Attachment III Public Comments on Recommendations — Hayward City Council, April 2, 2024

February06,2024
To: CommunityServicesCommissionof Hayward, CA
ToWhomIt MayConcern,
Thisletterissentwithgreatappreciationandsupportforthe5SikhSevaprogram.IamtheCommunitySchoolSpecialistatParkElementarySchoolinHayward,California.Myjobistointegratesupportservicesintoourschoolcommunity,engagefamiliesinschoolactivitiesandtocollaboratewithcommunityprogramstosupportstudentstoaddressthewholestudentʼswellbeing.

Lastyear,wecollaboratedwithwonderfulcommunitypartnerstocreateaMultiCulturalNightforourstudents&families.Oneoftheprovidersis5SikhSeva.IreachedouttotheprogramandweimmediatelyarrangedaZoommeetingtodiscusstheneedsfortheevent.IwastoldthatmyproposalwouldbeconsideredbytheBoardof5SikhSivaandwithinashortperiod,Iwascontactedbytheprogramandwearrangedlogisticsforthedayofourevent.Ourschoolwashonoredtohave300mealsdeliveredtoourevent. Notonlydidtheprogramhelptonourishouroenhungrystudents,butithelpedtobringourfamiliestogetherinapositiveway.Familiessatonourcampuslawnandenjoyedahotmealtogether.

Ihighlyrecommendcontinuedfundingforthisvitalprogramthatsupportssomanyfamiliesinourcommunity.

Regards,
JuliePineda
CommunitySchoolSpecialist
ParkElementarySchool
411LarchmontSt
Hayward,CA94544
(510)723-3875ext30
HaywardUnifiedSchoolDistrictMadeinHayward

Hayward Promise Neighborhoods (HPN)
California State University, East Bay, 25800 Carlos Bee Blvd., Hayward, CA 94542-3074 [email protected] | www.haywardpromise.org | facebook.com/haywardpromise 1 February 9, 2024

Dear City of Hayward Community Services Commission,

I am writing to express our heartfelt appreciation for the remarkable contributions that 5 Sikh Seva has been making to support the community of South Hayward through their collaboration with Hayward Promise Neighborhoods (HPN), Hayward Public Library, Hayward Area Parks and Recreation District (H.A.R.D.), and the Eden Youth and Family Center. The commitment of 5 Sikh Seva to providing free warm meals to families in our neighborhoods every week since Summer 2023 has undoubtedly strengthened families facing food insecurity in our community.

As the Executive Director of HPN, a federally funded collaborative initiative led by Cal State East Bay, I understand the importance of food access in our Hayward neighborhoods. For example, HPN’s existing Fresh Foods for Families program in partnership with the Alameda County Community Food Bank serves 100-150 families once per month with fresh vegetables, fruits, grains, and proteins. Providing families with fresh food is especially important in South Hayward, where 60% of families HPN surveyed in 2021 expressed access to healthy food as their number one h ousehold need. Adding a warm meal every week helps reduce the stress of accessing meals and brings greater joy to the neighborhood.

I have had the privilege of witnessing the positive effects of 5 Sikh Seva's efforts in collaboration with our volunteers and partners. The dedication of 5 Sikh Seva staff in preparing the delicious food and often going above and beyond with additional grocery products twice per week at the Eden Greenway Park has not gone unnoticed. HPN has coordinated volunteers from Cal State East Bay and agencies such as Tiburcio Vasquez Health Center to help prepare and distribute the meals. The volunteers work together with 5 Sikh Seva and Cal State East Bay staff to engage with community members, who look forward to the weekly distributions. In 2023 alone, this collaborative effort served a staggering 29,675 warm meals across 109 events, a testament to the dedication and effectiveness of 5 Sikh Seva.

In conclusion, I want to express our support for 5 Sikh Seva’s efforts in seeking additional financial resources to help continue food distributions in South Hayward and potentially new sites across the city. Every dollar donated is supported by Hayward Promise Neighborhoods’ community of partners, volunteers, and families.

Sincerely,

Edgar Chávez, Ed.M.

Executive Director, Hayward Promise Neighborhoods
California State University, East Bay
[email protected]

HAYWARD PROMISE NEIGHBORHOOD S
Strong Kids. Strong Families. Strong Communities.

25555 Hesperian Boulevard Hayward, CA 94545 Tel: 510.723.6600 Web: www.chabotcollege.edu

February 9, 2024

To Hayward Community Services Commission:

It is with great pleasure that I submit a letter of support on behalf of 5 Sikh Seva. I am the Director of the TRIO Educational Talent Search program as well as the Hayward Promise Neighborhoods (HPNs) Grant Coordinator at Chabot College. Both programs are federally-funded, equity initiatives designed to support first-generation and low-income students along the K-12 pipeline with school, college and career readiness. I first encountered 5 Sikh Seva during the 2022-23 academic school year where they were providing hot meals at one our HPN’s elementary school’s resource fairs and then weeks later at the Hayward Library’s annual Trunk-or-Treat festival. At that event, I sampled their food and was delighted by how delicious it was and that is was entirely free for the community. During that event, I introduced myself and became an instant fan!

5 Sikh Seva has been a much-needed source for free, hot, and nutritious food for our community and they have thoughtfully partnered with organizations and institutions in order to ensure that community residents who are most in need can access their food. Last Thanksgiving, they had a generous, but last-minute funder who supported 400 meals during the Thanksgiving holiday and through their partnerships and relationships with me and other HPNs partners, we were able to find a safe and accessible location through the Eden Youth and Family Center and through Hayward Unified School District notify our HPNs families about the opportunity. Needless to say, all 400 meals were devoured!

They are a passionate organization, addressing rampant hunger in our community and filling critical gaps for our local schools, libraries, non-profits and other community gathering places. Their partnerships and model of working has enabled us to braid other supports and resources alongside their meals and the hot meals are a substantial draw for our families and residents. Given some of our institutional structures and limitations, we often are challenged in providing food at our events and 5 Sikh Seva has been an essential collaborator. In fact, we are currently exploring ways in which for them to address food insecurity on our college campus. However, as an emergent nonprofit addressing tremendous need, they are working diligently to scale, expand and deepen their reach. As someone who has worked in all manner of nonprofits, I know how challenging this time is in a nonprofit’s trajectory and know that investment is key to their survival and growth. Finally, beyond the food that they provide, they are great partners who listen, are open to feedback, are curious and willing to grow alongside and with community. In short, I love working with them!

I wholeheartedly support their efforts for funding and in-kind support and urge you to do the same! If I can provide any further information or clarity, please do not hesitate to contact me at: 510-723-7570, [email protected].

Sincerely,

Robin Galas
Director TRIO Educational Talent Search/ Hayward Promise Neighborhoods Grant Coordinator Chabot College

From: Kris Kingsbury
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 8:28:22 AM
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Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is __Kris Kingsbury______________________. I am submitting a public comment to voice my
support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos __at Twinings Vineyard.________________________.

Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by bringing wonderful entertainment experiences to us close by._____________________________.

I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, because _they're passionate about their work and have a true commitment to the arts._______________________________________________________________________.

I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
Kris Kingsbury
___________________________
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From: Club Anywhere
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 8:29:08 AM
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Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name Robert Hoffman. I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos in 2022. Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by allowing me a creative outlet. I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, because Hayward needs more positive avenues for residents to thrive in positive creative ways, rather than being involved in lethargy, crime and violence. I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
Robert @ Club Anywhere!
Learn More:
https://www.gigsalad.com/club_anywhere_-_mobile_music_lighting https://www.facebook.com/clubanywhererentals/
https://www.clubanywhere.net/
From: Amber Kuipers
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 8:44:38 AM
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Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is Amber Magdael. I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos during their run of Avenue Q last year. Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by giving my family & I the opportunity to participate in the arts. I support their development of a live performing arts center in Downtown Hayward because it would make art a more obtainable ideal for everyone here in Hayward. We have so many people who generally cannot afford additional luxury like the theater or acting camps, & to have a local theater would open doors for people of all ages. I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants. Thank you for your consideration,
Amber Magdael
From: Abbygail Carcallas
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 9:02:29 AM
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Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is Abbygail Maglaya. I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos in 2023 while watching their production of Avenue Q.

Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by bringing laughter, fun, and overall joy with their entertainment.

I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, because I believe it would promote diversity in theater arts, prosper business and positively impact our east bay community.

I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
Abbygail Maglaya
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From: Valera R.

To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 9:04:12 AM
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Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is Valera Robertson.

I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos last fall.

Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by choosing a wholesome production. They were highlighting diversity of talent and size, gender and ethnicity. The costumes were appropriate and colorful.

Most of all the cast, production crew, directors and producers, etc exuded commaradity. It was so much fun! I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward because I support the arts due to the history and culture. Additionally, I lived in Hayward years ago and appreciated their parks, sports, and outdoor “hootenannies”!
I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration!
Best Regards,
Valera Robertson
From: Jay Krohnengold
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 11:49:12 AM
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Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission,

My name is Jay Krohnengold. I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos when I participated in one of their excellent theater productions, in support of our American history.

Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by providing the opportunity the express my artistic and creative skills, so important to my own goals, while offering entertainment and important social messages through the vehicle of good theatre.

I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, because having their own home, Plethos can focus more on their offerings to the public and all that work entails, while taking its rightful place in the community it serves.

I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,

Jay Krohnengold

From: Kathleen King
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 12:32:40 PM
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Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is Kathleen King _. I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos last summer . Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by providing great local theater experiences _. I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, because Hayward is desperately in need of more arts. I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants. Thank you for your consideration, ___________________________ From: Jessica Stark
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 1:45:59 PM
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Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is Jessica Stark, I am a resident of San Leandro. I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions.

I first connected with Plethos last year when I saw a flier for one of their plays posted at my gym. I have since been able to go to several of their performances. Having local theatre groups of this caliber is essential to a community. I am impressed by their caliber of performances and overall enthusiasm to engage the community and to share their joy of theater and comedy.

I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, because it would give them a home that would allow them to thrive and expand, as well as a centralized place to bring the community together.

I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
Jessica Stark
The Peacehaven
Freedom store.
1063 A Street,
Hayward. CA
20th Feb 2024

City of Hayward
Commitee Members
Dear Commitee members,
RE: Public comment on CSC Interview.

My names are Shubbie Aishida, I am the director of The Peacehaven corpora�on, a non-proﬁt based In Hayward.

First and foremost, I would like to say thank you for your hard work, and suppor�ng non-proﬁt and businesses in Hayward. We all are working to make sure our city remains the model city that it has been. I have had the opportunity of working in downtown Hayward for many years, and I have no�ced a lot of individual needs based on the economy .

Hayward is rich in diversity, and we are big on racial equity. These are some of the reasons why I am proud to be a resident of this great city.

I am wri�ng based on my experience during the interview, I felt like a few of the members of the interviewing commitee had an hos�le approach during the interview. A par�cular person was really unhappy with the loca�on of the Freedom store. ( the freedom store is meant to serve low to moderate income individuals and families).

The reason why we placed it at this loca�on is because we want people to be able access it easily, with or without access to transporta�on.

Besides, this is a ﬂagship model for our city. The model is to create a unique shopping experience for individuals and families even though they are receiving free groceries and goods. This is help preserve individual dignity in this challenging �mes.

Since the so� launch of the Freedom store in December we have no�ced increasing number of families and individuals that show up, and the happiness to shop for free at the Freedom store. Giving them a right to choose items as needed.

This is a store front model, we are also occupied a once empty building that at some point had been taken over by homeless individuals.

We are working with other agencies to further support homeless individuals and try and get them help and move them away from these loca�on. The interviewer In ques�on was hos�le about the loca�on and men�oned (in her words) “why should you place a food bank/ Freedom store In this loca�on, when we are trying to bring businesses downtown, don’t the other businesses have a problem with this?” My ques�ons are

1. So would you rather have the building empty and have homeless encampment there?

2. So what is your understanding of racial equity?
Our freedom store does not atract homelessness, instead this is to support individuals, families, and also work to reduce homelessness .

One other interviewer had a nega�ve approach to our funding applica�on, I felt if she had a beter understanding of her posi�on as an interviewer, she could have addressed us In a more polite way, other that being rude about our funding request.

Although I would be inten�onal about saying there were other people on the panel that had an understanding of their roles, and had a beter approach during the iinterview.

Our Freedom store works ac�vely on food recovery, we also working with the Alameda County Food bank to get food to low-moderate income families and individuals that are in need.

At the moment we are working with the food bank on a system that tracks data on the individuals we serve. We have been working in the community since the start of the pandemic in 2020, and this has been an individual eﬀort, but we came up with the Freedom store project when we realized there was a lot of need in the community .

We have never applied for any funds from the city. This is our ﬁrst �me applying, this is because this is a new and big project that changes the face of food dona�on in our community.

Based on our funding request, and the commitees
recommenda�ons, I believe the recommenda�on is unfair and Biased. We need this funding so that it can beter help us to meet part of our goals of recrui�ng individuals for the Freedom Store .

Also to help us toward oﬀse�ng some of the bills that come with the running the Freedom store.

Since we opened the door of the Freedom store, we have served up to 415 individuals daily. And the number keeps increasing. Because of staﬃng and funding constraints, we have had to hold back on some other services as we do not have permanent staﬀ doing the job. At the moment, we are using private vehicles to do our food recovery and dona�on pickups. Which is a lot of inconvenience to donors and volunteers.

We have a lot of need as a new project, and we are hoping the commitee would be able to support us with appropriate funding to help us beter serve the community.

The $10,000 funding recommended by the commitee is not suﬃcient based on our applica�on. It does not even pay a part-�me driver or oﬃce staﬀ in today’s economy based on the minimum wage.

The Freedom store purpose and mission is to help combat hunger and climate change. This is because we ensure to recover food and get them to individuals in a digniﬁed way, while ensuring a client choice model.

Ensuring that we reduce the food that goes to llandﬁll, so as to combat climate change. Our work is very important to the community and it changes the face of dona�on in our city We do not only do food, we do household items, New clothing, new shoes, personal hygiene items and much more. This project is not about the non-proﬁt, this it to support individuals in our community.

This is one of the main reasons why we decided to rent an empty building downtown. This is also to ensure our downtown proper�es are not le� empty . And it is been put to good use that would beneﬁt the community and create jobs and volunteering opportuni�es for individuals.

I hope our project would be supported by the city. We hope we would be allocated suﬃcient fund of up to $50,000 to help push the success of the Freedom store and beter serve the community.

I appreciate being given the opportunity to make a public comment.

Thank you again for all you do for Hayward. Your labor of love does not go unno�ced.

Thank you
Shubbie Aishida
The Peacehaven

From: Erika Cospin
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 3:09:53 PM
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Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is Erika Cospin. I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos a few years ago as an audience member. I loved their quality and diversity displayed in their productions.

Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by providing a community in my hometown. They have also provided quality art and opportunities for artists in Hayward and surrounding areas.

I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, because I want to see the organization continue to grow to be an amazing arts institution in the Bay.

I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
Erika Cospin
--
Erika Cospin she/her/hers
California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo B.S. Business Administration | B.A. Comparative Ethnic Studies [email protected]
| LinkedIn | (510) 329-9355

From: Elizabeth Hayes
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 4:14:11 PM
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Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is Elizabeth Hayes. I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos _________2 years ago _________________.

Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by________community laughter and connection________________________.

I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, because it adds to our community’s places to gather laughter, celebrate and be with family and friends.______________________________________________________________________.

I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
___Elizabeth Hayes________________________
Sent from my iPad
From: Jamil Blackwell
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 4:54:59 PM
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Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is ___________Jamil _____________. I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos __________last year, 2023 @ Twining Vines Winery in Castro Valley________________.

Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by__________having extremely enjoyable and entertaining productions.______________________.

I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, because they’re productions have been educational as well as entertaining
___________________________________________________________________________.

I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
_________________Jamil Blackwell __________
Sent from my iPad
From: jagdeep deol
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: CSC Funding - Public Comment
Date: Wednesday, February 28, 2024 11:31:39 AM
Attachments: Cal State, Chabot College, and Park Elementary.pdf 5_sikh_seva_log_for_hayward_app.xlsx
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Hi Emily,

I would like to provide

additional

information for Council to consider when approving the
annual funding recommendation provided by the CSC. Please share the

below information

and
attachments with Council.

I believe 5 Sikh Seva should receive

$50K in funding instead of the $10K recommended by
the Services ARC for the following reasons.

1. 5 Sikh Seva provides food to the City of Hayward which is an essential need. They have partnered with the Hayward City Public Library to provide hot meals to the needy on every Monday and Thursday at Eden Greenway and every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each

month at
the Eden Youth and Family Center. More information on 5 Sikh Seva's collaboration with the Hayward Public Library can be found

on the Hayward website, see link.
https://www.hayward-ca.gov/services/city-services/food-access-free-hot-meals

2. 5 Sikh Seva has worked with Cal State East Bay University, Chabot College, and Park Elementary School to provide free meals. At Park Elementary, 5 Sikh Seval provided 300 meals during a single event. Julie Pineda, Community School Specialist, was honored to have 5 Sikh Seva nourish hungry students. Cal State East Bay Executive Director, Edgar Chavez, noted in his appreciation

letter that the organization has served 29,675 meals across 109 events in 2023. I have attached the letters provided by Cal State, Chabot College, and Park Elementary for your reference.

3. 5 Sikh Seva served 4,000 meals to communities in Hayward during the month of October 2023 during their Halloween Holiday special event.

The above three points provide background into the impact 5 Sikh Seva has in the City of Hayward. Food is an essential need for everyone. There are residents or community members in Hayward which do not have access or are not able to afford food to feed themselves or their family members. The Council should provide $50,000, which is the maximum in funding a service organization can receive, to 5 Sikh Seva because they provide a very valuable service to Hayward. Ensuring everyone in Hayward has access to food is inline with Enhancing Community Safety and Quality of Life under the Hayward Strategic Roadmap.

I also like to mention there are organizations which apply and receive far more funding than 5 Sikh Seva but provide a less essential service and reach a much smaller number of individuals in Hayward.

The Services ARC has mentioned that 5 Sikh Seva has not provided proof that their services serve specifically low-income individuals and Hayward residents. 5 Sikh Seva has provided data along with their application which shows the date and number of meals provided in Hayward. Generally, individuals who come to service organizations, such as 5 Sikh Seva, for food are those who are in need of food or are low-income. I have attached an Excel file which shows 5 Sikh Seva did track the meals they provided in 2023. Based on the file, it shows the organization provided 22,805 meals within Hayward during 2023.

Thank you,
Jagdeep Singh
Commissioner
From: Erica Johnson
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: public comment to Hayward city council
Date: Monday, March 4, 2024 1:48:28 PM
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Dear city council,
I am a single mom who lives in Hayward, and I’m writing to you about a big problem many families like mine are facing: finding childcare.

I work two jobs, and they're not regular 9-5 jobs. They're at different times, so I need childcare that fits my schedule. But the problem is I can't afford the childcare options available in Hayward. If I can't find someone to watch my kids while I work, I might lose my job. That's really scary because then I won't have enough money to take care of my family.

I know lots of other parents who are in the same situation. It's really hard to find someone to watch our kids when we're working hard to support our families. We need help from the city, but I'm not sure what you can do.

I'm writing to ask you to please think about how important affordable childcare is for families like mine. If we can find affordable childcare, we can keep our jobs and take care of our kids better. Maybe you can find a way to help us get childcare that we can afford and that fits our work schedules.

Thank you for listening. I hope you can help us find a solution to this problem.

Signed,
Erica Johnson
From: Ashley Nunes
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public comment for Community Services Commission Date: Saturday, March 2, 2024 12:34:16 PM
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Dear Hayward City Council Members,
As a resident of Hayward, a working mother, and a concerned citizen, I am writing to bring attention to the critical issue of affordable and accessible childcare in our city. Despite my efforts to find suitable childcare options for my two children, I have encountered numerous challenges that are not only affecting my ability to maintain employment but also impacting the well-being of my family.

One of the most pressing issues is the exorbitant cost of childcare in Hayward. Like many families, we are struggling to afford the steep prices associated with quality childcare facilities. The financial burden is significant and often results in a substantial portion of our income going towards childcare expenses, leaving little room for other essential needs.

The availability of childcare slots is severely limited, with long waitlists being the norm rather than the exception. This situation leaves many parents, including myself, in a constant state of uncertainty and stress as we try to secure a safe and nurturing environment for our children while balancing work responsibilities.

The lack of childcare options with flexible or extended hours presents a significant barrier for working parents. Many of us are faced with inflexible work schedules that do not align with traditional childcare operating hours, forcing us to seek alternative, often unreliable arrangements or make difficult decisions regarding our employment.

It is imperative that the City Council takes proactive measures to address these pressing childcare challenges. Access to affordable and high-quality childcare is not only crucial for the well-being of our children but also essential for the economic stability of families and the overall prosperity of our community.

I urge the City Council to prioritize the development of initiatives that promote the expansion of affordable childcare options, reduce waitlists, and support flexible hours to accommodate the needs of working parents. By investing in childcare infrastructure and implementing supportive programs, Hayward can become a more inclusive and thriving city where families can thrive without sacrificing their financial security or career advancement.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to seeing positive steps taken to address the childcare crisis in Hayward.

Sincerely,
Ashley Nunes
From: Angelica Torres
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public comment to support early education
Date: Friday, March 8, 2024 9:56:24 AM
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Dear Hayward Community Services Commission,
As a recent college graduate with a degree in child development, I am deeply passionate about working in the field of early childhood education. However, I am writing to bring attention to a pressing issue that is hindering my ability, as well as many others', to pursue careers in childcare - the shockingly low pay for childcare workers.

Despite the importance of the work that childcare providers do in nurturing and educating young children, the compensation for this vital profession is disproportionately low. As someone who aspires to work in childcare and potentially own a childcare business of my own in the future, I am disheartened by the financial challenges that accompany this career path.

Like many recent graduates, I am burdened with thousands of dollars in student loan debt. The prospect of entering a profession where the pay does not support a living wage is daunting and unsustainable. It is disheartening to realize that the dedication, time, and effort required to work with young children are not adequately reflected in the compensation received by childcare workers.

The low pay for childcare workers not only affects individuals like myself who are eager to enter the field but also has broader implications for the overall childcare sector. It contributes to high turnover rates, as many qualified professionals are forced to seek higher-paying opportunities elsewhere, leading to instability and inconsistency in childcare settings.

I urge the Hayward Community Services Commission to recognize the critical importance of fair pay in the childcare sector and to take proactive measures to address this issue. Investing in the well-being and professional development of childcare workers is essential for ensuring high-quality early childhood education and care for our community's youngest learners.

By advocating for fair compensation and better support for childcare workers and daycare owners, the city of Hayward can demonstrate its commitment to valuing the crucial role that childcare providers play in shaping the future of our children and our community.

Thank you for considering this important matter.

Sincerely,
Angelica Torres
From: Michelle Martinez
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Community Services Commission Public Comment
Date: Tuesday, February 27, 2024 8:00:37 AM
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Dear City Council,
My name is Michelle Martinez. I am a resident of Hayward and I support our child care businesses!
I’m writing to express my support for Upwards childcare! There is a pressing need for childcare FOR ALL families in our community. I believe quality childcare providers should be an area of focus and effort because it is SO important!! Parents are working hard to support their families, but it’s sad to see that no matter how hard they work, so many of them still can’t afford childcare! Upwards opens up so many child care options for families who may not qualify for other types of programs. They also assist childcare providers with actually maintaining and growing their businesses which is an incredible help!
There is a shortage of childcare in our community! The number of families in need of childcare is concerning and needs attention! We need to invest in expanding childcare services if we want to see our community thrive!
There is also a huge opportunity for job creation here! If we open more childcare centers, there will be more childcare jobs! We need more women in the workforce! Let’s help them out!
I would be so excited if you gave Upwards the opportunity to help our community! Their programs have the potential to help so many families and providers who really need it! I would love to see city council prioritize childcare by working with Upwards! Accessible childcare for ALL families should be of high priority and concern! We need to address this NOW! Let’s help families and the working class!
Thanks so much!
Sincerely,
Michelle Martinez
From: Linda Timmons
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment - Community Services Commission Date: Wednesday, February 28, 2024 3:51:57 PM
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Hi. My name is Linda Timmons. I’m a child care advocate in Hayward.

Child care is a much needed service in our community.

Parents are having a hard time paying for child care. Many of them can’t even afford it! There are no options for the middle class. Affordable day cares are full! We really need to invest in our child care owners and also welcome organizations like Upwards to assist our community to open more day cares.

Families are hurting because of the lack of affordable care for their kids. They are being put on waitlists and forced to call into work if they can’t find care. Some parents struggle to keep jobs because they can’t find a place to put their kids while at work. This only creates more hardships for families! We need to address this issue and offer more affordable child cares in our community. More people would be able to maintain jobs if they had reliable child care, which helps families have a steady flow of income.

We must take action or face the negative consequences. Parents are stressed. If we invest in expanding child care and help the child care workers, we will be providing the support that families need to thrive and succeed!
I hope you support Upwards and invest in some solutions for child care for the families in our community. Recognizing the impact that child care has on both the well-being of families and our overall community is very important. I am encouraged by the efforts of Upwards. I’ve read articles about what they’ve done in other cities and they could do that here! I believe that supporting their programs will help existing child care businesses and hopefully open more centers and help more people!
Thank you.

Linda Timmons
From: Jeanette Montross
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 7:55:22 PM
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is Jeanette Montross. I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos when my child, now 23 yrs old, began acting in Plethos productions last year.

Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by enriching my child’s life and allowing them to gain on-stage experience with this lovely organization who all share a common passion for performing arts.

I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward because of the community spirit they demonstrate and the joy they bring to the communities around them. In the age of streaming, gaming and remote forms of entertainment, keeping live theater vibrant is SO important.

I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
Jeanette Montross
From: Jamari McGee
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 10:34:18 PM
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is Jamari McGee, I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos back in May when i got cast for their production of Avenue Q.

Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by letting me be myself and to express myself creativity.

I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, CA because they deserve it. I know great things will come Plethos and i will forsure audition for them again in the future, maybe even do some directing. Maybe I'm not expressing my words well but I will say I can't think of a more deserving theatre company to recieve this grant.

I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
Jamari McGee
From: Rob Hughes
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 9:22:11 PM
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is ___________Rob Hughes_____________. I am submitting a public comment to voice my
support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos ________________to see their production of Jane Austin's Pride & Prejudice last year.__________.

Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by_____________their passion for that project. ___________________.

I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, because __________I love local, amateur theatre. I used to write theatre, film, and classical music reviews for the SF Examiner. Their enthusiasm for Jane Austin was palpable & infectious. The staff was professional & engaging. The revised & compressed script made sense & moved along quite trippingly. It was a pleasure to attend this event with 12 of my pals & all had a terrific time; even the cynical teenagers among us. We need more local theatre productions such as this here in Hayward, where I now reside. Please consider this request for funding this local company with enthusiasm.
_____________________________________________________________.

I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
______________Rob Hughes. _____________
From: y xie
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Sunday, February 25, 2024 8:55:01 AM
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is ____Yinxing Xie____________________. I am submitting a public comment to voice my
support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos ____when my daughter Melanie joined Plethos’ summer camp last year ,it’s amazing. she’s learned much more than what I expected __________________.

Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by__The summer camp my daughter joined is fun ,educational, and very well organized. It is really impressive that they have such wonderful programs to offer kids with opportunities to know and learn about musical dramas and performances _____________________________.

I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, because __it will help more neighborhoods kids and adults to learn about performance and different kinds of
dramas__l____________________________________________________________________.

I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
Best
Yinxing
___________________________
From: Yuyi Li
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Sunday, February 25, 2024 12:19:22 PM
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, I am writing to submit a public comment in support of Plethos Productions. My initial connection with Plethos was through their low-cost theater program in the Castro Valley school district. Since then, my daughter has participated in several of their programs. The staff at Plethos Productions are not only nice but also caring, and the quality of their programs has been consistently excellent. These programs have inspired my daughter to explore acting, singing, and performance further, shaping her personality and igniting her creativity.

I am supportive of Plethos Productions' initiative to develop a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward. I believe that such a wonderful program deserves a dedicated place to operate, ensuring that it remains available to and serves a large community.

I strongly believe that Plethos Productions would be an excellent candidate for the 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank
s you very much for your consideration!
Yuyi Li
From: Iona Childers
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Tuesday, February 27, 2024 10:52:10 AM
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is Iona Childers and I'm submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I was reared in the Bay Area (Union City) and currently live in San Leandro with my husband and our newborn baby. As we think about her future, one thing we wonder about is what she'll be interested in. My husband hopes for practically all of the sports, especially golf, but I'm open to her possibly being a bookworm or theatre kid. We also can't wait to introduce her to things like ice cream or her first ballet (probably SF's rendition of The Nutcracker during the holidays).

I first heard about Plethos through a friend who held the leading role of Elizabeth Bennet in Plethos' recent production of Pride and Prejudice last September. I was one month away from giving birth to my daughter, but I still managed to make the trek down the small slope to the meadow area of Heirloom East Bay where the play was being performed. The ascent back up was a little more difficult, but so worth it for such a delightful evening. It meant so much to watch my friend breathe life into a much beloved character alongside other passionate actors and actresses.

Plethos Productions is making such a positive impact in their lives and the lives of people like us who come to experience theatre communally - to laugh and to cry and to ponder together.

After years of COVID distancing and separation, it would mean a lot to have Plethos develop a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward. It will be such a special hub meant to nurture the creativity of so many people from all walks of life and through the generations.

I believe they are truly worthy candidates for the 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your time and consideration,
Iona
From: [email protected]
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, February 28, 2024 6:13:13 PM
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is ___Cindy Carbonetti_____________________. I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos __for comedy next to Trader Joe’s in Castro Valley________________________.

Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by_____offering a generous variety of entertainment___________________________.

I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, because _________the area would benefit immensely for access the the
‘arts’__________________________________________________________________.

I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
___Cindy Carbonetti ________________________
Sent from my iPad
From: David Patino
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Grant for Plethos Productions
Date: Thursday, March 7, 2024 9:26:32 PM
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is David Patino and I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos years ago volunteering for one of their first few shows, and I have been an active member ever since.

From the very beginning Plethos have been committed to making a community where all are represented; to this day they have not faltered in their mission statement and actively seek to create more opportunities for all that want to be involved. I have had my fair share of work with different communities, and the Plethos community is by far the most amiable, caring, and honest.

I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward because, if we want to keep and encourage companies to be open, welcoming, and invested in the well being of their communities, we need to fill our city with role models that set that standard. Plethos is very much deserving of helping set what the ideal is.

I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
David J Patino
From: [email protected]
To: Emily Hwang
Cc: Karin Richey
Subject: Support for Plethos Productions to receive a Grant from the City of Hayward Date: Wednesday, March 6, 2024 11:44:25 AM
Ms. Hwang -
My name is Reg Clay, a long time resident of Alameda County and an actor and creative. I’m writing to you to voice my enthusiastic support for Plethos Productions in getting a grand from the City of Hayward.

I arrived in the bay area from Washington DC in 1997 - from that point up to now, I’ve been involved in several theater companies throughout San Francisco and Oakland, as a stage manager, sound designer, actor and writer. In 2017, I had written a play (Four Men In Paris) that spoke to the black community, a story of Richard Wright, James Baldwin and two other legendary black writers and members of the pre-King civil rights movement. I was excited about the play, and I had done several play readings, in hopes of having one company take a chance, read the play, and produce it. Plethos was the company that took a chance on my play, and on October 12-14, 2018, we performed the play to a near full audience at the Douglas Morrison Theatre. The African American community in Hayward came out in full force to see a play that spoke to them - quite a few young folks came to me after one performance to inquire more about the history of these four black men who left the USA to find a new life in France), and the interaction and excitement of the play was something I had not seen for a play done at the Douglas Morrison (and I had been involved in four prior plays at the DMT). It would never have happened without the enthusiastic support of Karin & Jon Richey.

Plethos has a strong record of producing plays that speaks to minorities and is inclusive to all races and cultures.

They’ve lifted up artists to take their careers to a new level. As a result of Plethos producing my play, i’m now a published author and can place a produced play on my resume. The most that we can ask of a theatre company is more than giving the community a good show - but to open their doors to new artists and to tell stories other companies won’t tell.

I am very proud to be a fan and a contributor to Plethos and I’m hoping my letter to you motivates you and the City of Hayward to give a grant to Plethos Productions. Karin and Jon Richey not only tell stories, but they help others like me tell our stories.

Please write back if you have any questions or comments.

Reg Clay
From: Melani Facundo
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Sunday, March 10, 2024 5:48:29 PM
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Dear Emily Hwang & the Community Services Commission,
My name is Melani Facundo and I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions.

I first connected with Plethos in 2022. Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by providing me with a strong community of like-minded, passionate individuals and has served tremendously well as a creative outlet for me. I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, because we need more 'third places' and common spaces for the community to gather & create.

I strongly and whole-heartedly believe Plethos would be an excellent candidate for 2024- 2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
Melani Facundo
From: Ben Stevens
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment Submission for Plethos Productions Date: Monday, March 11, 2024 8:35:22 PM
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is Ben Stevens. I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos as a first time actor who they accepted despite my lack of experience. I continued to work with the company through the COVID-19 pandemic helping with video recording and editing as they adjusted to the new safety protocols.

Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by providing new experiences, a sense of community, and helping to develop my love of theater and the arts.

I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, because they have always worked so hard, and been so creative in finding places for the community to share their talent and having an established space would allow them to be able to put extra focus on the artistic aspects of their projects and less energy into constantly figuring out logistics.

I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
Ben
From: Cory Ervin-Stewart
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Re: Public Comment Period ends March 20 for funding recommendations and changes to virtual participation at the CSC Meetings
Date: Wednesday, March 13, 2024 11:25:06 AM
Attachments: image001.png
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Dear Emily
On behalf of my team at East Bay Agency for Children, I would like to say how grateful we are and have been over the last several years for your continued support. Through your generosity and investment, we can continue to support underserved, low-income Hayward families with services and resources that prevent, respond to, and reduce health disparities and strengthen resilience and well-being. We leverage relationships with school and school district staff to provide:
1) Service Navigation: Care coordination, Resource Linkage. Staff will lead these supports until the family reaches their goal or is referred to other services. Goals are co-developed and promote increased access to medical, dental, mental health, food/employment/housing services, and increased protective factors. Families will be assessed for: Grief/loss and linked to EBAC resources: grief workshops; facilitated parenting discussions; evidence-based Resilient Parenting for Bereaved Families groups to strengthen coping skills and prevent physical/mental illness and/or family violence; and evidence-based Ready4K texts. 2) Assistance with health coverage and food stamps enrollment, translation/interpretation, systems navigation, food/health resource referrals
3) Family Wellness and Parenting Workshops to support increased social connections and supports. Most workshops will center on grief and loss. 4) Ready4K parenting/child development texts. Caregivers receive facts and activities to boost their child’s learning. Texts will be sent in Spanish, English, Arabic, Vietnamese, and Chinese.
5) Concrete needs such as food, clothing
6) Targeted outreach to expand engagement in and impact of each of the above services on populations underserved by the FRCs, focusing particularly on African American families and families who are unhoused or at risk of becoming unhoused (McKinney-Vento program).

Again, thank you so much for your support, and do let me know if you have any questions.

Kindly,
Cory
Cory Ervin-Stewart
(she/her)
Associate Director of Development
East Bay Agency for Children (EBAC)
https://www.ebac.org/default.asp
510-292-6752 (cell)
EBAC
2828 Ford Street
Oakland, CA 94601
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Emily Hwang <[email protected]
>
Date: Wed, Mar 6, 2024 at 9:50 AM
Subject: Public Comment Period ends March 20 for funding recommendations and changes to virtual participation at the CSC Meetings
To:

Cc: Amy Cole-Bloom <[email protected]
>, Rick Rivera <Rick.Rivera@hayward-
ca.gov>, Carol Lee <[email protected]>, Evelyn Olivera <[email protected]>
Dear Community Agency Funding Applicants,

This is a reminder that the Public Comment period for any feedback on the Commission’s recommendations for FY 2024-2025 funding will end on March 20, 2024 at the Community Services Commission meeting.

You can submit a public comment through the following options:

1. Email or call in your public comment to Emily Hwang at emily.hwang@hayward- ca.gov or 510-583-4252 before March 20 at 4PM, and we will include this to share with the Commission at the March 20 Commission Meeting.

2. Attend the March 20 Community Services Meeting in person. The meeting will be live streamed via YouTube; however, virtual participation will not be available for this meeting (see below for more information).

There has been a change to any virtual participation at City meetings. Effective March 4, 2024 the City is suspending public comment via Zoom for all commission, committee, and task force meeting bodies until further notice. The City is obligated to take this action due to the situation that occurred during the February 20 Council meeting when individuals attending the City Council meeting online used the public comment section to deliver hateful speech.

From: [email protected]
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Sun Gallery grant
Date: Thursday, March 14, 2024 7:47:08 AM
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Emily Hwang:

As a long time member and participant of the Sun Gallery, I urge you to continue funding aid to the gallery. It is a tremendous asset in our community, and now more than ever, has a vast array of programs and exhibitions.

I appreciate your consideration.

Yours truly,
Laura Mattos
204 Turlock Way
Hayward, CA 94544
510 782-2659
From: 5sikh sev
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment for 5 Sikh Seva
Date: Thursday, March 14, 2024 7:42:42 AM
Attachments: 5SikhSeva details on collecting info.pdf
5SikhSeva_Demographic data.pdf
Community Services Commission.pdf
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Hi Emily,
Please find attached documents providing detailed clarifications on 5 Sikh Seva's process for identifying low-income families, students, and individuals within Hayward, CA. The second document contains sample data collected. Kindly share this information with community members for further insight. We trust that this clarification will enhance 5 Sikh Seva's eligibility for additional funding.

Additionally, attached is a support letter from the Hayward Unified School District, demonstrating the impact and endorsement of our work within the community.

Thanks
Dear Members of the Hayward Commi4ee, I trust this message ﬁnds you well. I am wri=ng to address the feedback provided regarding our funding applica=on for 5 Sikh Seva's opera=ons in Hayward, CA. Firstly, we extend our hearHelt gra=tude for the support that has been extended to us, and we fully understand the importance of ensuring that resources are u=lized eﬀec=vely to serve our community. We appreciate the Commi4ee's focus on transparency and accountability regarding our low-income data collec=on process. Rest assured, 5 Sikh Seva has taken signiﬁcant steps to enhance our methodologies to be4er serve and accurately iden=fy low-income individuals in our community. Speciﬁcally, our low-income data collec=ons eﬀorts have included: • Conduc=ng comprehensive community research in Hayward to be4er understand demographics, socioeconomic status, and speciﬁc needs. • Establishing partnerships with local schools, community centers, food banks, and social service agencies to reach individuals in need. • Implemen=ng direct outreach programs such as door-to-door engagement and community events. • Providing extensive training on culturally sensi=ve and trauma-informed data collec=on prac=ces for staﬀ and volunteers. • Oﬀering diverse data collec=on methods to accommodate community preferences and needs. • Establishing feedback mechanisms to con=nuously improve our processes. • Implemen=ng stringent privacy and conﬁden=ality measures to protect sensi=ve informa=on. 5 Sikh Seva's provision of free meals oﬀers numerous beneﬁts to the Hayward community: • Nutri=onal Support: Addresses food insecurity and promotes physical health and academic performance. • Improved Learning: Enhances cogni=ve func=on, leading to academic success. • Reduced S=gma: Fosters inclusivity by removing s=gma associated with assistance. • Financial Relief: Alleviates ﬁnancial strain, allowing resources to be allocated to other needs. • Economic Stability: Contributes to the community's economic stability. • Healthier Community: Reduces health issues linked to poor diet. • Community Cohesion: Fosters solidarity and support within the community. • Educa=onal Equity: Promotes fairness by ensuring all students have access to free meals. • We believe that the addi=onal funding will help us expand outreach and support low-income individuals in Hayward. We're commi4ed to improving data collec=on to be4er address food insecurity challenges and provide essen=al resources. We welcome collabora=on with the Commi4ee to advance our shared goal of serving underserved communi=es. Thank you for your ongoing support. 5SikhSeva gathers informa2on from schools, and the following data exempliﬁes what we collect. This data plays a crucial role in helping us pinpoint schools facing economic challenges and low-income demographics. These are the ins2tu2ons with which we collaborate closely, oﬀering free to support students and families. Notably, all these schools are designated as Title1 ins2tu2ons.

From: Martinez, Adilene
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Be A Mentor Program
Date: Friday, March 15, 2024 2:48:49 PM
CAUTION:This is an external email. Do not click on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.

Hello Emily,
Hope you are well.

I'd just like to mention a few things about the Be A Mentor Program. We have been working with Faith Blankenship in referring students that are interested in receiving extra-outside of school hours support with a trusted and qualified adult to support them. Students have shared that they like being around another adult that is not their family because they feel heard and not judged. Parents have also shared they like that they can meet the Mentor and feel more comfortable letting their child go out in the community with a trusted adult. I think it is a good program for students to be around adults who are aware of the importance of mental health and are there fully to support the student in their daily life routine in hopes of making a difference in their lives and guiding them on how to react in certain situations.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Thank you
--
Adilene Martinez
Community School Specialist
Martin Luther King Middle School
26890 Holly Hill Avenue
510-723-3120 Ext. 42121
am1158@husd
.k12.ca.us
(510) 723-3120 ext 42121

COST REQUEST FORM
COST Confidentiality Form
HUSD

March 15, 2024

Arlo Bushnell, Director of Development

Dear Mr. Bushnell,

I have worked with Be A Mentor for many years, which is an excellent program. I am currently mentoring two people, one of whom my late husband mentored for a long �me, un�l his death. Then, I con�nued mentoring this vet. My late husband and I mentored all our lives, and we both believed it was, and is, the most rewarding experience we have ever had. I am going to be a part of Be A Mentor again in the very near future.

I was asked if I would mind wri�ng a leter that speaks to how mentoring has posi�vely changed my life, and I am delighted to have the opportunity to do this.

There were many mentors, in my life, star�ng with my parents, who were my heroes and role models growing up. They were extraordinary people who wanted their children to have a beter life than they did. They sacriﬁced so much for my brother, sister, and me. They were always there for us, and they were the most loving parents a child could hope for. They worked so hard, but always found �me to listen to us, advise us, mo�vate us and share with others in need. I have goten my values from them.

I have another speciﬁc example I would like to share. When I was in college, in New York, I had to take a year oﬀ because I was in a horriﬁc automobile accident, in which I broke my neck. When I was able to return to college, I could not go full �me, because I was s�ll in a great deal of pain. I was worried about catching up, and if I could complete my studies. I had the opportunity to have one of the best mentors in my life, besides my parents.

Professor Kriegel was my wri�ng professor, and he wanted to do everything in his power, to make sure I was able to graduate. He was an incredible person. He never let me give up on myself, and he pushed me to my limits. He was ﬁrm, but empathe�c and compassionate. He always mo�vated me to move forward and overcome my personal barriers to success and make good decisions. He was a great listener and a posi�ve role model. He gave me extra assignments, so I could make up the �me I lost. He would even call me to check in with me and make sure I was okay. At this most diﬃcult �me, Professor Kriegel gave me the hope I needed to con�nue with my college studies. I ended up comple�ng beyond my Master’s Degree, and I have this wonderful man to thank for that. He truly helped me at the lowest ebb of my life.

He helped me plan, organize and achieve my future goals, supported me every step of the way, and we remained friends for many years. He truly made an incredible diﬀerence in my life.

That is why mentoring is so cri�cal in anyone’s life. I strive to be a posi�ve role model bringing leadership skills, compassion, friendship, and support to the people I have had the pleasure of mentoring. I want to also help and support my mentees, as I was helped and supported, to make the right decisions, good choices and realize the consequences that go along with those choices. I want to make a diﬀerence in someone’s life and know, that I have touched some lives in a posi�ve way. I, too, have learned so much

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from my mentees. I want to pass forward the great mentoring opportuni�es I was so fortunate to have in my life. Mentoring has been more gra�fying than anything I can think of in my en�re career.

I strongly recommend Be A Mentor for funding by the city council of Hayward.

Sincerely,
Esther Moran

From: Julia Wright
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: In Support of Plethos Productions
Date: Sunday, March 17, 2024 1:59:48 PM
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Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is Julia Wright, and I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos during the summer of 2021 when I was involved in their musical production of Elephant & Piggie's 'We're in a Play!'. Being in that show is one of the highlights of my theatre career, and I am still incredibly close with the rest of the cast and crew of the production. I made friends for life, and even though Plethos is a bit far from where I now live, I always make it a point to support them, see their shows, and participate when I have the chance! Plethos Productions enriches the community in so many ways. It provides affordable and high quality arts experiences, and gives children and adults alike a place where they can perform and find community. There is nothing I would love to see more than for Plethos Productions to find a permanent home, and that is why I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward. As a former Hayward resident, I believe an arts space that Plethos would provide is sorely needed in the community, especially one run with the level of care and inclusivity that Plethos Productions fosters. Please consider awarding Plethos Productions a 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grant and City General Fund Allocation for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants, so that they can continue to enrich the East Bay community for years to come!
Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Julia Wright
From: Shyanna Bryan
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: Public Comment in Support of Plethos Productions Date: Wednesday, March 20, 2024 11:43:44 AM
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Dear Emily Hwang and the Community Services Commission, My name is Shyanna Bryan. I am submitting a public comment to voice my support for Plethos Productions. I first connected with Plethos as a mom who had lost touch with engaging in theatre, and Plethos gave me an opportunity to be a part of a warm and generous theatre family.

Plethos Productions has positively impacted my life by offering opportunities to be on stage that I can be proud of. The productions are amazing quality and have offered the flexibility I need to be a parent and a creative out in the world doing the craft that gives me joy.

I support their development of a live performing arts center in downtown Hayward, because I have seen what they can do with the bare minimum. They have made magic in every temporary space they've worked out of. They deserve a permanent space and Hayward deserves a Theatre company like Plethos that will make Hayward proud, and put it on the map of where you can see excellent entertainment of all kinds, from plays to stand-up comedy shows, to interactive theatre experiences.

I believe they would be an excellent candidate for 2024-2025 Federal Community Development Block Grants and City General Fund Allocations for City of Hayward Community Agency Grants.

Thank you for your consideration,
Shyanna Bryan
From: Carol Morgan
To: Emily Hwang
Subject: public comment for CSC
Date: Wednesday, March 20, 2024 12:42:33 PM
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Hi Emily,
I'd like to submit this comment for tonight's meeting:

On behalf of the East Bay Youth Orchestra, I'm glad to have this opportunity to thank the Committee for its time and effort in supporting arts organizations in Hayward. Reading through all of our applications for funding is a big task, and the questions asked in our interview showed so much thoughtfulness and concern with the well-being of the community at large and our organization in particular. Thank you so much for taking on this time- consuming and difficult task.
-Carol Morgan
East Bay Youth Orchestra Board of Directors
From: Fayeth Gardens
To: Amy Cole-Bloom
Cc: Emily Hwang
Subject: Written Public Comment for Community Services Commission - Wed. March 20, 2024 - Agenda Item Number ACT 24-024
Date: Wednesday, March 20, 2024 3:53:31 PM
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Greetings Community Services Commissioners:

This Written Public Comment is in regards to the $3,000 Funding Recommendation for the FY 2025 to address the questions posed by you during the February 21, 2024 Meeting, which were left unanswered due to the limited time available for Public Comment.

The intent is also to correct the assumptions, misinformation and the subsequent analyses based on those, which were expressed by you after the Public Comment period and led to a Funding Recommendation lower than the minimum funding level published in the the RFP - Item C. Funding #29 Page 9: Minimum Grant amount is $10,000.

While we were encouraged to submit our Proposal: The Kwanzaa Project: (Re) Creating the Cultural Arts of Africa in America by our positive past associations beginning in 2015 including the CSC, the City of Hayward various Departments and personnel and particularly, by the stated City Priority of funding New Agencies and Innovative Programs up to $ 30,000 in financial support for one year - this current process has, to date, led us to believe the City is no longer committed to utilizing the funding for a supportive continuum of diverse, new programming which has not been offered previously and is currently not available to serve the community at large by presenting a series of inclusive opportunities to recognize the African-American and African descent Residents and their culture in Hayward.

It is hoped that you will take the time to fully read our Public Comment to address these items which are presented to increase the comprehension of the proposed program, as well as the mission of the 10-year old agency, Fayeth Gardens.

This statement is made due to the fact that most of the questions asked during the Interview, as well as after the Public Comment on Feb. 21 were already addressed in the Funding Application; which prompted the associated Feb. 21 Written Public Comment and included a copy of the Interview Questions and the Application with the notations of the Interview Question numbers showing where the Interview Questions were already answered in the Application. Dr. Bloom said the Application could not be downloaded for editing, so only handwritten notations were used.

ASSUMPTIONS & MIS-INFORMATION:

Dis-organized
The facts, from a New Agency Applicant Point of View are:
(1) set of questions are presented in the Application; all of which were answered Another set of questions were asked during the Interview - worded differently from those in the Application, but if the Application were read perhaps more thoroughly, as the Feb.21 Written Public Comment notates, the answers are still there.

It seems because the answers were not posed in the Application to specifically address the Interview questions that were not included specifically in the Application, yet were answered within the context of the Application anyway in various places, the Application was deemed dis-organized.

And, as during the Feb.21 Meeting presented yet another set of questions not included in the Application and queried after the Public Comment period (many based on false assumptions), this Written Public Comment is presented to address those.

Not a Resident of Hayward
A Resident since 2008
Only presented programs in Oakland
This program was never presented in Oakland. Fayeth Gardens has not presented any programs in Oakland. Before Hayward Residency, different programming was presented in 32 OUSD schoolsand within many other organizations under my CBO, New Life Skills Center.

No experience in Hayward
To Date:
2015 to present: Started University Campus Neighborhood Association (UCNA)- successfully worked and continue to work with several Hayward Departments including the Mayor, City Council, the City Manager and a multitude of Hayward Residents to regain safety for this neighborhood and resulted in the Traffic Calming Program in the area Bret Harte Relocation - UCNA is continuing the Neighborhood Initiative to maintain safety in the area and working with HUSD and the associated stakeholders Working with the CSC Initiative for Russell City Reparations (the Apology) as a RCRJP Steering Committee since 2022
No Established Partnerships in Hayward
2022 Light Up the Season - Zach Ebadi - City Manager's Office - 1st Kwanzaa Presentation 2023 - Could not participate in Light Up the Season due to illness 2023 - Bret Harte Kwanzaa Program Participant - present an Earth Day Workshop 2023 - partnered with the following for the 1st Earth Day Celebration in City Hall:

GoldenSafari Restaurant
Dennis Muthoni - University of Kenya
ACRCD
Keep Hayward Clean & Green
CSUEB
Hillside Recording
MJ Collective
Karen Allen Realtor
Salvation Army
Adopt A Block
Parker ElementarySchool
(Others not from Hayward
2023 Library - Main Branch
Juneteenth
Screening of Earth Day Video
2023 Special Events Grant Awardee
2024 1st Kwanzaa Celebration inHayward City Hall
over 200 Participants and including many of the same vendors within and outside of Hayward shown above
2024 Funding from Coliseum Lexus
Budget is Exorbitant
(7) Professional Artists for (1) year @ $ 2,500 each for the following services is VERY INEXPENSIVE for the Bay Area:
(10) Two hour Workshops to include:
an Orientation talk in the Library;
an exhibition at the end of the workshops
and all materials for the year
Also if my attached Application Budget was reviewed, several other items re included that I will not recant here
No Marketing Strategy -or Follow up Process
This is included in our appliction and reiterated in the Feb. 21 Written Comment that addresses where this Interview Question can be found in the Application.. To additionally clarify: "Targetted Marketing" means your specific audience will receive marketing materials designed specifically for them and distributed to them whereever they frequent This is taught in the Schools
No it is not yet we will advocate for school participation,while we will not beIN the schools Ethnic exclusive Programming
No - this is a CULTURAL Program as advertised in Arts & Music RFP descriptionso ALLcan learn and experience the African descent culture and be exposed to it BRIDGE ill-founded cultural barriers.

There are more, but I would rather end here in hopes that you will read this and reconsider.

Hayward can be more inclusive and diverse in many ways if you provide more funding outside of your typical Grantee Circle.

Respectfully,
Fayeth Gardens

Hayward City CouncilApril 2, 2024

Hayward City Council
April 2, 2024