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Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • November 24, 2025 • Comments Off

6th Annual Holiday Food & Toy Drive Happening Dec. 6th!

The Ventura County Harbor Department and Harbor & Beach Community Alliance (HBCA) are teaming up to spread holiday cheer this season by hosting the 6th Annual Holiday Food & Toy Drive from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on December 6, 2025 at the Harbor Landing parking lot off Harbor Blvd.
The Holiday Food & Toy Drive will benefit Food Share of Ventura County and the Spark of Love Toy Drive, an annual effort coordinated by local fire departments which provide toys to thousands of children each year.
On the day of the event, donations will be accepted at a drop-off location at the Harbor Landing parking lot, located at the Channel Islands Boulevard and Harbor Boulevard intersection. Volunteers will be there to safely accept the donations and provide them to Food Share and the Spark of Love Toy Drive.

People’s Self-Health Housing — Celebrating a Year of Impact | Celebrando un año de impacto

by Community Contributor • November 21, 2025 • Comments Off

Our 2024-25 Annual Impact Report is here! Dive into our accomplishments from the past year and discover more about our mission. The report is available in English and Spanish at pshhc.org/impactreport

¡Ya está aquí nuestro Informe de Impacto Anual 2024-25! Descubra nuestros logros del año pasado y conozca más sobre nuestra misión. El informe está disponible en inglés y español en pshhc.org/es/impactreport

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors approve new ordinance to prohibit overnight parking and camping near farmland

by Community Contributor • November 20, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — On Tuesday, Nov. 18, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to pass a new local ordinance that will ban overnight parking and camping on certain roads next to farmland in County unincorporated areas. The goal is to protect local agriculture and the environment, while also ensuring public safety. The new ordinance, which was approved during the regular meeting for the Board of Supervisors, goes into effect January 1, 2026.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Historic permitting reform package passes unanimously

by Community Contributor • November 19, 2025 • Comments Off

I’m pleased to share that the Ventura County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a major initiative to strengthen and modernize our planning, zoning, and permitting systems. I want to express my sincere appreciation for the thoughtful input I received from many of you—your experiences and feedback were instrumental in shaping this effort.

The package that I brought forward with Supervisor Matt LaVere, is designed to make our permitting processes more efficient, transparent, and customer-focused for residents, homeowners, and local businesses.

Ventura County Civic Alliance Nov. 15, 2025 Livable Communities Newsletter

by Community Contributor • November 17, 2025 • Comments Off

This year’s State of the Region event was an overview of the report by Tony Basotti, and panel with District Attorney Erik Nasarenko, Amgen Executive Director of Global Government Affairs Chad Petit, Port District CEO & Director Kristin Decas, and Oxnard City Manager Alex Nguyen, who gave their perspectives on issues in the report.

This venture is crucial to the dissemination of information to the community and leaders in business, education, and government, who are instrumental in planning the county’s future. We are grateful to our sponsors whose support is integral to this important project.

As always, let us know what you think.?
Stacy Roscoe

Bilingual report — Nov. 18 Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors meeting

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

The next regular meeting of the
County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, November 18, 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.

Habitat Ventura and volunteers honor Military and Veterans at 4th Annual Playhouse Build Blitz, presented by Bank of America

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — More than 150 volunteers and community partners gathered to honor Veterans at Bank of America’s Corporate Office for Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County’s Fourth Annual Playhouse Build Blitz, presented by Bank of America. Teams of volunteers worked side by side for 5+ hours painting and decorating children’s playhouses, each tailored to the interests of a local military family. By the afternoon, families arrived to receive their new playhouses, complete with themes ranging from dinosaurs and gardens to princess castles. In all, 18 families and their children experienced the joy of receiving a playhouse built just for them.

County of Ventura — Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report: Potential storm water runoff contamination

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — As part of the Ventura County Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Program, the Environmental Health Division (Division) is providing the following precautionary information to the public.?Rainfall that is significant enough to result in runoff can flow into storm drains, channels, creeks, and rivers that empty onto the beaches of Ventura County.?In general, 0.2 inches (2 tenths of an inch) of rainfall may be enough to create significant runoff conditions.?

Ventura County Fire Dept. — Hot tire debris dislodged by extreme winds determined as cause of the Mountain Fire

by Community Contributor • November 10, 2025 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — Arson investigators determined the likely cause of the Mountain Fire was extreme wind dislodging a pocket of covered, hot tire debris from an earlier fire, the Ventura County Fire Department announced Nov. 7.

“The Mountain Fire was devastating to our community,” Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said. “To everyone affected by the fire, you have our continuing support. Neighbors to all of us here in Ventura County lost homes and possessions, including irreplaceable photos and keepsakes. Others were forced to flee, not knowing whether they would have homes to come back to. It was heartbreaking and the emotional scars of this fire will last long after the homes are rebuilt.”

Project Commencement of the Adaptive Reuse Affordable Housing Project at 3055 De La Vina Street

by Community Contributor • November 10, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) marked a major milestone with the commencement of its latest affordable housing development — an adaptive reuse project that will transform the former Quality Inn at 3055 De La Vina Street into permanent supportive housing.

The redevelopment exemplified HACSB’s creative approach to addressing Santa Barbara’s critical housing shortage by repurposing existing properties into high-quality, service-enriched affordable housing. Neighbors, local officials, community partners, and housing advocates gathered to celebrate this milestone achievement.

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara November 2025 Newsletter

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2025 • Comments Off

If you need food assistance, the County has partnered with the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County to target food distribution efforts throughout the county. These events provide free fresh groceries and produce. Everyone is welcome, and no registration is required.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura freezes water and sewer collection fees for customers impacted by federal government shutdown

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2025 • Comments Off

“Ventura is a community that looks out for one another,” said Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios. “This action reflects our shared commitment to compassion, service, and ensuring that no one goes without essential water service during a time of hardship.”

Bilingual report — Annual Mussel Quarantine Lifted for Ventura County; Advisory Remains in Place for Humboldt County and Northern Channel Islands

by Community Contributor • November 3, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced that the annual quarantine on mussels gathered by sport harvesters from California’s coastal waters ended on midnight on Friday, October 31, 2025, for the California coast, including Ventura County. Shellfish advisories remain in place for sport-harvested razor clams from Humboldt County and for sport-harvested mussels, clams, scallops, and oysters from the Northern Channel Islands.

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

by Community Contributor • October 28, 2025 • Comments Off

We’re thrilled to unveil our 55th Anniversary Digital Community Quilt, a vibrant mosaic of creativity and connection featuring 55 unique panels created in a variety of mediums by PSHH team members, residents, and community members. Visit pshhc.org/quilt to see the full piece!

Ventura Housing invites Ventura County artists to create public art for new affordable housing community

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura Housing is inviting Ventura County artists to help bring beauty and meaning to its affordable housing community, Valentine Road Apartments.

As part of its commitment to integrating art into community spaces, Ventura Housing seeks artworks that inspire, uplift, and reflect the voices of residents. This project reflects Ventura Housing’s belief that art is an essential part of what makes a home. By bringing creativity and color into shared spaces, the Valentine Road public art initiative aims to spark pride, connection, and healing among residents.

Inaugural State of Ventura Housing Breakfast inspires hope and collaboration for a more affordable Ventura

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura Housing (formerly the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura) hosted its sold-out inaugural State of Ventura Housing breakfast on October 9th at The Livery at Rumfish y Vino. Nearly 200 community changemakers, civic leaders, housing champions, and local community partners gathered with a shared mission to ensure that every resident of Ventura has access to safe, stable, and affordable housing. During the event, the agency also debuted its new name and visual identity, as the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura officially became Ventura Housing. The refreshed logo and color palette reflect a modern, approachable brand, and the new name aligns with how residents already refer to the organization, reinforcing its commitment to serving the community.

Ventura County cities commit $700,000 to Housing Trust Fund Ventura County to support affordable housing

by Community Contributor • October 16, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) secured regional support as four cities in Ventura County have allocated $700,000 in funding over 2025 and 2026 towards Housing Trust Fund VC’s Revolving Loan Fund. The four cities are Moorpark, Ventura, Fillmore, and Santa Paula. These commitments are a demonstration of each city’s dedication to housing affordability for all residents in Ventura County and trust in Housing Trust Fund VC’s vision for the future of affordable housing. Since 2013, all ten cities in Ventura County have pledged or contributed to Housing Trust Fund VC or their sister organization, Housing Land Trust Ventura County.

Bilingual report — 805UndocuFund Fall 2025 Newsletter

by Community Contributor • October 15, 2025 • Comments Off

We hope this newsletter finds you well and safe. We are pleased to share with you our latest updates on the 805UndocuFund’s efforts in taking charge of the newly operated Rapid Response Network. Previously owned by CAUSE, we have trained over 1,000 volunteers throughout the tri-county since the beginning of 2025. To date, we have almost reached our fund goal & immediately having been dispersed $478,000 to 388 families! All our successes could not have been achieved without the support from the community.

Bilingual report — Mountain Fire Rebuild Permitting Dashboard now available to track permitting progress

by Community Contributor • September 30, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — As the community moves into long term recovery and rebuilding efforts, the Resource Management Agency (RMA) is pleased to announce the launch of the Mountain Fire Rebuild Permitting Dashboard. This new tool, available on both the Resource Management Agency’s website and the Ventura County Recovers website, allows users to track the rebuild permitting progress of properties affected by the Mountain Fire.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers appointed to Santa Maria Fairpark Board

by Community Contributor • September 24, 2025 • Comments Off

The board oversees the Santa Maria Fairpark, which serves as the premier event center in the Santa Maria Valley. As a subdivision of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, the board is tasked with supporting the community by providing venues for education, recreation, entertainment, and by promoting agriculture, industry, commerce, and tourism.

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

by Community Contributor • September 22, 2025 • Comments Off

Lea en español | Received this from a friend? Subscribe! eNewsletter September 2025 It’s back-to-school season for our Camino Scholars! With a gift of $55/month, students will have the tools and support to build their confidence, stay engaged with their studies, and succeed all year long.…

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors to meeting on Sept. 23

by Community Contributor • September 19, 2025 • Comments Off

Reuniones de la Junta de Supervisores en español
(Board of Supervisors’ Meetings in Spanish)
El Condado de Santa Bárbara está ofreciendo interpretación en español de las reuniones de la Junta de Supervisores. Véalo en vivo en nuestro canal de YouTube en español, o las personas suscritas a la televisión por cable pueden acceder a la programación secundaria de audio (SAP) en los ajustes de idioma.

Aún se requiere pedir con anticipación l

Yardi® donation supports Atlas in furnishing 134 affordable apartments in Ventura

by Community Contributor • September 17, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura Housing (formerly the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura) announced that its nonprofit partner, Atlas, has received a generous donation from Yardi® in support of “The Road Home” Campaign, benefiting residents of Ventura Housing’s latest development at Valentine Road. This groundbreaking permanent supportive housing project located in Ventura is converting the former 142-room La Quinta Inn into 134 studio apartment homes for individuals who have experienced or are at risk of homelessness, thereby reducing homelessness in the local community and transforming the lives of residents.

Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. celebrates completion of Dolores Huerta Gardens Apartments: A new chapter for affordable housing in Oxnard

by Community Contributor • September 12, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Community leaders, elected officials, and labor rights icon Dolores Huerta gathered on Sept. 5, 2025, to celebrate the grand opening of Dolores Huerta Gardens Apartments. This new affordable housing development from Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) brings 58 units specifically for farmworkers, veterans, and low-income families to Ventura County.

Named in honor of legendary civil rights activist Dolores Huerta, the new development reflects her lifelong fight for justice, equity, and the empowerment of working families. This property not only expands access to safe, affordable housing, but also stands as a symbol of resilience, dignity, and community transformation.

“Dolores Huerta Gardens is a foundation for families to build brighter futures,” said Victoria Brady, CEO of Cabrillo EDC. “This community reflects our deep commitment to providing safe, affordable housing for those who need it most, and to creating spaces where residents can truly thrive.”

Community unites to ‘Raise the Roof’ for affordable housing at Housing Trust Fund Ventura County’s 6th Annual Compassion Campaign

by Community Contributor • September 11, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) announced that its 6th Annual Compassion Campaign raised record breaking funds for the fourth consecutive year. Held on Thursday, September 4th at Walnut Grove at Tierra Rejada Farms in Moorpark and supported in part by Keystone Sponsor HOPE (Housing Opportunities for People Everywhere), the evening brought together more than 200 community leaders, advocates and supporters to “RAISE THE ROOF” for affordable housing in Ventura County.

My Way Home (formerly VCCDC) — We’ve Changed Our Name!

by Community Contributor • September 10, 2025 • Comments Off

I am delighted to share that Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) is now My Way Home. While our name and look have changed, our mission has not. We remain firmly committed to empowering families and individuals on their journey to homeownership, financial stability, and brighter futures.

For more than 20 years, we’ve been honored to walk alongside thousands of families in Ventura County — and more recently, in Santa Barbara, Kern, and Los Angeles counties. This new name reflects both our growth and the deeply personal journeys of those we serve. My Way Home speaks to the opportunities, possibilities, and hope that come with creating a pathway to home.

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • September 3, 2025 • Comments Off

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Community members who are not already subscribed may sign up to receive our newsletter in English here and in Spanish here.

Central Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — When tenants organize, we win stronger protections!

by Community Contributor • August 29, 2025 • Comments Off

We know it’s hard right now. The federal government is harming our communities in so many ways. Housing costs are out of control, immigrant families are still under attack, and it can feel like no one in power is listening.

But this is exactly why we organize.

Organized immigrant tenants and workers are more important than ever. Unethical landlords and bosses can exploit the fear caused by ICE raids to pad their profits, hoping no one will speak out. But when we unite, we build trust, leadership, and courage – we win transformational change.

Especially in times like these, we have to celebrate our wins. This year across the Central Coast, tenants organizing with CAUSE have won historic victories!

Unite to Light to deploy innovative solar powerpoles in eight Santa Barbara Community resilience projects

by Community Contributor • August 26, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — From powering tsunami warning systems to supporting 24/7 food pantries, Unite To Light is pleased to announce eight new PowerPole installations which are set to transform how Santa Barbara County communities access reliable, renewable energy. Through a unique partnership with the James S. Bower Foundation and local battery tech startup Dragon Q Energy, the PowerPole is a compact, solar-integrated, off-grid solution providing electricity, battery storage, and internet connectivity, even in the harshest conditions.

Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County opens applications for free home repair program

by Community Contributor • August 26, 2025 • Comments Off

The program addresses urgent health and safety needs so that seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities can live independently and safely in their homes. Applications can be submitted online, by mail to Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County, 1850 Eastman Avenue, Oxnard, CA or by email to jamie@habitatventura.org. For details or to learn more, visit www.habitatventura.org.

People’s Self-Help Housing awarded $34,000,000 from Federal Housing Accelerator Program

by Community Contributor • August 25, 2025 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has been awarded $34,049,563 from the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) through its Disaster Recovery Multifamily Housing Accelerator Program (DR-ACCEL). These funds will be used to bring more housing to the city of Atascadero with PSHH’s Del Rio Ridge project.

DR-ACCEL bridges the gap in financing for projects ready to begin construction, but that are halted during periods of disaster. In this case, the impacts of the severe winter storms in December 2022 through April 2023 resulted in unmet recovery needs from the floods, in areas already suffering from a critical shortage of affordable housing. Del Rio Ridge was one of the developments to have paused during this time.

Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing August 2025 Newsletter

by Community Contributor • August 25, 2025 • Comments Off

We recently learned of the passing of Jeanette Duncan, who, for nearly four decades, was the very heartbeat of our organization.

Joining not too long after our founding in 1970 by a few volunteer community members and on the heels of the Fair Housing Act, Jeanette began her time as our first Executive Director with People’s Self-Help Housing, supporting individuals and families to build their own houses and achieve their dream of home ownership. Coming alongside those spirited volunteers as their shovels broke ground on those first houses, she subsequently recruited a core of professionals whose dedication would see the work of People’s expanding to serve thousands spread across the tri-counties of the Central Coast.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura awarded nearly $28 million for permanent supportive housing development

by Community Contributor • August 21, 2025 • Comments Off

This substantial investment will create 88 permanent supportive housing units for individuals experiencing homelessness. In addition, one unit will be reserved for a resident property manager to provide on-site support and security. The development will also include community gathering spaces and offices for case managers and support staff, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for residents.

“This funding marks an important milestone in our efforts to address homelessness in Ventura County by providing safe, stable, and supportive housing for vulnerable residents,” said Supervisor Janice Parvin, Chair of the Ventura County Board of Supervisors. “We remain dedicated to working closely with our partners to bring this project to fruition and enhance the quality of life for those in need.”

McCarthy Companies awarded preconstruction contract for a new affordable housing community for Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • August 20, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — McCarthy Companies has been selected by the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) to provide preconstruction services for the development of Monteria Village in Santa Barbara. The recently signed contract will lay the groundwork for a transformative affordable housing project that will replace a 28-unit HUD-assisted public housing development built in 1973 and add 52 new affordable apartments on Santa Barbara’s Westside for a total of 80 affordable multifamily units. The development leverages HUD’s Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program, which enabled HACSB to successfully reposition its entire HUD-assisted public housing inventory to access equity funding for rehabilitation and improvements.

People’s Self-Help Housing Celebrates 55th Anniversary

by Community Contributor • August 20, 2025 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — This month, People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) celebrated 55 years as an organization. To commemorate this historic milestone, staff gathered to reminisce on past achievements and to look forward to the next half century.
“What a privilege for an organization to celebrate 55 years,” said Ken Trigueiro, PSHH CEO & President. “From our origins on the heels of the seminal Fair Housing Act of 1968 to today, we have been proud to participate in the numerous partnerships that have brought tens of thousands of units of affordable housing to the Central Coast.”

People’s Self-Help Housing Releases 2025-2030 Strategic Plan Five-year plan shares commitment to expanding housing access

by Community Contributor • August 19, 2025 • Comments Off

“With over a year and a half in the making, this plan has been thoroughly and carefully crafted to highlight the organizational values of PSHH and more importantly, provide more housing access throughout the Central Coast,” said Ken Trigueiro, PSHH CEO & President. “We are proud to share and use this plan as our guide for the next five years, and we invite our supporters and partners to join us as we build a more just and compassionate future, one home and one life at a time.”

How to revitalize your soil and landscape after a fire

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2025 • Comments Off

Homeowners and businesses whose landscapes were damaged or destroyed by the recent wildfires should begin taking steps to prevent erosion before fall and winter rains by repairing the soil and adding nutrients to promote plant growth, says Rick Wilson, Ph.D., chief science officer at Agromin, the largest organic waste recycler and compost and mulch producer in California.

People Self-Help Housing — Introducing Our 2025-30 Strategic Plan

by Community Contributor • August 6, 2025 • Comments Off

Our newly-released five-year plan is the result of a thoughtful and collaborative process, shaped by the voices of our staff, board, community partners, and those we serve. It reflects our shared commitment to expanding access to safe, stable housing and supportive services that empower individuals and families to thrive.

More than a roadmap, this plan is a pledge—to stay focused, accountable, and connected in our pursuit of lasting impact. With clear priorities and measurable goals, we invite our supporters and partners to join us as we build a more just and compassionate future, one home and one life at a time.

Ventura Land Trust adds two new trustees to its Board

by Community Contributor • August 6, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura Land Trust (VLT), a community-based nonprofit dedicated to the preservation of open space in Ventura County, has announced that it has added two new members to its Board of Trustees: Paolo Perrone and Sabrena Rodriguez. Paolo Perrone…

Housing Trust Fund VC and Housing Land Trust VC receive $5.1 million from SCAG REAP 2.0, U.S. Bank and Mechanics Bank

by Community Contributor • July 31, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) has been awarded $5,000,000 from the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) as part of the Regional Early Action Plan (REAP 2.0). The funding will support the development of the Housing Trust Fund Ventura County’s Revolving Long-Term Loan Program for Infill Affordable Housing Developments.

Bilingual report — VCCF — Introducing the Ventura County Neighbors Support Fund

by Community Contributor • July 30, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community Foundation (VCCF), in partnership with the County of Ventura, Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE), Economic Development Collaborative (EDC), Ventura County P-20 Council, Weingart Foundation, Ventura County Economic Development Association (VCEDA), Ventura County Credit Union (VCCU), League of Women Voters of Ventura County, Museum of Ventura County, Isabella Project, Social Justice Fund for Ventura County, Montecito Bank & Trust, Premier America Credit Union, County Schools Federal Credit Union, McCune Foundation and many others announced on June 28 the launch of the Ventura County Neighbors Support Fund—a united, community-wide effort to support local families and small businesses experiencing sudden hardship and disruption.

Ventura County Fire Dept. to conduct prescribed burn in Adams Canyon on July 24

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2025 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) plans to conduct a prescribed burn in Adams Canyon, north of Santa Paula, on Thursday, July 24, weather permitting. This controlled burn is part of ongoing efforts to improve ecosystem health and reduce wildfire risk.

Adams Canyon is located north of Santa Paula, south of Thomas Aquinas College, and west of Steckel Park. Firefighters will utilize hand-ignition techniques to carefully burn 20-50 acres. A small test burn will be conducted beforehand to confirm optimal conditions before proceeding with the burn.

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

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2025 • Comments Off

Our Camino Scholars summer program is in full swing! From touring the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and feeding animals at Ostrichland to dolphin watching on a Santa Barbara Harbor boat and a visit to the Maritime Museum, our students have been busy having fun in the sun! Learn more about this impactful program below.

Central Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — When they raid, we rise

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2025 • Comments Off

It’s been one week since our communities in Camarillo and Carpinteria were turned into war zones.

As I’m sure you know by now, heavily armed agents from ICE, CBP, DHS, and the National Guard raided workplaces and stormed through fields and neighborhoods, tearing farmworkers away from their families. They came in armored vehicles, masked and armed just like soldiers prepared for battle. They used tear gas, flash grenades, and rubber bullets on our neighbors – including pregnant women and children.

A City Councilmember was injured. A member of Congress was denied entry. A child was hit by shrapnel. A local veteran was detained for days without due process. A CSU professor was arrested. One worker was hospitalized and tragically died. 361 workers were disappeared by the armed and masked federal agents.

Bilingual report — City of Oxnard appoints Brenda Lopez as Housing Director

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2025 • Comments Off

Oxnard City Manager Alexander Nguyen stated, “We’re excited for Brenda to lead the Housing Department. Her housing policy knowledge and years of service to the Oxnard community will be an asset in addressing two of the State’s most pressing issues—housing and homelessness, which remain increasingly vital as we face both federal and state budget cuts.”

Ventura County Credit Union amplifies support for VCCDC with additional $150,000 donation through FHLBank partnership

by Community Contributor • July 15, 2025 • Comments Off

“We’re proud to deepen our support for VCCDC through this incredible opportunity provided by FHLBank,” said Linda Rossi, president and CEO of VCCU. “Together, we’re not just celebrating our 75th year — we’re investing in the future of Ventura County by helping more families access the resources they need to achieve homeownership and financial stability.”

Bilingual report — People’s Self-Health Housing — Cleaver & Clark Commons in SLO: Pre-Applications Available Now | Cleaver & Clark Commons: Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles ahora

by Community Contributor • July 8, 2025 • Comments Off

Eligibility:

Households earning at or below 60% of the Area Median Income
Visit pshhc.org/CCC to view income limits
14 units are set aside for agricultural worker households earning 30 to 60% of the AMI

Bilingual report — Enjoy the Fourth of July, but do so in a Safe Way to Prevent Injury and Harm

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2025 • Comments Off

As families in Ventura County are looking forward to celebrating America’s birthday during the upcoming Fourth of July weekend, it’s important to know that it’s OK to have fun under the sun, but without putting your health at risk and causing long-lasting injuries.

That’s especially true when it comes to fireworks, grilling and drinking alcohol, according to health experts.

“Celebrating the Fourth of July holiday is a special time many of us treasure dearly and look forward to every year,” said Dr. Juan Cruz, an internal medicine physician with Kaiser Permanente in Oxnard. “But I can’t stress enough the importance of celebrating responsibly and keeping safety in mind to ensure this festive holiday will be accident- and injury-free.”

Bilingual report — Valentine Road Apartments unveils first renovated units at Ventura County’s largest Homekey Project

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Valentine Road Apartments unveiled the first of its newly renovated units during a progress celebration at the largest Homekey initiative in Ventura County, marking a major milestone in the region’s efforts to address homelessness through permanent supportive housing.

Led by the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura (HACSB), the Valentine Road Apartments are the result of a $32 million Homekey award secured in 2023 through the California Department of Housing and Community Development. That funding marked the largest Homekey grant in both City and County history and initiated the conversion of the 142-room hotel into 134 studio apartments for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

People’s Self-Help Housing welcomes new director of home ownership

by Community Contributor • June 30, 2025 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing’s (PSHH) has announced a new Director of Homeownership: Emily Baranek.

As the Director of Homeownership, Emily leads a team of dedicated professionals working to make the dream of homeownership a reality for families across the Central Coast of California. With over two decades of experience in new home design, construction, and affordable real estate development, she brings a wealth of practical knowledge and strategic insight to PSHH.

“I am incredibly proud of the years spent working and learning with Habitat for Humanity. Providing affordable homeownership opportunities for our friends and neighbors throughout the Central Coast is a true passion of mine,” said Baranek. “I have always felt that homeownership is more than just a roof over your head – it’s a foundation for stability, growth and meaningful connection, and I am absolutely thrilled to be joining People’s Self-Help Housing in this shared mission.”

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors to hold meeting

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2025 • Comments Off

View this email online The next regular meeting of the County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, July 1, 2025 County Administration Building Board Hearing Room, Fourth Floor 105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara The public may participate…

Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) — Cleaver & Clark Commons in SLO: Pre-Applications Coming Soon | Cleaver & Clark Commons: Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles pronto

by Community Contributor • June 25, 2025 • Comments Off

Pre-applications available Tuesday, July 8, 9AM at pshhc.org/CCC
Pre-solicitudes disponibles el martes 8 de julio a las 9AM en pshhc.org/CCC

Bilingual report — Joint Statement from the Fire Departments of Ventura County: Emergency services are for everyone

by Community Contributor • June 20, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Every fire department in Ventura County is united in our commitment to protecting lives—no matter who you are or where you’re from. Everyone in our communities deserves safety, emergency care, and compassion. Our firefighters respond to every emergency without hesitation or judgment. Immigration status is never a factor in the care we provide, and we do not ask, record, or report that information.

NeighborWorks Week 2025: Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. brings vital resources to residents

by Community Contributor • June 19, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) concluded its 2025 NeighborWorks Week celebrations with two community-focused events that brought critical services and resources directly to residents. Under this year’s theme, “Creating Homes, Building America,” Cabrillo EDC’s resource fairs united neighbors, service providers, and local leaders to facilitate connections and opportunities.

Bilingual report — June news from Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH)

by Community Contributor • June 19, 2025 • Comments Off

June is Homeownership Month and so I would like to shine a special light on our own Home Ownership department: the oldest team in our organization, the very reason we were founded 55 years ago. If you haven’t yet had a chance to check out some of People’s Self-Help Housing’s amazing early history, you can do that right here!

Of course, it is the incredible owner-builders themselves, the people who learn to dig, saw, hammer, and drill, who have been the stars of the show ever since the self-help program began. The physical and emotional investment made by the over 1,200 families who have completed building with us since 1970 is of a magnitude few of us could commit to. Usually over 40 hours a week (on top of regular day jobs!), 14 months of construction, and the desire to push through whatever the weather, or the date on the calendar.

Our organization has many facets which help those just trying to have a safe, decent, and affordable place to enjoy life. I hope you’ll join me this month in recognizing the efforts and achievements of just one of those – affordable homeownership.

Lumina Alliance opens girst transitional housing site for survivors in North County

by Community Contributor • June 9, 2025 • Comments Off

This milestone will be marked by a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, in Paso Robles. The event is hosted in partnership with the Paso Robles & Templeton Chamber of Commerce and will include a brief program, a tour of the site, and recognition of key community partners.

The property was originally donated to Lumina Alliance in 2000 by Noreen Martin, her late husband Tom Martin, of Martin Resorts, and their family. Their generous gift laid the foundation for what has now become a vital resource for survivors in the North County. Ms. Martin will be attending the ceremony and offering a short speech in honor of this transformational milestone.

Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) — Cypress Place: Pre-Applications Available Now | Cypress Place: Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles ahora

by Community Contributor • June 4, 2025 • Comments Off

Pre-applications available now through June 24 at pshhc.org/CYP
Pre-solicitudes disponibles ahora hasta el 24 de junio en pshhc.org/CYP

People’s Self-Help Housing CEO & President celebrates 20 year anniversary

by Community Contributor • May 28, 2025 • Comments Off

“We are so grateful for his passion and steadfast guidance over the past two decades,” said Shelly Higginbotham, PSHH Board Chair. “For his dedication and leadership, we congratulate Ken on reaching this significant milestone.”

Since joining PSHH in 2005, Ken has served in many roles, including Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Vice President of Real Estate Finance. With extensive experience accumulated through a 30+ year distinguished career in banking and affordable housing, Ken brings an innovative combination of executive skills to his role as CEO & President. He earned his undergraduate degree in Agricultural Business Management from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and his MBA in Finance & Banking from Golden Gate University, San Francisco.

Bilingual commentary — Ventura County: ‘God’s Country’

by Community Contributor • May 23, 2025 • Comments Off

My extended family consists of about 60 cousins and an untold number of their children. My paternal grandparents had 14 children, and one of those children had 14 children. Sometimes I think I must be related to half the population of Los Angeles.

We cousins are scattered all over the map. I grew up next door to five of them, all brothers. One lives in Tokyo, Japan. Another is in Manchester, England. Two are near Seattle, Washington. One remains in Los Angeles.

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

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2025 • Comments Off

A big thank you to everyone who supported the 2025 Builder Games, presented by Mechanics Bank. Together, we raised over $125,000 for our Supportive Housing and Camino Scholars programs.

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