Community Wellness for June 2026

June 2026

Hi Friends,

I hope you’re staying cool and enjoying the summer. As we enter the hottest months of the year, please remember that New York City provides cooling centers during periods of extreme heat. These air-conditioned facilities are open to anyone who needs a place to cool off and rest. Cooling centers are often located in schools, libraries, community centers, and other public buildings. You can find a cooling center near you by visiting: https://finder.nyc.gov/coolingcenters/locations.

During hot weather, it’s important to stay hydrated. Please drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty.

We recently had a successful Community Resource Day at our 15th Street meeting. Staff from University Settlement joined us to speak with Friends about SNAP benefits (food stamps), health insurance, and housing resources. We look forward to hosting more of these in-person events in September, combining one-on-one consultations with group discussions. Stay tuned for additional details!

We are also excited to share some good news as New York State and New York City move into the new fiscal year. The income eligibility limit for both SCRIE (Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption) and DRIE (Disability Rent Increase Exemption) has increased from $50,000 to $75,000.

You may qualify for SCRIE or DRIE if your household,

• Has an annual income of $75,000 or less;
• Spends more than one-third of income on rent;
• Includes someone who is age 62 or older or has a qualifying disability; and
• Lives in a rent-regulated apartment.

If you would like to learn more about these programs or find out whether you may be eligible, please contact us at communitywellness@nycquakers.org.

Wishing you a safe, healthy, and cool summer!