Dear Community Members,
In this month's newsletter, you'll find important information for individuals affected by the Mountain Fire, how you can participate in this year's Spark of Love Toy Drive, free food resources throughout the county, holiday closure reminders, and more!
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If you've been impacted by November's Mountain Fire, visit VCrecovers.com for the latest information on recovery efforts, support services and other resources available to you, including: | |
| | | | - Pet food and other supplies
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Help Brighten the Holidays for Local Children and Teens in Need
Every year, Ventura County firefighters collect donations for distribution to local children and teens in need of a happier holiday experience. Last year, the outpouring of generosity from our community touched the lives of over 33,000 local youth, including children and caregivers served through HSA, the Family Justice Center, Safe Passage, and more.
How to donate:
- 2901 Ventura Rd., Oxnard
- 4651 Telephone Rd., Ventura
- 855 Partridge Dr., Ventura
- 725 E. Main St., Santa Paula
- 2900 N. Madera Rd., Simi Valley
*Please place food items in the separate Food Share collection box.
You can also visit Amazon.com to purchase a gift on Ventura County Fire Department's Spark of Love registry or make a monetary donation through the Ventura Fire Foundation.
If you have any questions, please email: SparkOfLove@ventura.org
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HSA offices will be closed on Wednesday, Dec. 25 and Jan.1, in observance of Christmas and New Year's Day. We wish you and your loved ones a joyful and blessed holiday season.
You can visit BenefitsCal.com to apply for and manage benefits online.
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VC Thrive Is Helping Former Foster Youth Reach Their Goals
In the fall of 2023, HSA partnered with Ventura County-based nonprofit James Storehouse to
launch VC Thrive, a supplemental income pilot program for former foster youth. This 18-month program combines state and local funding to provide $1,000 monthly stipends to 150 eligible individuals who have aged out of the local foster care system.
Half of the $2.7 million designated for stipends has already been distributed. Nearly 90% of VC Thrive survey respondents report spending these funds on housing, utilities, transportation, groceries, and health and child care.
As participant Keanna shares in this video, "With this program, I'm able to save a little bit, and I can have nice things in the future, like my own apartment or books for college."
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Beware of Text Message Scam
The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office is warning residents about a recent phishing scam targeting community members via fake text messages. These messages falsely claim to be from the County of Ventura, demanding payment for overdue bills and directing recipients to a fraudulent debt collection webpage.
The Office of the Ventura County Treasurer-Tax Collector NEVER contacts individuals via text or uses private debt collectors.
If you have questions, contact the Office of the Treasurer-Tax Collector at 805-654-3744.
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If you are struggling to put food on the table, please take a look at Food Share of Ventura County’s Find Food Now Map, where you can find hot meals and pick up a food box at participating locations throughout the county.
Individuals age 60 and older are welcome to visit any of our Area Agency on Aging's congregate meal sites for a nutritious meal. Additionally, homebound seniors can apply to receive home-delivered meals at no cost. View full details.
Visit our website to see if you qualify for additional food benefits through the CalFresh program or call 888-472-4463.
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Free Money for College!
California's CalKIDS Program awards up to $1,500 to eligible low-income public-school students for college or career training.
CalKIDS funds can be used to cover education expenses such as:
- Tuition and fees.
- Books and supplies.
- Room and board.
- Computer equipment.
Visit CalKIDS.org to learn more and claim your account today!
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Medicare Open Enrollment Ends Dec. 7
During the Medicare open enrollment period, Medicare beneficiaries can review and change their coverage for the following year. Changes made during open enrollment go into effect on Jan. 1.
For more information, visit the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging (VCAAA) website or Medicare.gov.
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$5 Safe Rides
Gold Coast Transit District's (GCTD) Safe Rides service provides affordable and reliable transportation every day between 4:30-7 a.m. and 7 p.m. to midnight to individuals within the GCTD service area.
This service is open to everyone 16 and older. Fare is $5 per person each way. Older adults age 65 and older and individuals who are ADA-certified pay a reduced fare of $4 for Late-Night Safe Rides.
Advance reservations are recommended, and a minimum of one-hour notice is required. Visit the GCTD website for full details.
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The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC) has announced the release of their draft Regional and Local Plans for Program Years 2025-2028. These comprehensive plans outline WDBVC's strategic vision for workforce development in the region and detail how they intend to meet the evolving needs of job seekers and employers in Ventura County.
Key highlights of the plans:
- Strategic priorities for workforce development initiatives
- Alignment with regional economic goals
- Partnerships with local employers and educational institutions
- Programs designed to support job seekers and career advancement
- Strategies for addressing skills gaps in our workforce
As a valued member of the community, your feedback is crucial in shaping the final versions of these plans. You're invited to review the documents and share your thoughts, concerns and suggestions.
Public comments must be submitted by Friday, Dec. 27, 2024.
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Veteran Services Orientation Tuesday, Dec. 10
The Employment Development Department and America's Job Center of California (AJCC) invite veterans and their family members to attend an orientation of services available to veterans. This event will take place Tuesday, Dec. 10, from 10-11:30 a.m. at America's Job Center of California, 2901 N. Ventura Rd. in Oxnard. Attendees will learn about:
- AJCC employment and training programs.
- Counseling and rehabilitation to get back to work and civilian life.
- VA education and medical benefits as well as federal and local benefits.
Call 805-288-8400 for more information and to register for this event.
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The BenefitsCal website is an easy way to get the help you need with food, employment, health care, and more! Visit the site to:
- Apply for benefits.
- Upload documents.
- Report changes.
- Connect with a caseworker.
- Request a replacement benefit card.
BenefitsCal will even send you reminders when it's time to renew your benefits, which you can also do online! Visit BenefitsCal.com to create your account today.
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For more updates, visit the Ventura County Human Services Agency website: VCHSA.org | | | | |