Category: Home

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announces $2 million in lines of credit received from Community West Bank and Mission Bank

by Community Contributor • April 19, 2022 • Comments Off

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) announces two, $1 million lines of credit (LOC), one each from Community West Bank and Mission Bank. The funds will be used as part of Housing Trust Fund VC’s Everyone Deserves a Home revolving loan fund, a community impact note that provides flexible, below- market interest rate loans for the development of affordable housing in Ventura County. Three upcoming developments that will receive funding are a new pre-development loan for Fillmore Terrace being developed by Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Corporation (PSHHC), a GAP loan for Mesa Ojai being purchased by Mesa, and a construction loan to the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura (HACSB) for Westview II.

United Way of Ventura County launches Forward Home Program

by Community Contributor • April 15, 2022 • Comments Off

United Way of Ventura County has officially launched its new Forward Home Program in partnership with the City of Oxnard, which assists City of Oxnard clients experiencing homelessness in successfully transitioning to stable housing.

UWVC provides a variety of services via the Forward Home Program, including collaborating with case managers as well as assisting clients in gathering and obtaining necessary documents, receiving credit counseling, applying for housing voucher programs, accessing additional community resources, and more.

Sigrid Wright Awarded Congressional Woman of the Year

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2022 • Comments Off

Congressmember Salud Carbajal has announced the winners of the fifth annual Congressional Women of the Year Award, including Community Environmental Council CEO Sigrid Wright. This prestigious award honors six exceptional women across the 24th Congressional District who have left a positive impact on their communities.

“With the many daunting challenges of the growing climate crisis, Sigrid’s dedicated environmental leadership in Santa Barbara has guided the community in facing those changes,” Congressman Carbajal said. “I am honored to recognize her contributions to our community.”

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Artist Announcement! Earth Day Mural 2022 now underway!

by Community Contributor • April 11, 2022 • Comments Off

Community Environmental Council (CEC), Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB), and Paseo Nuevo are delighted to announce that artist Maria Arroyo has been selected to paint this year’s Earth Day Mural!

Selected from submissions from across Ventura, Santa Barbara, and SLO counties, the 2022 Call For Entries prompted artists to submit their artistic concepts online alongside a proposal for a mural that expresses what Earth Day and Climate Leadership mean to them. Maria Arroyo’s concept was selected to appear on the Paseo Nuevo Arts Terrace Parking Deck adjacent to MCASB.

Mark Johnson Home Lending Team Joins Guaranteed Rate in Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • April 5, 2022 • Comments Off

Guaranteed Rate, a leader in mortgage lending and digital financial services, welcomes Mark Johnson as a Vice President of Mortgage Lending at its Santa Barbara, Calif. location.

“We are thrilled to have Mark and his amazing colleagues joining our Santa Barbara team,” said Guaranteed Rate Senior Vice President of Mortgage Lending and Branch Manager Jeff Bochsler. “They bring years of experience and expertise that will position our company for massive growth and success in this region.”

Bilingual report — City of Oxnard Collects 206 Tons of Bulky Trash at Neighborhood Bulky Item Drop-Off Day Events

by Community Contributor • March 30, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Oxnard collected more than 206 tons of bulky trash over four weekends in March as 1,432 Oxnard residents took advantage of the free Neighborhood Bulky Item Drop-Off Day events. Hosted in partnership with Caltrans, the community events help prevent the illegal dumping of furniture and other trash in Oxnard’s streets, parks and alleyways.

The new Neighborhood Bulky Item Drop-Off Day program created four regions for drop-off events that allowed every neighborhood in the City an opportunity to dispose of old mattresses, damaged furniture and other large, bulky items for free throughout March.

House Farm Workers! Opens Ellen Brokaw House Farm Workers! 2022 scholarship applications

by Community Contributor • March 25, 2022 • Comments Off

House Farm Workers! has opened applications for its 7th annual Ellen Brokaw House Farm Workers! scholarship for college-bound and current college students who are children of Ventura County farm workers, including seasonal and retired farm workers. Eligible students may submit applications online at www.HouseFarmWorkers.org. Three students will be selected to receive $3,000.00 each towards their continued education and will be honored at House Farm Workers! annual “From Field to Fork,” fundraiser, which will be held in July. Scholarship applications must be submitted no later than April 29, 2022.

The scholarship is named in honor of Ellen Brokaw, an important member of the agricultural community in Ventura County and the founding chairwoman of House Farm Workers!. Brokaw, a prominent member of our county’s agricultural community, is a dedicated and inspirational leader and advocate who is committed to improving the lives of farm workers and their families.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — COVID Rental Assistance Apply by March 31st !

by Community Contributor • March 24, 2022 • Comments Off

State eviction protections end March 31st, along with the state-run COVID rental relief program. Luckily, Santa Barbara County has our own program, which will continue accepting applications after March 31st.

However, anyone who owes rent starting April 1st may be at risk of eviction, even with a pending rental assistance application. Legislators in Sacramento are working quickly to extend the eviction protections to those with pending rental assistance applications. I strongly encourage anyone who needs assistance to apply by March 31st. There is no guarantee that you will receive eviction protections but it is being worked on.

Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. Collaborates with GRID Alternatives Greater Los Angeles to Provide Clean Solar Energy to Local Senior Community

by Community Contributor • March 24, 2022 • Comments Off

Cabrillo EDC was honored to work with GRID Alternatives Greater Los Angeles (GRID GLA), a nonprofit organization that installs solar power systems and provides job training for economic and environmental justice communities. During a week-long project in early March 2022, GRID GLA installed 64 solar panels on a ten-car carport at the Cabrillo EDC’s Camino Esperanza property in Simi Valley.

Camino Esperanza is a rental community serving seniors aged 62 years and older with 30 one-bedroom units. Eleven units are for Seniors with developmental disabilities at 25 percent of the area median income. The remaining 19 units are available for seniors earning up to 50 percent of the area median income. Two units are ADA compliant and 28 are fully adaptable.

March News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • March 17, 2022 • Comments Off

Phase 1 of a rehabilitation at our Isla Vista Apartments is complete! Construction consisted of accessibility upgrades, seismic retrofitting, and full replacement of the plumbing, roof, and interior finishes. We are excited to welcome the first group of residents back to their newly renovated homes!

Conejo Community Outreach’s diaper bank surpasses 500,000 diapers distributed

by Community Contributor • March 14, 2022 • Comments Off

Conejo Community Outreach (CCO), a local 100% volunteer-run nonprofit, has surpassed half a million diapers distributed to families in Ventura County through its community diaper bank. The diaper bank, which launched in March 2018, averaged 25,000 diapers per year prior to COVID-19. In March 2020, as the local economy shut down, requests for diaper support increased by more than 88%. Now, the diaper bank is averaging 225,000 diapers per year, regularly distributing more than 25,000 diapers per month to more than 300 local children.

Ventura County Community Development Corp. March 2022 Newsletter

by Community Contributor • March 14, 2022 • Comments Off

In March we celebrate Women’s History Month! VCCDC is a woman-led non-profit organization with a majority female workforce. Not only are we run by a group of amazing women, but we also serve amazing women in our community. In fact, 70% of those who take that bold first step in reaching out to VCCDC to achieve the dream of homeownership are female. This month we especially celebrate the women who have contributed to VCCDC’s success including our board, staff, clients, partners, and community members!

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Housing is Key: CA COVID-19 Rent Relief Ending Soon

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2022 • Comments Off

The CA COVID-19 Rent Relief program helps eligible households with rent, both for past due and future payments. Depending on the address of your rental property, you may be eligible for a local program. CLICK HERE to find out which program is right for you.

Rent Relief Applications are open through March 31, 2022!

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County names Jason Gaffner as new Deputy Director/Loan Portfolio Manager

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2022 • Comments Off

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) has hired Jason Gaffner as its new Deputy Director, Loan Portfolio Manager. In this newly created position Gaffner will manage Housing Trust Fund VC’s portfolio of existing loans including underwriting and review to close loans expeditiously for affordable housing developments in the community. He’ll also work with developers to secure a pipeline of future loans and prepare documentation needed for reporting to investors, funders, grantors, and others.

Housing Authority honors City Net as 2021 Outstanding Community Partner of the Year

by Community Contributor • March 8, 2022 • Comments Off

The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara honored City Net as their 2021 Outstanding Community Partner of the Year. The Housing Authority created its annual partner award as a way of recognizing and thanking organizations and businesses that help change lives for the better. The supportive services provided to clients through a collaboration with City Net are an essential part of the Housing Authority’s holistic service delivery approach. Founded in 2005 in Long Beach, California, their mission is based on a commitment to break the cycle of homelessness in the communities they serve by connecting neighbors experiencing homelessness to transformative care and innovative housing solutions.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura March 7, 2022 update

by Community Contributor • March 7, 2022 • Comments Off

The last day to apply is March 31, 2022! HousingIsKey.com is still accepting and reviewing applications for the CA COVID-19 Rent Relief Program, which can help protect tenants from eviction through the end of March. Funds for rental reimbursement are prioritized for those based on their time of submission and the highest risk of eviction. Even if you aren’t sure if you are at the highest risk, you are still encouraged to apply to help protect yourself from eviction. To learn more and to connect with local partners for application assistance, visit: vchsa.org/community-events/basic-assistance-community-events/californias-covid-19-rent-relief-program. Receive more information, check eligibility and apply at HousingIsKey.com today or call 833-430-2122.

February News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • February 22, 2022 • Comments Off

From the broken ‘forty acres and a mule’ promise to the tragedies of the subprime crisis, Black Americans have found themselves both the unintended and fully intended victims of over one hundred years of racially motivated ordinances, practices and policies.

As a nation we have much to mourn as we have systematically prevented, and inhibited communities of color from fully participating in the American Dream. During this Black History Month, I invite you to re-exam for yourself how discriminatory lending, nefarious use of eminent domain, and the displacement of communities of color, have prevented the wealth building opportunities routinely afforded the white middle and upper classes.

Santa Barbara County Food Action Network — Winter Newsletter

by Community Contributor • February 17, 2022 • Comments Off

Winter is fleeting, as it often is in California and throughout our coastal county. Santa Barbara County’s unique micro-climates allow for so much to be produced here this time of year while other parts of the country struggle to get the bare necessities to take root: winter crops such as celery root, beets, hard squash, bok choy, collards, cilantro, and citrus abound. As lobster season comes to a close, fishermen are reeling in halibut, seabass, and dozens of varieties of cod and rockfish. Soon ranchers will bring lamb to the market, a sign that spring is just around the corner.

As we welcome spring, we look forward to gathering with food system actors like you to listen, learn, and share resources.

Ventura County Civic Alliance — Livable Communities Newsletter – Feb. 15, 2022

by Community Contributor • February 15, 2022 • Comments Off

Ventura County’s Tale of Two Cities:

There is a saying in the medical field that states: Give me your zip code and I will tell you how healthy you are. A zip code may also predict financial health and safety. The challenge is to understand what the data is telling us and what we can do with it to make an impact.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 update for Feb. 14

by Community Contributor • February 14, 2022 • Comments Off

Happy Valentine’s Day from the team at the Clerk/Recorder’s Office! A sweet photo from the wedding room today. This all-star team processes marriage licenses and other vital records year round. 3,550+ marriage licenses last year. Big day for them, many appointments scheduled today! We are grateful for this special team!

Less than 48 hours to go! Still time to register for Homelessness Symposium!

by Community Contributor • February 2, 2022 • Comments Off

Want to catch Jessica Bruder’s pre-symposium chat with KCLU’s Lance Orozco?

Tune into 88.3 FM tomorrow morning at 7:45 a.m. or at 8:45 a.m. as a warm-up to Friday’s symposium!

United Way of Ventura County — 5-day countdown to Homelessness Symposium — Register Now!

by Community Contributor • January 31, 2022 • Comments Off

5 days until our second United to End Homelessness Ventura County Virtual Symposium on Feb. 4, 2022. There’s still time to register!

A panel moderated by Tony Biasotti, Executive Editor, Pacific Coast Business Times, includes:

Julia Brownley, U.S. representative (CA-26);
Mike Powers, CEO, County of Ventura;
Murtaza Sanwari, senior vice president and area manager, Kaiser Permanente;
Matt Capritto, realtor and housing champion; and
Amy Duganne, director, homelessness initiatives, United Way of Ventura County.

Jacqui Irwin, Assemblymember (AD-44) will lead a community conversation to close the symposium.

Ventura County Animal Services — FEE-WAIVED dog adoptions THIS WEEKEND at the Camarillo Shelter

by Community Contributor • January 27, 2022 • Comments Off

We are THRILLED to offer Fee-Waived Adoptions this weekend (JAN 29-30). This promotion applies to all dogs who have entered Ventura County Animal Services in 2021. Please view available dogs at www.vcas.us/dogs. Each animal’s “Intake Date” is located on each profile page.

Adoptions are by appointment-only. Sorry, no walk-ins! There are two (2) ways to schedule an adoption appointment:

1) Online at www.vcas.us/adopt, or

2) Email our Adoption Counselors at PetAdoptions@ventura.org. Please include the Animal ID# of the 2021 dog of interest. Only use this email address for dogs who entered our care in 2021.

United Way of Ventura County — United in compassion

by Community Contributor • January 26, 2022 • Comments Off

After six months of working with a family of two adults and five children (all ages 7 and under, including an infant), our team has successfully found permanent housing for them thanks to our partnership with a private landlord in Port Hueneme. The landlord is also looking to purchase another property to continue her partnership with United Way. Housing First is a proven model and it’s working. Since we launched the program two years ago, we’ve helped permanently house 146 individuals.

Next week as part of our United to End Homelessness Ventura County Symposium, I’ll be interviewing keynote speaker, Jessica Bruder, author of the award-winning Nomadland. The book, and the Oscar-winning film based on the book, documents the lives of itinerant Americans who travel from job to job out of economic necessity. I hope you’ll join me for this important virtual symposium on February 4.

Bilingual report — Older Youth in Care Thrive with Support from Local Families & Mentors

by Community Contributor • January 26, 2022 • Comments Off

Elizabeth “Lizzy” Clews was 15 years old when, after multiple attempts to escape a toxic home life, she was placed in out-of-home care (formerly foster care). Without a stable home environment, Clews attended 13 different high schools leaving her feeling vastly disconnected. It was not until she was 17 and living in her second group home that Elizabeth met Damon, a mentor that completely changed the direction of her life. Now Elizabeth helps others in care.

“Just having that one solid person that I knew was always going to be there really motivated me and gave me a sense of confidence and just a feeling like I deserved to be loved,” said Clews. “It felt so good to have this person that I thought was successful also see that same potential in me at various stages of my life.”

Bilingual report — CenCal Health Welcomes Governor’s Plan to Expand Medi-Cal to All Eligible

by Community Contributor • January 20, 2022 • Comments Off

In response to the announcement and 2022-23 budget proposal from California State Governor Gavin Newsom, community-based health plan CenCal Health made the following statement:

“CenCal Health welcomes Governor Newsom’s health care expansion plan for California and is ready to support Medi-Cal coverage for eligible residents in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties – regardless of their immigration status,” said Marina Owen, CenCal Health CEO.

“Along with our Board of Directors, executive team and staff, I am gratified that our organization here on the Central Coast can help bring much-needed, long overdue health coverage to the region, and take this step towards health equity. In partnership with our network of dedicated doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, and other providers, CenCal Health is ready to deliver high-quality health care to all.” If the new budget plan is supported by the legislature, coverage would begin on Jan. 1, 2024.

January News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • January 20, 2022 • Comments Off

The Day of Service this month, dedicated to volunteering in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, is especially germane for us to acknowledge and celebrate here at People’s Self-Help Housing. Daily, our organization and residents benefit from the numerous and compassionate efforts from volunteers throughout the Central Coast. They include those who serve alongside us at our learning centers, at events, support us in public settings, and serve to guide our governance.

You continually inspire and encourage us in your volunteerism, and that same spirit in turn runs through the personal lives of many of our employees. Team members volunteer on other nonprofits boards, support youth groups, and participant in community events. They serve on city councils, planning commissions, local service clubs, as well as in their places of worship.

Panelists announced for Feb. 4 United to End Homelessness Symposium

by Community Contributor • January 11, 2022 • Comments Off

We are pleased to share the confirmed panelists for our second United to End Homelessness Virtual Symposium on Feb. 4, 2022.

Panelists include: Julia Brownley, U.S. representative (CA-26); Mike Powers, CEO, County of Ventura; Murtaza Sanwari, senior vice president and area manager, Kaiser Permanente; Matt Capritto, realtor and housing champion; and Amy Duganne, director, homelessness initiatives, United Way of Ventura County. Jacqui Irwin, Assemblymember (AD-44) will lead a community conversation to close the symposium.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Volunteer for Point In Time Count, 1/9 Remembrance Event, COVID-19 Info & More

by Community Contributor • January 8, 2022 • Comments Off

I want to wish you a healthy and happy New Year, and encourage you to live with less worry. I believe that living without worry is not about ignoring dangers, it is about controlling what you can control, taking precautions, but also living your life and not putting energy into what is outside our control.

“If you have a piece of truth, do not hide it like a treasure, but hang it on a shingle for the world to see.”

3C-REN to Bring the Building Decarbonization Coalition’s ‘The Switch is On’ Program to Tri-County Area

by Community Contributor • January 6, 2022 • Comments Off

3C-REN (The Tri-County Regional Energy Network), a partnership between the Counties of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura that delivers energy-saving programs and building industry trainings, has partnered with the Building Decarbonization Coalition for the “Switch is On” campaign to help Tri-County residents interested in the switch from gas-powered to all-electric appliances. An all-electric home reduces health risks, contributes to a more resilient energy system, supports the state’s decarbonization goals, and in many cases can save money for homeowners. This campaign is the first of its kind in California.

The “Switch is On” offers residents the opportunity to speak one-on-one with home electrification advisors, find local vetted contractors, get information on incentives and rebates, and find additional resources about home electrification.

End-of-year message from Ventura County Animal Services

by Community Contributor • January 2, 2022 • Comments Off

What a year this has been for all of us! Despite the many challenges that 2021 brought, we are happy to report that our agency remained committed to our life-saving mission, having reunited thousands of lost animals with their families, and found new, loving homes for thousands more. Innovative programs we have created over the years continue to grow and evolve as the needs of our community change. But none of our many accomplishments would have been possible without the passionate dedication of our staff and volunteers who give their heart and soul to each and every animal, every day.

May 12 — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announces California Department of Housing and Community Development Director Gustavo Velasquez to speak at immersive event

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) announced (on April 7) that Housing and Community Development (HCD) Director Gustavo Velasquez will keynote the nonprofit’s signature event – Compassion Campaign 2022 on Thursday, May 12th at Maravilla Gardens in Camarillo.

“We are honored that Director Velasquez sees the work we are doing here in Ventura County to provide safe, equitable homes for all and will be sharing his perspective on the state of affordable housing in California,” said Linda Braunschweiger, CEO, Housing Trust Fund Ventura County.

United Way of Ventura County — 130 housed and we’re not stopping!

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

As we wrap up another year, we take a moment to reflect back on the progress we’ve made through our United to End Homelessness VC Initiative. This month marks the 2-year anniversary of its launch, and with your help, and the support of strong community partnerships, we’ve been able to permanently house 130 individuals. We look forward to sharing more exciting news with you in 2022, as we continue to expand our efforts.

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County provides $4 million in pre-development construction loan funds for Rancho Sierra Senior Apartments

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2021 • Comments Off

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announced today that it is providing a $4 million pre-development construction loan to kick-off the development of Rancho Sierra Senior Apartments (Rancho Sierra), to be built in an unincorporated area adjacent to the City of Camarillo. Rancho Sierra is being developed by Many Mansionswith support from the Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura to provide affordable housing solutions for low-income seniors in eastern Ventura County.

People’s Self-Help Housing — Got 5 mins? Build a Home for the Holidays!

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2021 • Comments Off

Each year, our tradition has been to brighten the season with a heartfelt craft for you and your loved ones to make together.

This year’s card represents some of the 5,000+ people who call People’s Self-Help Housing home.

Please enjoy, and thank you for all your support!

Bilingual report — $70 Property Tax Break Available for Qualified Homeowners

by Community Contributor • December 17, 2021 • Comments Off

More than 52,000 Ventura County homeowners may have an extra $70 in their pocket this year, just by filling out a simple form. This week, the Ventura County Assessor mailed Homeowners’ Exemption Claim Forms to over 52,000 homeowners that likely qualify for this property tax break.

The Assessor typically mails a Homeowners’ Exemption Claim to new owners. However, in the busy paperwork shuffle of buying a new home, many property owners miss out on this valuable opportunity. In an effort to maximize property tax savings, the Assessor periodically reaches out to potentially eligible homeowners.

Bilingual report — County Board of Supervisors supports the creation of more than 235 affordable housing units filling critical gap in housing needs for the most vulnerable and expanding behavioral health support

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

On December 14, the County Board of Supervisors approved actions that support the creation of more than 235 units of new affordable, permanent supportive housing and transitional housing. “Homelessness and mental illness are our two most pressing social issues, and so I’m delighted that our last board meeting of 2021 capped a year of stepping up to provide shelter and affordable housing and services to these vulnerable populations,” said Chair of the Board Linda Parks.

The projects support those experiencing homelessness, at risk of becoming homeless, transition aged youth (age 18-24) and seniors. The Board also supported the expansion of Behavioral Health Mobile Crisis Care Units and the development of a Transitional Age Youth Rapid Response Team to provide mental health support services throughout the County.

“There is a critical need for housing in our communities. The Board action is a huge step in helping to fill that gap,” said County Executive Officer Mike Powers. “In addition to housing, these community members will have access to supportive services to help meet their needs.”

December News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

As I reflect over the course we’ve navigated through 2021 together, this has been a year of tremendous progress. Thank you for your gracious and resilient support, we are more grateful than ever to have been so deeply engaged with you. The mission of providing new affordable homes, preserving others, and increasing services to those in most need continues to be a heavy lift, but one made possible because of your partnership.

United Way of Ventura County — United in compassion

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

Earlier this month, I celebrated my seventh anniversary with United Way of Ventura County.

Since I started in 2014, our organization has navigated many changes. We moved to a new office in Ventura, took on multiple disaster response and recovery efforts, developed a program to house the homeless in our community, and now we’re helping our neighbors through the pandemic.

Through it all, we’ve remained remarkably resilient. But the source of our resilience is people like you, who care so deeply about your fellow community members. Your generosity and caring inspire us throughout the year.

It’s truly an honor to lead this incredible team, to serve those in need, and to help improve the conditions for all in community. We strive to lead with compassion and unity, rather than division. It’s the United Way.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Evacuation Order for Alisal Burn Scar Area & Storm Details

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2021 • Comments Off

Supervisor Joan Hartmann, who represents the area that recently burned in the Alisal Fire, recently sent out information to her constituents regarding an Evacuation Order that has been issued for the Alisal Fire burn scar. From Supervisor Hartmann:

“Meteorologists and emergency personnel continue to track an intense winter storm expected to arrive in Santa Barbara County around 6 pm tonight. This storm is expected to bring periods of heavy rain and high winds through Tuesday morning.

Rainfall totals could exceed 1″ or more per hour, which exceeds the thresholds for possible debris flows in the Alisal burn area.

Given these rainfall projections, the Sheriff issued an evacuation order for the Alisal burn area which went into effect at noon today. The Sheriff is going door-to-door to inform residents about the evacuation and to educate residents about storm related risks. The Sheriff, Fire Department and Public Works Department are all stationing emergency resources and staff to respond to this upcoming storm.”

Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation Announces Newest Board Member

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2021 • Comments Off

Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC), the largest developer of affordable homes in Ventura County, announced the appointment of Mayra Ramirez as the newest member of Cabrillo EDC’s Board of Directors.

Originally from Oaxaca, Mexico, Mayra Ramirez is a Food Safety and Occupational Safety Coordinator for a local Agriculture company and is currently working on her Business Management Degree at Oxnard College.

People’s Self Help Housing — Got 5 mins? Build a Home for the Holidays!

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2021 • Comments Off

Each year, our tradition has been to brighten the season with a heartfelt craft for you and your loved ones to make together.

This year’s card represents some of the 5,000+ people who call People’s Self-Help Housing home.

Please enjoy, and thank you for all your support!

Drop Off Your Christmas Tree At Agromin, Get Free Potting Mix

by Community Contributor • December 7, 2021 • Comments Off

Agromin, a soil products manufacturer and the green waste recycler for much of Ventura County, is accepting Christmas trees at its locations in Oxnard from December 26 through January 7. Residents who drop off their trees will receive a free bag of potting mix.

Drop off locations and hours are:

Agromin Composting Facility – 6859 Arnold Rd., Oxnard (Hours: Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Saturday, 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.)

Agromin Corporate Office – 201 Kinetic Dr. Oxnard (Hours: Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)

Agromin Launches California Compost To Help Jurisdictions Comply With SB 1383’s Annual Organic Waste Procurement Requirements

by Community Contributor • December 6, 2021 • Comments Off

Agromin, one of California’s largest organic waste recyclers, has launched California Compost (www.CaliforniaCompost.net) to help California jurisdictions assess, source and procure organic waste tonnage to comply with California SB 1383.

SB 1383 goes into effect January 1, 2022. It is designed to reduce state methane gas emissions to combat climate change by cutting down on the amount of organic waste deposited into landfills. According to CalRecycle, organic waste in landfills accounts for 20 percent of the state’s methane gas emissions. Methane gas is 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide.

Jurisdictions will now be required to procure and use organic waste products such as compost and mulch instead of sending its organic waste to landfills.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Fire Chief Announces Retirement

by Community Contributor • December 2, 2021 • Comments Off

Ventura County Fire Department Chief Mark Lorenzen has announced his retirement to take place in early 2022. “Mark’s leadership has helped build our Fire Protection District into one of the most innovative and advanced Fire organizations in the nation,” said County Executive Officer Mike Powers. “Mark will truly be missed. I appreciate his focus on community engagement and emergency preparedness. He has assembled an outstanding leadership team that has demonstrated their excellence time and again through the largest wildfires the County has ever faced.”

People’s Self Help Housing — Got 5 mins? Build a Home for the Holidays!

by Community Contributor • December 2, 2021 • Comments Off

Each year, our tradition has been to brighten the season with a heartfelt craft for you and your loved ones to make together.

This year’s craft represents some of the 5,000+ people who call People’s Self-Help Housing home.

Please enjoy, and thank you for all your support!

Local Water Districts Call for Urgent Conservation Action in Response to 0% Allocation Announcement as Drought Impacts Worsen

by Community Contributor • December 2, 2021 • Comments Off

A collaborative of local water districts, Las Virgenes Municipal Water District (LVMWD), Triunfo Water & Sanitation District (TWSD) and Calleguas Municipal Water District (Calleguas), are urging significant water use reductions by their customers after the California Department of Water Resources (CADWR) announced a 0% initial allocation from the State Water Project (SWP) for the upcoming year. The December 1 announcement comes amid worsening drought conditions throughout the state.

With limited to no local sources of water, LVMWD, TWSD and Calleguas depend heavily on imported water from the SWP purchased through the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD). Given their location in MWD’s service area, all three agencies substantially rely on SWP supplies; only a limited amount of Colorado River water can reach the westernmost portion of MWD’s service area due to pumping and infrastructure constraints – increasing the urgency to step up conservation actions locally. Logistically, the 0% allocation will impact this region the most.

Bilingual report — Dec. 1, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • December 1, 2021 • Comments Off

A confirmed case of the Omicron variant is in California. Californians can protect themselves by getting vaccinated and boosted, wearing a mask, getting tested if they have any symptoms and staying home if sick. Get the facts about the Omicron variant here: bit.ly/omicronvariant

House Farm Workers! announces $50,000 grant to fund Countywide Farmworker Housing Study, giving a voice to Ventura County farmworkers

by Community Contributor • November 30, 2021 • Comments Off

House Farm Workers! has received a $50,000 grant awarded by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) to support a comprehensive Countywide Farmworker Housing Study that proactively and comprehensively addresses farmworker housing in Ventura County. The study seeks to give a voice to the County’s estimated 36,000 farmworkers, shining a light specifically on local housing needs for this vulnerable yet essential population. The last time a farmworker study was completed was nearly 20 years ago in 2002.

November News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • November 19, 2021 • Comments Off

We are truly thankful this season for your partnership with us.

Your support has sustained so many this year who have continued to experience adversity. For each of our 5,000 residents, you have helped them encourage each another, raise healthy families, and have covered them with your care and concern. We give thanks that so many of you are regular, monthly, and annual supporters of our programs and services. To those who came alongside our mission and gave for the first time this year, I am so grateful for you.

Every one of you have helped foster new opportunities, improve lives, and have helped thousands of households thrive. Through support of our 11 learning centers, you have ensured that our youth have bright futures, for our older residents have made supportive services available to everyone. And for those patiently waiting on our housing lists for a place to call their own, you’ve opened up our pipeline so that another 1,000 homes are on the way!

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Offering $15 Reduction On Monthly Water Bills

by Community Contributor • November 17, 2021 • Comments Off

ligible Triunfo Water & Sanitation District potable water customers can receive a $15 reduction on their monthly water bill.

To qualify, water customers must submit one of three documents: a copy of their Southern California Edison or Southern California Gas bill showing enrollment in the California Alternate Rates For Energy (CARE) program, a copy of the first page of their federal tax return or Form SSA 1099 if only receiving Social Security income. The document must show that the customer meets income threshold levels (i.e., $34,480 maximum for a household of one or two people).

Anonymous donor willing to provide up to $50,000 match funding to support local homeless families through The City Center

by Community Contributor • November 15, 2021 • Comments Off

The City Center announced today that they have received a $50,000 matching donation from an anonymous donor. This gift will match donations made to The City Center?now through?December?25th,?2021.? The City Center is asking Ventura County to support their work in helping local homeless families become self-sufficient.? “Many people complain about the problem with homelessness in our county, but now is the time to be proactive, to realize YOU can make a difference,” said Cheryl?Heitmann, former mayor of Ventura City, “Now is a particularly good time to support The City Center, as every $1 raised will be matched, up to $50,000, and don’t forget there are also tax benefits for donations before year-end.? Our community needs to push together to help?our?most vulnerable population.? No child should be homeless. Ever.”?

Bilingual report — Final Inspection of Ferro Channel Completes the Beardsley Watershed Project

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2021 • Comments Off

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) conducted the final inspection for the construction of the Ferro Channel today as part of the on-going Beardsley Watershed project authorized through the Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention (PL-566) program in 1963. The work was funded by an agreement between NRCS and the County of Ventura and carried out by Ventura County Public Works Agency’s Watershed Protection. The program was worth approximately $3M for construction and $500,000 of technical assistance. With this project completion, it will signify the last remaining structure identified in the watershed workplan. Greg Norris, State Conservation Engineer, performed the final inspection and certified that the project is complete.

“Almost 60 years of this amazing partnership supports the Beardsley watershed and I am pleased to see the tremendous amount of work that was completed to benefit agriculture and rural communities,” NRCS State Conservationist Carlos Suarez said.

Reducing Wildfire Risk in Santa Barbara County — Partners Develop a Regional Priority Plan to reduce risk and improve ecosystem health

by Community Contributor • November 10, 2021 • Comments Off

As the region becomes increasingly vulnerable to fire due to extreme drought and heat conditions exacerbated by climate change, community leaders and organizations have come together to proactively address fire risk in Santa Barbara County. For over a year, a dedicated team, which included the Cachuma Resource Conservation District, LegacyWorks Group, Community Environmental Council, McGinnis Environmental and Conservation Biology Institute engaged numerous partners in the fields of fire protection, education, environmental stewardship, restoration, land management, agriculture, neighborhood associations and government leadership. Together, the partners identified fire risk reduction opportunities and developed a suite of project ideas. Nearly 200 potential projects were identified and 50 high impact opportunities were prioritized addressing:

Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation Call for Artists to enter 40 Years of Home Mural Contest

by Community Contributor • November 2, 2021 • Comments Off

Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC)?is pleased to announce a call for artists to participate in its 40 Years of Home Mural contest. Founded in 1981, Cabrillo EDC’s early roots were in response to a farmworker community’s demand for secure housing. Rooted in community-building and ongoing support, their mission aims to provide comprehensive affordable housing services and community economic development activities to residents most lacking in opportunity.

The purpose of the mural is to promote awareness about the importance of developing housing that positively impacts the community’s health, education, public safety, social services and economic development – And Cabrillo EDC’s contributions over the past 40 years.

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Urges Customers To Take Advantage Of Water-Saving Rebates As Statewide Drought Emergency Declared

by Community Contributor • October 27, 2021 • Comments Off

In light of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s recent declaration of a statewide drought emergency, including a voluntary 15 percent reduction in water usage, the Triunfo Water & Sanitation District is urging its water customers to take advantage of current water conservation rebates.

For a limited time, a $3 per square foot rebate is available to replace lawns with organic, drought-tolerant landscaping and water-saving irrigation systems. “This offer will last until funding runs out,” says Triunfo Board Chair Raymond Tjulander. “Then, the rebate will likely return to $2 per square foot so it’s best to act now if you’re thinking of replacing your lawn. A 500 square-foot lawn conversion can mean a $1,500 rebate.”

October News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • October 26, 2021 • Comments Off

Fall is here, and the change in season is evident all around. Leaves are falling, cooler breezes are swirling, daylight is shortening, all signs that change is in the air. Our address has changed too, with the opening of our new corporate office in San Luis Obispo. Keep that contact page for us open though, soon we’ll have another change of address, our new corporate office in Ventura County! Other changes this month see the start of construction of new apartments in Pismo Beach, and first-time home owners completing construction on their self-help houses in King City.

VCCDC Community Matters Newsletter — October 2021 —

by Community Contributor • October 26, 2021 • Comments Off

Meet Will Jones and his son. Will was born in Detroit and moved to California when he was 16 years old with little to his name. As an adult, he worked hard for the things he wanted but living in California quickly made him realize that owning a home would be very expensive. He made a promise to his son that one day, they would afford a home to call their own. As a single father working long hours over multiple jobs, saving was almost impossible. Their living situation was less than ideal, staying on friend’s couches. Then, he met his Realtor, Cynthia. She took Will under her wing and guided him through the homebuying process, connecting him with Alex at VCCDC. VCCDC helped Will access as much financial assistance as possible for Will’s down payment and closing costs, removing a lot of the burden he felt to come up with such a large sum of money.

“Having an affordable home for my children and I has been the biggest blessing I could ever have received. VCCDC made it possible for me to make owning a home a reality.”

House Farm Workers! welcomes new Executive Director Gabrielle Vignone

by Community Contributor • October 22, 2021 • Comments Off

After an extensive search, the House Farm Workers! Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Gabrielle Vignone has accepted the position of Executive Director at the nonprofit and began her new position on October 1, 2021.

Gabrielle Vignone joins the organization with over 13 years of comprehensive experience in the housing industry. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English as well as an Associates Degree in Legal Studies. Vignone is certified in Fair Housing by the Housing Rights Center, has a Housing Credit Certified Professional designation from NAHB, and a USDA Housing certification. Vignone previously worked with The Towbes Group where she was both the Affordable Senior Community Manager and the Market Rate Community Manager. In these roles, she worked closely with the Ventura Housing Authority, built a strong command of regulations related to fair housing, local building codes, and OSHA. Additionally, Vignone worked at Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (CEDC), where she interacted directly with farmworker families by supporting their housing needs, and created a resident run Food Share program that is still flourishing.

New development within CSUCI’s University Glen residential community moves ahead

by Community Contributor • October 14, 2021 • Comments Off

CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Site Authority has signed a long-term ground lease with global real estate investment company Kennedy Wilson to develop a 32-acre site within the campus’s University Glen residential community.

The development, located directly north of the existing University Glen neighborhood, will include 310 market-rate apartments, 109 for-sale homes, 170 income-restricted apartments for seniors, as well as community-serving amenities.

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