Wednesday, October 16

Author: Grace Thompson

NYPD: 14-Year-Old Shot in Melrose, Bronx
Crime News

NYPD: 14-Year-Old Shot in Melrose, Bronx

A 14-year-old boy was hospitalized after being shot in the elbow late Monday night in the Melrose neighborhood of the Bronx. The New York Police Department (NYPD) responded to a call about the shooting around 8:45 p.m. at 786 Courtland Avenue. Upon arrival, officers found the teenager with a gunshot wound, and he was swiftly transported to Lincoln Hospital, where he is currently in stable condition. This alarming incident is part of a troubling trend in the Melrose area. According to NYPD data, there have been four shooting victims in the 40th Precinct, which covers Melrose, in the past month alone. The overall gun violence statistics for this year are concerning, with at least 38 people shot in the precinct, representing a staggering 42.3% increase from the previous year. These figures...
Man Fatally Shot at Birthday Party in Queens: A Tragic Turn of Events
Crime News

Man Fatally Shot at Birthday Party in Queens: A Tragic Turn of Events

A birthday gathering in South Richmond Hill, Queens, took a devastating turn when Lenner Zuniga, 35, was fatally shot and stabbed in the early hours of Sunday. The incident occurred around 3 a.m. at an apartment on 125th Street, where Zuniga and several friends were celebrating. According to the NYPD, this violent confrontation was linked to a robbery that may have involved narcotics . Witnesses reported that Zuniga was involved in a heated altercation before he fled to a bathroom, where he called 911. In the distressing call, listeners could hear Zuniga pleading for his life while gunshots rang out in the background. Tragically, he sustained gunshot wounds to the head and torso, along with multiple stab injuries. Despite the rapid response from medics, Zuniga was pronounced dead at the...
Tragic Death of Young Mother Following Expiration of Protection Order
Crime News

Tragic Death of Young Mother Following Expiration of Protection Order

In a devastating incident in Hempstead, New York, a young mother was brutally murdered just one day after a protective order against her child's father expired. Brenda Guadalupe Alfaro-Alcantara, 29, was found stabbed to death in her home while her 2-year-old son witnessed the horrific act. The attack occurred on a Saturday evening, with police reporting that she was stabbed multiple times, leading to her death before emergency services could arrive​. The Events Leading to the Tragedy Authorities revealed that the perpetrator, 43-year-old Jose W. Funes-Zabala, arrived at Alfaro-Alcantara's residence to see their son. Upon discovering that she had started dating someone else, a verbal dispute escalated into a violent confrontation. Witnesses stated that Funes-Zabala stabbed Alfaro-Alc...
$1,750 Stimulus Check: Deadline for New Jersey Tax Relief Applications
Finance

$1,750 Stimulus Check: Deadline for New Jersey Tax Relief Applications

New Jersey has announced a $1,750 stimulus check program aimed at alleviating financial stress for residents amid rising living costs. This initiative is part of the ANCHOR (Affordable New Jersey Communities for Homeowners and Renters) program, which offers direct payments to both homeowners and renters struggling with high property taxes and housing costs. Overview of the $1,750 Stimulus Checks Eligible residents can receive up to $1,750 as part of this tax relief effort. Homeowners earning up to $150,000 will qualify for the full amount, while those making between $150,000 and $250,000 can receive up to $1,000. Renters with annual incomes up to $150,000 are eligible for $450. This tiered structure ensures that those most in need receive adequate support. How to Apply for the Sti...
SNAP Payments of $1,756 in Four States with 2025 COLA in October
Finance

SNAP Payments of $1,756 in Four States with 2025 COLA in October

Millions of Americans are set to receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits throughout October 2024, thanks to the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). This adjustment aims to help SNAP recipients manage inflation. However, it's important to note that not all states are experiencing an increase; for example, Hawaii will see a reduction in benefits. SNAP Payment Schedule Breakdown New Mexico In New Mexico, SNAP payments are distributed based on the last two digits of recipients' Social Security Numbers (SSNs). Payments will be issued between October 8 and October 20. Here's the detailed payment schedule: October 8: SSNs ending in 04, 24, 44, 64, 84 October 9: SSNs ending in 15, 35, 55, 75, 95 October 10: SSNs ending in 05, 25, 45, 65, 85 Octobe...
Social Security Changes in October 2024: Key Updates for Retirees
Social Security

Social Security Changes in October 2024: Key Updates for Retirees

In October 2024, significant changes to the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program were announced, impacting millions of retirees and individuals with disabilities. These modifications aim to streamline eligibility and enhance benefits for recipients, making it easier for more people to access vital financial support. Notably, changes in the way public assistance and rental subsidies are defined could lead to increased payments for many beneficiaries. Enhanced Eligibility Criteria One of the most notable changes is the adjustment of the household definition for public assistance. Previously, food aid from family or friends was considered when determining SSI benefits. This will no longer be the case, potentially increasing monthly payments by up to $131 for over 90,000 SSI recipi...
Social Security Confirms Double Payment in Early November 2024: Know the Details
Social Security

Social Security Confirms Double Payment in Early November 2024: Know the Details

In November 2024, Social Security beneficiaries will receive exciting news: a double payment. Both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security payments will be disbursed on November 1, 2024. This is a significant development for those who rely on these benefits, as it allows them to access their funds earlier than usual. Why Is This Double Payment Happening? Typically, SSI payments are issued on the first of the month, while Social Security and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments are sent out on the third day. However, because November 3 falls on a weekend, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has adjusted the schedule to ensure beneficiaries do not experience delays. By issuing both payments on November 1, recipients can access their funds without int...
New SSI Payment Schedule Announced for November 2024: When Will You Receive Your Check?
Social Security

New SSI Payment Schedule Announced for November 2024: When Will You Receive Your Check?

In November 2024, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will benefit from two scheduled payments, aimed at providing essential financial support. The first payment will be issued on November 1, followed by a second payment on November 30. This dual distribution is designed to assist individuals in meeting their expenses during a critical time, especially as many face rising costs for basic needs. Importance of the Double Payment The introduction of two payments in a single month is a crucial step in supporting SSI beneficiaries, particularly during periods of heightened financial strain. These payments are essential for individuals who rely on this income to cover daily living expenses, such as housing, food, and healthcare. The additional payment is especially beneficial for...
2025 Social Security COLA Increase: Key Details on Adjustments and Payments
Social Security

2025 Social Security COLA Increase: Key Details on Adjustments and Payments

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is preparing to announce a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025. This adjustment aims to help retirees and beneficiaries manage rising living costs caused by inflation. The COLA is calculated annually using data from the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). In 2024, beneficiaries saw a 3.2% increase, which amounted to an average of $48 more per month. How the COLA Is Calculated COLA increases are based on inflation trends between July and September of each year. This is important to ensure that Social Security payments keep pace with the rising costs of essential goods, such as housing, medical expenses, and groceries. For example, in 2024, the 3.2% adjustment was higher than average due to increa...
$185,000 Stimulus Check for U.S. Homeowners: The Truth Behind the Rumor
Social Security

$185,000 Stimulus Check for U.S. Homeowners: The Truth Behind the Rumor

In 2023, rumors spread online claiming that U.S. homeowners would receive stimulus checks of up to $185,000 under a government program. These claims, shared widely on platforms like Facebook, falsely suggested that eligibility was based solely on homeownership and a credit score above 600. However, this information was quickly debunked by officials, including the IRS, confirming that no such program exists. The Impact of the Fake Stimulus Check The misleading posts caused confusion and raised false hopes for homeowners seeking financial relief. The IRS reiterated that there was no legitimacy to the claim and advised the public to verify information through official government channels, like IRS.gov. For accurate information about ongoing government financial assistance, check the ...