Wildfire recovery efforts: County Local Assistance Centers opens doors to affected residents
 San Bernardino County Behavioral Health provided support and counseling services to impacted residents at the Local Assistance Centers.
As firefighting crews continue to make great progress to contain the Bridge and Line fires, which have burned a combined 94,110 acres, San Bernardino County in partnership with Los Angeles County established Local Assistance Centers (LACs), a “one-stop-shop” for impacted residents at the Fairplex in Pomona on Sept. 20 and The Way World Outreach in San Bernardino on Sept. 21 and 23.
Board actions - Sept. 24
Contracts for Modernization of Older Californian’s Act nutrition services
The Board of Supervisors is modernizing senior nutrition services under the Modernization of Older Californian’s Act (MOCA). This initiative aims to reduce hunger, malnutrition and social isolation among seniors by offering nutritious meals, both for pick-up and delivery, as well as intergenerational activities for over 1,200 older adults in San Bernardino County. The contracts, funded entirely by the state, will run through September 2025. The awarded contracts are as follows:
- Seafood Ranch Grill, Inc.: $697,852
- True Escape Marriage and Family Therapy: $290,000
- Victor Valley Community Services Council: $90,000
Big Bear Alpine Zoo animals return home after being evacuated and sent to The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

The Big Bear Alpine Zoo was temporarily closed on Sept. 9 due to the Line fire. In an abundance of caution and to ensure the well-being of its animals and their safety, the Big Bear Alpine Zoo transported 34 of its small animals to The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert.
County’s commitment to reducing homelessness results in significant progress

The San Bernardino County Office of Homeless Services (OHS) and its partners have come together like never before to support the unhoused community by providing immediate shelter, increasing the county’s housing and system capacity, and engaging with families and individuals experiencing homelessness through outreach programs.
First-ever ‘High School Family Feud: Voter Education Edition’ by the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters engaged students beyond the classroom
Rialto High School’s second period AP Government class team “I’m Just a Bill” celebrated a victory! On Sept. 18, students at Rialto High School tested their civic knowledge at the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters’ (ROV) inaugural “High School Family Feud: Voter Education Edition” interactive program. Ten students from the school’s AP Government classes competed in an original version of the popular game show to gear up for the Nov. 5 general election.
Bridging the digital divide: County expands older adults’ access to technology
 The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors has taken action to increase digital connectivity and technology access for residents aged 60 and above, as well as individuals with disabilities.
On Tuesday, September 24, the board approved an additional $467,000 grant award from the California Department of Aging for the Access to Technology Program (ATT), bringing the total grant award to over $2.5 million.
YES Program: Empowering justice-involved youth through education
 San Bernardino County Probation Department officer welcomes attendee to the program.
In an effort to positively impact the lives of justice-involved and at-risk individuals in our community, the San Bernardino County Probation Department, and the San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD) have joined forces to offer a life-changing opportunity: the Youth Educational Stipend (YES) Program.
Preschool Services Department celebrates National Head Start Awareness Month by empowering families and communities for lifelong success
 Photo of Princess and Ocean McGeilberry.
October is National Head Start Awareness Month, and the San Bernardino County Preschool Services Department is joining the celebration. This annual observance highlights the program’s dedication to fostering children's holistic development while engaging families and communities in meaningful, transformative ways. Head Start goes beyond early education; it offers a comprehensive approach that equips families with the resources and support needed to overcome obstacles, so they can thrive.
Food and Nutrition Services approves timely reporting waiver for CalFresh in response to wildfires and power outages
In light of the recent wildfires and power outages impacting San Bernardino County, Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) has approved a Timely Reporting Waiver for CalFresh households. This waiver extends the standard 10-day requirement for households to report food loss and request replacement benefits. Impacted CalFresh recipients now have until Oct. 7 to submit their claims for lost food and receive replacement benefits.
Land Use Services Department hosts community open houses
 Land Use Services Department (LUS) is excited to announce their upcoming open house events. These community sessions are a great opportunity for anyone planning construction, renovation or simply looking to better understand land use regulations.
Join us to learn more about:
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Building & Safety: Get guidance on permits, safety regulations and inspections.
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Planning Services: Discover support for zoning, land use applications and community development.
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Code Enforcement: Understand community standards, complaint handling and compliance.
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Land Development: Gain insights into drainage, grading plans and infrastructure improvements.
Call for submissions: Share your favorite San Bernardino County destinations
San Bernardino County is home to serene mountain ranges, expansive parks and stunning desert landscapes, offering numerous opportunities to capture our county’s natural beauty.
Beyond our most popular landmarks are local favorites that may not be as widely recognized. Therefore, we are looking for high-quality photos of San Bernardino County’s hidden gems and other scenic locations. Selected photos will be featured in our weekly County Update newsletter, on our website and shared on our social media pages. Photographers will be given credit for their work.
San Bernardino County history
This week’s history column focuses on the contributions of Isaac Williams and his impact on the development of Rancho Santa Ana del Chino, present-day’s Chino Hills and Pomona Valley.
Williams was born in Pennsylvania on Sept. 19, 1799, and spent his early years in his home state as well as Ohio. In 1826, he traveled west to New Mexico and Arizona where he worked as a fur trapper. He arrived in California in 1832 and became a successful merchant in Los Angeles. He later became known as “Julian or “Don Julian” by Los Angeles locals.
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Things to do in San Bernardino County
This section focuses on family-friendly events that are sponsored by county departments including Libraries, Museums, Regional Parks, Special Districts and more.
Pet of the Week
Meet our Pet of the Week: Dodi (ID# 802783). If you would like to meet Dodi, come to the Devore Animal Shelter and ask to see ID# 802783. We’re open seven days a week.
Take the next step in your career with San Bernardino County!
Ready to find your next job opportunity? Explore our newest openings and see what career paths await you at San Bernardino County. Whether you're looking for growth, stability or new challenges, we've got the perfect role for you. Apply today and share these opportunities with your network!
Animals Are First Fund (ARFF) is a nonprofit organization that provides support services for animals cared for and housed at animal shelters operated by San Bernardino County Animal Care. Consider giving in memory of a loved one or pet, giving monthly or sponsoring a fundraiser. Your donation is tax deductible and will directly help homeless animals in your community. To make a donation to assist animals at the shelter, visit arffund.org.
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