Category: Home

Sept. 24-25 — Home Remodeling Trade Fair On Main in Ventura

Homeowners who are planning projects around their house can talk with professionals for ideas and advice at the free Home Remodeling Trade Fair On Main in Ventura. The fair will be held  Saturday and Sunday, September 24 and 25 on Main Street between N. Chestnut and N. Fir St.

Oct. 8 — Housing Santa Barbara Day 2022

Join 2nd Story Associates on Saturday, October 8th from 10 AM – 2 PM at De La Guerra Plaza for Housing Santa Barbara Day 2022. 

This annual free public event is dedicated to connecting community members with local affordable housing non-profit agencies and service providers.

At the event, there will be 30+ community agencies and service providers, informative housing working shops, tenant and landlord resources, ADU resources, workforce housing information, music and entertainment, local food vendors and activities for kids and families.

Oct. 8 — 5th Annual Housing Santa Barbara Day presented by 2nd Story Associates brings Affordable Housing Resources and Fun to De La Guerra Plaza

Santa Barbara County residents are invited to attend the 5th annual Housing Santa Barbara Day 2022 on Saturday, October 8th from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at De La Guerra Plaza. This annual free public event is dedicated to connecting community members with local affordable housing non-profit agencies and service providers.

At the event, there will be informative housing workshops, tenant and landlord resources, ADU resources, workforce housing information, music and entertainment, local food vendors and activities for kids and families. 

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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.

Housing Authority City of Santa Barbara Groundbreaking for Vera Cruz Village housing complex taking place Dec. 15

The Housing Authority City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) is pleased to announce that the ground breaking ceremony for Vera Cruz Village, at 116 East Cota Street, will take place on Wednesday, December 15th at 10 a.m. HACSB officials, Mayor Cathy Murrillo, Alejandra Gutierrez, Santa Barbara 1st District City Council Member, Oscar Gutierrez, Santa Barbara 3rd District City Council Member, a representative forCongressman Salud Carbajal and other dignitaries will be onsite with shovels in hand to participate in the official ceremonial launch of the project. Vera Cruz Village represents the HACSB’s latest affordable housing project designated for special needs and homeless individuals in the community. People experiencing homelessness have high rates of chronic mental and physical health conditions, co- occurring disorders, and barriers to receiving health care. Santa Barbara continues to grapple with adequately addressing this issue. The most recent Point-in-Time count completed in January 2020 found 1,897 homeless residents countywide, with 914 (48%) living in the City of Santa Barbara. The chronically homeless in the county rose from 423 to 614, a 45% increase (Santa Barbara County Point in Time Count 2020).

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 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

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 —

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

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

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.

3C-REN Launches Multifamily Home Energy Savings Program

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 industry trainings, is launching the Multifamily Home Energy Savings program, which works with property owners and managers to identify and provide rebates for optimum energy improvements for tri-county multifamily properties.

“We are all feeling the effects of climate change with summers getting hotter,” said Marisa Hanson-Lopez, 3C-REN Multifamily Program Manager. “This new program provides significant incentives to lower the costs of property upgrades, like updating HVAC systems and replacing water heaters, that create more comfortable and affordable homes.”

United Way on Ventura County welcomes new team members to support United to End Homelessness Ventura

United Way of Ventura County has hired two new team members to support its United to End Homelessness Ventura County initiative. Carie Bristow is now serving as housing navigation and retention case manager for the nonprofit, and Stefany Gonzalez has joined the team as housing navigator.

United Way of Ventura County welcomes new team members to support United to End Homelessness Ventura County initiative

United Way of Ventura County has hired two new team members to support its United to End Homelessness Ventura County initiative. Carie Bristow is now serving as housing navigation and retention case manager for the nonprofit, and Stefany Gonzalez has joined the team as housing navigator.

September News from People’s Self-Help Housing

It’s Hispanic Heritage Month, and we proudly celebrate the many individuals and families we serve here at People’s with heritage stemming from all over Latin America. Throughout our communities, and within our own organization, we honor those whose Latinx histories and cultures, enrich our lives. An estimated 80% of our resident population and 60% of our People’s workforce is Latinx.

Across the United States, Latinos are a vital part of the national fabric that strengthens and binds us together. Accounting for nearly 80% of all new businesses created during the past decade, and as measured by contributions to our Gross Domestic Products (GDP), they annually contribute close to $3 trillion. According to latitude.net, “If US Latinos were a stand-alone country, they would account for the 8th largest GDP economy in the world – larger than the GDPs of Italy, Brazil or South Korea.”

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Flex Alert at 4 p.m. (Sept. 8), Community Choice Energy Enrollment, and more!

Due to extreme heat throughout the state, the California Independent Systems Operator (which manages the flow of electricity throughout the state) has issued a statewide Flex Alert from 4-9pm TODAY. Due to the extreme heat, energy demand is expected to be high, and if demand exceeds supply, they will implement rolling power outages. To avoid outages, residents are being asked to conserve energy from 4-9pm today to reduce strain on the energy grid.

Please avoid using major appliances between 4-9pm today!

Before 4pm:
Pre-cool your home if you use air conditioning
Close window coverings to keep home or apartment cool
Use major appliances
Charge electric devices and electric vehicles

Between 4-9pm:
Set your thermostat to 78 or higher, health permitting
Avoid using major appliances like dish washers and clothes washers and dryers
Turn off unnecessary lights

Sign up for Flex Alert notifications here.

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Initiates Stage 1 Water Conservation Measures

The board of directors of the Triunfo Water & Sanitation District voted to initiate Stage 1 water conservation measures for its nearly 14,000 Oak Park residential and business potable water users. The measures, which were originally established in 2018, go into effect immediately.

Stage 1 water conservation measures include:

–Watering or irrigation of lawn, landscape or other vegetated areas with potable water is limited to three days per week. The provision does not apply to watering by hand-held hoses equipped with self-closing water shut-off devices. Other exclusions apply. …

Update on County of Ventura Santa Clara River Clean Up Effort

Supervisors LaVere and Ramirez, Districts 1 and 5, are the representatives for the area of the Task Force effort to address Santa Clara River bottom encampments. They, individually, and along with members of their staff, have accompanied the County Executive Officer, Sheriff, and County public health and other staff several times to see for themselves the encampments. They have observed the accumulation of trash and debris in the Santa Clara River bottom. They also recently went with the County’s Backpack Medicine team which offers help and services to the people living in the watershed. This is being done ahead of a major clean-up effort that is planned to take place in September. The County Executive team is leading the effort coordinating with the Sheriff’s office, Ventura and Oxnard Police, and Public Works Agency staff to make access easier and to clear pathways for the future clean-up event. More clearing of brush and vegetation, which pose a fire danger, will occur after the sites which are abandoned have been removed.

Ventura County Community Development Corporation — VCCDC Community Matters Newsletter – August 2021

We sat down with our very valued long-time client and volunteer, Yolanda Duarte, and asked her about her journey with VCCDC. Take a look at her experience below!

Tell us about yourself!
My name is Yolanda and I am a single mom. I’ve been living here in California for 24 years and my dream has always been to own a home. VCCDC helped me to achieve that dream!

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Encourages Water Customers To Use Automated Water System To Track Water Usage

he Triunfo Water & Sanitation District is encouraging its nearly 13,000 Oak Park potable water customers to use the automated water meters on their property to track and conserve water usage.

Automated water meters were first introduced in the district in 2015 with a system upgrade two years ago. A total of 4,600 meters are installed on all Oak Park residential and commercial properties receiving potable water from the district. The meters enable customers to monitor their water use in real-time and set alarms to warn of excessive consumption.

August News from People’s Self-Help Housing

Though we’ve battled and made strides against the pandemic, it’s not over yet. Even more persistent and stubborn though, has been the pandemic of unaffordable housing, which People’s continues to combat against on a daily basis. While the latter pandemic has no single vaccine, a very effective one for inoculating against housing cost unaffordability for the most vulnerable income groups among us, including our communities’ frontline, essential, wage-earner workforce, is the Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program. 

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Santa Clara River Clean Up Effort

We have heard from many of you having concerns about encampments of individuals facing homelessness in our County. We understand these problems have become especially acute in the Santa Clara River. In this notice, we want to share our current and future efforts, in partnership with the cities of Oxnard and Ventura, to address these challenges.

Ventura County Civic Alliance — Livable Communities Newsletter for Aug. 15, 2021

See the 3 articles below that address the following issues:

1. EQUITY – CAFWD (California Forward) pulled together a session on May 13 entitled: Building Equitable Economies that featured eight Inland Empire / Central Valley community leaders who are passionate about making sure that equity is a key component in the rebuilding of a post-pandemic economy. Dozens of key words, concepts, situations, and actions that are critical to understanding the task at hand were shared to help give leaders the material required to set goals and develop the necessary plans to reach those goals. 

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County Announces Two New Loans

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announces a $3,225,000 construction loan commitment to the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura (HACSB) for the Westview Village II and an $800,000 predevelopment loan funded to 2nd & B Street Homeless Solutions Center in Oxnard. Additionally, Housing Trust Fund VC has received operational grant funds in the amounts of $20,000 from Wells Fargo and $7,500 from Union Bank, with the potential to double with the State of California’s Proposition 1 match. 

United Way of Ventura County — Our Community Thrives Fundraiser is LIVE and we need you!

Two weeks left and we need your help!

United Way of Ventura County is participating in VC Star’s A Community Thrives fundraising challenge in order to raise funds for our United to End Homelessness initiative.

From July 19 – Aug. 13, your donation goes FURTHER. The more we raise, the closer we get toward an opportunity to receive additional grant support!

United Way of Ventura County — You can help us win this challenge week!

Let’s finish this challenge week strong! We’re so appreciative for the surge of support this week toward our Community Thrives fundraiser to support our United to End Homelessness initiative. Let’s keep this momentum going!

With less than two weeks to go, every donation makes a big impact. Plus, depending on how much we raise in a challenge week (like this week) … we become eligible for additional grant funding.

We’re on a mission to house Ventura County. Who’s with us?

July News from People’s Self-Help Housing

People’s continues to build at a full clip throughout our Central Coast service area. Last month we began an apartment rehabilitation project in Isla Vista, a new apartment construction project is starting soon in Pismo Beach, and a self-help builders’ homeownership project is heading toward completion in the months ahead in King City. 

Though our pace has increased, so has the unrelenting advance of the affordable housing crisis. In light of statistics back in the headlines, we will need to take it to the next level to move the needle further. We define housing as being affordable when it does not exceed 30% of a households’ income. This gives a senior living on Social Security only $283 to spend. Recent reports indicate that fair market rent for a one-bedroom apartment in our footprint is now at $1,522. For a full time employee earning $13 an hour, they would have to put in 90 hours of work a week to afford this.

Santa Barbara County receives $3 million in federal funds for emergency housing vouchers for homeless

Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHVs) intended to help prevent and end homelessness are now available for Santa Barbara County residents in desperate need. Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act signed into law in March by President Biden, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) allocated $5 billion in funding for emergency housing vouchers to be distributed nationwide for housing the homeless. HUD Secretary Marcia L. Fudge said, “Homelessness in the United States was increasing even before COVID-19, and we know the pandemic has only made the crisis worse. HUD’s swift allocation of this $5 billion in American Rescue Plan funding reflects our commitment to addressing homelessness as a priority. With this strong funding, communities across the country will have the resources needed to give homes to the people who have had to endure the COVID-19 pandemic without one.” 

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Commercial Eviction Moratoriums Expired June 30

On June 30, 2021, the current commercial eviction moratoriums protections (Executive Order N-03-21) expired. The EDC understands the significant impact COVID-19 has had on our business community. If your business has experienced economic injury due COVID-19, you do not have walk alone. The following recommendations are for landlords and tenants during this unprecedented time.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for June 30 2021

COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics

Please note there have been changes to the hours of operation.

Vaccination clinics will be closed on Monday, July 5 in observance of the Fourth of July holiday

Ventura County Fairgrounds (Now closed)

North Oxnard – Public Health
2240 E. Gonzales Rd, Suite 140
Oxnard, CA 93036
Walk-in hours: Monday-Friday 10:30am-4:30pm. Open until 6:30pm on Thursdays.
Vaccine: Pfizer, Moderna, and Janssen

Oxnard Rose Avenue (New hours of operation)
(Babies R Us Building)
2340 N Rose Ave, Oxnard, CA 93030
Walk-in hours: Tuesday-Friday 11:00am-6:30pm, Saturday 9:00am-4:30pm
Vaccine: Pfizer, Moderna, and Janssen (Now offering Janssen)

South Oxnard C Street
(Tent in the parking lot, near Las Islas Clinic)
2500 S. C Street, Oxnard CA, 93033
Walk-in hours: Monday-Friday 10:30am-4:30pm
Vaccine: Pfizer, Moderna, and Janssen

Oxnard College (New hours of operation)
3250 S Rose Ave., Oxnard, CA 93033
Walk-in hours: 9:00am-5:30pm Saturday-Monday, 12:00pm-7:30pm Thursday-Friday
Vaccine: Pfizer and Janssen (Now offering Janssen)
*State operated.
Closed on July 4

Anyone in need of a second dose does not need an appointment to get vaccinated at the above clinics. Please be sure to select a clinic offering the vaccine you received for your first dose.

For more information, visit https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/

Grocery Outlet Announces Eleventh Annual ‘Independence from Hunger Campaign

Grocery Outlet Bargain Market, extreme-value grocery retailer, on June 24, launched its 11th consecutive Independence from Hunger Food Drive to combat food insecurity. Through July 31, 2021, the campaign will collect cash donations and pre-made bags of nonperishable foods in-store at Grocery Outlet’s 400 locations that will be distributed to local food agencies partners. In addition, online donations can be made at GroceryOutlet.com/Donate. …Latinos Are Nearly Twice As Likely to Experience Food Insecurity than Non-Hispanic White Individuals. Program to Support Organizations Food Share of Ventura County, The Salvation Army Oxnard Corps and The Simi Valley Council on Aging

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County awarded $1,826,265 in CDFI grant funds

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) announced that it has received $1,826,265 from the U.S. Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institution’s (CDFI) Rapid Response Program, to support economic relief efforts in Covid-19 impacted communities. This award will directly impact affordable housing in Ventura County through Housing Trust Fund VC’s Revolving Loan Fund and provides an opportunity to double to potentially $3.6 million in lending capital under California’s Proposition 1 Local Housing Trust Fund matching grant program.

Ventura County Community Development Corp. — No more procrastinating, it’s time to register for the 2021 Homeownership Conference!

It’s time to stop procrastinating and get registered! Introducing our Homeownership Conference host…Lady Jade! We’re SO excited to have her back for the second year in row! Check out her video below and get ready for a day that could change the trajectory of your life in JUST ONE WEEK!

Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program Graduates Honored for Achievements by Housing Authority

The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara is honoring two Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program graduates who used the stability of subsidized housing to build the skills and assets needed to become financially independent. Anna Carranco and Iris Manzanarez have worked hard over the last five years to achieve the goals they set for themselves, completing the program this year despite the global pandemic.  

Housing Authority City of Santa Barbara Announces $10 Million for the Development of Affordable Housing for Special Needs

The California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (CTCAC) allocated $10,301,010 million in Federal Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) to a local project to be developed by the Housing Authority City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) through its instrumentality non-profit, Santa Barbara Affordable Housing Group (SBAHG). The new housing will be constructed for those with special needs including the homeless. Total development costs are estimated at $17.6 million. 

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Potential PSPS Warning, June 15 Changes, & Boat Wreckage Cleanup!

This week there will be a lot to watch for! There is a Red Flag Warning effective Monday, 6/14 at 6:00 pm until Wednesday, 6/16 at 6:00 am in the mountains and south coast due to forecast winds, low humidity, and very hot temperatures. There will be an Excessive Heat Watch in effect starting Wednesday, 6/16 morning to evening. Drink water and keep your family, including your pets, cool and hydrated. Monitor the forecast for updates, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.

Ventura County Community Development Corp. — Which one will you attend?

There’s so much to learn about homeownership and it can feel overwhelming! Not for long! Our Virtual Homeownership Conference provides you with bitesize workshop sessions to get a clear and concise look at a range of different homeownership topics! Topics include mastering your credit, rent relief programs, mortgage options for homeowners, first-time homebuyer tips and tricks, down payment assistance programs and how to avoid foreclosure.

People’s Self-Help Housing — NeighborWorks Week 2021

People’s Self-Help Housing is celebrating NeighborWorks Week alongside hundreds of NeighborWorks America organizations throughout the country. This week is aimed at highlighting neighborhood vitality and nationwide efforts in building strong communities. 

In recognition of NeighborWorks Week, we invite you to watch a new videofrom the PSHH IDEA Commission to see how they are building strong communities through Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and most importantly, Action!

VCCDC announces California State Treasurer, Fiona Ma as keynote speaker of June 26 virtual Homeownership Conference

We’re excited to announce California State Treasurer, Fiona Ma, as our Keynote Speaker at this year’s Homeownership Conference! Ma has had a renowned career in public service, having been involved with many initiatives and committees in California’s government. She was elected on November 6, 2018 with more votes (7,825,587) than any other candidate for treasurer in the state’s history. She is the first woman of color and the first woman Certified Public Accountant (CPA) elected to the position.