presented by Vision Long Island and the Long Island Main Street Alliance March 27th, 2021
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Quote of the Week
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Long Island Main Street Alliance Hosts Virtual Meeting
Over seventy-five Long Island Main Street Alliance members, representing thirty-seven downtowns, met for a virtual meet on Tuesday, March 23rd, to discuss ways of bringing resources and growth to their downtown business districts, especially during these historically challenging times. Eric Alexander, Director of Vision Long Island and the Long Island Main Street Alliance, welcomed Alliance members, including the NY South Asian Chamber of Commerce, Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce, LI Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the LI African American Chamber of Commerce. The first guest speaker Nassau IDA Chairman Richard Kessel offered a report on what the IDA is doing, and what it is looking to do going forward, on the downtown level. “The IDA has had a unique focus on downtowns and small business since the pandemic,” Mr. Kessel stated. Some recent projects included a successful PPE program, campaigns to shop locally and safely, and the creation of the Boost Nassau program, which provides loans to Nassau County small businesses. The IDA is examining ways to extend grants over the coming spring and summer months to chambers, allowing them to help businesses directly. The funds could be used to support activities such as fairs, festivals, and advertising. The second speaker, John Keating, Manager of Economic Development for PSEG Long Island, announced that PSEG is again initiating its very successful Chamber of Commerce and BID grant program. “These are very unusual times, and PSEG is trying to come up with programs that benefit small business. Last year PSEG was able to offer up to $5,000 grants to about 26 different chamber and BIDs. We felt it was very worthwhile,” Mr. Keating stated. “Since it was such a successful program, PSEG has agreed to offer it again. Even if you participated and got a grant last year, you can apply this year.” Applications will be accepted until June 1, 2021. See below for link. Community updates:
The LI Main Street Alliance is convened by Vision Long Island to create a unified public voice to bring attention and resources to the 40 Long Island communities that have downtown revitalization plans and programs. Click here to access PSEG loan application and information: https://www.psegliny.com/inthecommunity/revitalization/chambers New Funding from PSEG Now Available for a Limited Time
John Keating, Manager of Economic Development for PSEG Long Island, announced during a Long Island Main Street Alliance virtual meeting on Tuesday, March 23rd, that PSEG is again initiating its very successful Chamber of Commerce and BID grant program. “These are very unusual times, and PSEG is trying to come up with programs that benefit small business,” Mr. Keating stated. “Last year PSEG was able to offer up to $5,000 grants to about 26 different Chambers and BIDs. We felt it was very worthwhile and we were able to help small businesses in downtowns to set up shopping and restaurant areas outdoors, which we saw as the lifeline for small business.” “Since it was such a successful program, PSEG has agreed to offer it again,” Mr. Keating announced. “Even if you participated and got a grant last year, you can apply this year. This is a new round, new funding. Last year we ended up funded up to $120,000 and we anticipate being in the same ballpark this year.” As businesses begin or continue to develop outdoor commercial spaces, they may qualify for a PSEG Long Island grant of up to $5,000 to reimburse the purchase of materials including, but not limited to: • Barricades and/or planter style barricades Funding is limited and available first come, first served. Applications will be accepted until June 1, 2021. Eligible grantees include Chambers of Commerce and Business Improvement Districts. Pre-approval is required and purchases must be made by a Chamber of Commerce or Business Improvement District. Marketing and promotional expenses and rentals of any kind of equipment do not qualify under this program. There is talk about use enhancements of this grant, check the PSEG website for any changes. “We are happy to see the impact of actual corporate philanthropy on Long Island," stated Eric Alexander, Director of Vision Long Island and the Long Island Main Street Alliance, “and we are happy to see these kinds of programs for small businesses that are most in need during these tough times. Kudos to PSEG for its commitment to Long Island’s downtowns.” Click here to access PSEG loan application and information: https://www.psegliny.com/inthecommunity/revitalization/chambers Long Island Arts Community Campaigns to Boost COVID-19 Vaccinations
A unique effort is underway by the Long Island arts community to boost confidence about COVID-19 vaccines. A coalition of arts leaders, artists, public servants, and business and community leaders from across Long Island have joined together in creating an art inspired public health campaign titled “Shot to Reunite.” The coalition came together on Sunday, March 21st in Huntington Station, to announce its “Call to Artists” artist contest, to generate original artwork to be used in a poster campaign promoting COVID-19 vaccines. The following is from the press release sent out by Shot to Reunite Campaign: Iconic imagery is known to inspire people in times of need and crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic has been a defining global health crisis of our time, but with safe and effective vaccines available, we now have a critical tool to help bring an end to the pandemic. As vaccine accessibility ramps up- hesitancy will become a greater challenge in our pursuit to reach the goal of herd immunity. To assist in this monumental effort, #ShotToReunite, a diverse coalition of arts leaders, artists, public servants, and business/community leaders from across Long Island have come together to launch an art-driven public health campaign to spark needed, fact-based, judgement-free conversations within communities to empower all eligible residents to get the COVID-19 shot. Coalition members from Nassau and Suffolk Counties, gathered on Sunday in Huntington Station, one of Long Island’s first virus hot-spots, to officially announce the campaign and Call to Artists – which is the first step in their multi-faceted effort, to increase confidence in the COVID-19 Vaccine. The coalition is also announcing the launching of their website- ShotToReunite.org, as well as their social media efforts. Coalition member, Lauren Wagner, Director of the Long Island Arts Alliance stated, “Throughout the past year, Long Island Arts Alliance has surveyed and assessed the impact the pandemic has had on our arts and culture sector. The results have been devastating. Still, our creative sector pressed on and have found innovative ways to share their work beyond their usual screens, stages, and spaces. This project is no different. Long Island Arts Alliance is proud to be a part of such an important initiative that is both beneficial to our communities and to our sector, whose return to “normal” is reliant upon a successful and equitable vaccination rollout. The arts, in all of its forms, are able to open up authentic, respectful conversations within diverse communities like ours, and deliver messages that speak to social issues in ways that traditional marketing methods cannot. I can think of no better way to activate our collective resources in support of the monumental public health initiative that lay before us.” “In a Village as diverse as Freeport, and with as many cases of COVID-19 as we have had, it's imperative that vaccines are easily available and people are encouraged to get them. Our arts community represents our Village, and our musicians, authors, dance and theater groups as well as visual artists are all affected tremendously,” stated Lois Howes of Long Island Arts Council at Freeport. Julie Lyon President and Founding Member of Westbury Arts said, "Westbury Arts' stated mission is to create programs that connect, educate and inspire our community. Shot to Reunite will fulfill that mission by bringing artists together to connect with their communities, educate people on the importance of the vaccine and inspire creativity in delivering this important message." “Huntington Arts Council proudly supports this initiative that unites artists to benefit our community. Long Island has a truly talented and diverse pool of artists whose voices are powerful and inspiring,” mentioned Kieran Johnson, Director of Community Partnerships and Development at Huntington Arts Council. Liz Mirarchi, Executive Director of Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts shared, "We are grateful and excited to be a part of this collaborative initiative to help our community heal through the arts.” Beth Giacummo Executive Director of Patchogue Arts Council, Museum of Contemporary Art L.I. and of Farmingdale State College Memorial Gallery stated, “Art has the power to amplify, connect, and inform. On behalf of PAC • MoCA L.I. we are excited to help engage the communities of L.I. in awareness, utilizing the arts and local artists to propel the Shot to Reunite initiative.” “East End Arts continues to strive to unlock creativity and build community. This project is full of hope and community!” stated Diane Burke Executive Director of East End Arts. “It has been a pleasure working closely with local arts and community leaders on this historical initiative. Our team at Tiedin Media/PinkTie look forward to the creativity artists will reveal to ultimately achieve deeper conversations,” said Marketing Manager and Studio Coordinator at Tiedin Media, Lula Lukas. "The NAACP has made it a priority to get the message to our community about the need for more information and more access to the vaccine. The virus has impacted African Americans at a disproportionate rate on Long Island and throughout the country. For the message to break through any barriers that exist, it has to be delivered in multiple ways, and using the talent of artists is a welcomed approach," stated Tracey A. Edwards the Long Island Regional Director of the NAACP. "Every effort that can be made to build up trust in the vaccination program from the community level on up is a good one. The ability to bring local artists to meet this challenge is spectacular and their work will reach and inspire local downtowns through our chamber, civic and small business networks,” said Eric Alexander Director, Vision Long Island/Founder, LI Main Street Alliance. “I am proud to be a part of the launch of the Shot to Reunite campaign. Our path forward is showing that the COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective and encouraging everyone who is eligible to receive it. I was proud to receive the vaccination when it was offered to me and encourage all to do the same. Please talk to your doctor or health professional, we can help!” exclaimed Dr. Sara Siddiqui. The Call to Artists (available in both Spanish and English) will be sent out through the coalition’s extensive network, and artists will have 8 weeks to enter their work. At the beginning of June, there will be a juried selection process and five images will be chosen to be used in the campaign. The artwork will then be distributed for display throughout Long Island and winners will receive cash awards. For more details about the contest and Shot to Reunite- visit ShotToReunite.org. The website also contains several fact-based resources for readers to turn to for information on the virus and the COVID-19 Vaccine. Check out the “Shot to Reunite” website here: https://www.shottoreunite.org/ Check out coverage on: Newsday: https://www.newsday.com/news/health/coronavirus/arts-poster-contest-covid-19-vaccine-1.50190031 LI Business News: https://libn.com/2021/03/22/shot-to-reunite-encourages-artists-to-get-vaccinated/ Huntington NOW: https://huntingtonnow.com/artists-to-gather-to-promote-covid-19-vaccine/
Nassau County Executive Laura Curran Holds 2021 State of the County Presentation
Nassau County Executive Laura Curran held her "2021 State of the County" address Wednesday, March 24th, at Elmont Memorial Junior-Senior High School. Issues discussed included COVID-19 vaccine distribution, post-pandemic economic recovery, union contracts, climate change and police reform. “Just one year ago, I postponed my State of the County address… in order to direct Nassau County through the COVID-19 crisis. Everyday since, Nassau County has been at war to save lives, to keep our businesses afloat, to keep our economy going, and to keep our kids in school,” County Executive Curran recounted. “Standing here now, I see a future brighter than ever and tonight, I’ll tell you exactly how Nassau County is seizing this once-in-a-century opportunity to come back stronger than we ever imagined,” the County Executive stated. Discussing the immediate future, the County Executive noted, “In the weeks and months to come, our main priority is getting everyone eligible in Nassau County vaccinated.” Ms. Curran revealed that more than 32% of the total county population has received at least one shot of the COVIC-19 vaccine, the highest percentage of any large NYS county, noting the County built the infrastructure to swiftly distribute the vaccine and is working closely with trusted community members to build trust in the vaccines. “The vaccine is safe, it’s effective, and it’s the key to ending this pandemic and kick starting our economic recovery,” the County Executive stressed. Ms. Curran also stressed the need to keep the county budget balanced as it drives forward with recovery. Discussing the issue of food insecurity, Ms. Curran noted the County has put food on the table for 35,000 Nassau County families, partnering with Island Harvest and LI Cares food banks. The County also provided rent relief and pioneered the Restaurant Relief Program. She discussed the Boost Nassau Initiative which delivers loans and PPE to Nassau businesses. County Executive Curran promised to continue to fight for common sense reopening. Discussing infrastructure, the County Executive stressed “roads, roads, roads,” stating emphatically, “Now is the time to rebuild, and infrastructure will power economic recovery.” “I will never give up on our Main Streets,” County Executive Curran promised. “Prior to the pandemic, we experienced an historic revitalization of our downtowns with new transit-oriented development and walkable communities that attract young people.” The work continues, most recently in Hicksville, she noted. Although the worst of the storm is over, Ms. Curran stated, Nassau County has still so much more to do, but she promised continued fiscal responsibility every step of the way. She noted an important step in the County’s turnaround is completing collective bargaining with our County unions. “As County Executive, my first job is keeping you safe,” noting Nassau County was named the safest in the nation by U.S. News and World Report with record low crime rates. Major crime has been cut by one third. County Executive Curran praised the Nassau Legislature's recent passage of a police reform plan. "For the first time in history, Nassau County police officers will wear body cameras, a proven tool for accountability, safety, and improved officer performance," Ms. Curran said, promising greater transparency and oversight of County police. “There will be no defunding police in Nassau County,” stressing intelligence led policing works. The County Executive trumpeted the soon-to-be opened Nassau County Training and Intelligence Center, the new Long Island Rail Road station in Elmont and the Islanders’ new home at the UBS Arena. “Nassau is the place to be,” County Executive Curran touted, noting the County must embrace forward looking change. “We must also lead the way on climate,” with such projects as the Western Bays Initiative and off shore wind projects. County Executive Curran thanked the residents of Nassau County for their resiliency during the pandemic and called the way many stepped up as heroic. "Let's be better. Let's think bigger and bolder. If anything, this past year has shown us what we can achieve," County Executive Curran concluded. Watch complete address here: https://fb.watch/4tx1OcSREW/ Suffolk OTB’s Proposal for Medford Casino Pushes Forward
Suffolk Regional Off-Track Betting has again revived plans for a video lottery casino in Medford. In January, the Suffolk Off Track Betting Corporation accepted a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), prepared by Nelson Pope Voorhis, on the proposed Suffolk Off Track Betting in Medford. The proposal involves the construction and operation of an Indoor Amusement Establishment, with pari-mutuel off track betting and video lottery terminals (VLTs). The property is 30.08 acres, including 22.96 acres that are zoned Commercial Recreation that will be developed and 7.124 acres that are zoned Residential A-1, which will not be developed as part of this project. The 22.96 acre project site was previously cleared and paved and contained a twelve-screen multiplex movie theater which has since been removed. The project is located at 440 Expressway Drive South in Medford, New York. The 160,516 square foot building, with 31,816 square foot mezzanine (192,332 square foot gross floor area total), will include: 123,790 square foot of gaming area; 25,210 square foot of amenity space; 25,000 square foot of office space; and three levels of subsurface parking. Access to the site is proposed from the Long Island Expressway's (LIE) south service road (Expressway Drive South). An emergency access (only) will be provided from Long Island Avenue. A virtual public hearing on the DEIS was held on March 3rd. According to Long Island Advance, about 15 people attended the public meeting via zoom, including a handful of OTB representatives. Only one person spoke against the proposal and no one spoke in favor. Zoning concerns continue to draw criticism from the community. Long Island Advance notes, “The Medford Taxpayers and Civic Association president, Bret Houdek, was the sole speaker. He spoke in objection to the project citing New York State Law, which currently does not authorize the operation of more than one site housing, no more than 1,000 VLTs. OTB currently owns and operates 1,000 VLTS just 10 miles down the road at Jake’s 58 in Islandia.” According to Greater Patchogue, during his three minutes to comment, Mr. Houdek also pointed to OTB’s description of the Medford proposal as an “indoor amusement establishment” as “misleading.” Mr. Houdek argued that an OTB operation should be classified as an off-track betting parlor, which can only be built within a J5 zone with a special permit issued by the Town of Brookhaven Planning Board. State law caps OTB’s terminal allowance at 1,000 machines. Any more VLTs at any location within Suffolk County would require approval from the New York State legislature. Should OTB’s Medford project reach approval, they will triple their current footprint, as plans for the Medford casino calls for 2,000 terminals, Greater Patchogue reports. In a phone interview with Greater Patchogue, prior to the hearing, Mr. Houdek expressed concern that the casino would also cause additional traffic on Route 112 and surrounding roads, and would not generate taxes for Medford. “Does Suffolk County need or want this many gaming facilities, considering the Shinnecock Tribal Nation is building one as well,” asks Eric Alexander, Director of Vision Long Island and the Long Island Main Street Alliance. “If anyone should get revenue from gaming on Long Island, it should be the Shinnecock Nation. We do hope there will be a full public process and meaningful public input on this issue.” The Draft EIS is available from the Patchogue-Medford Library, 54-60 East Main Street, Patchogue, NY or Suffolk Regional OTB, 425 Oser Avenue, Suite 2, Hauppauge, NY; or online at: https://www.suffolkotb.com/pages/board_minutes.html. Read the Long Island Advance article here: https://www.longislandadvance.net/stories/medford-casino-plans-push-forward,87645 Read the Greater Patchogue article here: https://patchogue.greaterlongisland.com/2021/03/14/suffolk-otbs-proposal-for-medford-casino-at-critical-step/ SBA Launches Portal to Begin Accepting Shuttered Venue Operators Grant Applications
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has launched a splash page for the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) application portal in anticipation of opening applications for the much-anticipated critical economic relief program on Thursday, April 8, 2021. “Help is here for venue operators hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. The SBA has worked diligently to build the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program from the ground up to assist and address the diverse eligibility requirements of each type of applicant and we will open for applications on April 8th.” SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman said. “This vital economic aid will provide a much-needed lifeline for live venues, museums, movie theatres and many more.” Prior to the official SVOG application opening, the SBA will host a national informational webinar to highlight the application process for potential eligible entities from 2:30 to 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, March 30, 2021. The SVOG program was established by the Economic Aid to Hard Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits and Venues Act, which appropriated $15 billion for it. The American Rescue Plan Act, signed into law by President Joe Biden on March 11, 2021, appropriated an additional $1.25 billion, bringing the program funding to a total of $16.25 billion, with more than $16 billion allocated for grants. To ensure eligible venues do not miss a window to receive assistance through the Paycheck Protection Program, the American Rescue Plan Act also amended the SVOG program so entities that apply for a PPP loan after Dec. 27, 2020, can also apply for an SVOG, with the eligible entity’s SVOG to be reduced by the PPP loan amount. The PPP loan applications have been updated to reflect this. For more information, click here for the dedicated SBA SVOG portal: https://www.svograntportal.sba.gov/s/ Click here to register for the March 30th informational webinar: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/svog-application-informational-webinar-registration-147041437899 |
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Forge River Sewer Expansion Imperiled by Rising Costs
A planned sewer expansion in Suffolk County is being threatened by higher than expected costs following the bidding process. The cost of the project would be in the $497 million range, which is more than $100 million higher than funds assembled for the project. The expansion would include the Mastic and Shirley area, which had finally approved the expansion after years of efforts by local citizens and groups. The expansion would include approximately 6,500 properties and was overwhelmingly approved by voters in the Carlls and Forge River area. There is a vote pending for the Oakdale expansion, and Potchogue did not require a vote in order to approve that expansion in their area. This sewer expansion would help to bring growth to numerous south shore communities and would be the culmination of decades of planning. "To hear this now is breaking my heart," said Beth Wahl, president of the Chamber of Commerce of the Mastics and Shirley and a local resident. "If we do not get these sewers, we’re going to keep going on the way we are, polluting the river, and our business community will not survive." Local officials are working with Long Island’s congressional delegation to try and get more funding should Congress pass an infrastructure bill that is being discussed in Washington. If that doesn’t pan out then there is a probability that the project will be scaled back, but it is unclear what could be cut. Some aspects of the project have already begun to move forward. It is imperative that these projects continue on as the local communities have worked for years to bring positive growth to their communities. Vision hopes that funding can be located and that these initiatives do not get whittled down at this late date. You can read more at Newsday. Village Races Advance Downtown Revitalization
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Smart Growth America Releases Dangerous by Design 2021 Report
Across America, the number of people struck and killed while walking has gone up 45 percent in a decade, and people of color, older adults, and people walking in low-income neighborhoods were killed at significantly higher rates, according to the urban planning nonprofit Smart Growth America (SGA). On March 10, 2021, SGA released its Dangerous by Design 2021 report which examined motor vehicle traffic-related pedestrian deaths across the United States. Nearly every state in the U.S. has grown more dangerous for pedestrians and the disparities in deaths based on the victims’ location, age and race are alarming. According to the report, black people were struck and killed by drivers at an 82 percent higher rate than white, non-Hispanic Americans. The fatality rate for people walking in the lowest income neighborhoods was nearly twice that of middle-income census tracts and almost three times that of neighborhoods at higher levels of income (measured in median household income). The report explains, low-income communities are significantly less likely to have sidewalks, marked crosswalks, and street design to support safer, slower speeds and it is likely that many of the people walking in these lower-income census tracts are also lower-income themselves. People in lower-income communities are less likely to have cars, the report adds. All people do not experience the benefits and burdens of transportation policy and funding decisions equally, the report acknowledges. Structural racism has guided many of the decisions made about housing and transportation for decades. The construction of the National Highway System disproportionately carved through communities of color. “Urban renewal” projects have displaced more than a million Americans and continue to harm Black and Brown communities today. A main theme throughout the report - speed kills. Designing roads for high speeds dramatically increases the likelihood that a person struck while walking will be killed. At 40 miles per hour, 85 percent of crashes involving a person walking are fatal. Designing streets for slower speeds is directly connected to improving safety and reducing deaths. Good design leads to better driving behavior, fewer mistakes, and mistakes with less deadly impacts. The report notes, while it is important to lower speed limits, additional safeguards need to be developed: • Safe designs give drivers visual cues to slow down, While the report covers 2010-2019 data, there is a section on preliminary data about 2020 and the impacts of COVID-19. When congestion disappeared in 2020 due to COVID-19, speeding went up and thousands more people died, even though driving was down. Although USDOT will not release 2020 fatality data until the end of this year at the earliest, the National Safety Council is already estimating a 24 percent spike in (all) traffic fatality rates in 2020—the biggest increase in 96 years—as overall driving dropped precipitously. While the 2020 story is not complete, the correlation between speed and increased deaths appears linked. The SGA report calls on states, localities, and the federal government to make improving pedestrian safety an urgent priority and identifies actions that can save lives. At the federal level, Smart Growth America asks the public to urge their congressional representatives to stand up for safety by sponsoring the Complete Streets Act, which would require state departments of transportation and metropolitan planning organizations to plan for all people who use the street, including the most vulnerable users. “People are walking and biking more than ever,” states Eric Alexander, Director of Vision Long Island and the Long Island Main Street Alliance, “and we must make towns, villages, county and state roadways as pedestrian/bicycle safe as possible. This report shows how important it is that we make sure federal, state, county and local funds continue to stream to safe pedestrian and bike projects. We need to continue to be a public voice for walking and biking safety for the folks in our communities.” Smart Growth America is holding a free online workshop on March 25, 2021 at 2 p.m. about the findings in the Dangerous by Design 2021 report. To register, visit https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/3842285578068546319 Access SGA full report here: https://smartgrowthamerica.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Dangerous-By-Design-2021.pdf Access SGA press release here: https://smartgrowthamerica.org/people-struck-and-killed-while-walking-up-45-percent-in-a-decade-because-streets-are-dangerous-by-design/ View Complete Streets Act here: https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/2077 |
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NYS Vaccination Guide Now Available
The State of New York has prepared a guide to help eligible New Yorkers schedule a COVID-19 vaccination appointment at a state-operated distribution site. · Appointments are REQUIRED. To make an appointment, you can call the hotline or go the New York State eligibility website using the links below; The federal government has increased the weekly supply, but New York's vast distribution network and large population of eligible individuals still far exceed the supply coming from the federal government. Due to limited supply, New Yorkers are encouraged to remain patient and are advised not to show up at vaccination sites without an appointment. The 'Am I Eligible' screening tool has been updated for individuals with comorbidities and underlying conditions with new appointments released on a rolling basis over the next weeks. Starting next week, local health departments will also receive vaccine allocations for these individuals. New Yorkers can use the following to show they are eligible:
A reminder: Appointments are based on vaccine supply. Supply is currently limited. Eligibility update, March 1st 2021: Vaccine eligibility has been expanded to public facing hotel worker, food banks and pantries, and home-delivered meal programs. New York is currently vaccinating what they are referring to as Phase 1a and Phase 1b groups. Please head to the state's website here to confirm if you are eligible for vaccination. |
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15th Annual Latina Hat Luncheon - Wednesday, June 9th, 2021
Founded in 1988, the Long Island Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was established to serve the needs of the Long Island minority owned small business community. Through an array of networking events, members have an opportunity to make contacts necessary to help their businesses thrive. One such event, the Latina Hat Luncheon, is one of its best attended events, where attendees can be honored based on their work for the community and professional achievements. Last year, the LIHCC, along with other non-profit organizations, were forced to cancel all in-person events due to COVID-19. This caused many individuals, business, and nonprofit organizations, including the LIHCC, to suffer deep financial losses. The LIHCC has continued to fulfill its mission to service the minority business community by offering informational webinars related to COVID-19 updates, such as PPP loan information and where to get personal protective equipment (PPE). The Chamber is also continuing its yearly toy drive to benefit the victims of the 2020 Hurricanes in Honduras. With the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines and restrictions being eased, the Long Island Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is moving ahead with planning the Latina Hat Luncheon. The Chamber is optimistic that by June 2021, it will be able to host this luncheon with limited in person capacity. The LIHCC's biggest priority is the safety and well-being of its members, sponsors, and staff. The event will follow the guidelines provided by the CDC, federal, and local authorities. The 15th Annual Latina Hat Luncheon will be held on Wednesday, June 9th, 2021. Contact their office at (516) 333-0105 or email at admin@lihcc.org for tickets and sponsorship packages. |
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Long Island Coalition for the Homeless Job Opening
Project Hope Crisis Counselor - Street Outreach Worker, Amityville This position will begin as a full time Crisis Counselor position working under a Project Hope contract, and may or may not include direct street outreach. It will convert to a full time Street Outreach work upon completion of the Project Hope contract around mid-June. Crisis Counselor: Responsible for providing crisis counseling to individuals, households and groups experiencing crisis as a result of COVID-19 and provide supports, including linkages to essential services, benefits, and more in-depth mental health counseling as necessary and appropriate. Crisis counselors will work with the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless’ Coordinated Entry Team and support housing-focused case management for households experiencing long-term homelessness either living on the street or living in shelter. Outreach will be assigned and targeted based regional needs related to the areas which have been most impacted by COVID and having households that have the highest levels of vulnerability and most significant barriers to exiting homelessness on their own. Crisis Counselors must be highly mobile (personal vehicle w/ reimbursed mileage) and will be assigned households that are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness in Suffolk counties. Community Crisis Counselors will be responsible for hotline monitoring, referrals and support, homelessness diversion and community outreach and education in addition to crisis counseling Street Outreach: Responsible for providing housing-focused street outreach and case management targeted for single adults experiencing long-term homelessness either living on the street or living in shelter. Street Outreach Workers will engage in community canvassing, partnered outreach, and coordination with partners to identify and engage all persons experiencing homelessness that are residing unsheltered. Street Outreach Workers must be highly mobile and will have access to a Street Outreach van for transport of clients. Engagements focus around direct and person-centered support in obtaining necessary documentation/applying for various housing programs, as well as connecting households to other services that relate to housing placement and housing retention and health and safety, such as employment, entitlements/benefits, medical/clinical services, linkages to care coordination, budgeting and credit, legal, and other services for which they are eligible and interested in. Street Outreach Workers will work as a supervised/guided team of direct care workers, comprised of staff focused on street outreach and shelter inreach. This team collectively provides referrals for permanent housing programs (permanent supportive housing and rapid rehousing), including programs funded through HUD, NYS Office of Mental Health, nursing home programs, housing choice voucher programs, and other housing that meets each household’s needs and preferences. Essential Duties include the following. Other duties may be assigned: · Provide direct outreach and follow up to clients Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and two years’ experience (internships or volunteer work acceptable); or a related human services field or a minimum of three years’ related experience in human services arena preferred; strong organizational skills; possesses effective verbal and written communication skills; working knowledge of computer database applications (Foothold AWARDS - preferred, Access, Client or Customer databases of accounting database software) or ability to learn quickly. Must have a clean driver’s license and personal vehicle are required for this position. Must have a commitment to organization’s mission and goals. Must be self-motivated; must be able to work effectively with diverse people and personalities and as a member of a team. Bilingual (Spanish and English) preferred. Experience/knowledge in trauma-informed care and motivational interviewing a plus. Benefits after probationary period will be available. These include paid time off (vacation, holiday, sick, personal), medical insurance for the employee (premium paid by LICH), Dental and Vision insurance optional, Life Insurance for the employee and Simple IRA plan (with employer match). Interested parties should submit a resume and salary requirements via email to mgiuffrida@addressthehomeless.org. Please do not call the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless regarding this position. Questions should be submitted via email only. |
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Applying for the Second Round of PPP Loans for Small Businesses
The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) has been revived, with $280 billion available for a second round, for small businesses still struggling to make ends meet. Monday, January 11th, was the first day to apply for this new, potentially forgivable, federal loan. What you need to know about PPP Loans: Differences in Round 2: Eligibility for PPP funding: PPP applicants who are seeking funding in addition to what they received earlier in the year (also known as Second Draw Loans) are eligible for loans up to $2 million provided they meet the following requirements: How and when to apply: SBA reopened the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for First Draw PPP Loans the week of January 11, 2021. SBA will began accepting applications for Second Draw PPP Loans on January 13, 2021. To promote access for smaller lenders and their customers, SBA will initially only accept Second Draw PPP Loan applications from participating community financial institutions (CFIs), which include Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs), Certified Development Companies (CDCs), and Microloan Intermediaries. Paycheck Protection Program lending will reopen to all participating lenders shortly thereafter. At least $25 billion is being set aside for Second Draw PPP Loans to eligible borrowers with a maximum of 10 employees or for loans of $250,000 or less to eligible borrowers in low- or moderate-income neighborhoods. NEW DEADLINE EXTENSION: SBA HAS ANNOUNCED THAT APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED UNITIL MAY 31st! How much can a business borrow? What can the money be used for? What about loan forgiveness? For further information, and to apply, click here. PPP Webinars & Workshops Offered by Asset Enhancement Solutions
To assist members of Associations, Chambers of Commerce, etc., Asset Enhancement Solutions is offering a complimentary 2 session webinar on how to apply for a PPP Loan. Session #1 Session #2 Many are still unaware they may be eligible for a PPP Loan, which may be up to 100% forgiven. For more information, contact Neil Seiden at (516) 767-0100 or neil.seiden@assetenhancement.com NEW DEADLINE EXTENSION: SBA HAS ANNOUNCED THAT APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED UNITIL MAY 31st! National Grid Offers New Energy-Smart Programs
Businesses know the importance of being energy-smart. Lower energy costs, reduced maintenance, increased productivity and contributing to a healthier environment are just some of the benefits of energy efficiency. National Grid’s Energy Efficiency team has been creating programs and designing enhanced incentives to help its commercial and industrial customers implement and attain latest best practices in energy efficiency for all types of projects in order to offer cost-effective energy efficiency measures, incentive levels, and turnkey pricing for lighting and other projects. Programs include:
National Grid offers a sundry of industrial tips and savings content to identify smart, low-cost ways for businesses to take advantage of cost-effective energy efficiency measures. You can read more about these programs here. New York State Homes & Community Renewal Community Development Block Grants
The New York State Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program provides financial assistance to cities, towns and villages with populations under 50,000 and counties with area populations under 200,000. Communities may apply for grant funds to support quality affordable housing and economic opportunities. CDBG funding must primarily benefit low- and moderate-income New Yorkers through housing activities; projects that create job opportunities; prevent or eliminate blight; or address community development needs that pose a serious and imminent threat to the community’s health or welfare. Grants are currently available to support housing projects and economic development and small business activities.
You can find more information here. Salvation Army Hempstead Offering Assistance with Foreclosure Prevention Grants
The Salvation Army Hempstead Citadel Corps has been serving the Hempstead and surrounding communities for over 55 years. The Salvation Army is dedicated to “Doing the Most Good.” Efforts include everything from helping with food insecurity, to homelessness, child protection, disaster relief, anti-trafficking, rehabilitation, poverty relief and so much more. In December of 2020, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the COVID-19 Emergency Eviction and Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2020. The Act placed a moratorium on residential evictions until May 1, 2021 for tenants who have endured COVID-related hardship. The Salvation Army is now reaching out to all Nassau County residents advising that ESG-CV grants will be available, once the moratorium is lifted, for those who are faced with difficulty paying rent due to COVID-19. This grant, unlike other rental assistant grants, will also be available to undocumented immigrants. According to The Salvation Army, “It is our desire to assist effectively and prepare well as we anticipate the moratorium to expire on May 1, 2021.” Please call for more information: ESG-CV Case Manager, Mia L. Baines, at 516-485-4900, ext. 11. Application period for the 2021 AARP Community Challenge Now Open
The AARP Community Challenge provides small grants to fund quick-action projects that can help communities become more livable for people of all ages. Applications are accepted for projects to improve public spaces, housing, transportation, civic engagement, coronavirus recovery, diversity and inclusion, and more. The program is open to the following types of programs:
The following projects are NOT eligible for funding:
AARP will prioritize projects that deliver inclusive solutions that meet the needs of diverse populations, as well as those that directly engage volunteers through permanent or temporary solutions that aim to achieve one or more of the following outcome areas:
The following project types will be prioritized over those that support ongoing programming or events:
You can read more details on the grant at the AARP’s site here. You can apply for the grant here. Applications are due by 8pm ET on April 14th, 2021. New York State Accepting Applications for NY Forward Loan Fund
New York State has opened pre-applications for the New York Forward Loan Fund. Loans from this fund are available to small businesses, nonprofits, and small landlords in New York State. New York Forward loans must be fully repaid over a 5-year term with fixed annual interest rates of 3 percent for small businesses and landlords. Small businesses may apply for the lesser of $100,000 or up to 100% of the average monthly revenues in any 3-month period from 2019 or the first quarter of 2020. This loan can be paid back over five years with first year being interest only. However, if small businesses have received either a PPP loan or an EIDL loan from SBA, they would not be eligible to apply. NYS has set a goal of 18% of total funds under this Program for Long Island Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as industries and regions reopen however, priority for New York Forward Loans will be given to industries and regions that have been reopened. Resources are available to assist in preparing applications for small businesses, landlords and nonprofits in industries and regions that have not yet reopened. To view more details, including eligibility requirements and how to apply, click here: If you need technical assistance through this process, please contact an Entrepreneurial Assistance Center near you and inform the counselor that you need help for the NY Forward Loan application. You can find your closest contact center here. |
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