Prevent Domestic Violence
Last week, the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (OPDV) launched a new text program and confidential online service to make it easier for victims in isolation to get the help they need. New Yorkers seeking help can text 844-997-2121 or chat with a professional on the new confidential website at www.opdv.ny.gov. The text and online services will be staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with OPDV staff who are experts in the area of domestic violence.
Receive the Latest Updates from Governor Cuomo
As the situation begins to change throughout the state, it may be difficult to keep track of how it affects Roosevelt Island. We encourage everyone to get their information straight from the source by clicking here for the latest information: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news
Maintaining Social Distancing
The weather is getting nicer and the draw of the outdoors is getting stronger as the news about the pandemic slowly grows more encouraging. Although we want everyone to enjoy our public spaces, everyone must do so responsibly. That means you must wear a mask or a cloth covering your mouth and nose in public. You must also maintain a social distance of at least six feet whenever possible to cut down on the possibility of infection.
Unfortunately, we had to close Southpoint Park over the weekend because people were not adhering to social distancing guidelines. It is a drastic step we do not take lightly, but one we will take again if another unsafe situation arises.
‘What Can I Do?’
It’s a common phrase we hear from Roosevelt Island residents who always look for other ways they can help our essential employees. Some of the ways you can help RIOC essential employees keep the community functioning is by considering donating:
- Masks
- Gloves
- Bottled Water
- Thermometers
- Coffee is also always welcomed, especially on all shifts for our Public Safety Department.
Any donations can be dropped off directly to PSD. If you would like your donation to go to a specific department with essential employees (PSD, Facilities, Transportation, Groundskeeping) please let us know and we’ll make sure your donation gets to the proper department.
Executive Order on Masks / Face Covers in Public Places
According to Executive Order 202.7, as of 8 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2020 any individual who can medically tolerate a face-covering must cover their nose and mouth with a mask or cloth when a) in a public place and b) unable to observe proper social distancing guidelines. This includes all forms of public transportation, including the Tram. For more information on the executive order, please click here: https://www.governor.ny.gov/sites/governor.ny.gov/files/atoms/files/EO_202.17.pdf
Census 2020
If you have not received your invitation to complete the Census in the mail, you can still respond online. Visit https://my2020census.gov/app/intro/state
and be sure to select the "If you do not have a Census ID, click here" link. #LetsGetCountedNY
Grab and Go Meals for All New Yorkers at PS/IS 217 on Roosevelt Island
This program serves three (3) free meals to adults at all sites. No one will be turned away.
- Hours (Monday – Friday): 7:30am-11:30am for families and children / 11:30am-1:30pm for adults
Food Pantries
Please go to https://maps.nyc.gov/foodhelp/ to find out food pantries, community kitchens and other food sources. If you know of a senior who is in need of attention of any kind, please contact the Public Safety Department immediately at 212-832-4545.
Pharmacies offer free home delivery to New Yorkers
After speaking with the state’s major pharmacy chains, pharmacies have agreed to make free home delivery to help reduce long lines for prescriptions at their facilities. Click here for more information:https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/amid-ongoing-covid-19-pandemic-governor-cuomo-announces-nys-pause-functions-extended-next-two
Mental Health Hotline
We cannot underestimate the impact this pandemic is having on mental health. For free emotional support, consultation, and referral to a provider, call 1-844-863-9314.
Transportation Updates
- Red Buses will continue to run on a Weekend Schedule and the Trams will continue to operate as normal until further notice.
- NYC Ferry - https://www.ferry.nyc/ – check for changes
- MTA - https://new.mta.info/ – check for changes