| Dear Friends,
It is my pleasure to update you on the work I have been doing to make Alameda County an even better place to call home.
In this edition you can read about my work on ALL IN's Food as Medicine initiative, the unveiling of new water stations in Oakland Unified School District, and my Spring County Update.
You can also learn about my work to support affordable housing in Alameda County, youth career development in Alameda, and much more.
It is an honor to serve you. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any comments, questions or concerns that you may have regarding the district or Alameda County.
Sincerely,
 Wilma Chan
Supervisor, Third District
Rooting Food as Medicine in Healthcare
 In May, I was excited to take part in ALL IN Alameda County’s “Rooting Food as Medicine in Healthcare” launch for the Food as Medicine toolkit. This toolkit provides guidance to clinics and healthcare settings for using good nutrition as a preventative health or medical intervention. I extend my deepest thanks to our many contributors who made the toolkit and launch possible: ALL IN Alameda County, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland, Department of Community Health and Engagement, Alameda County Community Food Bank, the Alameda County Department of Public Health, the Ecology Center, the San Francisco Food As Medicine Collaborative, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Food Research & Action Center, and the many individuals who contributed to the creation of this toolkit.
Food as Medicine, ALL IN’s flagship initiative which developed out of the 2016 Social Innovation Fair, advances healthy equity by transforming the healthcare system’s role to increase access to, and utilization of, the best available, affordable food to improve the overall health of communities. Through a collaborative effort with residents, health care institutions, county and community-based organizations, and the private sector, Food as Medicine aims to make it easier for healthcare providers to discuss and utilize food interventions as part of medical care using Cultural Humility and Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) to increase effectiveness and sustainability. I look forward to the next steps in scaling Food as Medicine county-wide.
Preparing for the 2020 Census
Did you know? Each person counted on Census 2020 will bring almost $20,000 back to Alameda County over the next decade. Taking steps now will help ensure everyone in Alameda County gets counted. Here are 3 easy things your organization can do right now to prepare:
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Become a Messenger: Keep your community informed about the Census
Commit to sharing important Census information to your community through your existing communication channels such as emails, social media, and newsletters. We’ll create the content, you’ll spread the message, and together we’ll ensure our community is informed. Sign up HERE
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Watch and Share Alameda County’s Census 2020 video
We’ve put together a short video highlighting how Alameda County will benefit from an accurate count. Help us get to 1000 views!
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Schedule a Census 101 presentation: Learn all about Census 2020 in Alameda County
Want to learn more about how the Census is important to our community and what Alameda County is doing to prepare?
Community Identifier Project Update
In 2018, the Alameda County Arts Commission facilitated the process for the public to select murals for the Community Identifiers in San Lorenzo, Ashland/Cherryland, and Castro Valley. I am excited to share that painting has begun and all Community Identifiers are anticipated to be complete by this fall.
In addition to the Community Identifiers, elements from each mural have been incorporated into wraps to cover public utility boxes along each identifier’s corridor. Make sure to check out the utility box wraps along Hesperian Blvd. at Paseo Grande (in front of the Lorenzo Theater), Lucky Supermarket, and Via Mercado.
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CalFresh Benefits Now Available to
SSI/SSP Recipients
On June 1st, CalFresh food benefits became available for the first time to many older adults and people with disabilities who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI)/ State Supplemental Payment (SSP) in California. The receipt of CalFresh benefits will be life-changing, especially in a high cost area like our County. The estimated nutrition benefit for a newly eligible SSI recipient will represent more than a 10% increase in their overall, severely limited income.
Help me get the word out! If you or someone you know receives SSI/SSP and is interested in receiving food benefits, visit GetCalFresh.org. You can also call 1-877-847-3663 (FOOD) or come in to one of the County’s Social Services Agency offices. Click here for a list of locations.
Serving Children and Youth Facing Summer
Food Insecurity
As schools begin their summer recesses, many students who receive free and reduced-free meals – often their only access to breakfast and lunch – may go hungry over the summer months. Thanks to a collaborative effort between the school districts, libraries, parks, and other recreational and community centers, children and youth ages 18 and younger will be able to access free breakfasts and lunches in District 3. If you do not see a site near you listed below, visit the Summer Food Service Program’s website to find a location near you.
Alameda
The Alameda Unified School District (AUSD) will be serving free lunch, and breakfast at select locations, all weekdays from June 24th to August 9th (except July 4th). Locations include the Alameda Boys & Girls Club, the Alameda Point Collaborative, Washington Park, Shinsei Garden Apartments, Academy of Alameda, Wood Middle School, and Ruby Elementary School. Click here to visit the AUSD Food and Nutrition Services for a full list of locations, times and dates.
Oakland
The Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) will be providing free summer lunch to kids and teens at locations throughout the district, including Castlemont High School, Cypress Mandela, Franklin Elementary, Garfield Elementary, and Lincoln Elementary. For a full list of sites, click here to visit the OUSD Nutrition Services page or contact Nutrition Services at 510-434-3334.
San Lorenzo
The San Lorenzo Library is once again hosting Lunch in the Library from June 17th to August 15th from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM every day the library is open. Lunch is served on a first-come, first-served basis. In addition to lunch, the Library is excited to present a different activity including crafts, science experiments, story times, and games during the weekday lunch distributions. Click here for the San Lorenzo Library calendar for information on the different lunchtime activities.
Hayward
The Hayward Unified School District (HUSD) will be providing free summer lunches at locations in the San Lorenzo area, including the San Lorenzo Community Center, REACH/Ashland Youth Center, and the Arroyo Swim Center. For a full list of sites, start dates, and times, click here to visit the HUSD website.
Alameda County Social Services
The Alameda County Social Services Agency (SSA) will be providing free lunch every weekday from June 20th to August 8th (except July 4th and July 5th) from 11:00 am to 1:00pm at the Eastmont Self-Sufficiency Center and the Eden Area Multi-Service Center. Click here for more information on daily menus, addresses, and parking information.
Supporting the San Lorenzo Community
I was proud to once again donate $2,000 to the San Lorenzo Village Homes Association’s annual Earth Day event in April. This annual community event is always a great success. I would like to thank the San Lorenzo residents who volunteered for the community clean-up, the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office for once again hosting a drug takeback, the San Lorenzo Library for providing arts and crafts, and all the supporters who make this event possible.
Fairmont Homeless Safe Car Park Program
This April, Alameda County launched a Safe Parking Pilot program for homeless residents at the County’s Fairmont Hospital facility in San Leandro. The pilot, which is primarily aimed at residents in the Mid-County unincorporated area, operates in partnership with First Presbyterian Church and receives referrals from numerous entities including 211 and the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office.
The Fairmont site provides eligible residents with secure 24-hour parking, security personnel, sanitary facilities, and navigation services. It can accommodate up to 15 cars and is already serving several County residents. The next phase of the program is the creation of a Navigation Center onsite to better connect homeless residents with services and pathways to housing. For more information or to make a referral to park onsite, please call John Eric Henry at 510-593-4660.
Supporting Youth Career Opportunities in Alameda
 I was excited to once again partner with the City of Alameda and Alameda Unified School District on the 5th annual City of Alameda Youth Career and Job Fair at Encinal High School in March. Over 500 high school students in Alameda attended this year’s fair and had the opportunity to meet with nearly 50 local employers to learn more about their summer job and internship programs.
I would like to thank Alameda County’s Information and Technology Department, Health Care Services Agency, Sheriff’s Office, and Probation Department for attending the fair and their continued support of youth career development.
Earn It! Keep It! Save It!
I was pleased to once again host the Alameda County Social Services Agency’s Free Tax Preparation at my San Lorenzo District Office this year. This program provides free tax preparation for low- to moderate-income individuals and families throughout Alameda County, helping them save thousands of dollars in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC).
This year, the San Lorenzo site prepared nearly 580 tax returns, saving community members nearly $225,600 and over $27,500 in federal and state EITC.
Supporting Oakland Students
 In May, I was proud to join the Oakland Unified School District and City of Oakland at Allendale Elementary School in unveiling the new water bottle filling stations installed in Oakland’s schools. The City of Oakland allocated $371,000 from Measure HH (Sugar Sweetened Beverage) tax revenues to provide water stations in over 100 of the city’s schools, and I was proud to donate $100,000 out of my Measure A funds to purchase an additional 20 water stations.
Studies show children and youth are better prepared to learn and healthier when they are drinking water instead of sugar sweetened beverages. These water stations will provide Oakland’s students with access to an attractive and healthy alternative to sugary beverages. It also provides clean water in schools where high levels of lead had been found.
Older Adults Survey
The Alameda County Area Agency on Aging (AAA) has launched a survey for older adults living in Alameda County to guide their Countywide Plan for Older Adults. If you are age 55 or older and reside in Alameda County, please click here to fill out this survey. This survey is confidential and will help guide policies to transform Alameda County into a more Age-Friendly Community.
AAA appreciates your feedback to help shape future programs and services for Older Adults in the County. You can share your interests and opinions on issues such as Outdoor Spaces & Buildings, Transportation, Housing, Social Participation, Respect & Social Inclusion, Civic Participation & Employment, Communication & Information, and Community & Health Services.
Spring County Update
I was pleased to welcome nearly 50 community members to my spring County Update at the San Lorenzo Library in May. Attendees received an update from Alameda County’s Arts Commission, Public Works Agency, Economic and Community Development Department, San Lorenzo Unified, and the Deputy Sheriff’s Activities League on each agency’s upcoming projects and programs in the unincorporated areas. Thank you to the presenters for sharing these updates with the community, answering their questions, and continuing to serve the residents of Alameda County.
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Federal and State Policy Briefing
In February, I hosted the third annual policy briefing, “Impact in 2019: An Update on Federal and State Policy Priorities,” led-by the County’s Legislative Advocates. The briefing provided an overview of the political landscape in Sacramento and Washington D.C. It also covered key policy priorities at the federal and state levels, including housing and homelessness, healthcare, and early care and education. Participants were encouraged to stay informed about new legislative, regulatory, or agency actions that may impact services to Alameda County residents. To learn more about policy changes and share accurate information, visit:
I invite you to read Alameda County's adopted 2019-2020 Legislative Platform and 2019 Legislative Priorities for information on the County's legislative priorities and positions.
If you missed the briefing, and are interested in the presentations, a recording is available online here.
Urban Shield
On March 12, 2019, I voted to terminate Urban Shield in its current format. The Board majority asked the Sheriff to ensure that first responders are well-trained for the types of threats and disasters that are most likely to occur in our region. The Board also asked the Sheriff to provide emergency training exercises similar to Urban Shield but with a focus on community preparedness and without overt militarization. If done properly, these exercises would provide the type of training that first responders and community members need to respond effectively in an emergency. Unfortunately, the Sheriff decided not to pursue this path, and so Alameda County will no longer be hosting these exercises. The Bay Area Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) is currently developing a proposal asking jurisdictions in the Bay Area to apply for the 2020 training and exercises.
Affordable Housing Partnerships
Alameda County is launching a significant effort to assist faith-based and community-based organizations to help address the region’s affordable housing crisis. Alameda County, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) and the San Francisco Foundation rolled out a $1 million program on April 22nd that is designed to help local faith-based organizations and area nonprofits expand their development expertise. Through this effort, groups that own property and want to consider using those properties for affordable housing can gain knowledge to can help projects move forward.
Through a Board of Supervisors action that I supported, the County earmarked $750,000 in local funding for this effort, and the San Francisco Foundation (SFF) provided an additional $250,000 in support. LISC, a long-time community development intermediary whose Bay Area investments top $734 million, will manage the outreach, education and technical assistance associated with the program. Trainings are underway. Interested organizations can find more information and sign up for notices of upcoming trainings at http://www.lisc.org/bay-area/what-we-do/affordable-housing/achdcbp/.
AC Transit Fare Changes
AC Transit adopted new local fares as of Monday, July 1st. Adult single-ride cash fares will increase to $2.50 and youth/senior/disabled single-ride cash fares will increase to $1.25. Clipper cards are now the best value option, with greater discounts for Clipper users after July 1st. Adult single-ride Clipper fares will change to $2.25 and youth/senior/disabled single-ride Clipper fares will change to $1.12.
Clipper cards can be purchased at Walgreens, Whole Foods Market, and other participating retailers. A full list of retailers can be found on the Clipper website. Cash value can be loaded on Clipper cards at all BART stations. Click here to see the full schedule of updated fares, including day pass and trans-bay rates.
Building Futures Annual Gala Celebration
 In May, I was privileged to be one of three honorees at the 2019 Building Futures Annual Gala Celebration in San Leandro. The proceeds of this fundraising event go directly to supporting homeless, domestic violence, and housing services provided by Building Futures on behalf of Alameda County residents.
Given Building Futures’ extensive and compassionate work in my district, I am honored to have been recognized by them at last month’s event. I look forward to continue working with Building Futures to ensure that the most vulnerable community members have access to the vital services and resources they need.
Apply to the Alameda County Citizens Academy
The County Administrators Office invites you to apply to the 19th Alameda County Citizens Academy. This free six-session program is open to anyone who lives, works, or owns a business in Alameda County and provides insight into County services, operations and community engagement. Applications are available online from July 8 to August 10 for the Fall 2019 cohort. Space is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis with consideration given to geographic location.
Get Involved in District 3
Alameda County has established numerous Boards and Commissions to assist the Board of Supervisors with governmental responsibilities. Supported by citizen volunteers, these bodies are responsible for reviewing a wide range of policy issues, with each having a specific legislative focus.
Several Boards and Commissions to which I make appointments currently have vacancies. This includes the Assessment Appeals Board, Consumer Affairs Commission, Mental Health Advisory Board, and Veterans Affairs Commission. If you would like more information or are interested in applying for a vacancy, visit https://www.acgov.org/bnc/#/home or contact Jared Savas at 510-278-0367.
In addition to the Board of Supervisors Commissions, the Alameda County-Oakland Community Action Partnership (AC-OCAP) has two board openings: one in the City of Oakland CDBG District 4 and one for the Alameda County Low-Income Community (excluding Berkeley and Oakland). Each nominee must 1) be 18 years old and a resident of the district which he/she represents, 2) complete and submit an application, and 3) submit ten (10) signatures from residents who are 18 years old or older and live within their district. For more information, visit AC-OCAP’s website.
The Alameda County Community Corrections Partnership Community Advisory Board (CAB) is also accepting applications for its openings. The purpose of the CAB is to give the community a voice in realignment and re-entry policies. Applications can be found on the Alameda County Probation Department website.
Upcoming Events
Fruitvale Night Markets
The Unity Council and the Fruitvale Business Improvement District invites you to attend Night Markets. A free, family-friendly event that is open to the public. Night Markets will be taking place on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of June, July, and August (6/13, 6/27, 7/11, 7/25, 8/8, and 8/22). Night Markets are located on the Avenida de la Fuente between International Boulevard and East 12th There will be Latin folkloric dance performances, live music, a DJ, and lots of kids activities. For questions visit www.unity council.org or email msanchez@unitycouncil.org.
Advance Care Planning in Chinatown
I invite you to attend my fourth Advance Care Planning panel on Thursday, July 18, 2019 from 10 AM-11:30 AM at the Asian Health Services Library (101 - 8th Street, Oakland, CA). This informative panel will provide valuable information on important end of life care topics such as health care orders, wills and trusts, and understanding the different nursing and care options available. Cantonese translation will be provided. RSVP: Sarah Oddie, sarah.oddie@acgov.org, 510-278-0367.
Showtime in San Lorenzo
The Alameda County Economic and Community Development department invites you to attend Showtime in San Lorenzo on Saturday, July 20th from 3 PM-8 PM at the historic Lorenzo Theater (16080 Hesperian Blvd., San Lorenzo, CA). Join community residents and neighbors for a fun-filled afternoon with Lorenzo Theater Tours, Artisan Craft Vendors, and a Car Show. Bring your own chair or blanket and stay for a free screening of Small Foot (movie begins at dusk).
San Lorenzo Village Homes Association's Annual Halloween Event
Save the date for the San Lorenzo Village Homes Association's (SLVHA) annual Halloween event on Saturday, October 26, 2019. SLVHA is excited to announce a Star Wars theme for this year's event! More details will be posted on my Facebook page and at my San Lorenzo office closer to the event.
Community Resources
Boards and Commissions
Are you interested in serving Alameda County and District 3? There are currently several openings to become a District 3 representative. Learn more at www.acgov.org/clerk/bcc.htm. Applications, including a cover letter and resume, can be submitted to District3@acgov.org.
Healthy Homes
Lead poisoning, asthma triggers, and safety issues in the home are a serious threat to our children’s health. The Alameda County Healthy Homes Department has services to help low-income residents and property owners make homes safer for young children. Other services include free lead paint repair and free trainings. For more information, visit www.achhd.org.
Project Leadership Series
Are you a parent of a child with special health needs? Family Voices of California is looking families who can be prepared and supported to advocate for improved healthcare. Family Voices will offer a Project Leadership training series, which will include a $250 stipend for participants who complete all seven sessions. Free on-site childcare and lunch will be offered. To apply to Project Leadership or for more information, contact Lilian Ansari at 510-547-7322 ext. 122 or LilianA@FRNoakland.org, or visit www.familyvoicesofca.org.
AAA Senior Resource Guide
Alameda County’s Area Agency on Aging website has elder service tips, news, and resources. Click here to visit the website and learn more about resources available to all seniors in Alameda County.
Alameda County Resource Guide
For information and referrals on Alameda County programs, check out our resource guide: http://www.acgov.org/government/documents/ACResourceDirectory.pdf.
Starting a Local Business
Do you want to open a business in Alameda County but don’t know where to begin? Alameda County has two great guides that will help you get started:
- Guide #1: Starting a Business in Alameda County
- Guide #2: Starting a Business in Unincorporated Alameda County
- (Ashland, Castlewood, Castro Valley, Cherryland, Fairview, Happy Valley, Hayward Acres, Hillcrest Knolls, San Lorenzo, and Sunol)
East Bay Connects
Are you connected? East Bay Connects provides access to low-cost broadband for as little as $10 a month. New broadband subscribers can receive a free home computer, free digital literacy training, a year of free tech support, and access to many resources to learn how to use broadband. For more information, call East Bay Connects at (886) 460-7439 or contact James Nixon at (510) 377-7224 or jamesshurdinixon@gmail.com. |
