Dear Constituent,
I wanted to bring a few important points to your attention.
Changes to the New York State Primary Election
The New York State Board of Elections has canceled the Democratic presidential primary that was scheduled for June 23rd. The decision came from the Democratic Commissioners of the Board of Elections. Citing public health concerns and because only one candidate is running, the Democratic Commissioners of the Board of Elections canceled the primary. The New York State Republican Commissioners also did not call for a presidential primary because there is only one person running.
Primary elections for many federal, state, and local seats are still happening on June 23rd. The Governor has signed an executive order requiring the Board of Elections to send absentee ballot applications to all voters. Anyone who wants to vote by mail due to fear of coronavirus can select “temporary illness” on their application.
Domestic Violence Hotline
Emergency social distancing measures to lower the spread of coronavirus can easily become dangerous for victims of domestic violence who are isolated with their abuser. The state has increased its efforts to intervene in these unstable and unsafe situations.
If you are a victim of domestic violence seeking information or help, text 844-997-2121 or reach a professional at www.opdv.ny.gov. These services are staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Nursing Home Complaints
Many constituents continue to express concerns about the safety of their loved ones who are in nursing homes. We must do all that we can to protect the most vulnerable among us from this disease. The Department of Health and the Attorney General’s office are working to investigate nursing homes who are not following proper safety protocol.
If you have a complaint about a nursing home in New York State, you call the Nursing Home Complaint Hotline at 888-201-4563 or the Attorney General's office at 833-249-8499.
Food Pantries
The Governor noted earlier this week that food pantry demand around the state has increased dramatically. Demand in Westchester has increased by over 200%. The state has allocated an additional $25 million to provide food supplies to New Yorkers.
I encourage those who are able to donate either time or money to one of these local food pantry organizations.
Ossining Food Pantry: (914) 762-5510 or (914) 762-5857 (en espanól)
Croton-Cortlandt Food Pantry: crotonfoodpantry@gmail.com
Fred’s Pantry in Peekskill/CHHOP: (914) 736-2636
Feeding Westchester: (914) 923-1100
Putnam Regional Food Bank: https://regionalfoodbank.net/agency-list-by-county/putnam/