Essential Connector from the MTA
If you are an essential worker, the MTA will help provide you with connections to alternate transportation options during 1:00AM – 5:00 AM when the subway is closed for cleaning and disinfecting. Please click on the link and complete the form to see if you qualify for the Essential Connector program: https://mta-nyc.custhelp.com/app/essential-connector
All Public Events in June Are Cancelled
FIGMENT, Roosevelt Island Day and the Roosevelt Island Summer Outdoor Movie Series have been cancelled in order to minimize the spread of COVID-19. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Hey, Susan Questions
Got questions about RIOC? About Roosevelt Island? Suggestions or comments? RIOC President and CEO Susan Rosenthal wants to hear them. Please click here to submit your questions via our website: https://rioc.ny.gov/FormCenter/Feedback-8/Hey-Susan-85
Thank you, Volunteers
Roosevelt Island residents are known for their generosity in tough times and the COVID-19 pandemic is no exception. The Roosevelt Island Disabled Association (RIDA) has coordinated many efforts to help seniors, the disabled and other residents who are unable to leave their apartments. Some of the great work they are doing includes:
- Distributing breakfast and lunches from the Board of Education to 155 seniors, disabled and those unable to come out every weekday.
- Delivering 550 grocery bags once a week to those residents in need.
- Distributing over 160 small boxes of grocery items/healthcare items to those who need it on Saturdays.
Volunteers come from many Island organizations, including MSTDA; CERT; Carter Burden Senior Center; Hope Church and Girl Scouts of NYC. RIDA is also working on an effort to have a produce company willing to donate fresh produce and dairy. More news to follow in the coming week. RIOC thanks all of our residents who have given their time and effort to taking care of their neighbors when they need it most. Thank you!
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
Maintain Social Distancing in Good Weather
The weather is getting nicer and the draw of the outdoors is getting stronger. We want everyone to enjoy our public spaces as long as they wear a mask or face covering and practice responsible social distancing procedures. If you see a group of people who are not complying with these guidelines, please contact PSD immediately at 212-830-4545.
Please read Governor Cuomo’s Executive Order for more information on Social Distancing Guidelines:https://www.governor.ny.gov/sites/governor.ny.gov/files/atoms/files/EO_202.17.pdf
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 until further notice.
- The Roosevelt Island Tramway will be closed from 1:00 AM until 6:00 AM to ensure that disinfecting measures can be performed. Regular tram service will resume at 6:00 AM each day and continue until 1:00 AM the following morning. These early morning closures will continue each day until further notice.
- NYC Ferry - https://www.ferry.nyc/ – check for changes
- MTA - https://new.mta.info/ – check for changes