Category: Health

Guest contribution — American Immigration Council — Mass deportations will make us less safe

President-elect Trump’s mass deportation plan will target thousands of people who richly contribute to their families, communities, and our local economies often for decades. While Trump and his advisors claim they will start with “criminal immigrants,” their plans will include millions of people who pose no public safety risk at all—just as we saw during his first administration. 

H-1B Modernization Rule Provides Some Comfort But Also Raises Concerns 

By issuing a final rule, the Biden administration has made it more difficult for the Trump administration to reverse some agency practices with which it disagrees. 

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Power outages

I want to acknowledge the significant inconvenience and frustration caused by the ongoing power outages affecting our area. Many residents, myself included, have been without power for more than three days.

I have reached out to Southern California Edison (SCE) to urge them to expedite efforts to restore power in Ventura County. Unfortunately, their response has been slower than we hoped, but I remain committed to advocating for a swift resolution.

During this challenging time, I encourage you to stay informed and access available resources:

Outage Updates: SCE provides an outage map at www.sce.com/outage-center/check-outage-status.
Emergency Information: The latest updates and emergency services can be found at www.vcemergency.com.
Food Assistance: For those in need, Food Share offers support. You can find more information at foodshare.com.

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara — Join Us for the Jan. 14 Board of Supervisors meeting, more news

The next meeting of the County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 
9 a.m. Tuesday, January 14, 2025
Joseph Centeno Betteravia Government Administration Building
Board Hearing Room
511 East Lakeside Parkway, Santa Maria
The public may participate virtually, or in person at the County Board Hearing Room
in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria. 

Community Environmental Council — 2025 is the year for climate leadership!

CEC’s Climate Stewards certification program is designed to foster connection, confidence, and inspiration for grassroots climate action. Gain the tools and support to tackle climate impacts in your life, work, and community. Let’s work together for a sustainable future — the climate movement needs YOU!

Our Climate Stewards program empowers participants to play an active role in their community to advance rapid and equitable solutions to the climate crisis. Together, our community of 200-strong Climate Steward alumni are leading climate justice initiatives and pushing forward thousands of local solutions.

The next cohort starts January 28, 2025. Now is the perfect time to invest in your future, and the future of our planet!

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Fire Weather Update & Emergency Preparedness

moment to remind you of important safety information to help keep you and your loved ones safe.

? Stay Informed:
Emergency Alerts: If you haven’t yet registered for emergency alerts, now is the time. Visit VCALERT.ORG to sign up today.
Emergency Updates: Stay up to date on all emergency information at VCEMERGENCY.COM. This site also provides links to updates for neighboring counties.

?? Be Prepared:
Take this opportunity to review your emergency preparedness plans. Helpful information and resources can be found at ReadyVenturaCounty.org.

? Weather Outlook:
Ventura County Sheriff’s Emergency Services and the National Weather Service are monitoring a strong Santa Ana Wind event expected to impact Ventura County thru Friday, January 10th.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Official Community Update

Due to strong winds and heightened wildfire conditions, the City of Santa Paula is experiencing weather-related power outages and Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). We want to ensure our community stays safe and informed during this time. Below are essential tips, resources, and important updates to help you navigate these conditions.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Program addresses need for bilingual and culturally responsive school psychologists’ and more news, events

Facing a nationwide shortage of school psychologists and a growing need for services for increasingly diverse student bodies, the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education launches a new effort to train bilingual school psychologists.

Plus: Chicana and Chicano studies scholar discusses her new book, “The Children of Solaga: Indigenous Belonging across the U.S.-Mexico Border,” in this Interdisciplinary Humanities Center event.

Farmworker communities protest regulation of cancer-causing pesticide as unscientific and racist

VISALIA — More than 100 people (on Jan. 8) attended the Department of Pesticide Regulation’s (DPR) public hearing at the Visalia Veterans’ Memorial Building on its draft regulation of cancer-causing 1,3-dichloropropene (aka 1,3-D, brand name Telone) that addresses only “occupational bystanders” and relies on completely different assumptions of lifetime cancer risk exposure than the law regulating the same pesticide towards children and residents near agricultural fields. 

SEEAG Launches ‘Farm Day Every Day’ At Petty Ranch, Jan. 25

VENTURA — Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG), host of annual Farm Day events in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties and student agriculture education programs, is launching “Farm Day Every Day,” a series of free community events alternating at farms in both counties.

The program kicks off at Petty Ranch in Saticoy on Jan. 25 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Visitors will tour the Petty Farm avocado orchard with farm manager Chris Sayer to learn the secrets of successfully growing avocados. The event includes hands-on activities at SEEAG’s Farm to Food Lab, where children can participate in an insect hunt, visit a vermicompost (worm) station and plant seedlings. Ten attendees will win avocado trees through a drawing.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Environmental Health announces opening of Debris Removal Operations Center for residents enrolled in County-Led Debris Removal Program

VENTURA — Ventura County Environmental Health is pleased to announce that the Debris Removal Operations Center (DROC) for residents enrolled in the County-Led Debris Removal Program will officially open its doors on Wednesday, January 8. The DROC will be located at the former Ventura County Fire Department Headquarters at the Camarillo Airport. The center will serve as the main hub for all Phase 2 debris removal operations, as debris removal for properties impacted by the Mountain Fire is set to begin this month.

First District Supervisor Das Williams — That’s A Wrap!

(Jan. 6), my tenure on the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors came to an end. I consider myself fortunate and blessed that voters have trusted me to serve in elected office and make a difference for 21 years.

When I first came into office people called me a young gun. But in two decades I have seen a lot, and want to leave you with some parting thoughts.

I don’t believe any elected official can make every call right. When you vote on several thousands of pieces of legislation per year, you can never be perfect, as much as I have deeply wanted to.

The issues of our time are daunting.

Santa Barbara Community Gains Free Access to Local Therapists with Immediate Availability

SANTA BARBARA — During the most recent holidays, many individuals in our community faced heightened stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges. To address this urgent need, SB Therapy Now (www.sbTherapyNow.com) is making it easier than ever for Santa Barbara residents to connect with local therapists who have immediate availability.

The platform is designed to eliminate the long wait times often associated with accessing mental health care. By offering instant access to a curated list of therapists, SB Therapy Now empowers individuals to prioritize their mental health when they need it most.

2025 Marks Santa Barbara Earthquake Centennial

SANTA BARBARA — At 6:44am on June  29, 1925, a powerful earthquake devastated Santa Barbara, killing eleven people and destroying or damaging much of downtown. It was a pivotal moment in the City’s history because, out of the debris emerged the Spanish revival city of today.

The EQ25 Alliance is made up of charitable and historical organizations, businesses, governmental agencies, and Santa Barbara residents, under the umbrella of The Santa Barbara Conservancy, a local nonprofit.. They are coordinating a commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Santa Barbara earthquake and its aftermath with a variety of events and symbolic activities.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura announces Corporate Games return in spring 2025

VENTURA — Registration for the City of Ventura’s 2025 Corporate Games opens on January 7, 2025. The Games will occur over the course of five weeks from March 22 to May 3, 2025, on weekends and weeknights after regular business hours.

This annual program brings together businesses from Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles Counties to compete against each other in various activities and sporting events. All local companies and businesses are welcome to join. Registration ends February 14, 2025.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming teams old and new back to the Games,” said Recreation Supervisor Tyler Nelson. “We’ve been hosting the Games for over 35 years, and every season we’re working to improve our activities, ensure participants have a great time, and create lasting memories.”

County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors Jan. 7 meeting, other updates

The next meeting of the County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 
9 a.m. Tuesday, January 7, 2025
County Administration Building
Board Hearing Room, Fourth Floor
105 E. Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara
The public may participate virtually, or in person at the County Board Hearing Room
in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria.

Cottage Health Welcomes Its First New Year’s Baby of 2025

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital welcomed its first baby of the new year.

Mariam and Igor Boyko of Ventura welcomed their fourth child, a baby girl named Esther Love Boyko, into the world at 3:07 a.m. on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital (SBCH).

Weighing 7 pounds and 4 ounces and measuring 19.5 inches, Baby Boyko is already captivating hearts with her arrival.

Baby Boyko arrival marks not just the start of a new year but the beginning of a new chapter in the Boyko family’s lives.

Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara Seniors receive holiday gifts courtesy of Unity Shoppe

SANTA BARBARA — Many Seniors who live in the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara’s housing will receive holiday gifts through the Unity Shoppe’s Seniors Helping Seniors program. 

A total of 365 gifts will be distributed to senior residents to add some additional cheer to their holidays, through the Housing Authority’s supportive housing program.

Hundreds of Unity Shoppe senior volunteers work throughout the year – knitting, sewing, quilting, painting, woodworking, and assembling – to bring warmth and joy to our most vulnerable residents.

“We are grateful to Unity Shoppe for ensuring that our senior residents receive a special gift this holiday season. it means so much to them,” said Alice Villareal Redit,  Resident Programs Supervisor.

Community Environmental Council — Climate-resilient communities don’t just happen

The California Central Coast we love – with its breathtaking vistas and reputation as a lighthouse community for environmental action – exists because people like you saw the need to protect it. Now it’s our turn to ensure our region remains a beacon.

Donate today and DOUBLE the effects of your gift.

Hospice of Santa Barbara less than $110,000 away from reaching $1 Million Legacy of Compassion Campaign goal

SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) is less than $110,000 away from meeting its $1 million goal for the Legacy of Compassion Campaign, which launched in celebration of the organization’s 50th anniversary. The campaign aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of HSB’s free compassionate care services, helping to meet the current demand and build a stronger foundation for the future.

Funds raised from this campaign will go toward reducing the counseling waitlist for grieving adults, expanding HSB’s presence in schools to support all children experiencing grief, assisting patients in navigating the medical system, developing new services to reach more families, and preparing for the rising wave of need in the years ahead.

Ventura County Community Foundation’s (VCCF) Power of Purpose December 2024 newsletter

Over the past weeks, we have witnessed extraordinary acts of generosity that have not only improved the lives of hundreds of families in our community, but have also addressed some of Ventura County’s most urgent challenges, including access to clean water, advancing higher education, preserving local journalism, and affordable housing.

Because of your compassion and unwavering support for your neighbors, last week VCCF’s Board of Directors approved an additional $650,000 to assist those most affected by the Mountain Fire. To date, more than $975,313 has been granted, providing families with access to temporary housing, replacement of vital medical equipment, and other essential resources. Your generosity has also covered emergency veterinary bills for injured pets, supported over 450 animal rescues, and provided families with much-needed financial assistance and childcare as they work to rebuild their lives. You have helped farmworkers who lost both work and housing, and so much more.

Bilingual report — The final news of the year from the County of Ventura

nueva unidad pediátrica

El miércoles 18 de diciembre, líderes locales, pacientes y sus familias se reunieron para celebrar la gran inauguración de la recién contruida Unidad Pediátrica del Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC por sus siglas en inglés). 

Financiada con una subvención estatal de 15 millones de dólares de la Propuesta 4, la nueva unidad de 16 camas está diseñada para proporcionar una atención integral y centrada en la familia a niños, desde recién nacidos hasta adultos jóvenes. 

Bilingual report — Ventura County Medical Center celebrates grand opening of new pediatric unit

“We are thrilled to have this dedicated space to care for the children of Ventura County,” stated Dr. Todd Flosi, Director of Inpatient Pediatric Strategy. “Our multidisciplinary team—comprising physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, physical and occupational therapists, dietitians, social workers, and child life specialists—has specialized training and expertise in caring for children. We focus not only on their medical needs but also on their developmental and emotional well-being. Our goal is to provide excellent care while minimizing the discomfort and disruption that hospitalization can cause for both the child and their family.”

Jan. 8 — District 216 announces upcoming events

Description: Bob & Kevin will present overviewing psychedelics as a promising treatment for chronic pain conditions, including cluster headache and migraine. They will cover the history of research in this area dating back to a study of mescal/peyote in 1896. Bob & Kevin will explain the Mechanisms of Action that are believed to be involved in pain relief and will detail the substances, doses, schedules and adjunctive therapies that are most commonly used when using psychedelics for chronic pain.

When: Wednesday, January 8th, 2025 from 5pm to 9pm (Speaker at 6:30pm)

Continuing — Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program presents Free Grief & Bereavement Support Groups

Bereavement counseling can offer the support you need to help you through your grief. Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program offers both individual (one-on-one) counseling with trained bereavement counselors/therapists and group counseling.

All support groups are free for the community.

Continuing — Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care Bereavement Class – Loss of Loved One

SANTA BARBARA — Continuing — Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care  Bereavement Class – Loss of Loved One. An ongoing support group held each month. Presented by Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care, Santa Barbara. Every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month, 2:00 –…

Continuing — Camarillo Hospice offers Grief Support in Spanish

CAMARILLO — Camarillo Hospice, a Program of Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association, is now offering individual, couple, and family counseling in Spanish for those grieving the death of a loved one, Camarillo Hospice offers a Spanish General Bereavement Groups for the…

Continuing — Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program to present Survivors of Suicide Loss Grief Support Group

If you have experienced the loss of a loved one due to suicide, do not hesitate to join our Survivors of Suicide Loss grief support group. Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program are committed to maintaining an open, accepting, confidential atmosphere. All free of charge. 

Survivors of Suicide Loss meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month from 6:30 to 8:00 pm

Continuing — Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program to present Children & Teens Grief Support Groups

VENTURA COUNTY — Many children and teens have experienced the death of a loved one, This is a difficult time for anyone grieving a loss. Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program provides two free support groups, Good Grief Club (ages 6-10) and Young Teen Group (ages 11-15). These groups will run from October 5th through November 9th on Thursdays 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. For reservations, contact 805-389-6870 or online at lmvna.org/grief. Space is limited.

Continuing — Bilingual report — United Parents provides variety of youth mental health, behavioral and/or emotional disorders programs and services

United Parents’ mission is to provide resources to empower, strengthen and support parents and other caregivers who have youth and/or children with mental health, behavioral, and/or emotional disorders.

Continuing — Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program to present new Men’s Grief Support Group

Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program announces a new Men’s Grief Support Group. The group is for men grieving the death of a loved one. It will meet on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month from 6:30 to 8:00 pm, via Zoom. If interested, please contact us at 805-389-6870. For more information, visit LMVNA.org

Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program support groups are committed to maintaining an open, accepting, confidential atmosphere. We also offer individual, couple, and family grief counseling in English and Spanish. 

Continuing — Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice offering free monthly classes for those with Type 2 and Pre-Diabetes

Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice offers free monthly classes for those with Type 2 and Pre-Diabetes. Learn about meal planning, exercise, blood sugar monitoring, medication management, and new developments for living with diabetes.

Continuing — Livingston’s Grief & Bereavement Program to present Free Grief & Bereavement Support for Children

Livingston’s Grief & Bereavement Program is offering a weekly Good Grief Club to children ages 6 – 11 who have lost a loved one. This session will focus on grief through cinematherapy. The club runs every Tuesday from 5:30 – 7pm through May 30th.

Continuing Grief Support Groups at Livingston’s Camarillo Grief Center

CAMARILLO — Livingston’s Camarillo Grief Center is adding new grief support groups that cater to specific bereavement needs this coming January. These close-ended support groups are Adult Loss of Parent (February 6th through March 26th), Parent Loss of Child (March 7th through May 9th), and Adult Loss of Sibling (March 26th through May 7th). For reservations, contact 805-389-6870 or online at lmvna.org/grief. Space is limited. 

Continuing — Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice presenting Free Grief & Bereavement Support Groups

CAMARILLO — Bereavement counseling can offer the support you need to help you through your grief. Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program offers both individual (one-on-one) counseling with trained bereavement counselors/therapists and group counseling.  

All support groups are free for the community.

Continuing — Mental Wellness Center Community Wellness Program presents ‘Stronger Together,’ a bipolar & depression support group on Thursdays

SANTA BARBARA — The Mental Wellness Center Community Wellness Program presents Stronger Together, a bipolar & depression support group from 6-7:30 p.m.  Thursdays.

This is a drop-in support group where you can find support in a safe and confidential setting. Family members are welcome!

To join, contact Elizabeth Imperato at wrapofsantabarbara@gmail.com

Santa Barbara County Food Action Network — Last Chance to Make a Difference in 2024!

The clock is ticking! This is your last chance to donate in 2024 and support SBCFAN’s vital work to strengthen Santa Barbara County’s food system.

Every dollar counts, and your contribution goes directly toward building programs that empower our local food producers, tackle food inequity, and create a more resilient, sustainable future. With your help, we’ve already accomplished so much this year, and with your continued support, 2025 will be even brighter.

Guest contribution — American Immigration Council — This Week in Immigration

Biden makes critical last-minute change to help combat USCIS backlogs. More options available. Immigrant farmworkers make our holiday meals possible

***

President Biden has just over one month left in office. He can still take decisive action to protect people at risk of indiscriminate immigration enforcement.

Among other priorities, the Council encourages the administration to protect DACA recipients; extend and redesignate Temporary Protected Status for certain countries; and rescind remaining Trump-era immigration regulations.

Read more: Urgent Last Requests for the Biden Administration

Bilingual report — Kaiser Permanente: Feeling Stressed This Holiday Season? You’re Not Alone

There’s a common perception that the holiday season is a time for joy and happiness. After all, as the saying goes, ‘It’s the best time of the year.’

But for many people, the holidays actually present themselves to be a very stressful time that may cause anxiety and depression for a variety of reasons.

“Feeling lonely and stressed during the holidays is a common experience for many,” said Dr. Neel Doshi, a psychiatrist with Kaiser Permanente Southern California. “The stress is often triggered by factors like the absence of loved ones, social isolation, unmet expectations around the festive season, comparisons to idealized holiday portrayals, and the added pressure of family gatherings and gift-giving.

State announces new rule requiring advance notice of agricultural pesticide use

“We’ve been fighting for better protections from hazardous pesticides for many years, including the simple right to know about planned chemical use in our neighborhoods,” said Noemi Chico, a teacher’s assistant in Salinas. “California has taken a step in the right direction, but what we really need to know is whether an application is planned for next door or a mile across town.”

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Board of Supervisors approve expansion of Land Conservation Act Program to offer tax relief to agricultural landowners

“We’re excited to expand this program and offer more agricultural landowners the chance to benefit from lower property taxes,” said 3rd District Supervisor, Kelly Long, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “This will be an incentive to continue to generate thriving agricultural production in Ventura County and show our strong support for ag producers. Through this action, we are indicating that we understand the need to provide opportunities for agricultural landowners to save money while continuing to support farming and wildlife conservation in our community.

Community Environmental Council — Let’s do work for tomorrow, today

When it comes to climate change, I believe it’s up to my generation to come up with new ideas and build momentum for change. We need to collaborate with everyone, and come together to make a positive impact.

The Community Environmental Council has been pivotal in my learning and activism. They’ve inspired me to step up, turn ideas into a reality, and have given me opportunities to make a difference.

We have so many solutions right at hand, including climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy, and climate leadership programs just to name a few. These are the types of solutions CEC educates, advocates, and pioneers for every day. This is the web of interconnecting positive solutions that we need now.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police to hold DUI Checkpoint on Friday, Dec. 20

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department will conduct a driving under the influence (DUI) Checkpoint on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 7:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. The checkpoint will be held at an undisclosed location within the City of Ventura.

Carefully chosen based on data reflecting incidents of impaired driving-related crashes, DUI checkpoints play a pivotal role in enhancing public safety by removing suspected impaired drivers from the road.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors appoint Dr. Uldine Castel as Public Health Officer

VENTURA — Dr. Uldine Castel has been selected as the new Health Officer for Ventura County Public Health. The appointment follows an extensive recruitment process, which included both internal and external candidates. Castel succeeds Dr. Robert Levin who retired from the position in June.

“We’re pleased to have Dr. Castel step into the Health Officer role based on her broad experience in public health and primary care,” stated Chair of the Board of Supervisors, Kelly Long.  “Since assuming the interim role as Health Officer, she has demonstrated her ability to lead with enthusiasm and compassion. Her extensive background in medical leadership and direct patient care, combined with a proven track record of quality public health service positions her as the ideal candidate to guide Ventura County through current and future public health issues”.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — UPDATED: SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Businesses and Residents Affected by the Mountain Fire

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here Para leer este boletín en español, haga clic aquí. UPDATED: SBA OFFERS DISASTER ASSISTANCE TO BUSINESSES AND RESIDENTS AFFECTED BY THE MOUNTAIN FIRE Apply Now for Future Funding!* *Funding for the U.S. Small…

2024 County of Santa Barbara Holiday Closures

(Siga hacia abajo para ver en español)
2024 County of Santa Barbara
Holiday Closure Schedule
In observance of the upcoming holidays, please note that some Santa Barbara County offices will be closed or have modified hours from Wednesday, December 25, 2024, through Wednesday, January 1, 2025. The following County offices will have modified hours that week, as noted below.
All emergency services will remain open.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College celebrates safety and nursing graduations

public servants from its public safety and nursing programs.

The college celebrated the achievements of these highly skilled graduates during several ceremonies for its law enforcement, fire, custody, and emergency medical services academies, as well as its vocational and registered nursing programs.

“One of the college’s most important missions is training new first responders and public servants,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “These graduates are ready to go out and help keep their communities safe and healthy.”

Ventura County Air Pollution Control District records now online

VENTURA — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District has launched a searchable online database that provides the public with information on Ventura County facilities that are permitted, registered or the subject of complaints.

The district’s Public Data Portal offers direct access to records that previously needed to be provided by staff. It is searchable by address, city, company name and type of facility or complaint. The data is updated weekly on Thursdays. Some search results can be downloaded in a spreadsheet.

Bilingual report — Community Environmental Council announces get up to $2,000 for an E-Bike

The California E-Bike Incentive Project is a statewide program making eco-friendly transportation more affordable and accessible. Eligible applicants can receive up to $2,000 toward the purchase of an e-bike. Applications open December 18, 2024 at 6 p.m.

Bilingual report — December News from People’s Self-Help Housing

As the year comes to a close, many of us will find ourselves both looking back over the past twelve months and, perhaps with some hesitancy, looking ahead to the next. At People’s, we are readying for change and please be confident along with me that together we will stay on the path forward, that our mission will continue to be served, and that many on our staggeringly long waitlists will find a place to call home.

Many believe in a certain story where a couple, soon-to-be parents, sought shelter after a long and tiring journey. It was the generosity of a stranger that housed the family that night, finding room for them when seemingly none could be found. We are all strangers until we meet, and it is in that precious space where we become neighbors and friends.

Hope for One: A Heartwarming Collaboration between Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Luis Obispo and SLO City Church

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — Beginning Dec. 18th, a special holiday initiative is bringing joy to 24 local families in need. The collaboration between Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Luis Obispo and SLO City Church has culminated in the Hope for One campaign, a heartfelt effort to fulfill the Christmas wishes of children and their families who are part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters mentorship program. 

Friendship Center’s 2023-2024 Annual Report

We’re excited to share that Friendship Center’s 2023-2024 Annual Report is now live! ? It’s been a year of incredible growth, transformation, and community impact, and we’re eager to highlight how your support is making a difference.

This year, through innovative programs and activities, we’ve honored the individuality of older adults, fostered meaningful social connections, and built a compassionate community where everyone can thrive in their own unique way. None of this would be possible without the generosity of our donors, partners, and friends like you. Thank you for being a part of our mission!

UCSB — The Current — ‘Apparel industry leaks millions of tons of plastic into environment each year’ and more news, events

Global apparel consumption resulted in over 20 million tons of plastic waste in 2019, creating an economic and environmental burden that “falls disproportionately upon the developing economies of the world.”

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Tis the Season…for Climate Action!

The CEC Climate Stewards certi?cation program empowers participants to play an active role in their community to advance rapid and equitable solutions to the climate crisis. Together, our community of 200-strong Climate Steward alumni are standing up for climate justice and pushing forward thousands of solutions, one neighborhood at a time.
The next cohort starts Tuesday, January 28, 2025. Don’t miss out!

Find confidence and inspiration to take climate action today.

Ventura County Animal Services — Shelter Beautification Project

Our Volunteer Gardening Team is hoping to add more vibrant, eye-catching potted plants to the Camarillo Animal Shelter to make our shelter more inviting — and they could use your help!

They’ve already secured plants from local nurseries, including pet-safe succulents, and drought-tolerant native perennials. Now, they’re looking for additional supplies to help create a welcoming garden space for our animals and visitors to enjoy.

TAP/CLICK HERE if you’d like to contribute. (Please note that items on the Wish List have been carefully selected and we kindly ask contributors to follow this list.)

District 216 — WEEK OFF: Happy Holidays & Mark Your Calendars for 2025 Events!

What a beautiful year it’s been! Thank you to everyone who made District216 such a vibrant, thriving community in 2024. Together, we created magic through 55 unforgettable events. We’re taking this week off to rest and recharge, but we can’t wait to kick off an incredible third year of programming in 2025. Here’s to more connection, growth, and inspiration ahead!

DignityMoves Launches Holiday Gift Drive to Support Residents Transitioning Off the Streets

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — The holiday season is a time for connection, compassion, and generosity, and for those transitioning from homelessness to stable housing, it can be especially meaningful. This year DignityMoves is continuing its holiday tradition at their La Posada Village on Hollister Ave. and their downtown Santa Barbara Street Village  by giving each of the 114 residents a stocking, basket or gift bag with personal and holiday items.

The residents of this “interim supportive housing” – a stop-over between tents and permanent housing –  have a safe and dignified place to get out of survival mode to start to rebuild their lives.

For many of the current residents, this will be the first holiday season in years spent off the streets, making it all the more meaningful. 

Bilingual report — Ventura PD urges safe driving and responsible celebrations this holiday season

VENTURA — As the holiday festivities approach, the Ventura Police Department reminds community members to celebrate responsibly and refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, prescription medications, or any over-the-counter drugs that may impair driving ability.

From December 12 to January 1, the Ventura Police Department will have additional officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. This high-visibility enforcement effort is part of the national campaign, ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,’ aimed at keeping roads safe from impaired drivers who jeopardize the safety of everyone.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) announces SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Businesses and Residents Affected by the Mountain Fire – EDC Business Alert

Apply Now for Future Funding!*

*Funding for the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Fund has been fully expended. No new loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding. HOWEVER, the SBA remains committed to supporting disaster survivors and will continue to accept applications and process them to ensure individuals and businesses are prepared to receive assistance once funding becomes available. 

Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) releases 2023-24 Impact Report

CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has recently released their 2023-24 Impact Report, highlighting the organization’s achievements from the past year.  
Introducing this year’s edition, the leadership letter from Board Chair Shelly Higginbotham and CEO & President Ken Trigueiro said, “The technical side of our work that our talented team members and partners navigate so well can sometimes result in days where our mission feels out of reach. When we find ourselves feeling that sense of fatigue, there’s always a special “spark” to reignite our passions.  

AMR Ventura County paramedic and EMT receive recognition for life-saving CPR incident

VENTURA COUNTY — Following a nationally recognized day of giving thanks, American Medical Response Ventura County (AMR) and its affiliate Gold Coast Ambulance (Gold Coast) leadership hosted a private presentation on Nov. 29, to award CPR Save certificates to one of its crews for the life-saving support they provided this past March.

When a female patient in her 50s experienced cardiac arrest on March 30, 2024, AMR paramedic Johnny Villegas and EMT partner Brooke Keeling, along with Gold Coast paramedic intern, Nathanael McCourt — training with AMR — quickly responded on-scene to administer life-saving hands-only CPR aid.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Red Flag Warning Dec. 9-11

The National Weather Service is forecasting a dangerous wind event for Ventura County Monday December 9 – Wednesday December 11, and has issued a Red Flag Warning.

Winds are expected to start Monday afternoon, peaking during the early morning hours Tuesday, and tapering off by late Wednesday. The current forecast is calling for sustained winds at 35mph, with a potential for gusts to 60mph.

In addition to wind, very low relative humidity ranging from 5%-7% is anticipated, with no overnight recovery. While the impact of winds will cover most of Ventura County, the current forecast calls for high intensity conditions in Thousand Oaks, Piru and Fillmore.