Wednesday, May 29, 2024 | View in browser
Greetings,
I’m excited to announce the relaunch of our monthly Fifth Ward newsletter. This newsletter aims to keep our community well-informed and connected. We encourage contributions from all community members, with a particular focus on content specific to our ward.
Feel free to please share:
- Achievements
- Art contributions
- Upcoming events
- New programs and services
- Grant announcements
- Impactful news
- Successful neighborhood initiatives
Please ensure your content is submitted by the second Tuesday of each month to be included in the newsletter. If you become aware of families or individuals who may have relevant content, please share this email with them.
Additionally, I want to remind everyone that we have a virtual ward meeting tomorrow at 7 PM on Thursday, May 30. We will discuss the topics featured below.
Si desea recibir este boletín en español, por favor envíeme un correo electrónico a bburns@cityofevanston.org.
New Civic Center Location: 909 Davis St.
 The Evanston Civic Center is temporarily relocating to 909 Davis Street in downtown Evanston. This decision, approved on January 22, addresses the urgent issues with our current building's outdated facilities, ongoing maintenance problems, and lack of ADA compliance.
The move will be completed by September 2024; however, the Civic Center's permanent location has not yet been decided. Join us at the Fifth Ward meeting on Thursday, May 30, at 7 p.m. to learn more about the reasons behind this move, its benefits, what to expect during the transition, and how you can participate in the community engagement process to determine the Civic Center's permanent home.
Pathways to Wellness Health Equity Initiative
 I am pleased to update you on a new health equity initiative called ‘Pathways to Wellness’ at our 5th Ward Meeting. Over the past two years, I have been collaborating closely with Neticia Waldron, a healthcare administrator and Fifth Ward resident, as well as our Health Director Ike Ogbo and Community Development Director Sarah Flax, to develop this program. The Pathways to Wellness program aims to enhance health outcomes for our most vulnerable populations by addressing diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity.
We are seeking funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to support this one-year pilot program. The program's primary aim is to demonstrate the effectiveness of targeted interventions with the ultimate goal of establishing a sustainable, long-term initiative. I am pleased to inform you that the initiative has unanimously passed out of the Human Services Committee and is now set to move to the City Council for final approval on Monday, June 10.
This initiative is of utmost importance as the 8092 census tract in Evanston, which constitutes a significant portion of our Fifth Ward, is confronted with substantial health challenges. Life expectancy in this area is up to 13 years lower than in the neighboring census tract just a few blocks away. By addressing these critical issues, we aim to mitigate health disparities and enhance the quality of life for our residents. Your support and interest in this initiative are crucial to creating a healthier community.
General Assistance Program
At tomorrow's Fifth Ward meeting, learn about the City of Evanston’s General Assistance Program, a vital resource for our community. This program is designed to support residents who are not eligible for other state or federal financial assistance and lack the income or resources to meet their basic needs.
The General Assistance Program provides extensive case management to help individuals overcome life barriers, achieve self-sufficiency, and address uncontrollable circumstances threatening their basic needs.
Over the past few years, our Health Department has ensured that only eligible Evanston residents can access the funds. This audit has made spots available, and we need your help to spread the word. Attend the next 5th Ward meeting to learn more about the program and how you can refer potential recipients.
More News and Events
Natural Habitat Evanston Free Tree Giveaway
 Natural Habitat Evanston is excited to offer FREE trees to the 5th Ward and needs your help spreading the word. For four years, we’ve been helping residents select, plant, and care for native trees on their properties. This year, Foster Seniors and Cradle2Career are assisting us in reaching more people. Give your input!
Survey
We want to understand what the 5th Ward thinks about trees. Take the survey here.
Why Trees?
Expanding the tree canopy in the 5th Ward aligns with the EPlan’s goals. Trees are crucial for combating urban heat. For example, an Evanston Treekeeper found that temperatures in the Valli parking lot were 118°F, compared to 76°F under mature trees nearby. Trees provide more than shade; they release oxygen and absorb water, benefiting those with respiratory and circulatory issues, which the EPlan identified significantly impacting low-income and minority communities. There are lots of other benefits from trees as well.
The Only Requirement
We need the property owner's permission to plant, and residents must care for the trees by watering them, protecting them from mowers, and avoiding harmful chemicals. We plan for fall 2024 plantings, with requests rolling over to 2025 if necessary.
More Resources
- Watch our video on Evanston’s tree canopy here.
- Learn more about the 5th Ward giveaway here.
- Discover the benefits of native trees. More info.
Thank you to Natural Habitat Evanston for their dedicated work in the 5th Ward over the past four years.
Church and Dodge Market 🥦
 I am thrilled to announce the exciting relaunch of the Church & Dodge Market, reviving our community's cherished farmer’s market tradition. Beginning on Sunday, June 9, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at 1623 Dodge Avenue, the market will be open every second Sunday from June to October.
This marks the inaugural event for the newly named Church & Dodge Business District, formerly the Central Evanston Business District (CEBA). The dedicated businesses involved have a proven track record of successful event planning. It's an honor to have collaborated with this group to bring forth an event that we anticipate will become a cherished tradition in our neighborhood.
Come support your community while discovering locally owned small businesses, artists, musicians, and more. Save the date for an afternoon of fun on Sunday, June 9.
Follow us as we feature some of our vendors over the next week!
Community Block Party Event
 We are excited to announce that Connections for the Homeless’ 3rd Annual Block Party is back! Every year, it is an honor to participate in the planning committee for this event. I have the opportunity to work alongside dedicated Fifth Ward members and the outstanding staff at Connections for the Homeless. We are thrilled to bring this exciting celebration to our community again.
Other Events
Backyard Botanical Sale, Saturday, June 1
Starlight Concert & Movie Series
Meals on Wheels Unveiling of Mural, Saturday, June 1
Evanston Pride Youth Car Parade, Sunday, June 2
Summer Kickoff Block Party, Friday, June 7
Safe Summer Kickoff Event, Friday, June 7
Bobby Burns
Councilmember, 5th Ward
bburns@cityofevanston.org
www.cityofevanston.org
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