Category: Seniors

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Testing & Vaccine Update, Youth Sports, & Electric Vehicle Webinar

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2021 • Comments Off

In order to return to the things we enjoyed pre COVID-19, such as gatherings, travel, live entertainment, in-person education and indoor dining, it is critical that we increase the amount of COVID-19 testing in our County, as well as mask up, physical distance and vaccinate when it is our turn.

Right now, it is as important as ever to get tested for the COVID-19 virus because frequent testing is the best way (short of getting vaccinated once available) to make sure positive cases are identified quickly and get isolated in order to stop further spread.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for March 4, 2021 — COVID-19 Vaccine Information

by Community Contributor • March 4, 2021 • Comments Off

COVID-19 Vaccines are available for adults age 65 and older, healthcare, food and agriculture, education and childcare, emergency services and qualifying regional center family caregivers. More information at the following link: www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/.

Appointments open each week on Mondays at 7 am online am on the phone line for those with limited internet access: www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/portal/

?If you have limited internet access you can also call the registration hotline at 805-477-7161. The phone line is staffed M-F 8-5. Appointments are set aside for both online registration and the phone line.

The Area Agency on Aging provides transportation services for older adults that are in need of transportation to a vaccine appointment or for COVID-19 testing. This includes people that need lift assist as well as gurney transportation. The driver will take the individual, wait for them, help them at the site and take them home. To schedule a ride call 805-477-7300. Please note, you must have a vaccine appointment before you schedule a ride to a vaccine site.

Friendship Center — Festival of Hearts Thank You to Sponsors & Helpers

by Community Contributor • March 4, 2021 • Comments Off

Our First Ever Virtual Event
Nearly 200 visitors to our first virtual event!
Over $30K for HEART (Helping Elders At Risk Today)

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for March 3, 2021 — COVID-19 Vaccine Information

by Community Contributor • March 3, 2021 • Comments Off

More appointments are available at this time. Register at www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/portal/

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — The Latest on Vaccines

by Community Contributor • March 1, 2021 • Comments Off

Beginning this week, the state has begun to use a 70/30 formula in allocating vaccine doses. 70% of our vaccine doses will go to those who are 65 and over while 30% will be going to those residents who fall under Vaccine Tier 1B: education/child care workers, food and agriculture workers, and emergency services workers.

Vaccine appointments will be made available for Emergency Services Workers, Grocery Workers, and Phase 1A Health Care workers beginning March 1st at 9am on the County’s COVID-19 Vaccine Appointment website.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Feb. 25 — COVID-19 Vaccine Information

by Community Contributor • February 25, 2021 • Comments Off

It was announced yesterday that education and childcare, food and agriculture and emergency response sectors are now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.

Information about appointments can be found at the following link.
www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/portal/. Appointments open Monday mornings beginning at 7 am online and 8 am on the phone line.

If you have limited internet access you can call the registration hotline at 805-477-7161. The phone line is staffed M-F 8-5. Appointments are set aside for both online registration and the phone line.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura – More Vaccine Appointments Open

by Community Contributor • February 25, 2021 • Comments Off

There are now 1st and 2nd dose vaccine appointments available as of 2/25/21 for those eligible.

Please make your appointment by visiting the following link: www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/portal/.

2nd dose appointments are available for Moderna. Pfizer appointments are full at this time. More will open next week.

2nd dose appointment information can be found at the following link:
www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/portal/registration-d2/

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Feb. 24 — COVID-19 Vaccine Information

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2021 • Comments Off

COVID-19 Vaccine Information

It was announced today that education and childcare, food and agriculture and emergency response sectors are now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, effective today.

Information about appointments can be found at the following link.
www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/portal/. Appointments open every Monday.

If you have limited internet access you can also call the registration hotline at 805-477-7161. The phone line is staffed M-F 8-5. Appointments are set aside for both online registration and the phone line.

Natalie Orfalea Foundation and Lou Buglioli Sponsor Hospice of Santa Barbara’s illuminate Speaker Series

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2021 • Comments Off

Natalie Orfalea Foundation and Lou Buglioli sponsor Hospice of Santa Barbara’s (HSB) illuminate Speaker Series, a virtual series that brings world-renowned speakers every month to discuss how COVID-19 is impacting us all.

As local nonprofits are adapting to find new ways to serve their clients and causes, HSB is adjusting to the new realities that come with COVID-19 through their illuminate Speaker Series, which provides helpful resources to our community and beyond as we cope with our new reality.

Timely Vaccines Going Strong at GranVida

by Community Contributor • February 19, 2021 • Comments Off

Carpinteria’s only senior living and memory care community, GranVida, can rest easier, as almost all of their staff and residents received their final vaccinations.

Management has expressed deep gratitude to the residents for adhering to vaccination schedules, and for staff and residents’ immediate cooperation with COVID-19 protocols.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Feb. 18 — Vaccine Update

by Community Contributor • February 18, 2021 • Comments Off

More vaccine appointments are now available for those 65 or older or in health care. Please make your appointment by visiting www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/portal/ or by calling 805-477-7161.

Frequently Asked Question: How do I get my 2nd dose appointment?

After receiving your first dose, you will become eligible for your second dose after a waiting period of 21 days if you received Pfizer and 28 days if you received Moderna.

You do not need to receive your second dose on the exact date you become eligible. You have a window of 6 weeks from getting your first dose to receive your second dose. Please do not schedule your second dose earlier than recommended. Refer to your vaccination card, which will list the date you received your first dose.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Feb. 17 — Vaccine Update

by Community Contributor • February 17, 2021 • Comments Off

Frequently Asked Question: How do I get my 2nd dose appointment?

After receiving your first dose, you will become eligible for your second dose after a waiting period of 21 days if you received Pfizer and 28 days if you received Moderna.

There are three ways to secure a 2nd dose appointment:

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • February 16, 2021 • Comments Off

Vaccine Update – now open to 65 and older. Appointments open weekly.

Vaccines are in limited supply throughout the State of California. Appointments are full at this time. The current phase in Ventura County is Phase 1A: Healthcare workers, long-term care residents and now 65 and older.

Appointments are limited because of the limited supply of vaccines. It will take time to secure an appointment if you are in the current phase. The County of Ventura wants you to have a vaccine and is advocating for more vaccines.

Once more appointments open a message will be sent. At that time, community members who are eligible to be vaccinated may:

1) Register online www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/portal/.
2) Those with limited computer/internet access may call the phone registration line at 805-477-7161. The phone line is open Monday through Friday 8:00-5:00.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Limited Vaccines Available for 65+ Starting Tuesday & More Mask Guidance

by Community Contributor • February 15, 2021 • Comments Off

Residents of Santa Barbara County who are age 65 and older will be eligible to receive their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine beginning Tuesday, February 16, 2021. This expanded eligibility means that local health care providers, pharmacies, hospitals, and Public Health vaccination sites can open appointments to those 65+ once vaccines become available to them. Vaccine supplies are still very limited and health care providers are simultaneously ensuring those that received a first dose will also be able to receive a second dose.

LEON surprises seniors with gifts, Valentine’s Day message

by Community Contributor • February 15, 2021 • Comments Off

Yesterday, the Latino Elder Outreach Network (LEON) surprised 400 isolated seniors in Goleta, Santa Barbara, Carpinteria, Isla Visa, Santa Maria, and Lompoc with goodie bags and Valentine’s Day cards to share a message of support during the pandemic. LEON is exploring the expansion of its network to North County and used the opportunity to introduce itself to seniors and organizations in Lompoc and Santa Maria.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update — Vaccine Update – now open to 65 and older

by Community Contributor • February 12, 2021 • Comments Off

There are 453 new COVID-19 cases. There have been 6,537 new tests performed for a total of 1,051,626 total tests performed. There are 226 people who are currently hospitalized and 52 in the ICU.

There have been 18 additional deaths: 75 year old male, 72 year old male, 87 year old male, 56 year old male, 81 year old male, 74 year old male, 56 year old female, 82 year old male, 79 year old male, 51 year old male, 64 year old male, 89 year old male, 48 year old male, 53 year old male, 80 year old male, 89 year old female, 62 year old male, and a 85 year old male

We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of those who have passed away.

Spring II 2021 Virtual Classes begin March 22 at Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at CSU Channel Islands

by Community Contributor • February 4, 2021 • Comments Off

Spring II 2021 Virtual Classes begin March 22 at Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at CSU Channel Islands. Registration begins March 1.

OLLI at CSUCI brings the excitement and stimulation of college learning to area adults (50 or better!) who wish to extend their learning experiences in a university atmosphere.

OLLI members take university-level courses without the distraction of grading, preparing for a career, or meeting degree requirements. OLLI is learning for the joy of learning!

Hospice of Santa Barbara Board of Directors Welcomes Joyce Dudley

by Community Contributor • February 4, 2021 • Comments Off

Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) has announced the addition of Joyce Dudley to its Board of Directors. Dudley has a BA in psychology, and two Master’s Degrees in Education; one with an emphasis on Early Childhood Education and the other with an emphasis on Educational Administration.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Feb. 3 — Vaccine Progress

by Community Contributor • February 3, 2021 • Comments Off

The COVID-19 vaccine dashboard was launched last Friday to keep the community informed on the progress of administering COVID-19 vaccines. The dashboard is updated Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The data shows that in very simple terms “when we get it, we give it”. We want you to receive the vaccine as soon as possible. When we receive the vaccines, we open appointments and administer them.

Second COVID-19 Mutation Detected in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • February 1, 2021 • Comments Off

A second COVID-19 mutation has been detected in Ventura County. An Oxnard sewage study result revealed the presence of a second mutation in a small amount of the COVID virus present in the sample. Oxnard has been testing samples of its wastewater on a weekly basis for a number of weeks. The new mutation was identified as N501Y. It is present in both the United Kingdom and South African variants.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Marian Medical Center Administering COVID-19 Vaccine for SB County Residents 75+

by Community Contributor • February 1, 2021 • Comments Off

In partnership with the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department, Marian Regional Medical Center will provide COVID-19 vaccinations to Santa Barbara County residents age 75 and older by appointment only.

Health care workers who provide direct care to patients, residents of a facility, or in a home care capacity in Santa Barbara County continue to be eligible and may also take advantage of this opportunity to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Vaccinations will be given by appointment only to eligible Santa Barbara County residents and health care staff. To make an appointment please call (805) 739-3815 or visit: https://sugeni.us/Wg5A.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2021 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura is in Phase 1A. This phase includes those in the health care sector and 75 and older.

The State provides vaccines to the County on a weekly basis. The supply is not enough for the amount of people needing vaccines. The County is advocating for more vaccines and is prepared to administer once the shipment arrives.

Community members who are eligible to be vaccinated may

County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Jan. 26 — Vaccine Update

by Community Contributor • January 26, 2021 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura is in Phase 1A which includes those in the health care sector and those who are 75 and older. Vaccines are for those that live or work in Ventura County.

The County receives vaccines from the State once a week. Once vaccines are received the County creates appointments for those vaccines to be distributed.

Community members who are eligible to be vaccinated may register online on Mondays at the following link:

www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/portal/.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Jan. 22

by Community Contributor • January 22, 2021 • Comments Off

Ventura County we want you to have access to vaccines as soon as possible! We receive vaccines each week from the state and open appointments for the vaccines we are provided. We are not given enough supply to vaccinate all community members at one time. We are advocating for more vaccines and we have the infrastructure to get vaccines in arms as quickly as possible once they are received.

We understand headlines in other places say 65 and older now. Unfortunately, in those places many people in that age range cannot get vaccinated yet because Counties throughout the State are in the same position of not having enough vaccines. The supply issue impacts the ability to expand the vaccine to more sectors at this time.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • January 20, 2021 • Comments Off

COVID-19 Vaccine appointments are full at this time. There are more community members wanting vaccines than appointments available this week because of the amount of vaccines we have available. More appointments will be added as more vaccines become available. The County receives vaccines from the state on a weekly basis. More vaccine distribution sites are launching but the County still needs more vaccines to add more appointments. We understand this is frustrating. We want to vaccinate the entire community as quickly as possible. We continue to expand infrastructure for distribution which will help move things forward once we receive more vaccines.

Bilingual report — Dec. 27, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • January 2, 2021 • Comments Off

Shout out to our special healthcare heroes who continue to serve very sick community members 24/7! We appreciate their dedicated service.

Through Feb. 6 — Friendship Center to present ‘Festival of Hearts’ 2021 Virtual Fundraiser

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2021 • Comments Off

Join fellow artists, neighbors, family and friends as we bid on a fantastic selection of items to raise funds for Friendship Center’s HEART (Help Elders At Risk Today) Program.

HEART is a keystone program that allows Friendship Center to offer services and care to hundreds of adults and seniors, particularly those living with a dementia diagnosis or other cognitively/ physically impairing conditions. In our first ever virtual fundraiser, you can show support by:
Purchasing valentine’s baskets
Collecting a one of a kind piece of heart-art
Bidding on unique experience packages
Sponsoring membership fees for low income seniors to enjoy our programs!

March 18 — Bilingual report — Hospice of Santa Barbara Virtual Speaker Series – illuminate Presents Dr. BJ Miller

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2021 • Comments Off

Next up on the illuminate Speaker Series line-up is Dr. BJ Miller, who will present Let It Fall: The Power of Existential Crises on Thursday, March 18th at 6:00 PM PDT.

Miller will go over how 2020 has shaken us to the point where nothing can be taken for granted and death is being realized as something that can come at any time. This is hard news, but it’s also an essential human experience and what our patients and families go through all the time. In this webinar, we will explore what binds us as human beings underneath our roles and learn practical ways to reframe your experience.

24 de abril — Bilingual report — Feria de recursos educativos y familiares en Paso Robles 24 de abril

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2021 • Comments Off

Feria de recursos educativos y familiares en Paso Robles 24 de abril

Sept. 10 — Friendship Center to present 11th Annual Charity Golf Tournament

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2021 • Comments Off

We invite you and your
golf enthusiasts
to join in this popular, fun event!

Friendship Center is this year’s charity recipient for the ever-popular SBAOR (Santa Barbara Association of Realtors) Golf Tournament! This event takes place on Friday, September 10. Spots are filling fast, so please sign up now!

Please See the registration form below for details.

SPONSORSHIP APPLICATIONS DUE: FRIDAY, JULY 16TH

Nov. 11 — Join Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation in the 2021 “Honoring Our Veterans” campaign; honorees from yesterday and today will be celebrated on social media through Veterans Day

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2021 • Comments Off

Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation (PCVF) is pleased to extend a warm invitation to the greater Santa Barbara community to participate in a new campaign, “Honoring Our Veterans.” With your support, veterans from all service branches (Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard) from yesterday and today will be remembered and celebrated on PCVF’s social media accounts leading up to Veterans Day on Thursday, November 11th. To participate in this novel online campaign to honor “those who serve,” simply submit a jpeg photo of your loved one in uniform and include their full name, branch of service and years served. Please email the information to media@pcvf.org. Your submission will appear in the “Honoring Our Veterans” online series posted on PCVF’sFacebook and Instagram accounts through Veterans Day on Thursday, November 11th. Please use “tags” to help the post go “viral” and reach more people. Provide your Facebook handle and we will tag you and anyone else! #HonoringOurVeterans.

Nov. 13 — Treasure Sale to benefit Friendship Center

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2021 • Comments Off

Proceeds will benefit the Friendship Center and Mental Wellness Center.

Dec. 15 — Bilingual report — Hospice of Santa Barbara’s 38th Annual Light Up A Life (Virtual Event)

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2021 • Comments Off

This year, Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) will hold their traditional celebration of reflection, special speakers, poetry, musical entertainment, and the lighting of their Tree of Remembrance to honor the many that are missed this holiday season, online via Zoom featuring event emcee Rev. Julia Hamilton on Wednesday, December 15th from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. PDT.

Bilingual report — Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. — COVID-19 update

by Community Contributor • December 31, 2020 • Comments Off

December is a month where we celebrate the closing of our year; a time filled with excitement and anticipation of the joy we are sure to share together during the holidays. Our time of family and community renewal will be greatly altered this year by the COVID-19 pandemic as the virus continues to spread at a slow, yet aggressive, burn. Social distancing, stay-at-home orders, and intermittent lockdowns have become the new normal and move many of us to come together and connect in creative new ways. The approvals of vaccines by Pfizer and Moderna, bring hope of increased protection and prevention of the COVID-19 virus; local rollout is here and it could not come soon enough. In Ventura County and around the world, health professionals and epidemiologists can agree on two things: COVID-19 is here to stay, and the future depends on the part we play to stop the spread and — perhaps most importantly — the choices we take together as a community in doing so!

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update: 737 New Cases

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2020 • Comments Off

There are 737 new cases of COVID-19
There have been 6 additional deaths: 68 year old female, 96 year old female, 63 year old female, 86 year old male, 96 year old female and 95 year old female. Those that passed away had comorbidities. Our thoughts are with their loved ones during this time.
4,317 new tests performed
Current doubling time is 28.6 days.
Current hospitalizations: 326 and current ICU: 67.

Please help bring down the numbers during this critical time.

Message of Thanks – Friendship Center

by Community Contributor • December 17, 2020 • Comments Off

Thanksgiving Culinary Donations:
Rosewood Miramar Beach Hotel- Chef Massimo & Isabel Pfander
Renaud’s Patisserie- Renaud Gonthier & Nancy Vasquez
Anna’s Bakery- Lisa Boelter & Deborah Weber
McDonald’s -Fairview Ave.- Cici Doctolero, Manager
Sprouts- Rod Rufo & Terry Cribbs

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Testing Schedule for Dec. 16

by Community Contributor • December 16, 2020 • Comments Off

The following COVID-19 testing locations are open today:

Oxnard College 4000 Rose Ave 10-7
Moorpark College 7075 Campus Rd 10-7
Santa Paula E Main/N Ojai 10-7
El Rio, Revive Community Church 2640 Alvarado St Oxnard 1-7
Community Park, 901 S Kimball Ventura 9-3:30

Bilingual report — Homes with Heart VC Encourages Community Members to Make their Lives more Meaningful

by Community Contributor • December 11, 2020 • Comments Off

Local human services agency urges community support to open their hearts and homes to children and older youth in (foster)care, as additional census shows a growth in need during the pandemic. VENTURA — The holidays are a special time of…

OC LIVE: ‘Essential Oxnard ~ A Film by Sal Anguiano’ now available for viewing

by Community Contributor • December 10, 2020 • Comments Off

OC alumnus Sal Anguiano’s short film Essential Oxnard sheds light on the important work and contributions of the Hispanic community in Oxnard, California, and celebrates its resilience amid the pandemic. From local Oxnard business owners to farm workers, Essential Oxnard asks the question, “Who is considered essential?”

In this special presentation, OC Film and TV Professor Anitra Lawson is joined by the filmmaker as well as OC alumni Luis Guereca and Arcelia Martinez to discuss the making of the film in the early days of the pandemic and where we are now.

Watch the film, meet the filmmaker and discover the beauty, the grit, and the heart of the city of Oxnard.

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Dec. 9

by Community Contributor • December 9, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Evening, There are 170 new cases for today (35 (20.6%) of which have a lab collection from 12/2 or earlier) 1,638 additional people tested and 2 additional deaths (85 and 86 year old males with comorbidities). Current doubling time is 43.6. Current hospitalizations are 147 and current ICU is 42.

The State’s Stay Home Order is in effect. Learn more about the order by clicking here.

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Dec. 8

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Evening, There are 308 new cases for today (7 (2.3%) of which have a lab collection from 12/1 or earlier) 1,936 additional people tested and 6 additional deaths (5 males and 1 female between the ages of 51-93, all but one with comorbidities). Current doubling time is 47.9. Current hospitalizations are 142 and current ICU is 40.

The State’s Stay Home Order is in effect. Learn more about the order by clicking here.

Please continue to wear a mask, social distance, wash hands frequently and avoid gatherings to help slow the spread of COVID-19.

A press conference will take place on 12/9/20 at 1pm. It will be streamed at www.venturacountyrecovers.org and Facebook @CountyofVentura.

A testing location update will be sent to update on any closures for tomorrow. Today, there were closures due to adverse weather.

Gold Coast Health Plan — Medi-Cal Pharmacy Program Implementation Extended by Three Months

by Community Contributor • December 7, 2020 • Comments Off

The timeline for Gold Coast Health Plan’s pharmacy program transition has been extended to April 1, 2021.

The new program by the state Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), known as Medi-Cal Rx, will carve-out all prescription benefits from managed care plans like GCHP. Upon implementation, all pharmacy claims will be submitted directly to the state via its pharmacy benefit manager, Magellan Medicaid Administration, Inc. DHCS announced the new implantation date last month, citing “the ongoing uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 public health emergency” for its decision to extend the timeline.

Ventura County Board of Supervisors to hold Special meeting on Dec. 8

by Community Contributor • December 7, 2020 • Comments Off

IN RESPONSE TO THE DECLARED STATE AND LOCAL EMERGENCIES DUE TO THE NOVEL CORONAVIRUS, AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR’S RECENT ORDER TO LIMIT INDOOR OPERATIONS AS A PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE TO HELP SLOW THE SPREAD OF COVID-19, THE HALL OF ADMINISTRATION IS CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC. TO FIND OUT HOW YOU MAY ELECTRONICALLY ATTEND THE BOARD MEETING AND PROVIDE PUBLIC COMMENT PLEASE REFER TO PAGE 2 OF THIS AGENDA

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update – Stay Home Order Issued

by Community Contributor • December 5, 2020 • Comments Off

The State of California’s Stay Home Order will go into effect on Sunday, December 6 at midnight in Ventura County and in all Counties in Southern California, after the Southern California Region’s hospital ICU capacity dropped below 15%. The order closes many businesses and activities and urges people to stay at home whenever possible.

The California Department of Public Health reported on Friday evening that Southern California’s ICU capacity dropped to 13.1%, triggering the Stay Home Order.

State’s Stay Home Order Triggered in Southern California Region, Effective December 6, Midnight

by Community Contributor • December 5, 2020 • Comments Off

The California Department of Public Health reported on Friday evening that Southern California’s ICU capacity dropped to 13.1%, triggering the Stay Home Order.

Santa Barbara County Food Action Network Holiday Newsletter

by Community Contributor • December 5, 2020 • Comments Off

We are collaborating with Santa Barbara County farmers markets, the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department and Edible Santa Barbara to celebrate this season, while supporting our local farmers, ranchers, fisherfolk, and food artisans during the pandemic. Together, we have created a “Stay Home (and Eat Local) for the Holidays” Shopping Guide, which includes in-season recipes by Edible Santa Barbara to plan your fresh, beautiful and nutritious holiday meal. The guide also features suggested budgets based on the size of your small gathering; sample menus with basic preparations; and a shopping list with an easy to follow market map to use at your local farmers market!

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Dec. 4 — Pruebas de Detección del COVID-19

by Community Contributor • December 4, 2020 • Comments Off

Buenas Tardes, hoy hay 488 casos nuevos, 2,269 personas adicionales que se hicieron la prueba. El tiempo de duplicación actual es 59.7 días. Hay 116 personas en el hospital y 33 en cuidados intensivos. Una persona más ha fallecido.

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Dec. 3 — Regional Stay Home Order

by Community Contributor • December 3, 2020 • Comments Off

Today the Governor announced a Regional Stay Home Order, it will go into effect within 48 hours in regions with less than 15% ICU availability. It prohibits private gatherings of any size, closes sector operations except for critical infrastructure and retail, and requires 100% masking and physical distancing in all others.

The order will remain in effect for at least 3 weeks and, after that period, will be lifted when a region’s projected ICU capacity meets or exceeds 15%. This will be assessed on a weekly basis after the initial 3-week period. Learn more about this order.

The State projects the Southern California Region, including Ventura County, to fall below 15% capacity as soon as tomorrow, and likely within a week.
When a region is placed under an order, these sectors will be closed:

Friendship Center — December Newsletter – Holiday Hacks for Happiness

by Community Contributor • December 1, 2020 • Comments Off

“We are very thankful for the caring wonderful people that work at Friendship Center who have brought many great moments to my life. Your Staff are always willing to go beyond what is expected and that is what Makes Friendship Center!”
*
“We want to thank all the staff and everyone that worked so hard to put together and deliver such a wonderful lunch. There was enough food to serve not only Jon and myself but also for my frail 86 year old mom and my step-dad Jay, who is on hospice at home. Jay loved the lunch and was able to eat all of his. For Jay, the pecan pie brought back happy memories of his mom who had a pecan tree in the front yard and made delicious pecan pies. It was a story we never heard before and it made him happy to share it with us.

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update — Wishing our community a safe Holiday! Please wear a mask, social distance and only gather with members of your household

by Community Contributor • November 25, 2020 • Comments Off

Wishing our community a safe Holiday! Please wear a mask, social distance and only gather with members of your household. Your actions are saving lives and keeping businesses open.

Today, volunteers helped deliver special Holiday meals for the most vulnerable populations in Ventura County. More than 150 volunteers from across the community and from County agencies helped with this effort.

Nearly 1,000 deliveries and a total of 3,000 meals were provided. Along with the meals each recipient received a homemade holiday greeting card. The cards were received as part of the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging Holiday Greetings Campaign. Nearly 1,000 cards were received from children and adults alike from throughout the County.

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Nov. 24

by Community Contributor • November 24, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Evening , There are 140 new cases today, 1,971 additional people tested and 0 additional deaths. Current doubling time is 68.2 days. There are 82 people in the hospital and 17 in the ICU. Thank you Ventura County for following the public health guidance of wearing a mask, social distancing and not gathering. You also answered the call to action with increased testing. More than 40k people have been tested over the last two weeks! Increased testing has allowed for a rate adjustment from the state and has also helped to slow the spread of COVID-19. Once someone tests positive they isolate which prevents further spread. We appreciate your efforts in helping to save lives and keep businesses open.

View today’s special press conference message:

Santa Barbara County Food Action Network Announces ‘Stay Home (and Eat Local) for the Holidays’ Campaign

by Community Contributor • November 24, 2020 • Comments Off

The Santa Barbara County Food Action Network (SBCFAN) has connected Santa Barbara County farmers markets, the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department and Edible Santa Barbara to develop a safe, affordable, and healthy option for celebrating the Holidays – and supporting the County’s food system – during the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, these Network partners are launching an aligned “Stay Home (and Eat Local) for the Holidays” campaign to encourage County residents to avoid large gatherings and enjoy locally sourced holiday meals with their household instead.

The campaign, which launches on Saturday, November 21, sprouted from conversations with County Public Health around how to emphasize the importance of avoiding gatherings during the holidays to help stop the spread of COVID-19. “Stay Home (and Eat Local) for the Holidays” takes that message and elevates it by also encouraging residents to shop local in our safe, outdoor farmers markets for affordable and healthy holiday meal ingredients that support Santa Barbara County farmers, ranchers, fisherfolk, and food artisans,” said SBCFAN’s Executive Director, Shakira Miracle.

Friendship Center — Veteran’s Day Message of Thanks

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2020 • Comments Off

Friendship Center staff are helping to distribute hygiene kits, put together by the Elk’s Lodge, to Santa Barbara area Veterans.

Please consider making a donation to Friendship Center so that we may continue to support Veterans in our community

Friendship Center November Newsletter – Gratitude & Sign Language Addition!

by Community Contributor • November 2, 2020 • Comments Off

Giving Thanks can make you Happier
by Sophia Davis, Advancement & Project Manager

November kicks of the holiday season with high expectations for a cozy and festive time of year. However, for many this time of year is tinged with sadness, anxiety, or depression. Research suggests that one aspect of the Thanksgiving season can actually lift the spirits, and it’s built right into the holiday — expressing gratitude.

Hospice of Santa Barbara Board of Directors Welcomes Mary Solis

by Community Contributor • October 16, 2020 • Comments Off

Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) has announced the addition of Mary Solis to its Board of Directors. Solis recently retired from the Ridley-Tree Cancer Center after 34 years as an oncology social worker and department manager. During her time at the Cancer Center, Mary expanded services to include 12 support groups, case management, financial assistance, and individual & family counseling services.

Prior to working with the Cancer Center, Mary spent 2 years at Catholic Charities as a caseworker. She also developed a wig & hat closet, a lymphedema clinic and worked collaboratively with other community organizations to create a Community Palliative Care Program.

October Newsletter — Virtual Activities Launch in NEW Subscription Memberships!

by Community Contributor • October 1, 2020 • Comments Off

Back on March 16, when we had to close our physical doors in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, Friendship Center staff immediately began finding ways to reach out and support our community from a distance. Considering ourselves warriors against isolation within our group of senior friends, staff have worked hard on creating unique forms of engagement and inclusion for our members. These activities include our robust schedule of ten daily Zoom classes, weekly tele check-ins, letter writing and supply delivery, Take Care Totes, Drive-In activity hours, porch visits, resource referrals and more.

Friendship Center — Shine a light of hope…

by Community Contributor • September 24, 2020 • Comments Off

2020 will forever be known as the year of one of the most impactful and furthest reaching public health events in history. We have had to pull together, and stand apart. With no stone unturned, we have had to re-think many of our routine habits through a new pandemic lens. In doing so, we have become even more aware of the importance of our health, our families, and the need for companionship. And conversely, recognize that isolation and depression are very real factors during this time.

CommUnify to replace Community Action Commission of Santa Barbara County

by Community Contributor • September 8, 2020 • Comments Off

Community Action Commission of Santa Barbara County, a non-profit social services organization with a six-decade legacy of helping provide solutions for people living in poverty, has changed its name to CommUnify.

“We’ve come a long way in the 50+ years since we began,” said Patricia Keelean, CEO of the agency initially established here in 1964. “Our new name and refocused identity, tells the story of who we are now and aligns with a retooled master plan to address our commitment to seeing our whole community come together in partnership to address inequalities.” The new name is accompanied by the tagline A Community Action Agency.

Friendship Center — September Newsletter & Special Thanks!

by Community Contributor • September 1, 2020 • Comments Off

Special thanks to our Angel Care Partners
who contributed to our
Take Care Totes for members!

Friendship Center — Fiesta Take Care Totes Have Arrived!

by Community Contributor • August 24, 2020 • Comments Off

Here’s some more great feedback from our
members about the totes:

“Last Wednesday when we returned from the Dr. visit, the Take Care Tote from Friendship Center was awaiting us on the front porch. Inside was a delightful heart scarf ? with tassels, a Fiesta Mexican fan with lace, and a small bag with Fiesta decorations to decorate for Fiesta (including fun maracas)! Thank you for the lovely Fiesta Spirit, and all of those special treats in our totes! The snacks and drinks that are included in every tote are just terrific!”

?Love, Joe & Judith Ewing

United Way of Ventura County — United to Help Homeless Veterans (COVID-19 Update)

by Community Contributor • August 12, 2020 • Comments Off

We hope this finds you well and you have a moment to read about the inspiring work of our team and partners. As a result of the generosity of community members like you, we’ve been able to temporarily house and provide daily meals for 44 veterans and 17 family members in local motels since April. We’ve also transitioned six of these veteran households to permanent housing and a total of 30 households have been permanently housed since our Landlord Engagement Program launched nine months ago.

Bilingual report — Mi Vida, Mi Voz Community Collaboration Provides Critical Resource Information for Spanish Speaking Community

by Community Contributor • August 5, 2020 • Comments Off

Due to the current coronavirus pandemic and economic crisis, many people in the Spanish-speaking Latino community are not getting the important information they may need for themselves and their families. For years, the Spanish-speaking community has struggled to receive timely, culturally-appropriate information related to emerging needs. In April, Mi Vida, Mi Voz (MVMV), a collaboration of local Latino-serving organizations, pivoted to address this critical need. With the pandemic’s disproportionate health and economic impact in the Latino community, this critical information is more relevant than ever.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for July 22

by Community Contributor • July 22, 2020 • Comments Off

Here’s your County of Ventura COVID – 19 update:

94 new cases

6,049 total cases

1,524 new people tested

3,100 recovered cases

90 hospitalized

22 current ICU

2,886 active cases under quarantine

63 deaths (1 additional death – 84 year old female with comorbidity)

98,648 total people tested

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for July 17

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2020 • Comments Off

Here is your COVID-19 update from the County of Ventura.

224 new cases

1,588 new people tested

5,192 total cases

2,726 recovered cases

95 hospitalizations

31 in the ICU

57 deaths (1 additional death – 77 year-old male)

89,336 total people tested

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for July 16 — COVID-19 drive through testing sites. No cost. No insurance needed. No appointment needed

by Community Contributor • July 16, 2020 • Comments Off

*Sites are for those that live or work in Ventura County.

Ford Dealership, 128 S. Hallock Dr., Santa Paula, CA 93060 M-F, 10-7

Moorpark College, 7075 Campus Rd., Moorpark, CA 93021 M-F, 10-7

Ventura College, 4667 Telegraph Rd., Ventura CA 93003, M-F, 10-7

Weekend testing: Friday to Tuesday at Oxnard College, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard, CA 93033 10-7

Friendship Center — Donations for isolated seniors in SB!

by Community Contributor • July 15, 2020 • Comments Off

Friendship Center, with the help of our fabulous partners, has delivered over four hundred Take Care Totes to isolated seniors in South Santa Barbara County during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Many of our senior friends are living with a dementia diagnosis and/ or other health conditions and have had little to no contact with the outside world for four months. The Take Care Totes, providing snacks, personal care items, activities and more, have become a lifeline for our senior friends as well as their caregivers.

July Newsletter & Special Thanks! ~ Friendship Center

by Community Contributor • July 6, 2020 • Comments Off

Please consider making a gift to help support our activities and alternative care practices for members during this Covid-19 event.
Thank you!

Take Care Totes Coming to Members on June 25 from Friendship Center

by Community Contributor • June 24, 2020 • Comments Off

Coming to our members Tomorrow — The COVID-19 crisis is a challenge for us all. We are working hard to offer alternative ways of providing care for all our members, but we need your help now more than ever.

State Sen. Jackson Bill to Require Backup Power for Nursing Homes Passes Senate Floor

by Community Contributor • June 23, 2020 • Comments Off

As California faces another wildfire season and potential public safety power shutoffs (PSPS) amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara)’s Senate Bill 1207 to require California nursing homes to have backup power for at least 96 hours during an emergency passed off the Senate floor yesterday on a 36 to 0 vote. The bill now moves to the Assembly.

Independent-Living Seniors Find Affordable Sanctuary at the New Housing Authority of the City of SB ‘The Gardens on Hope’

by Community Contributor • June 22, 2020 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — As COVID-19 continues to re-shape life in the U.S., one thing for certain is that the record-high increase in unemployment goes hand in hand with a shortage of affordable housing. This is especially hard for senior residents facing homelessness in Santa Barbara, and who live on a reduced income and may rely on part-time work to make ends meet but are in danger of losing their jobs due to lay-offs or closures.

Step Forward Entertainment Celebrates the Music of the Legendary Neil Sedaka A Virtual Concert to Benefit The Actors Fund Streaming on June 20th and 21st @ 7pm EDT / 4pm PDT

by Community Contributor • June 19, 2020 • Comments Off

To help lift spirits during the worldwide lockdown while providing a lively musical event, Step For- ward Entertainment is producing a special virtual concert celebrating the music of the legendary artist, Neil Sedaka to benefit The Actors Fund Covid-19 Relief efforts.

The concert titled, “Steppin Forward Virtually to Celebrate the Music of the Legendary Neil Sedaka” will be streamed on Saturday, June 20th and Sunday, June 21st at 7pm EDT, 4pm PDT and repeated on Thursday, June 25th at 10pm EDT, 7pm PDT, presented by Robert R. Blume/Step Forward Entertainment and Pat Labez, in coop- eration with both Neil Sedaka Music and The Actors Fund. Krystin Goodwin, TV/Film actress and Fox reporter covering Entertainment and Trending News on Sirius XM Radio will serve as host.

June Newsletter & Special Thanks! ~ Friendship Center

by Community Contributor • June 2, 2020 • Comments Off

Here at Friendship Center, we foster and encourage strong partnerships with our family caregivers to assist our members in getting connected online, so that they can continue participating with their friends in virtual social settings – we call this our virtual community. We are ready to help make this possible, so please contact us and let’s embrace something new together!

Ventura County Public Health Issues Visitation Guidance for Long-Term Care Facilities

by Community Contributor • June 1, 2020 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Public Health Officer has issued visitation guidance for Long-Term Care Facilities (LTCF). For more than two months residents of the facilities have not been able to have visits from friends and family members to protect these seniors from COVID-19 infection. These residents have missed special visits with their loved ones and the following guidance will allow for facilities to maintain and enhance the quality of life for these residents.

Make Your Mark: Check in and Protect Older Adults

by Community Contributor • May 29, 2020 • Comments Off

For the past 57 years, our nation has designated May as Older Americans Month to celebrate the countless contributions that older adults make in their communities. This year’s theme is Make Your Mark, and California is celebrating by highlighting how older adults are making their mark during the COVID-19 pandemic to keep our communities safe and healthy.

Take Care Totes ~ Coming to Members this Thursday from Friendship Center

by Community Contributor • May 27, 2020 • Comments Off

Make a Donation for Take Care Totes

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for May 26

by Community Contributor • May 26, 2020 • Comments Off

Resources

COVID-19 Testing: Information is attached and included at www.vcemergency.com.
Food: http://foodshare.com/covid19/
Senior Services: https://www.vcaaa.org/covid-19/
Unemployment assistance: https://www.vcemergency.com/resources
Business resources: https://edcollaborative.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/EDC-COVID19-BUSINESS-RESOURCE-GUIDE.pdf
Wellness: https://www.wellnesseveryday.org/coping-during-coronavirus
Coping with stress: https://habits.vcbh.org/
Support resources: https://www.ventura.org/departments/hsa/community-events/coronavirus-remote-resources/remote-resources-during-coronavirus/
Frequently asked questions about the Stay Well VC Order:https://www.vcemergency.com/staywellvc/faqs-general

COVID-19 Case Rate and California’s Diversity — Patterns in Coronavirus Exposure

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2020 • Comments Off

Every case of COVID-19 is the result of someone having been exposed to the coronavirus. Here in California, as elsewhere, different people experience different exposures to the virus. Some individuals and families—those with work that can be done remotely, robust health insurance, and relatively easy access to a physician—have been able to reduce their coronavirus exposure by sheltering at home for the past eight weeks.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for May 21

by Community Contributor • May 21, 2020 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Good Evening, Here’s your COVID-19 Update from the County of Ventura. 25 new cases 883 total cases 680 recovered cases 21 hospitalized 12 ICU 174 under quarantine 29 deaths 18,673 people tested www.vcemergency.com Business Information: www.vcreopens.com…

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Expedited Reopening for Certain Businesses Coming Soon

by Community Contributor • May 19, 2020 • Comments Off

Yesterday, Governor Newsom announced changes to his criteria for counties to be able to move more quickly through Stage 2 of his reopening plan (although no counties can move past Stage 2 into Stage 3 until the Governor authorizes that action) and today, our Public Health Director is sending in our attestation that Santa Barbara County meets the criteria.

The new criteria is as follows:

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for May 19 — COVID-19 Response Information: Testing

by Community Contributor • May 19, 2020 • Comments Off

Testing: The County of Ventura has expanded testing throughout the county for residents who have the slightest suspicion of having COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone with it. You will not be charged for the test, and you don’t need to have health insurance. You may be asked for insurance information if you have it. Three new drive up testing sites will be open Wednesday. 1) Ventura College, 4667 Telegraph Road in Ventura 2) Moorpark College, 7075 Campus Rd. Moorpark 3) Ford Dealership 128 S. Hallock Drive, Santa Paula. More information about the state testing sites and county clinics can be found in the attached pdf and at www.vcemergency.com.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — More Testing and a Guide for Reopening

by Community Contributor • May 15, 2020 • Comments Off

Despite a large increase in the amount of testing, COVID-19 infections continue to be modest. During Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors hearing, the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department Director presented the above graph, which indicates that new cases have continued to decline if you exclude the cases from the Lompoc Federal Correctional Institution. At the Board of Supervisors meeting this coming Tuesday, the Board will receive a presentation on the Reopening In Safe Environment (RISE) Guide, which builds off of the guidance from the Governor’s Resilience Roadmap but also provides local guidance and best practices for industry sectors as developed by an expert panel.

Hospice of Santa Barbara Takes Part in Delivering 120 Lunches to Local Seniors

by Community Contributor • May 15, 2020 • Comments Off

As a way to give back to our community in this time of need, Shalhoob’s and Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) delivered 120 meals from Shalhoob’s to the senior living complex Village Santa Fe Apartments, a Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara property. Hospice of Santa Barbara provided 12 volunteers who helped pack and deliver the meals donated by Shalhoob’s.

Ventura County Civic Alliance — Livable Communities Newsletter – May 15, 2020

by Community Contributor • May 15, 2020 • Comments Off

What we define as “livable” has now changed, of necessity, but what does this hold for the future? In our first article, Kerry Roscoe takes a moment to think about the positives and negatives ahead of us.

Our next article takes a new look at the Not In My Back Yard (NIMBY) movement. Each of us may have our own definition of what we think a NIMBY is or is not, but I would bet that few, if any, would define a NYMBY as Alan Durning has in his February 2020 article entitled KNOW THINE NIMBY. Because the negative impact of NIMBY entrenchment is so strong, housing advocates need to better understand who we are addressing during debates regarding new housing.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for May 14 — Reopening Ventura County

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2020 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Good Evening, Here’s your daily COVID-19 Update from the County of Ventura.

23 new cases

748 total cases

488 recovered cases

23 hospitalized

12 in the ICU

235 under quarantine

25 deaths

14,971 tested

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for May 13 — No cost covid-19 testing is offered for all community members at two state locations

by Community Contributor • May 13, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Evening, Here is your COVID-19 update from the County of Ventura.

25 new cases

725 total cases

477 recovered cases

23 hospitalized

12 in the ICU

24 deaths (2 ages 25-44, 5 ages 45-64, 17 ages 65+) all patients had comorbidities

14,384 people tested

Jackson Bill to Require Backup Power for Nursing Homes Passes Health Committee

by Community Contributor • May 13, 2020 • Comments Off

As California faces another wildfire season and potential public safety power shutoffs (PSPS) amid the COVID-19 pandemic, State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson’s (D-Santa Barbara)’s Senate Bill 1207 to require California nursing homes to have backup power for at least 96 hours during an emergency passed unanimously out of Senate Health Committee today on a 7 to 0 vote.

How your United Way of Ventura County is responding to COVID-19

by Community Contributor • May 13, 2020 • Comments Off

Over the past few months, COVID-19 has reshaped our lives and priorities in powerful ways. Here at your United Way, we’ve been collaborating with our community partners and adapting how we provide services so that we can better respond to the needs of our most vulnerable citizens.

In this moment of unprecedented uncertainty, we are incredibly thankful for our community partners, donors, and volunteers. They’ve stepped up to provide vital resources for our neighbors and friends who need it the most right now.

To learn more about how your local United Way is responding during this global pandemic, please take a moment to view my recent interview with OVTV.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for May 12 — Register your business to reopen at www.vcreopens.com

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Evening, Here’s your COVID-19 Update from the County of Ventura.

22 new cases
700 total cases
475
Recovered cases
25 hospitalized
13 in the ICU
204 under quarantine
21 deaths
Tune in at 1 pm on 5/13/20 at www.vcemergency.com for a video update.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for May 11 — No cost COVID-19 testing is available for all community members at two state testing sites

by Community Contributor • May 11, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Evening, Here is your COVID-19 update for May 11, 2020. Moving forward stats will be provided Monday through Friday. Stats from Saturday and Sunday will be included in the Monday report.

12 new cases

678 total cases

458 recovered cases

19 deaths

28 hospitalized

11 ICU patients

13, 715 tested

County of Ventura Moves to Stage 2 Reopening • El Condado avanzará con la Etapa 2 del estado de reapertura

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2020 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura has reached an important milestone for our community, County and our local economy. The Public Health Officer announced today a new modified Stay Well VC Health Order to align with the State of California’s four-stage framework for reopening. The County will move forward with the State’s Stage 2 of reopening lower-risk businesses on May 8, 2020. This will allow retail businesses, such as clothing stores, bookstores, sporting goods stores and florists, for example, to reopen with curb side delivery, as well as the related manufacturing and supply chain businesses.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley (BGCGCV) Rise to the Occasion During COVID-19 Outbreak

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2020 • Comments Off

Despite economic challenges brought on by the COVID-19 Outbreak, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley (BGCGCV) continues to support youth and staff to cope and emerge from the COVID-19 crisis.

The BGCGCV continues to keep 4 out of 9 of its Clubs open to provide the critical childcare needed for essential working families. In addition to childcare, the BGCGCV is working hard to maintain a sense of routine for youth, help prevent learning loss, and focusing on the social, and emotional wellbeing of its members.

Santa Barbara County Food Rescue Network Expands to Offer Critical Support to Those In Need

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2020 • Comments Off

Santa Barbara County Food Rescue, a program of the Community Environmental Council (CEC), announces multiple collaborations to support county-wide efforts to feed those in need during the COVID-19 crisis.

Santa Barbara County Food Rescue matches donors that have excess, nutritious food with organizations serving food insecure populations. Since 2018, this CEC-led effort has coordinated the?rescue?of?nearly 60,000 pounds of edible prepared food?for?distribution?through?more than a dozen agencies,?including Buellton Senior Center, Casa Serena, PATH, and Salvation Army Hospitality House. Beyond helping people, food rescue mitigates climate impacts by keeping high-quality excess prepared food out of landfills, where it decomposes and emits methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for May 7 — Stay Well VC – Safely Reopening Ventura County

by Community Contributor • May 7, 2020 • Comments Off

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for May 6

by Community Contributor • May 6, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Evening, Here’s your daily COVID-19 update from the County of Ventura.

13 new cases

608 total cases

419 recovered cases

23 hospitalized

11 in the ICU

170 under quarantine

19 deaths

12,122 people tested

Today’s video update: https://vimeo.com/415735841.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for May 5

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Evening, Here is your daily COVID-19 update from the County of Ventura:

18 new cases
595 total cases
416 recovered cases
22 hospitalized
11 in the ICU
160 under quarantine
19 deaths
11,854 people tested

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for May 4

by Community Contributor • May 4, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Evening, Here’s your daily COVID-19 update.

11 new cases

577 total cases

402 recovered cases

23 hospitalized

10 ICU

19 deaths

11,100 people tested

County of Ventura Expanded COVID-19 Testing

by Community Contributor • May 4, 2020 • Comments Off

Community transmission of COVID-19 continues to occur in Ventura County. Testing for COVID-19 has expanded to multiple locations throughout the County. Any Ventura County resident who meets the following criteria may schedule an appointment for testing by calling a State Location or County’s Ambulatory Urgent Care-sponsored testing site hotline.

Friendship Center — Giving Tuesday

by Community Contributor • May 4, 2020 • Comments Off

During Friendship Center’s closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are challenged to find creative ways to serve and support our senior community. The FC team is up for that challenge, but we need your help! In addition to hygiene and home activity supplies for our Take Care Totes, we are accepting monetary donations to fund virtual support for our sweet seniors and their families. Thank you to all for any amount of support, be well and stay safe

Updated parking along Pacific Coast Highway

by Community Contributor • May 4, 2020 • Comments Off

In order to continue the success of Ventura County flattening the COVID-19 curve, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, working in collaboration with the California Highway Patrol, Caltrans, California State Parks, and Ventura County Parks Department, will be updating parking standards along northern and southern stretches of the Pacific Coast Highway in Ventura County.

County of Ventura: COVID-19 Update for May 3. County Expands COVID-19 Testing Kicks Off 5/4/20

by Community Contributor • May 3, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Evening, Here’s your daily update on COVID-19 in the County of Ventura.

7 new cases

566 total cases

402 recovered cases

25 hospitalized

9 in the ICU

145 under quarantine

19 deaths

10,861 tested

State COVID-19 Case Rates and Pandemic Protection: A Metric for Decisions to Implement, Continue, or Relax Measures

by Community Contributor • May 1, 2020 • Comments Off

State and terrritorial governors have implemented pandemic protection measures in order to interrupt and slow down the passage of the coronavirus throughout each state’s population. Some of these measures are implemented at the individual level, such as wearing a facemask or maintaining social distance. The risk of transmission is much higher among crowds of people in close proximity, so another set of measures operates at the group level, trying to keep large groups from forming by keeping potential members dispersed.

“Romaine lettuce tainted with E. coli can be recalled or removed from grocery stores to prevent transmission,” said Paul Hsu, an epidemiologist at UCLA. “When someone is infected with coronavirus, we have to rearrange social contacts to interrupt that person-to-person transmission.” Crowds at sporting events, audiences at concerts, and students in classrooms have been dispersed by cancelling games, events, and classes.

Coalition For Family Harmony Sees Increase In Crisis Calls To Its Hotline

by Community Contributor • May 1, 2020 • Comments Off

The Coalition for Family Harmony, which provides victims of family violence in Ventura County with the means to help escape from abuse, has seen a 10 to 15 percent increase in crisis calls to its hotline since the COVID-19 stay-at-home order took effect.

“Financial and emotional stresses are taking a toll. Victims are calling our hotline, fearful about staying in their home with an abuser but also worried about leaving and possibly being exposed to COVID-19,” says Dr. Caroline Prijatel-Sutton, Coalition For Family Harmony executive director. “They are in desperate situations.”

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 30

by Community Contributor • April 30, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Evening, Here’s your daily update on COVID-19 in the County of Ventura.

18 new cases
535 total cases
377 recovered cases
27 currently in the hospital (5 patients are long term care facility patients that do not need hospital care but are being cared for in the hospital setting to protect other long term care facility residents)
9 in the ICU
18 deaths (37-99; 9 males and 9 females)
9,962 people tested

Press Conference: Here’s an update from 4/29/20 https://vimeo.com/413333237. Tune in tomorrow at 1 pm for the Friday update. Streamed live on www.vcemergency.com.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 29

by Community Contributor • April 29, 2020 • Comments Off

Chief Deputy Director of the Ventura County Health Care Agency Barry Zimmerman provided an update on testing this week. View the update here. The County of Ventura is focused on the ability to monitor and protect our communities through testing, contact tracing, isolating and supporting those who are positive or exposed. These steps are critical on the path to reopening.

Santa Barbara County Nonprofits Collaborate to Meet Critical Needs of Isolated Seniors During COVID-19

by Community Contributor • April 29, 2020 • Comments Off

Many of our older community members, particularly those living alone, are not receiving the support they need during the coronavirus pandemic. To address this gap, several nonprofits in Santa Barbara County have collaborated to identify isolated seniors and connect them to essential services or critical needs, such as food and supplies.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 28

by Community Contributor • April 28, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Evening Ventura County, Here’s your daily update on COVID-19 in the County of Ventura:

5 new cases
135 current cases
508 total cases
356 recovered cases
26 hospitalized (5 patients are long term care facility patients not in need of hospital care but being cared for at the hospital to protect others at long term care facilities)
11 in the ICU
17 deaths: age range 37-99 years; 9 males and 8 females.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 26

by Community Contributor • April 26, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Afternoon, Here’s your daily update from the County of Ventura.

1 new case

209 current cases

497 total cases

271 recovered cases

29 currently at the hospital (7 are long term care facility patients that are not acute for hospital care but staying at the hospitals throughout the county to protect others)

7 ICU patients

17 deaths (9 males and 8 females ages 37-99, 11 passed in the hospital and 6 at home, all had comorbidities)

9,161 tested

Special thanks to our community members for following the soft closure guidelines at local beaches. Coastal law enforcement reported that beach visitors followed the rules and kept moving.

Stay informed at www.vcemergency.com.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 25

by Community Contributor • April 25, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Evening, Here is your daily update on COVID-19 in the County of Ventura.

20 new cases
213 current cases
496 total cases
267 recovered cases
21 hospitalized
7 in the ICU
8,503 people have been tested

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 23

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2020 • Comments Off

14 new cases
465 total cases
245 recovered cases
26 in the hospital *5 of which are not in need of hospitalization but are long-term care facility patients being cared for at hospitals to protect the other long-term care facility members.
7 in the ICU
8, 256 people tested
16 deaths
Age range of deaths 37-99: 8 males and 8 females. All individuals had comorbidities.
Unfortunately, a 37-year-old male died as the result of a drug overdose with COVID-19 infection as a significant comorbidity and contributing condition. Questions can be directed to the Medical Examiner’s Office at MeoAdmin@ventura.org.

Vulnerable Individuals and Families in Santa Barbara County Assisted through COVID-19 Joint Response Effort; also Supports Nonprofits Assisting Those Impacted by Virus

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2020 • Comments Off

United Way of Santa Barbara County, The Santa Barbara Foundation and the Hutton Parker Foundation are leading a countywide funders’ collaborative, the COVID-19 Joint Response Effort for Santa Barbara County. The Effort will provide assistance to individuals and families as well as organizations actively assisting members of the community affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Over $2 million has been secured and fundraising continues to help those most in need.

County of Ventura Prepares for Reopening

by Community Contributor • April 22, 2020 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura has been taking steps to prepare for reopening. “We are positioned to focus on the road to reopening because our residents and businesses have sacrificed so much to comply with the Public Health Orders and slow the spread of the virus in our community,” said Mike Powers, Ventura County CEO. “Our current situation is further strengthened by the work of our local hospitals to expand their capacity.”

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 22

by Community Contributor • April 22, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Afternoon, Here’s your daily update from the County of Ventura on COVID-19.

8 news cases
194 active cases
451 total cases
243 recovered cases
25 currently in the hospital
8 currently in the ICU
14 deaths

Take Care Totes ~ Coming to Members tomorrow from Friendship Center

by Community Contributor • April 22, 2020 • Comments Off

Special Call to Action Coming to our members tomorrow… Make a Donation Here’s some feedback from our members from the last delivery: “I went through it all with my parents & they were really happy. We are running low on…

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 21

by Community Contributor • April 21, 2020 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Good Evening, Here’s your daily update of regarding COVID-19 in the County of Ventura: 15 cases 443 total cases 230 recovered cases 28 hospitalized 11 in the ICU 200 active cases under quarantine 7,881 tested Zip…

Bilingual report: County of Ventura Takes Steps Forward on Road to Reopening Public Health Officer Extends Modified Stay Well At Home Order

by Community Contributor • April 20, 2020 • Comments Off

County of Ventura Public Health Officer, Doctor Robert Levin, has announced the extension and modification of the Stay Well At Home Order. The Order is in effect as of April 18 at 11:59 pm and shall be in effect until 11:59 pm on May 15, 2020.

Bilingual report: County of Ventura Works with Community Partners to Bring Antibody Tests to Region

by Community Contributor • April 17, 2020 • Comments Off

Since the outbreak of COVID-19 the County of Ventura has been actively working with community partners to obtain antibody tests. There is a race throughout the nation to acquire point-of-care COVID-19 antibody tests. Antibody testing, which is also often called serologic testing or immunity testing, can reveal whether a person’s immune system has mounted a response to the virus.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Planning for the Future of COVID-19 & More Governmental Resources

by Community Contributor • April 17, 2020 • Comments Off

As the State evaluates ways to safely modify the statewide stay-at-home order, they have developed six key indicators that will be considered before such modification would take place: Expand our testing capabilities, contact tracing, and support for Californians who contract…

Bilingual report: County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 16

by Community Contributor • April 16, 2020 • Comments Off

une in on April 17 at 1 pm at www.vcemergency.com, News Channel 3, ABC 7, Spectrum 10, Facebook @ countyofventura and Twitter @ countyventura for a press conference update from the County of Ventura highlighting efforts to support businesses throughout the County.

Port of Hueneme Hosts Blood Drive for COVID-19 Relief Efforts

by Community Contributor • April 16, 2020 • Comments Off

As the Port continues moving cargo to stock the shelves at grocery stores throughout California and 15 western states, waterfront workers went above and beyond the call by hosting a blood drive at the Port of Hueneme on April 16.

Bilingual report: Healthcare That Works Remotely: New Member Services at CenCal Health

by Community Contributor • April 16, 2020 • Comments Off

CenCal Health, the publicly-sponsored health plan for Medi-Cal in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, is offering alternatives for healthcare access in order to support its members during the COVID-19 pandemic. The community-based health care organization is one of 55 Safety Net Health Plans across the country that have pledged to provide necessary treatment at no cost to its members and to reduce other impediments to care.

Bilingual report: County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 15

by Community Contributor • April 15, 2020 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Public Health Officer announced that the Stay Well At Home Order will be extended until May 15, 2020. The current Order is set to expire April 19, 2020 at midnight. The Public Health Officer will be modifying the current Order and making an announcement about the details before the current Order expires.

State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) Appointed to Pandemic Emergency Response Committee

by Community Contributor • April 15, 2020 • Comments Off

State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson’s (D-Santa Barbara) on April 15 announced that Senate pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins (D-San Diego) appointed her to serve on the newly established Senate Special Committee on Pandemic Emergency Response.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Now for Good News – The Curve Is Flattening

by Community Contributor • April 14, 2020 • Comments Off

The good news is that physical distancing is working. Our County Public Health Department and the hospitals have worked to increase hospital bed capacity to about 590 countywide, yet our hospitalizations are at 40 (confirmed patients). Lives have been saved by our combined efforts, so please keep it up as the State wrestles with how long the “Shelter in Place” order will last and we wrestle with what we will do if the order is lifted or modified.

United Way of Ventura County COVID-19 Rapid Response Homeless Care Kits Drive extended to June 1

by Community Contributor • April 14, 2020 • Comments Off

United Way of Ventura County COVID-19 Rapid Response Homeless Care Kits Drive We’ve extended our Rapid Response Homeless Care Kits drive to June 1, 2020, to help more of our most vulnerable neighbors in need during this public health crisis.…

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 13

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2020 • Comments Off

Today the Ventura County Superintendent of Schools Stan Mantooth provided an update about COVID-19 Response. School meal service is continuing while schools remain closed. Pick up locations can be found at https://www.vcoe.org/meals. All Ventura County K-12 public school campuses remain closed through the end of the current school year. Colleges and Universities will continue remote instruction through the summer.

City of Oxnard: Coronavirus – Ventura County Resource List

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2020 • Comments Off

RESOURCE LIST – COVID-19: STAY INFORMED Ventura County Information line: 211 or send a text to: 211211 with the word “covid19” Official Ventura County Incident Information Source: www.vcemergency.com Ventura County Behavioral Health Crisis line: 1-866-998-2243 Logrando Bienestar – Mental Health…

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 12

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2020 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Happy Sunday Ventura County, Here is your daily County of Ventura COVID-19 Update. 5 new cases 132 active cases 314 total cases 172 recovered cases 21 hospitalized (64 ever hospitalized for COVID-19) 9 in the ICU (22 have…

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 11

by Community Contributor • April 11, 2020 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Good Afternoon, Here is your daily COVID-19 Update from the County of Ventura. 11 new cases 309 total cases 126 recovered cases 173 active cases 63 ever hospitalized 19 currently hospitalized 10 currently in the ICU 10 deaths…

Ventura County Public Health Officer Issues New Stay Well At Home Order Protecting Seniors in Long-Term Care Facilities, Placing Further Limitations on Gatherings, Adding to the List of Essential Businesses and Enacting Social Distancing Protocols

by Community Contributor • April 10, 2020 • Comments Off

Ventura County Public Health Officer Doctor Robert Levin has enhanced the Stay Well At Home Order to save lives and stop the spread of COVID-19 in the County of Ventura. The Order supplements the Health Officer’s Orders dated March 17, 20 and 31, 2020. All prior Orders issued by the Health Officer remain in effect except where modified by the provisions of the latest Order.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Holiday Celebrations During COVID-19

by Community Contributor • April 10, 2020 • Comments Off

As we enter the weekend, many are feeling the disappointment of not being able to celebrate religiously significant holidays in close physical proximity to friends and loved ones. However, virtual hugs, decorated homes, recipe swaps, special meals and your best holiday attire can make Passover, Easter, and Ramadan feel special while practicing physical distancing. Here are some ways you can practice physical distancing during the Holidays:

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 10

by Community Contributor • April 10, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Evening, Here’s your daily COVID-19 Update from the County of Ventura. 24 new cases 298 total cases 111 recovered cases 59 ever hospitalized 177 active cases under quarantine 10 deaths (age range 71-89; 5 females and 5 males) 5,…

Bilingual report: City of Oxnard Public Access Programming Updates | Actualizaciones de programación de acceso público

by Community Contributor • April 9, 2020 • Comments Off

The City of Oxnard updated the local public access stations (Spectrum channel 10 and Frontier channel 35) with coronavirus content from the City, County, State and the CDC. Please see the broadcast schedule below.

Additionally, Ventura County hosts live press conferences everyday at 1 p.m. on News Channel 3 and ABC 7. Please be sure to tune in! These broadcasts from the County will also be shared online at https://vimeo.com/capsmediacenter.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 9

by Community Contributor • April 9, 2020 • Comments Off

Tune in for live update at 1 p.m. Friday, April 10, live streamed on www.vcemergency.com. Speakers will include Supervisor Kelly Long, Rigoberto Vargas, Public Health Director, Patrick Maynard, Director Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services, Steve Carroll, Administrator, Ventura County Emergency Medical Services Agency, Vanessa Bechtel, Executive Director, Ventura County Community Foundation, Monica White, President and CEO, Food Share Ventura County, Mike Powers, County of Ventura CEO.

Bilingual report: Coronavirus – Oxnard beaches and parks closed April 11 & 12, 2020 | Los parques y las playas estan cerradas 11 de abril y 12 de abril

by Community Contributor • April 9, 2020 • Comments Off

OXNARD — For the safety and wellness of our community during this national health crisis, Oxnard beaches and parks will be temporarily closed this weekend: April 11 & 12, 2020. We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to do the best…

Requests for Senior Meals Up 30% in Santa Barbara County Due to COVID-19 Outbreak

by Community Contributor • April 9, 2020 • Comments Off

Dramatic increase in both home-delivered and site-distributed prepared lunches. Local non-profit looking for home delivery drivers, meal site coordinators GOLETA — Community Action Commission of Santa Barbara County (CAC) operates a Senior Nutrition program that began in 1967 to provide a…

Museum of Ventura County — The Mammoths of Ventura County, Get Art Smart quizlet, and more…

by Community Contributor • April 9, 2020 • Comments Off

Greetings from 16 MVC team members, from 16 different home offices!

Last week, after 10 days of working from home, we on the Museum staff team realized that we actually like each other quite a bit, so we got together for an hour of idea sharing and recharging. Here we all are, in our “working from home” best.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 8

by Community Contributor • April 8, 2020 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Good Evening, Here is your daily County of Ventura COVID-19 update. 20 new cases 263 total cases 96 recovered cases 52 ever hospitalized, 17 ever in the ICU 160 under home quarantine 7 deaths (5 in their…

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 7

by Community Contributor • April 7, 2020 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Good Evening, Here is your daily COVID-19 Update from the County of Ventura. By the numbers: 17 new cases 243 total cases 148 active cases 89 recovered cases 148 active cases under home quarantine 6 deaths (4…

UWVC’s United to End Homelessness COVID-19 Rapid Response

by Community Contributor • April 6, 2020 • Comments Off

UWVC’s United to End Homelessness COVID-19 Rapid Response VENTURA — As a rapid response to the COVID-19 pandemic, United Way of Ventura County (UWVC) has mobilized to help our neighbors experiencing homelessness. In consultation and partnership with the County Executive…

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — County by County Covid Stats & Resources for Businesses Impacted by the Crisis

by Community Contributor • April 6, 2020 • Comments Off

Governor Newsom announced new help for small businesses & workers displaced by COVID-19. $50 million in loan guarantees is available for small businesses that may not be eligible for federal relief and the State is also allowing small businesses to…

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 5

by Community Contributor • April 5, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Morning, Here’s your daily updated on COVID-19 cases in the County of Ventura. 18 new cases 221 total cases 62 recovered cases 153 under home quarantine 6 deaths Question of the Day: What are the steps to take to…

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 4

by Community Contributor • April 4, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Afternoon, Here’s your daily COVID-19 Update from the County of Ventura. 14 new cases 203 total cases 60 recovered cases 137 under home quarantine 6 deaths 3,892 total tests Watch the daily video update with a focus on homeless…

Working remotely CSUCI pulls together to print 3-D protective face shields

by Community Contributor • April 3, 2020 • Comments Off

CSU Channel Islands may be operating in a virtual environment right now, but CSUCI faculty, staff and students from several different academic programs have mobilized and fired up 3-D printers to print badly-needed protective face shields.

So far, 51 printers are humming away in University members’ garages, kitchens, bedrooms and dens across the region in an effort to help medical personnel protect themselves as they treat patients diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 3

by Community Contributor • April 3, 2020 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Good Evening, Here’s your daily County of Ventura COVID-19 Update. 12 new cases 189 total cases 50 recovered cases 42 hospitalized 133 active cases under quarantine 6 deaths Questions of the Day: Where can Employers,…

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — A Call to Take Responsibility & Updated Numbers

by Community Contributor • April 2, 2020 • Comments Off

We are together facing yet another time of crisis, and how we behave in it will define and test our community and our humanity. Many have lost jobs or income, seen their products rot without customers, their businesses close, and some are even now seeing their loved ones sick. We must be a community where individuals take it upon themselves to shorten the economic crisis and save lives, by practicing social distancing without the need for Big Brother government or well-meaning neighbors to tell you how to behave.

County of Ventura issues New public health comments about masks

by Community Contributor • April 2, 2020 • Comments Off

Ventura County Public Health Officer changes position on face masks, no longer advising against wearing them in public. Instead, he supports those residents who wish to cover their nose and mouth when leaving home for essential travel to doctor appointments, grocery shopping or pharmacy visits. The face coverings should not be hospital grade at this time because there is a shortage and our health professionals need them.

SoCalGas Donates $100,000 to American Red Cross of Central California to Support Those in Need During the Coronavirus Pandemic

by Community Contributor • April 2, 2020 • Comments Off

Funding is part of the $1 million donation the company is providing to assist laid-off workers, provide food and bill payment assistance to those in need CAMARILLO — Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas) on Aug. 2 announced it will donate…

Family Service Agency Launches Parent Coaching ‘Warm Line’

by Community Contributor • April 2, 2020 • Comments Off

Offers Support, Tips for Homebound Families During COVID-19 SANTA PAULA — With stay-at-home orders, school closures, and business shut-downs, parents are balancing work, child care, and self-care while dealing with other impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, Family Service…

Friendship Center — April Newsletter

by Community Contributor • April 2, 2020 • Comments Off

Friendship Center’s Montecito and Goleta sites are home away from home for many seniors with dementia in our local community. As soon as it became evident we would need to close both locations due to COVID-19 and our high-risk demographic, we knew we had to do all we could to support our elderly members by alternate means. We took immediate action to implement remote services—check-in calls to our members and their families, virtual activities online, and remote ZOOM caregiver support groups, which are so popular they have increased from monthly to weekly meetings!

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 1

by Community Contributor • April 1, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Afternoon, Here is your daily report of COVID-19 cases in the County of Ventura.

11 new cases
160 total cases
31 recovered cases
34 people have ever been hospitalized from COVID-19
124 active cases under quarantine
5 deaths
Test count for today will be included tomorrow. As of yesterd

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