Each week, we share local news and updates to increase your access to community information in Kensington. We publish a monthly roundup in our print newspaper, too.
Here’s what’s happening this week.
Announcements
Due to construction, motorists can’t access Allegheny Avenue between Richmond Street and the I-95 or the southbound on-off ramps until September 22, 2023.
Activities & Events
As fall approaches, Philly pools will begin to close for the season. Here are the closing dates for pools around the city.
Esperanza Health Center is hosting a support group for caregivers. Participants can enjoy a free dinner while having a discussion around the challenges of parenting while gaining new skills, resources, and support systems. Free childcare is provided. Weekly sessions are taking place from August 1-29 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at The CORE. Register here.
Esperanza’s donation-based farm stand is also running every Thursday from now through October 5. Fresh produce will be distributed in Fairhill from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. outside 2940 N. 5th St. and in Kensington between 2 to 3:30 p.m. at 3222 H St.
Galaei is helping students get ready to head back to school! The LGBTQ+ organization will be hosting a school supply and uniform drive on August 22 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and providing free hair services on August 27 from 12 p.m. 3 p.m. Both events will take place at 118 Fontain St.
Shop until you drop at Cantina la Martina’s Placita del Mercado. Several local vendors will be selling their goods at the market on August 26 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 2800 D St.
Experience tranquility by participating in a free yoga lesson at The Simple Way’s garden every Wednesday at 1 p.m. Register here.
To browse upcoming programs at Kensington, McPherson Square, and Lillian Marrero libraries, visit freelibrary.org/calendar.
Funding Opportunities
Applications are open for Feet First Philly’s Public Space Enhancement Mini-Grant. The program awards $500 to $2,000 for projects that improve walkability in neighborhoods. The deadline to apply is October 9, 2023.
General Election 2023
You can register to vote online, by mail, or in person at the Voter Registration Office at 520 N. Columbus Blvd., 5th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19123. You can also call the office at 215-686-1590 to request voter registration applications by mail.
Jobs
Esperanza Health Center has several job openings available. View listings and apply here.
The Free Library of Philadelphia is hiring part-time library facility guards for custodial and security duties at branches throughout the city. The position will be for nine months and pay is $18.
NKCDC is hiring for several full-time positions. View listings here.
Services
The Philadelphia Water Department is running virtual water bill assistance clinics every Wednesday from now until September 27, 2023. For more information, click here.
If you’re homebound or a caregiver of a homebound individual, you may be eligible for the Free Library’s Homebound Services. Books and other materials can be delivered to your home and returned for free. To apply for a Homebound Services Library Card, click here.
Trainings
The Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services offers free trainings for those interested in earning a Mental Health First Aid certification. Trainings are facilitated weekly. Register here: bit.ly/3E8QYu9.
The Philadelphia Department of Public Health hosts an overdose prevention and reversal training virtually twice a month. The next two trainings are on Sept. 5 and 20. Register here: bit.ly/3E3iCIS.
Volunteer Opportunities
Sunday Love Project is looking for volunteers at their Greater Goods grocery in Kensington. If you’re interested in acting as a personal shopper, helping pack bulk items, or stocking shelves, email Ryan@sundayloveproject.com.
Please send any news or press releases to editors@kensingtonvoice.com.
