significant progress we've made since the Stonewall riots took place to enshrine the fundamental rights of our LGBTQIA+ communities. \With the trump administration, Washington Republicans, and the Supreme Court attacking our neighbors from these communities, Senator Rivera is deeply committed to supporting our LGBTQIA+ communities and protecting them under the state law. Whichever event you are attending, make sure to stay hydrated and enjoy the day with your loved ones!
SENATOR RIVERA CELEBRATES WITH GRADUATES IN HIS DISTRICT
Happy last day of school to NYC students! Senator Rivera was honored to celebrate with students from Crotona International High School and Jonas Bronck Academy at their ceremonies, where he delivered remarks.
At Crotona International, he had the pleasure of watching former interns from our office cross the stage as graduates! It is always a pleasure to celebrate these milestones with the young people in our community. Congratulations to all graduates!
SENATOR RIVERA JOINS ST. BARNABAS AND ENCOURAGE KIDS FOUNDATION DURING THEIR TOY DISTRIBUTION
This week, Senator Rivera joined the Encourage Kids Foundation (EKF) to provide toys and teddy bears to pediatric patients and families receiving care at St. Barnabas Hospital.
Senator Rivera was honored to join former New York Knicks All-Star Larry Johnson and NBC 4 sports anchor Bruce Beckshare to offer special gifts to these courageous children. Thank you EKF for your continuous support!
From Tuesday, July 7 through Saturday, July 11, Senator Rivera's office is partnering with the Mexican Consulate in NYC to assist the Mexican community to obtain Mexican passports, Matricula Consular, Credencial de Votar, and Dual Citizenship.
Check out the flyer for how to schedule an appointment to access these consular services. Be aware that our office will not be able to schedule one on your behalf. ¡Nos vemos allĂ!
This summer, Senator Rivera encourages families across the Bronx to discover the joy of reading through the NY State Senate's 2026 Summer Reading Program, "Unearth A Story." Students who complete the program by August 21st will receive an official Summer Reading Certificate from my office, recognizing their hard work and dedication. Register today: NYRead.com!
Starting Monday, June 29, 2026 through Friday, September 4, 2026 (no service on Friday, July 3), all children and teens ages 18 and under can receive free breakfast and lunch at sites across New York City—including schools, parks, libraries, and pools—in all five boroughs.
Program Highlights:
- No registration, ID, or documentation required
- Meals available Monday through Friday
- Breakfast: 8:00 AM – 9:15 AM
- Lunch: 11:00 AM – 1:15 PM
- Open to all children and teens ages 18 and under
We encourage you to share this information with your loved ones and acquaintances to help ensure that young New Yorkers have access to nutritious meals all summer long.
For additional details and to find locations near you, please visit the NYC Public Schools Summer Meals website: https://www.schools.nyc.gov/school-life/food/summer-meals.
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Time:Tuesday, June 30 6 – 7:15pm EDT
Location:Virtual event Join from anywhere
About this eventThe World Cup is coming to our backyard, and so are the crowds, the cameras, and heightened enforcement. As fans gather across our neighborhoods and at MetLife Stadium, knowing your rights is the first line of defense for our communities.
Join us for a free virtual Know Your Rights training where you'll learn what to do if you see immigration agents — at home or in your community or at a fan zone — and how to protect yourself, your loved ones and your neighbors. We'll cover your constitutional rights, how to spot ICE and other federal agents, how to respond to ICE encounters, what to keep on hand, and how to mobilize your community. No legal knowledge required, and all are welcome. Whether you're cheering for your team or showing up for your neighbors, come ready with your questions. |
REGISTER YOUR CHILD IN ONE OF THE NYC PARKS' 2026 SUMMER SWIM PROGRAMS! |
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Join one of the many free swim programs offered by NYC Parks for the the Summer of 2026!
Learn to Swim for Tots in the Bronx at Claremont, Crotona, and Van Cortlandt Pools:
Session I: July 6 – July 21, 2026
Session II: July 22 – August 6, 2026
Session III: August 7 – August 21, 2026
Advanced Learn to Swim for Children in the Bronx at Claremont, Crotona, and Van Cortlandt Pools:
Session Dates: August 24 – August 28, 2026
Learn to Swim for Children in the Bronx at Claremont, Crotona, and Van Cortlandt Pools:
Session I: July 6 – July 21, 2026
Session II: July 22 – August 6, 2026
Session III: August 7 – August 21, 2026
Addresses of pools:
Claremont Pool | 170th St. and Clay Ave., Bronx, N.Y. 10456
Crotona Pool | 1700 Fulton Ave., Bronx, N.Y. 10457
Van Cortland Pool | West 242 St. and Broadway, Bronx, N.Y. 10471
Register online at nyc.gov/parks/citywideaquatics or scan code from respective flyers.
For more information call (718) 760-6969. Contact accessibility@parks.nyc.gov or (212) 360-1430 for more information regarding accessibility.
New SNAP Work Requirements: What You Need to Know
New federal rules are changing SNAP work requirements for some New Yorkers. Starting this year, certain adults may need to work, attend job training, or volunteer to keep their benefits.
You may be affected if you are:
● Between ages 18–64
● Not living with a child under 14
● Not exempt due to a health condition or other reason
If these rules apply to you, you may need to take action each month to avoid losing your SNAP benefits.
Check your status and learn what to do: on.nyc.gov/snap.
REACH OUT TO CSS' COMMUNITY HEALTH ADVOCATES TO HELP WITH HEALTH INSURANCE!
The changes from the feds that go into effect on July 1st will have serious implications for over 450,000 New Yorkers enrolled in the Essential Plan that are losing health insurance coverage. Thankfully, Community Health Advocates (CHA) have made themselves available to assist you.
Call the toll-free Helpline (888-614-5400, option 3) Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM. With your consent, Senator Rivera's team can also email your information over to CHA for assistance.
CHA can counsel consumers losing Essential Plan coverage about:
- Insurance eligibility and options
- Where to find low-cost care
- Resolving medical debt, and
- Their rights for seeking treatment in emergency situations
The changes from the feds that go into effect on July 1st will have serious implications for over 450,000 New Yorkers enrolled in the Essential Plan that are losing health insurance coverage. Thankfully, Community Health Advocates (CHA) have made themselves available to assist you.
Call the toll-free Helpline (888-614-5400, option 3) Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM. With your consent, Senator Rivera's team can also email your information over to CHA for assistance.
CHA can counsel consumers losing Essential Plan coverage about:
- Insurance eligibility and options
- Where to find low-cost care
- Resolving medical debt, and
- Their rights for seeking treatment in emergency situations
The changes from the feds that go into effect on July 1st will have serious implications for over 450,000 New Yorkers enrolled in the Essential Plan that are losing health insurance coverage. Thankfully, Community Health Advocates (CHA) have made themselves available to assist you.
Call the toll-free Helpline (888-614-5400, option 3) Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM. With your consent, Senator Rivera's team can also email your information over to CHA for assistance.
CHA can counsel consumers losing Essential Plan coverage about:
- Insurance eligibility and options
- Where to find low-cost care
- Resolving medical debt, and
- Their rights for seeking treatment in emergency situations
HOUSING PRESERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT (HPD) IS CURRENTLY OFFERING HOUSING INFORMATION CLASSES
Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) is currently offering housing information classes that provide information on a variety of housing issues to tenants, homeowners, and property managers in New York City. The classes are free, led by experts with vital knowledge and resources.
Free Classes for Homeowners and Tenants We are offering a series of free classes tailored specifically for homeowners and tenants. These classes will cover essential topics such as:
· Rental Housing Discrimination and Harassment · NYC Housing Connect: The Affordable Housing Lottery · Tenants Right: Know Your Rights Market Rate Apartment and Good Cause Protection · Housing Court: What to Expect · Avoiding Deed Theft: A Homeowners Guide · Department Of Buildings: Rules, Permits, Summons, and More! · Lead-Based Paint Basics for Homeowners · Energy Efficiency and Solor Power for Homeowners · Integrated Pest Management
Resource Fairs and Tabling Events In addition to their classes, HPD organizes resource fairs and tabling events throughout the community. These events will provide you with access to local organizations and services: Connect with various organizations that offer services in health, housing, education, and more. Informational materials: Pick up brochures and resources that provide vital information about maintaining a safe and healthy home. Networking opportunities: Meet other community members, share experiences, and build connections that can lead to further support and collaboration.
Visit their website at www.nyc.gov/hpd for classes and event schedule. Or contact them directly for more information.
For questions, or to register for classes, call 212-863-8830 or by email at www.oee@hpd.nyc.gov. |
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As a reminder, should extreme heat occur, New Yorkers are advised to stay cool and stay hydrated. Avoid spending prolonged periods of time outdoors. Call 911 immediately if you or someone else shows signs of heat-related illness, such as confusion, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. For more preparedness tips, visit: nyc.gov/BeReady or nyc.gov/beattheheat.