![Close up greyscale picture of newspapers](/sites/g/files/omnuum10826/files/styles/hwp_21_9__1920x825/public/datasmart/files/twidlarge_49.jpg?itok=KLPC_1vo) # \#ThisWeekInData March 31, 2023 A Weekly Roundup of the Latest Civic Data News March 21, 2023 - March 21, 2023 - [Civic Data](/civic-data) ## SMART CITIES DIVE: [NYC launches online portal for city services, benefits](https://www.smartcitiesdive.com/news/nyc-online-portal-city-services-benefits-child-care/646500/) New York City just released phase one of its online tool that streamlines applications for food stamps, child care assistance, unemployment insurance, and other benefits. This makes it easier and more straightforward for New Yorkers looking to access services. ## JOINT CENTER FOR HOUSING STUDIES: [Improving America's Housing 2023](https://www.jchs.harvard.edu/improving-americas-housing-2023) The Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University just published their biannual research report to discuss achievements and challenges in the country’s housing stock. The report web page also includes interactive data and maps for readers. ## NATURE: [Localview, A Database Of Public Meetings](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41597-023-02044-y) Researchers from Harvard University introduced the new database that centralizes data on local government public meetings. While many residents are interested in engaging with their elected leaders, it can be challenging to identify when and where meetings are located and how to participate. ## BLOOMBERG CITIES NETWORK: [Small homes play big role in cities’ fight for affordable housing](https://bloombergcities.jhu.edu/news/small-homes-play-big-role-cities-fight-affordable-housing) Many cities are experimenting with new opportunities for tiny houses, often changing or adapting regulations to allow homeowners to build accessory dwelling units on their property. These small homes help alleviate unaffordable or unavailable housing in many urban areas. ## About the Author ### Data-Smart City Solutions See also:- [ Civic Data ](/topics/civic-data) Share on:- [ Facebook ](#) - [ Twitter ](#) - [ Linkedin ](#)