Category: Home

Habitat Ventura brings affordable homeownership to Ojai with Tiny Homes Project

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2026 • Comments Off

OJAI — Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County (Habitat Ventura) is preparing for an exciting new chapter in its mission to expand affordable housing opportunities in Ventura County, with a small-scale residential development planned for Ojai and anticipated to break ground in summer 2026. The Montgomery Street Tiny Homes project will deliver five new homes designed to meet the needs of the Ojai community while preserving the character of the neighborhood. The development will include two thoughtfully designed tiny home duplexes and one single-family home, creating a total of five affordable homeownership opportunities for local families.

Most comprehensive wildfire prevention package in California state history announced with support from leading wildfire experts & organizations

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2026 • Comments Off

More than a dozen bills across the Senate and Assembly will advance home hardening, expand beneficial fire, unlock financing, and accelerate innovation to better protect California from future megafires

Nonprofit Celebrates 55th Anniversary and Local Leaders at the LEAP Awards?

by Community Contributor • March 4, 2026 • Comments Off

GOLETA — LEAP: Learn. Engage. Advocate. Partner. celebrated its 55th anniversary as a nonprofit — and 50 years of providing high-quality childcare — at the 2026 LEAP Awards Brunch on Saturday, February 28, at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort. The event raised $81,715 to support LEAP’s programs and services for children and families across Santa Barbara County.

Housing leaders identify workforce housing as key to Ventura County’s economic future

by Community Contributor • March 4, 2026 • Comments Off

“The lack of available housing, not just affordable housing, but available housing, is the single largest impediment to economic growth and prosperity in our region,” said Stephanie Caldwell, President & CEO of the Ventura Chamber of Commerce. “As Ken Trigueiro said, ‘Affordable housing is where the jobs go at night’.” These words framed the core theme of the morning: if workers cannot afford to live here, Ventura County’s economy cannot thrive.

Ventura County Community Foundation (VCCF) Power of Purpose – March 2026

by Community Contributor • March 4, 2026 • Comments Off

As we step into March and the first hints of spring begin to emerge, I find myself reflecting on all the beauty surrounding us, especially you, our community foundation family, who make Ventura County so very special to me.

There is truly so much to love about our community. Yes, the natural beauty is breathtaking. But even more powerful is the way our community shows up for one another. Time and again, we have demonstrated a deep and steady care for our neighbors, a willingness to collaborate, and a shared commitment to strengthening the place we call home. That spirit—resilient, generous, and hopeful—is what makes this region extraordinary, and is something I see reflected every day in my colleagues at your community foundation.

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

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2026 • Comments Off

Last month we were honored to receive an award from a regional organization focused on economic development.

As essential infrastructure, just like transportation, public health, water systems, and energy grids, housing underpins our economy and is the very foundation upon which every vibrant community is built.

But the persistent shortage of affordable homes continues to challenge our region.

New affordable family and workforce housing developments advance in Unincorporated Ventura County (near Ojai) and Santa Barbara with McCarthy Companies

by Community Contributor • February 19, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — McCarthy Companies has been selected to provide Preconstruction and General Contracting services for two new affordable housing developments, bringing a total of 112 new affordable units to the Central Coast counties.

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County commits $2,000,000 to create 291 units of affordable housing in Oxnard

by Community Contributor • February 17, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) has approved $2 million in loans to create 291 affordable homes across two Oxnard communities. The funding will support Lockwood Phase III and Cypress Place Phase II, addressing the critical need for housing among working families, farmworkers, and low-income households. Local developer Homes & Hope will receive a $500,000 predevelopment loan to develop Lockwood III, creating 232 apartment homes for families earning 30-70% of area median income (AMI). People’s Self Help Housing Corporation will receive a $1.5 million predevelopment loan for Cypress Place II, which will provide 59 apartment homes for households earning 30-60% of area median income (AMI).

Bilingual report — City of Ventura celebrates completion of Cabrillo Village Multi-Use Path

by Community Contributor • February 17, 2026 • Comments Off

“This project is more than just a bike and pedestrian path. It’s about connectivity, sustainability, and enhancing quality of life,” said Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios. “By investing in accessible transportation options, we’re creating dedicated corridors where residents can walk, bike, and roll through our city in ways that support their well-being.”

United Way of Ventura County’s Landlord Engagement Program reaches major milestone: 1,000 people housed

by Community Contributor • February 12, 2026 • Comments Off

United Way of Ventura County’s United to End Homelessness (UTEH) Ventura County proudly announces a major milestone in its mission to address homelessness in our community. Since the founding of the Landlord Engagement Program (LEP) in
2019, 1,000 people have now been housed.

$9.5 Million in incentives now available for energy-saving upgrades on the Central Coast

by Community Contributor • February 12, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Incentives through 3C-REN (Tri-County Regional Energy Network), a partnership between the Counties of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura, are once again available to help improve homes and other buildings with clean, energy efficient systems. The renewed 2026 funding follows high demand in 2025, when incentives for single-family homes and the commercial sector were fully exhausted months ahead of schedule.

Center Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — (Tuesday, Feb. 10) Ventura City Council Has a Choice

by Community Contributor • February 10, 2026 • Comments Off

For too long, bad landlords have used harassment and intimidation to push people out of their homes. Tomorrow, Ventura City Council has a choice.

If the City Council acts, they can put real protections in place so tenants aren’t bullied, threatened, or forced out just for standing their ground. In Oxnard, this policy is already doing what it’s meant to do: protecting tenants who speak up and shutting down landlords who try to terrorize families by threatening to call ICE.

Center Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Santa Paula residents urged to address City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m. Feb 4

by Community Contributor • February 4, 2026 • Comments Off

The fight for housing justice in Santa Paula is reaching a breaking point – and City Council must decide who they stand with.

For over a year, mobile home residents in Santa Paula have been living under constant threat of displacement, all because a corporate landlord is trying again and again to squeeze more profit out of our working class community.

Here’s what residents have endured over the last year:

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County to receive $4.4 million from Prop 1 program

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) has been notified by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) that it has been awarded $4,406,179 from the final round of the Local Housing Trust Fund (LHTF) Matching Grant Program. This brings the organization’s total LHTF funding to $18,425,566 out of $25 million available since 2020. Housing Trust Fund VC was also awarded a $125,396.82 grant from the California Investment & Innovation Program (Cal IIP).

Bilingual report — Ventura Fire Department seeks community input on first-every Community Wildfire Protection Plan

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2026 • Comments Off

“As wildfire risks continue to grow, planning and prevention are more important than ever,” said Interim Fire Chief Kris McDonald. “This draft Community Wildfire Protection Plan reflects both data and local experience, but it is strongest when the community helps guide it. We encourage residents to review the plan, attend a workshop, and share their perspectives so we can truly meet Ventura’s needs.”

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

by Community Contributor • January 26, 2026 • Comments Off

Awarded by EconAlliance, Santa Barbara County 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann presented People’s Self-Help Housing with the 2026 Northern Santa Barbara County Impact Award. Recognizing organizations providing extraordinary support in the community, it was accepted by current CEO & President Ken Trigueiro who was joined by former CEO & President John Fowler.

Bilingual report — People’s Self Help Housing — Buellton Garden Apartments: Pre-applications available now | Presolicitudes disponibles ahora

by Community Contributor • January 14, 2026 • Comments Off

Pre-applications available now at pshhc.org/BGA
Presolicitudes disponibles ahora en pshhc.org/BGA

Bilingual report — City of Ventura launches housing workshop series

by Community Contributor • January 13, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is launching Ventura Housing Connections, a free workshop series that helps tenants, property owners, and property managers build informed, successful rental relationships.

The workshops will deliver clear, practical guidance on rental rights and responsibilities, housing standards, communication strategies, and local housing resources. Designed for both new and experienced renters and property owners, the series supports conflict prevention, stronger communication, and housing stability throughout Ventura.

My Way Home (Doing business as Ventura County Community Development Corp.) — Thank you for an impactful 2025!

by Community Contributor • January 5, 2026 • Comments Off

As we come to the close of 2025, I want to begin by saying thank you for being part of our community.

We were able to accomplish a lot of great things in 2025, including:
Assisting 265+ families in achieving or preserving homeownership
Providing 1,130+ individuals with free homeownership and financial education
Providing 515+ families with access to free financial coaching
Financing $15M+ in first mortgages for low- and moderate- income families for the purchase of safe and affordable homes
Awarding or facilitating $1.4M+ in down payment and closing cost assistance for low- and moderate- income families

Casa De Vida Inc. — Looking ahead with gratitude

by Community Contributor • January 5, 2026 • Comments Off

As we near the end of another year, we want to take a moment to say thank you. Your generosity, prayers, and encouragement have meant more to us than we can fully express.

This year brought its share of challenges for Casa De Vida. There were moments of uncertainty that tested our faith and endurance. Yet through it all, God remained faithful, and our community continued to stand with us.

As we reach the end of this final quarter, we are grateful to share that things are beginning to improve. Support has increased, stability is returning, and we are entering the new year with renewed hope. Your belief in this mission has helped us make that progress.

Community Alert: Escalating ICE raids across the Central Coast 805. UndocuFund issues urgent call for Community and Financial Support

by Community Contributor • January 3, 2026 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — 805UndocuFund is urgently alerting the community to a devastating escalation in immigration enforcement activity across Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties over the past several days. These actions are causing profound harm to immigrant families, workers, and entire communities, with lasting consequences for public health, safety, and the regional economy.

Over the weekend alone, 805UndocuFund’s 805 Rapid Response Network alongside autonomous community patrol and defense groups SBResiste, and Carpinteria Sin Fronteras, documented 58 ICE kidnappings across the Central Coast:

• Saturday, December 27, 2025:

35 total — 33 in Santa Maria and 2 in San Luis Obispo

• Sunday, December 28, 2025:

23 total — 13 in Lompoc, 8 in Santa Maria, and 2 in Santa Barbara

• Monday, December 29, 2025, ICE continues operations in Santa Maria and San Luis Obispo, terrorizing residents, destabilizing workplaces, and leaving families in crisis.

Feb. 12 — Bilingual report — My Way Home — California Dream for All, HomeNow and more

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2026 • Comments Off

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Feb. 25 — Ventura County Taxpayers Association (VCTA) — Breakfast Club to receive Mountain Fire Update

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2026 • Comments Off

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Bilingual report — 2025: A Year in Review from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • December 30, 2025 • Comments Off

As we reflect on the past year, we’ve compiled some of the top stories that highlight what we were able to accomplish together. These stories were made possible by strong partnerships and visionary investments from people like you. Thank you for your advocacy, goodwill, and generous support every step of the way!

Without SBCFAN, $500,000 in local food wouldn’t be reaching our communities

by Community Contributor • December 29, 2025 • Comments Off

Santa Barbara County’s food system is powered by many small, community-based organizations working to increase access to fresh food, strengthen local agriculture, and support community health. Yet these organizations face the same challenge: they are deeply embedded in their own neighborhoods but lack the capacity to navigate countywide opportunities, state and federal funding, or cross-regional partnerships. SBCFAN serves as the essential backbone that connects these efforts.Continued investment in SBCFAN ensures that organizations like Route 1 can thrive, scale, and sustain their impact.

Bilingual report — Flood Watch in effect as storm prompts Evacuation Order and pier closure in Ventura. Please see related Central Coast stories

by Community Contributor • December 24, 2025 • Comments Off

• Bilingual report — County of Ventura — Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report: Potential storm water runoff contamination
• Ventura County Emergency Information website update
• Bilingual report — EVACUATION WARNING Issued for Identified Properties in Santa Barbara County Associated with the Lake Fire
• City of San Luis Obispo — Five Ways to Prepare for the Upcoming Storm
• Bilingual report — Major Storm Forecasted for Santa Barbara County (Dec. 23-25)
• Bilingual report — City of Ventura activates Foul Weather Shelter on Dec. 23 due to inclement weather

VENTURA — A Flood Watch is in effect for the City of Ventura from 4:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 23, through 10:00 p.m. Thursday, December 25, as an Atmospheric River storm system is expected to bring prolonged and heavy rainfall to the area. Total rainfall amounts of 5 to 6 inches are possible in Ventura.

A High Surf Advisory is also in effect from 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 23, through 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 27, and a Wind Advisory is in effect from 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 23, through 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 25.

Happy Holidays from Das and Spencer

by Community Contributor • December 24, 2025 • Comments Off

After many years of collective public service, you may be wondering what we are up to. You guessed it—we could not stop serving the public! We are fighting for clean and affordable energy in a new way.

We are working for the local, five-county Community Choice Aggregator, Central Coast Community Energy (3CE), and we are loving it. In a darkening age, living our values through our energy, fuel, and travel choices is crucial to avoid the worst effects of climate change. Ya’Ash has also gotten in on the act, creating hand-drawn posters and chalk paintings of steps you can take to save the environment.

Ventura County Emergency Information website update

by Community Contributor • December 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Winter Storm Information

Ventura County Sheriff Emergency Services and the National Weather Service are monitoring a significant storm forecast to bring up rainfall totals up to 4.00 inches in coasts and valleys and 8.00 in mountain areas of Ventura County Tuesday evening through Thursday.

Bilingual report — EVACUATION WARNING Issued for Identified Properties in Santa Barbara County Associated with the Lake Fire

by Community Contributor • December 23, 2025 • Comments Off

EVACUATION WARNING Issued for Identified Properties in Santa Barbara County Associated with the Lake Fire

***

ADVERTENCIA DE EVACUACIÓN emitida para propiedades identificadas en el Condado de Santa Barbara asociadas con el Incendio Lake

Bilingual report — Major Storm Forecasted for Santa Barbara County (Dec. 23-25)

by Community Contributor • December 23, 2025 • Comments Off

The National Weather Service is forecasting a major storm for Santa Barbara County that is expected to occur Tuesday, December 23, 2025, through Thursday, December 25, 2025. Light rain is possible on Sunday, December 21, 2025, and Monday, December 22, 2025. Flooding in low-lying areas, flash flooding, and strong winds are possible.

There are no evacuations in place at this time. If you are concerned that this storm may cause unsafe conditions at your home, leave the area before the rain starts. Do not wait for an official evacuation notification to leave.

Public safety officials are monitoring the incoming storm and will continue to assess if protective actions, such as an evacuation warning, evacuation order, or shelter in place, are necessary.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura activates Foul Weather Shelter on Dec. 23 due to inclement weather

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura, in partnership with River Community Church, has activated the Foul Weather Shelter Program on Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025, in response to forecasted rainfall of at least one-half inch.

As part of this activation, 40 motel rooms have been reserved at a local motel for individuals 62 years and older and/or with those with chronic medical conditions. Rooms are limited and will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Individuals who are not placed in a motel room will receive a stay-warm kit.

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

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2025 • Comments Off

As we approach December 21, the longest night of the year, I am reminded of the profound significance this season holds for those of us committed to ending homelessness. The winter solstice is a natural pause, a moment to reflect on the stark reality faced by individuals who endure these long nights without the comfort of shelter.

While many of us live by calendars, alarms, and screens, the sun remains the oldest measure of time. In these days of deep darkness and cold, I encourage you to take a moment to consider what these hours mean for those without warmth, food, or safety.

Homes & Hope, NPHS and CEDC selected for two state surplus land sites in Fontana and San Bernardino

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (CEDC), Homes & Hope, and Neighborhood Partnership Housing Services (NPHS) have been selected for two sites through the State of California’s Surplus Land Initiative, a key part of Governor Newsom’s announcement advancing six projects that will create 843 new affordable homes on state-owned land.

Groundbreaking ceremony marks start of construction for Jacaranda Court – 63 new affordable workforce homes coming to Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • December 17, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB), joined by city officials, project partners, and community members, celebrated the official groundbreaking of Jacaranda Court, a new 63-unit affordable rental community designed to serve Santa Barbara’s…

Allan Hancock College’s SkillsUSA Community Service Team organizes blanket drive donation

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College’s SkillsUSA Community Service Team is collecting new and gently used blankets this holiday season to support individuals and families in need across the Central Coast.

Donation bins are available now through Dec.19 in the Mechanics Bank Student Center (bldg. G) at the college’s Santa Maria campus. Community members are encouraged to contribute if they are able.

The blanket drive serves as the team’s official SkillsUSA community service project for the year. Students on the team include Johana Diaz-Toscano, Alexandra Ramirez and Victoria Gama. The three students organized and launched the initiative entirely themselves. Diaz-Toscano said that blankets will be distributed to local shelters, many of which see increased need during the winter months.

Guest contribution — McCarthy Companies marks milestone with continued commitment to quality, community

by Community Contributor • December 12, 2025 • Comments Off

“Forty-five years of growth have reinforced a core belief: we don’t just build homes—we create opportunity, stability, and long-term value for the communities we serve,” said Sarah McCarthy-Garcia, Partner. “As we look ahead, our focus remains on thoughtful expansion, innovation, and advancing housing options that will endure for generations.”

Habitat Families receive keys to homes they helped build at Vista Campanario

by Community Contributor • December 11, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — On the morning of Saturday, December 6th, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County (Habitat Ventura) presented families with keys to their very own homes at Vista Campanario in Camarillo. The families, all first-time homeowners, helped build their homes alongside Habitat Ventura volunteers, with each family contributing 250-500 hours of sweat equity.The eight new townhomes are located at Vista Campanario, a new Camarillo development that includes rental units along with the eight for-sale Habitat town homes.

“We are always trying to be better at what we do. This build is the first time we’ve collaborated with multiple partners to build these units,” said Darcy Taylor, CEO, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County. “To continue to build low-income housing, it’s going to take more than just Habitat to do that. We’re grateful for the partners that have allowed us to put these wonderful homes together.”

Bilingual report — City of Ventura reflects on eight years since the Thomas Fire with rebuild progress and safety improvements

by Community Contributor • December 4, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — This week marks the eighth anniversary of the Thomas Fire, one of the most destructive wildfires in California history. Since 2017, the City of Ventura has remained focused on supporting impacted homeowners, strengthening wildfire preparedness, and improving the transparency of the rebuilding process.

As of November 2025, 404 homes have been completely rebuilt and approved for occupancy, 31 permits are under active construction, and another 18 more are under plan review. The City’s Thomas Fire Rebuild Overlay Zone, established in 2018 to support recovery by reducing fees, simplifying development standards, and providing greater design flexibility, will expire on December 31, 2025. Property owners who wish to rebuild under these provisions must submit a complete and substantial building permit application, including all required plans, before the expiration date.

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors to meet on Dec. 9

by Community Contributor • December 4, 2025 • Comments Off

View this email online The next regular meeting of the County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 10 a.m. Tuesday, December 9, 2025 County Administration Building Board Hearing Room, 4th Floor 105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara The public may participate…

Page 1 of 23

1 2 3 … 23 »