A Letter from Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis
Dear Friends,
Today, December 1st marks the 35th World AIDS Day – where we reflect on the millions of precious lives this horrific disease has claimed worldwide for over four decades and an opportunity to pay tribute to those currently living with HIV. This year's theme is "Remember and Commit," and it is so appropriate because beyond commemorating, we must continue to double our efforts in eradicating this disease.
As a Supervisor for the First District, I am proud to have introduced several motions to address this epidemic by advocating for state and federal funding to broaden prevention, treatment, and reduction programs and services for STDs. I am also proud to work closely with community-based organizations that are taking the lead in providing resources directly to our most impacted communities – and helping them uplift their mission in targeting specific populations including Latinos and members of our LGBTQ+ community.
I encourage all residents to take some time to educate themselves about HIV/AIDS, reflect on the devastating effects it has had in our communities, and raise awareness so we can eradicate the stigmas associated with HIV/AIDS once and for all.
Sincerely,
Hilda L. Solis
Supervisor, First District
 The holidays are a time for joy and celebration, but most importantly they are a time for gratitude. And there is no better way to show our gratitude to one another than by uniting as a community. Because we are stronger, together. We saw this during the COVID-19 pandemic, Hurricane Hilary in the summer, and most recently, the closure of the I-10 freeway. But we found hope amidst these uncertain times – hope in the arts. Whether it is through music and dance, or even a film, the arts provide healing. To that end, I want to thank all the families that joined us this week at the LA County Tree Lighting Ceremony, Holiday Marketplace & Festivities for promoting a deeper understanding of the essential connection between arts, health, and well-being.
The holiday season is my favorite time of the year. To that end, I was so pleased and grateful to visit the Alvarado, a 43-unit / 172-bed Homekey site in MacArthur Park, and spread the holiday joy by bringing toys and backpacks to our families.
If you wish to bring happiness to vulnerable families, our LA County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) has an Adopt a Family program where sponsors are matched with a family receiving DPSS services. Sponsors are provided with their contact information along with the family’s “wish list” of requested items that may include clothing, gift certificates, or toys.
 Following two years of double-digit increases, reported hate crimes in LA County grew 18% from 790 to 929, the second largest number in more than 20 years. For the past 8 years, hate crimes have been trending upward and since 2013 there has been a 143% increase.
Some findings in the report include data that showed African Americans being the most frequent targets of reported hate crimes in the County, anti-Asian hate crimes reaching the second highest total ever, explicitly anti-immigrant hate crimes hitting a historic high and a growth in hate crimes targeting the LGBTQ+ and Jewish communities.
The report also documents which regions of the County experienced the highest numbers and rates of hate crime.
The LA County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs is pleased to announce a new program designed to help qualified landlords who have been impacted by COVID-19-related economic hardships. The LA County Rent Relief Program will provide over $46 million in direct financial assistance to qualified landlords to help mitigate the negative economic impacts of the pandemic that have left many tenants behind on rent.
The Rent Relief Program will offer grants of up to $30,000 per unit to eligible landlords for expenses dating from April 1, 2022, to the present. The program is specifically designed with a focus on helping small, mom-and-pop landlords who own up to four rental units. Its goal is to reduce tenant evictions due to rent arrears, maintain the viability of small-scale rental businesses, and ensure the availability of affordable housing in LA County.
Landlords can apply for the LA County Rent Relief Program beginning in mid-December. The application process will be easy, and applicants will receive free multilingual technical support from community partners to guide them through the process and assist with gathering the necessary documentation.
To receive program updates and be notified when the online application opens, click the link below.
Join Hispanics for LA Opera for a Celebración de las Artes at the Music Center's Jerry Moss Plaza this Sunday, December 3! This celebration of Mexican artistry and culture will feature food and crafts for sale, as well as musical performances by Mariachi ensembles the Mata Family (featuring LA Opera Connects tenor Jonathan Lacayo) and Mariachi Las Colibri. This is a free event and does not require a Frida and Diego performance ticket.
Property Tax Bill: You can now view and/or save an electronic copy of your current and last year's property tax bill on the Treasurer and Tax Collector’s website! All you need is your Assessor Identification Number (AIN). Simply here. If you don’t know your AIN, select “LOOK UP YOUR AIN” and enter your property address on the Office of the Assessor portal.
PIN: The PIN requirement for making an eCheck payment was eliminated. All you need is your AIN and both your checking account and bank routing number.
If you have property tax questions, visit the Public Inquiries web page for self-service options or to submit an inquiry.
The LA County Trans & Nonbinary Survey is out now! This survey is being led the the UCLA Williams Institute and the TransLatin@ Coalition and it will bring to light the needs of trans and nonbinary communities in LA County.
Scan the code on the flyer to access the survey or text "I want to take the survey" to (213) 325-2421.
The LA County Training Center is seeking applicants for the first-ever Fire Camp Program coming in January 2024.
The LA County Training Center is a residential job training program located in Calabasas, CA. Participants will receive certifications and hands-on job training in fire services, on-site residential services, meals, career counseling, life skills training, and job placement assistance. All services, training, and benefits are provided free of charge. Participation is 100% voluntary but will require a commitment of up to 12 months to complete all training and certifications.
All individuals 18+ are encouraged to apply. Priority will be given to applications from individuals who are former foster youth, veterans, and those who have been justice-impacted.
Did you know that huskies are the third most common breed in LA County care centers? We’re hoping to get more huskies home for the holidays, so throughout December, we are waiving fees for huskies and husky mixes at all LA County Animal Care and Control centers.
An important note: we included “howl” in this promotion for a reason! Everyone who knows a husky, knows that (generally speaking) they can be noisy, high-energy, and mischievously clever! That being said, they are also known for their loyalty, friendliness, and endearing silliness. Please consider ALL factors when choosing to adopt a pet, so that you make sure your home can truly be their forever home.
Promo covers adoption fee, spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchips. It does not include license and trust fees.
Foothill Transit is celebrating its 35th anniversary! To show its appreciation, Foothill Transit is giving away 35 free 10-Trip Passes on its 35th anniversary commemorative TAP cards! These special TAP cards are also available for purchase at our Transit Stores while supplies last.
To participate, fill out the google form on the Foothill Transit website before Thursday, December 14 at 11:59 pm.
|
