ITEM.11.B.Written Comments — Santa Monica City Council, May 9, 2023

1 Xavier Mota
From: [email protected]
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 8:00 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Resident input 5/8/23

EXTERNAL
As residents we need to know what you are building: NOISE daily impact is not ok in a town with such high taxes and rent.

We want to be informed of any construction of buildings.

We also do not want any more projects approved as there is too much being rebuilt as is. Gutting a place and starting over because rents so high business can’t keep up.

We disagree with any the excessive buildings going up.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Monica Mirch
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 11:11:07 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Thank you for your hard work and difficult decisions regarding our community's funding priorities. These decisions are difficult, and I want to acknowledge the Council's dedication to meeting our community's needs.

In particular, I want to highlight the importance of funding for early childhood education and care programs in Santa Monica and urge you to support the City staff's funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program.

This issue is important to me personally because I was born and raised in Santa Monica. I understand that high quality early childhood education is a lifelong gift that not only prepares our children for the world, but also makes life more exciting and enjoyable! Growing Place is a pivotal community institution and should continue to receive Santa Monica Human Services Grant Program funds. My niece and nephew are currently enrolled and have benefited tremendously from Growing Place.

Access to early childhood programs - particularly infant care and tuition subsidies - ensures families’ economic security and overall well-being. Moreover, investing in families and young children align with council priorities and is essential to ensuring that every child in our community has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Monica Mirch
Santa Monica Resident Since 1991
--
Monica Mirch
310-433-3364
[email protected]
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Sarah Spencer Boyer
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 2:49:23 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

As a member of this community [resident of SM, recipient of a HSGP, advocate for early childhood], I can attest that investing in early childhood programs is critical for ensuring our children's and families success.

Research has shown time and again that investing in education is the best way to insure long term improvement in a community. Please invest in our future.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Sarah Boyer
SM Resident
640 Raymond Ave
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Kristin Lee
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 11:13:38 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Thank you for your hard work and difficult decisions regarding our community's funding priorities. These decisions are challenging, and I want to acknowledge the Council's dedication to meeting our community's needs.

As a member of the Growing Place community for over three years, and a resident of Santa Monica for the last 11 years, I can attest that investing in early childhood programs is critical for ensuring our children's and families' success.

As a family of two working parents with two young children, Growing Place Marine Park is exactly the program we were looking for to assist in supporting our children, while allowing us to continue our careers and provide for our family. We could not imagine a more enriching, caring, thoughtful, safe, and inclusive environment for our children during these critical years of development. The Growing Place community has been welcoming and allowed us to establish and build meaningful relationships with educators, administrators, and other families.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Dr. Kristin Lee
Santa Monica Resident and Growing Place parent
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Brian Abers
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 9:58:49 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers, I would like to express my appreciation for your hard work and dedication to meeting our community's needs, especially in the face of difficult funding decisions. I am writing to express my strong support for the City staff's funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program, specifically for early childhood education and care programs in Santa Monica.

As a parent with a child enrolled at Growing Place and as a board member, I have personally witnessed the positive impact of investing in early childhood programs on our community's strength and growth. Providing access to early childhood programs, such as infant care and tuition subsidies, not only ensures families' economic security and overall well-being but also aligns with council priorities. Ensuring that every child in our community has the opportunity to thrive and succeed is vital to our future success.

Once again, I would like to express my gratitude for your leadership and dedication to our community and urge you to support the funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program.

Sincerely,
Brian Abers
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Jonathan Wong
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 11:27:04 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
I am writing to express my enthusiastic support for the City of Santa Monica's continued funding for the Growing Place Marine Park through the Human Services Grant Program (HSGP).

I am a resident of Santa Monica in the Pico neighborhood as well as an employee of a Santa Monica-based company. My family benefited directly from the city's support of Growing Place Marine Park, where both of my children were cared for until they graduated and transitioned to SMMUSD schools.

My wife and I both have demanding full-time jobs and there was no way we could have continued to earn a living (or live in Santa Monica at all) without the year-round, full-day care that Growing Place provided for us. I dropped my children off every morning with a happy heart knowing that they would be cared for in a loving and nurturing environment by a truly professional staff.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is often limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This is doubly true in the aftermath of the pandemic, when so many providers were forced to shut down and were not able to recover. We also learned just how important reliable childcare is the ability for parents (especially mothers) to stay in the workforce. I truly believe that our community's economic recovery will depend on the availability of childcare for working families.

That means each and every spot for an infant or toddler means another working parent (most often women) who is able to return to work. By casting your vote in support of the HSGP for Growing Place Marine Park, you're casting a vote for the future of our community.

Thank you,
Jonathan Wong
Santa Monica resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Marilyn Hagelberg
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 5:29:04 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Thank you for your hard work and difficult decisions regarding the Santa Monica community's funding priorities. I'm sure these decisions are difficult, and I want to acknowledge the Council's dedication to meeting the Santa Monica community's needs.

As a parent whose daughters attended early childhood programs when they were young and now a grandparent of 2 young children that participate in the Growing Place's ECE program, I wholeheartedly believe that investing in early childhood programs is critical for ensuring the success of our children and their families. Both my children flourished in their early childhood programs and I believe that set them up for success once they transitioned to grade school and beyond. It's now the next generation's turn to be able to participate in the wonderful program Growing Place provides.

I feel so lucky that my grandson is currently participating in Growing Place's ECE program.

He is learning so much, not just things like his colors and ABCs but to interact with others, have empathy, communicate and express his feelings and thoughts in a constructive manner.

These skills are so critical to children growing up in today's world.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Marilyn Hagelberg
Grandma to a very special SM family
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Marilyn Hagelberg
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 5:29:04 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I feel so lucky that my grandson is currently participating in Growing Place's ECE program.

He is learning so much, not just things like his colors and ABCs but to interact with others, have empathy, communicate and express his feelings and thoughts in a constructive manner.

These skills are so critical to children growing up in today's world.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Marilyn Hagelberg
Grandma to a very special SM family
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Daniel Spilatro
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 2:50:13 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am emailing you to express my support for The Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:

Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community
The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive!
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Daniel & Adrianna Spilatro (and our 8 month old daughter Ripley) Santa Monica Residents
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Daniel Spilatro
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 2:50:13 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:

Sincerely,
Daniel & Adrianna Spilatro (and our 8 month old daughter Ripley) Santa Monica Residents
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Monica Mirch
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 11:11:07 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Monica Mirch
Santa Monica Resident Since 1991
--
Monica Mirch
310-433-3364
[email protected]
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
I am writing you this letter on behalf of the Social & Emotional Wellness Initiative (SEWI). I believe this organization is deserving of this grant because it provides much needed mental health resources and support to youth at SMMUSD. As I’m sure you are aware, mental health issues are on the rise especially among youth. The service SEWI provides is detrimental to mitigating these issues and helping youth achieve their full potential.

Long before I became a staff member for SEWI, I was the director of one of the youth serving organizations that had the good fortune of partnering with SEWI through its Masters in Social Work (MSW) intern program. I experienced first hand the impact of MSW interns at our site.

They provided our youth with not only crisis intervention support but also respite from whatever struggles they were having and the opportunity to speak to a caring adult. When you run a program that sees on average 200 youth per day and you are not always fully staffed, having MSW interns be able to give our youth one on one attention was crucial to the success and the well being of the youth we served.

Years later, when I was at a crossroads in my career, it only made sense that SEWI would be the path I chose. I’m a strong advocate for mental health support for our youth which SEWI does without fail but what sets them apart from the rest in my opinion is that they also work with the staff, educators and family of the youth they serve to ensure that its a holistic approach to mental health support.

If you choose to award a grant to SEWI, they will expand their services and serve more youth at SMMUSD. At a time where more and more youth have reported feeling depressed or anxious, it only makes sense to support SEWI in serving more youth. I believe SEWI can exceed your expectations and continue to flourish with your assistance.

For these reasons, I hope you consider The Social and Emotional Wellness Initiative for this grant.

Sincerely,
Jessica Rubecindo-Shioda
[email protected]
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
1 Xavier Mota
From: Debra Benson <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:09 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Alex
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

We are expressing our support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As residents of Santa Monica and working parents, we urge the City to sustain this program.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Best,
Debra Benson & Alex Norman
Santa Monica residents
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
1 Xavier Mota
From: Jack Feichtner <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:09 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am wriƟng to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a 10‐year resident of Santa Monica and a member of the workforce in Santa Monica, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality childcare services to families in our city.

Childcare is essenƟal for working parents who need a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they are at work. It also plays a criƟcal role in the development of young children, providing them with early educaƟon and socializaƟon opportuniƟes that are essenƟal for their future success.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is limited due to high costs, long waiƟng lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This significantly burdens working parents, especially low‐income families who struggle to make ends meet.

Our City must do everything it can to support Santa Monica families and ensure our children have access to quality childcare. This includes invesƟng in early childhood educaƟon and providing financial assistance to families who need it most.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioriƟze childcare as a criƟcal infrastructure component of our community.

InvesƟng in childcare supports working families, promotes early educaƟon, and ensures that all children and families in our community can thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communiƟes growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Jack Feichtner, AIA
Parent, Resident, and Project Architect
DFH Architects, LLP
1544 Twentieth Street
Santa Monica, CA 90404

www.dfhaia.com
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
1 Xavier Mota
From: Kemper Donovan <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:16 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
 Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy
 Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
 Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community My husband and I have been a part of the GP community for seven years now, and we will be for at least another three—a full decade of Growing Place helping us to raise our two daughters with intention and compassion and a commitment to excellence. We could not be more proud to be a part of the community, or feel more strongly that GP must continue to receive City funding to perform its crucial role in the greater Santa Monica community.

The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Kemper Donovan
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
2 ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
1 Xavier Mota
From: Jennifer Driscoll <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:18 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality childcare services to families in our city.

The value that the Growing Place brings to Santa Monica is immeasurable. So many of our youngest citizens have grown up in their care. The quality of the programs they have developed and the educators they have on staff is higher than I have seen at any other early childhood care programs.

Child care is essential for working parents who need a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they are at work. It also plays a critical role in the development of young children, providing them with early education and socialization opportunities that are essential for their future success.

Unfortunately, access to quality infant/toddler/preschool programs is limited due to high costs, long waiting lists, and limited availability of licensed childcare providers. This significantly burdens working parents, especially low-income families who struggle to make ends meet.

Our City must do everything it can to support Santa Monica families and ensure our children have access to quality child care. This includes investing in early childhood education and providing financial assistance to families who need it most.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioritize child care as a critical infrastructure component of our community. Investing in child care supports working families, promotes early education, and ensures that all children and families in our community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Jennifer Driscoll
Santa Monica resident, mother to 2yr and 4yr old students at the Growing Place Marine Park ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
1 Xavier Mota
From: Suzy Foster <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:27 PM
To: councilmtgitems; HumanServices Mailbox; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Christine Parra; Lana Negrete; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis; Oscar de la Torre; David White Cc: Jesse Munoz; Pauline McPeake; Cecilia Carrillo
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

As a Santa Monica resident, thank you for your hard work regarding our community's funding priorities. These decisions are difficult, and I want to acknowledge the Council's dedication to meeting our community's needs.

As a member of this community with a two-year old enrolled at The Growing Place Marine Park, I can attest that investing in early childhood programs is critical for ensuring our children's and families' success. My son, Indy, has been lovingly cared for and creatively educated at The Growing Place since October 2021. In that time, we have seen incredible growth in his physical and social development through The Growing Place's creative, varied and intentional learning opportunities. As parents, we have benefited greatly from The Growing Place's guidance and strong community of support.

Access to early childhood programs - particularly infant care and tuition subsidies - ensures families’ economic security and overall well-being. Moreover, investment in families and young children aligns with council priorities and is essential to ensuring that every child in our community has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff and thank you in advance for continuing to fund worthy programs applying to the HSGP.

Respectfully,
Suzy Foster
Resident and Parent
511 Hill St., #204
Santa Monica, CA 90405
323-301-9158
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
1 Xavier Mota
From: Sarah Stegemoeller <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 3:48 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SUBJECT: 11.B FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tempore Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing in support of the staff Human Services Grants Program funding recommendations for early childhood education and care programs in Santa Monica, and urge you to adopt the same.

As former chair and member of the Santa Monica Commission on the Status of Women and a resident of Santa Monica for more than twenty years, I have been proud to live in a community that has long been on the forefront of championing and investing in early childhood education.

The Childcare Master Plan and other city policy documents and stated priorities have long recognized that access to early childhood programs ‐ particularly infant care and tuition subsidies ‐ ensures families’ economic security and overall well‐being. Moreover, investing in families and young children is essential to ensuring that every child in our community can thrive and succeed.

Please support these longstanding aims by adopting the staff recommendations for funding. Help keep our Santa Monica families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Sarah Stegemoeller
Santa Monica Resident and former chair and member of the Santa Monica Commission on the Status of Women

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
1 Xavier Mota
From: Sassa Chaleva <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 4:03 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica/workforce in Santa Monica, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality childcare services to families in our city.

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioritize child care as a critical infrastructure component of our community.

Investing in child care supports working families, promotes early education, and ensures that all children and families in our community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Chrysanthi Chaleva Ntina
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
1 Xavier Mota
From: Georgios Evangelopoulos <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 4:05 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I urge the Santa Monica City Council to prioritize child care as a critical infrastructure component of our community.

Investing in child care supports working families, promotes early education, and ensures that all children and families in our community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Georgios Evangelopoulos
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
1 Xavier Mota
From: Jeanne Le <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 4:24 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B
Attachments: Agenda Item 11B.pdf

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I'm writing to express my strong support for the Social Emotional Wellness Initiative (SEWI) and urge the council to consider providing grant funding to this vital non-profit organization. As a member of this community, I've seen firsthand the positive impact that SEWI's work has had on the lives of young people throughout Los Angeles County.

In recent years, mental health challenges have become more prevalent among youth, especially with the added stress of the pandemic. It's crucial that we support organizations like SEWI that provide free mental health services to those who may not have access to care otherwise. By bridging the gaps in mental health care, SEWI provides vital support for our young people, regardless of their ability to pay.

Moreover, SEWI's work with educators and staff is essential for creating a supportive and healthy environment for our youth. By training teachers and staff on social and emotional wellness topics, SEWI is helping to build a community of caring adults who can better support and serve our young people.

SEWI's mission to promote social and emotional wellness is more important than ever before. Their work to support our community's youth is essential, and I strongly urge the Santa Monica City Council to consider providing SEWI with the grant funding they need to continue their important work. With your support, SEWI can continue to make mental health care more accessible to the young people in our community. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Jeanne Le
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ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I'm writing to express my strong support for the Social Emotional Wellness Initiative (SEWI) and urge the council to consider providing grant funding to this vital non-profit organization. As a member of this community, I've seen firsthand the positive impact that SEWI's work has had on the lives of young people throughout Los Angeles County.

Sincerely,
Jeanne Le
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
1 Xavier Mota
From: Tina Wiatrak <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 5:31 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SUBJECT: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Tina Wiatrak
Teacher at Growing Place for 23 years, California Mentor Teacher for 12 years, 38 year resident of Santa Monica. Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
1 Xavier Mota
From: Anne Holmes <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 5:48 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Anne
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B - SEWI
Attachments: Hughes Family Public Comment - SEWI SM City Council Meeting (May 2023).pdf

EXTERNAL
Hello,
Please see below and a copy attached of our Public Comment for:

Agenda Item 11.B ‐ SEWI
The continued services of SEWI are desperately needed in SMMUSD for so many students. There continues to be a tremendous increase in the number of students who are struggling with their mental health, and those struggles are different for everyone. The first place a child/student should be able to seek and receive help/guidance, if they are unable to talk to a parent or caregiver, should be at their school campus.

Our daughter has always been a student of SMMUSD since Kindergarten but left the district at the end of her sophomore year, in 2022. She was diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety.

Unfortunately, she was unable to receive the help she needed at school, due to there not being enough services available for all children.

After leaving SAMOHI, we enrolled her in an online school as this was our best option for her, as she physically could not attend in‐person school due to her anxiety and went through some very dark days due to her depression. Near the end of last year, she attended a daily PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program), which was a daily commute for her of more than an hour away from Santa Monica for almost 4 months. I strongly believe if she had received, the services she needed earlier in her sophomore year, she may still be a student at SAMOHI.

All children need access to these types of services whenever needed. There should always be a door open for them to walk through and say “I need help! I am feeling……”. The doors/services on all school campuses need to be expanded and more help available for all students! SEWI are the ones who can provide this!!
Thank you.

The Hughes Family
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
5/8/2023
Agenda Item 11.B - SEWI
The continued services of SEWI are desperately needed in SMMUSD for so many students. There continues to be a tremendous increase in the number of students who are struggling with their mental health, and those struggles are different for everyone. The first place a child/student should be able to seek and receive help/guidance, if they are unable to talk to a parent or caregiver, should be at their school campus.

Our daughter has always been a student of SMMUSD since Kindergarten but left the district at the end of her sophomore year, in 2022. She was diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety. Unfortunately, she was unable to receive the help she needed at school, due to there not being enough services available for all children.

After leaving SAMOHI, we enrolled her in an online school as this was our best option for her, as she physically could not attend in-person school due to her anxiety and went through some very dark days due to her depression. Near the end of last year, she attended a daily PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program), which was a daily commute for her of more than an hour away from Santa Monica for almost 4 months. I strongly believe if she had received, the services she needed earlier in her sophomore year, she may still be a student at SAMOHI.

All children need access to these types of services whenever needed. There should always be a door open for them to walk through and say “I need help! I am feeling……”. The doors/services on all school campuses need to be expanded and more help available for all students!
SEWI are the ones who can provide this!!
Thank you.

The Hughes Family
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
1 Xavier Mota
From: Jennifer Cowan <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 7:19 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing on behalf of Santa Monica’s youngest residents and working families who are supported by the City’s Human Services Grants Program (HSGP). I urge Council to accept and further increase City staff's recommendations so that all recommended HSGP proposals are fully funded.

Connections for Children (CFC) – along with other non‐profit service providers – ensure the safety net for our City’s vulnerable and underserved residents. City resources are directed to support low‐income Santa Monica residents who may not otherwise have access to Federal and State‐funded programs.

With HSGP funding, CFC helps Santa Monica families secure child care subsidies necessary for them to participate in the workforce, continue their education, and maintain housing. The program also benefits local child care providers, as program enrollment and tuition rates impact their economic sustainability.

We have seen first‐hand how the needs of the City’s young children and families have increased since the HSGP was initiated. However, funding for the HSGP has not risen proportionally. This lack of resources significantly limits our ability to sufficiently address emerging and existing community needs.

The FY 2023‐27 HSGP proposals reflect the current cost for non‐profit service providers to adequately address community needs while sustaining our own operations. For example, CFC’s funding request was to serve 200 vulnerable children. Funding only 85% of CFC’s “grant ask” means that we will be serving at least 30 fewer children each year.

Connections for Children is grateful for the support the City has historically provided Santa Monica’s children and families. Continued investments in early childhood are critical to advancing Council’s priorities of Equitable & Inclusive Economic Opportunity, Racial Equity and Social Diversity, and Sustainable and Connected Community. We stand ready to partner with City Council, staff, and community stakeholders to address the expanded needs of our residents, but we cannot achieve our collective goals without sufficient resources.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Jennifer Cowan
Executive Director
Connections for Children
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
1 Xavier Mota
From: fai fong <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 9:24 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers, I'm writing in urging you to continue to support the City staff's funding recommendation for the Human Services Grant Program (HSGP). Growing Place has been the heart of the Santa Monica Community in its offering of the best early childhood education around. Our children who are now successful young students in Santa Monica High School, I truly believe that these individuals with great curiosity and creativity have been enriched by their invaluable experiences at Growing Place. We had some of the best support staff and teachers we've experienced anywhere. Please continue to fund and make Growing Place the unique learning environment and allow families of different economic means this opportunity for their children.

Thank you for all you do!
Fai Fong
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
1 Xavier Mota
From: Steven Soo <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, May 8, 2023 9:24 PM
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Item 11A FY2023-2027 HSGP Funding Recommendations

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
 Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy
 Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
 Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community My wife and I are both working parents and it would be impossible for us to participate in the workforce without the high quality care that Growing Place has provided to our daughter. She started in the infant room and is scheduled to start kindergarten next year. It is a testament to the amazing teachers and staff at Growing Place that she loves going to school every day and has developed into a confident and curious learner.

The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Steven Soo
Santa Monica resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Sharrie Wunder
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: agenda item 11.B support of SEWI for HSGP funding Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 2:59:45 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council,
I am writing to express my support for the Social Emotional Wellness Initiative’s (SEWI) proposed increase in mental health services for the students of Santa Monica. The need for more mental health and wellness support for our youth is irrefutable. SEWI’s model of services (individual and group counseling, intern training in best practices for youth and support of educators and staff) is highly effective as evidenced by youth engagement and positive feedback. Their ability to create an environment in which seeking mental health care is de-stigmatized and their exceptionally responsive and personalized practices engage youth in a manner not often seen. With the award of this grant, SEWI will increase their reach, to provide 2,700 hours of counseling services a year, to 500 students. With your support, SEWI will make mental health care more accessible to youth in Santa Monica by providing services on-site and free of charge.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sharon Wunder
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Jenn Roth Krieger
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FUNDING FOR HUMAN SERVICE BUDGET - TUES MAY 9
Date: Sunday, May 7, 2023 8:21:39 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that Meals on Wheels (MOW) West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around. I urge you to fund them adequately in the Human Service Budget before you for approval on May 9.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s door. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Jennifer Roth Krieger
839 Yale Street, Santa Monica
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Jill Fischer
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Jen Kappelman
Subject: Funding for Meal on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 4:28:27 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Council members,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica (every week for over 14 years) and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around. I see first hand and every week the difference my service and these meals make. It’s so important to the recipients and the entire community. I sometimes make monetary donations, and I know that some of my fellow volunteers do the same, but I know so much more is needed. Not only is the food delivery of service, but I know that my attention to their needs is also valuable to them. Whether it’s taking out their trash, sharing a funny storing or just discussing the weather, sometimes I’m certain that if I didn’t deliver their food and spend a few minutes chatting with them, they wouldn’t eat anything that day nor have any communication with a human being.

As a volunteer we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help. I recently read that loneliness is the equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day as it pertains to the health of senior citizens. So it isn’t only the food they are served but the ancillary services as well.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.I urge you to support and would greatly appreciate the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Jill Fischer
Real Estate Broker
Beverly & Company Luxury Properties
15301 Ventura Blvd. B315
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
818.231.9207 mobile/text
Broker License #00907458
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: shahira tadross
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Funding for Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 10:08:43 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans, and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization with strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

This year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s doors. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor.

Most of them live alone.

As volunteers, we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen, and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow-up. MOW staff make referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Thank you, Shahira Tadross
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: [email protected]
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Funding of Meals on Wheels - Westside
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 2:34:14 PM

EXTERNAL
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.”
Warm regards,
Heidi
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Ted Winterer
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fwd: Item 11-B, 5/9/23, HSGP Funding: Support
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 9:43:40 AM

EXTERNAL
For inclusion in the public record.

Thank you.
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Ted Winterer <[email protected]>
Date: Sun, May 7, 2023 at 4:37 PM
Subject: Re: Item 11-B, 5/9/23, HSGP Funding: Support
To: Gleam Davis <[email protected]>, Lana Negrete <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, <[email protected]>, Christine Parra <[email protected]>, Jesse Zwick <[email protected]>, Phil Brock <[email protected]> Cc: David White <[email protected]>
Mayor Davis Honorable Councilmembers,
I am writing to you on behalf of Community for Excellent Public Schools (CEPS), advocates since 1999 for our children and their education.

First, I'd like to thank the Council for your earlier decision at your budget study retreat to support children and youth (and their families) and for the planned partial restoration of library, after-school, at-school and park-based programs.

As for the HSGP, these funding measures are of great importance to CEPS. Our mission statement includes this aspiration: "3. To identify and support issues that will support education and public schools, including early childhood education, after-school programs, and post-secondary public education."
Consequently, we are grateful City staff has identified additional funds for a network of nonprofits with expertise in different areas serving different populations, yielding a comprehensive safety net for Santa Monicans with a wide variety of needs. City support leverages expertise, dollars, and collaboration and provides for a range of services that would most likely otherwise not be available to your constituents. Agencies and programs included in the HSGP recommendations that are most aligned with CEPS include Connections for Children, The Growing Place, Family Service of Santa Monica, St. Joseph Center, Santa Monica College. Hospitality Training Academy and JVS SoCal.

HSGP provides services for those in our community who are most disadvantaged and/or most challenged, including young children, school-aged children, youth, their families, and struggling young adults. Post-pandemic, many of these challenges are greater, such as isolation-related mental health problems for youth. We believe the staff recommendations align with council priorities and community needs.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
Consequently, we at CEPS urge you to adopt the staff recommendation to increase funding for the HSGP and to allocate 85% of requested dollars to the approved agencies.

And, of course, if additional funds become available please consider fully funding some of the requests by these nonprofits.

Regards,
Ted Winterer, on behalf of myself, CEPS co-char Nicole Faries and the CEPS volunteers. --
Ted Winterer
Realtor @Compass, 2115 Main Street Santa Monica
DRE #02047989
--
Ted Winterer
Realtor @Compass, 2115 Main Street Santa Monica
DRE #02047989
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Nilla Elizabeth Watkins
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Fwd: Letter from our Executive Director - Chris Baca Date: Saturday, May 6, 2023 5:32:24 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Nilla Watkins
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Ryoko Takata
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Human Services budget
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 1:21:25 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Ryoko Takata
Ryoko Takata
EVP, Watt Ventures
Watt Companies
PH \ 310.314.2560 FX \ 310.460.4112
[email protected]
Save a tree: Consider the environment before printing this email.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
This e-mail transmission and any documents, files or previous e-mail messages attached to it are the property of Watt Companies, Inc. and/or one or more of its related entities, and may contain information which is proprietary, confidential and/or legally privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby instructed that any disclosure, copying, printing, distribution or use of any of the information contained in or attached to this transmission is STRICTLY PROHIBITED. If you have received this transmission in error, please immediately notify the sender by telephone or return e-mail and delete the original transmission and its attachments without reading or saving in any manner. Nothing contained in this e-mail transmission may be construed to bind the individual sender, Watt Companies, Inc., its subsidiaries, related entities, nor their officers, directors, shareholders, members, managers, employees, agents, or any of them, to any contractual term, promise or condition of any kind. 200X_Disclaimer
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Christie Smith
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Human Services Budget
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 8:41:32 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Yours sincerely,
Christie Smith
Pacific Palisades
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Scott Pappas
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Human Services budget
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:51:09 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and personally see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Best,
Scott Pappas
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Thompson, John A
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Include funding for Meals on Wheels West
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 1:45:37 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
John A. Thompson
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
This email originated outside of Sempra. Be cautious of attachments, web links, or requests for information.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Mary Hewitt
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Letter to Santa Monica City Council Re: SEWI
Date: Wednesday, May 3, 2023 6:10:02 PM
Attachments: Outlook-1wxe0tgk.png
Kollab Youth Letter to Santa Monica City Council - SEWI 05-03-2023.pdf

EXTERNAL
Hello,
Please accept our letter of support for the SEWI organization for grant funding.

Thank you!
Best in youth!
Thank you,
Mary
Mary Hewitt
CEO
Kollab Youth Workforce Development
[email protected]
310.303.2869
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Angela Tortu
To: councilmtgitems
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 2:44:22 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Angela Tortu
Sent from my magical phone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Ron Hamady
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 1:24:03 PM

EXTERNAL
To Whom it May Concern,
I know you’re going to be spraying money around.

This is an organization with whom you should generous.

I donate my time. Do your share!
Ron H
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Nello Torri
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 4:51:14 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Nonprofit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Kate Torri
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Michael Kauffman
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: meals on wheels funding
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 1:58:02 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
michael & andi kauffman
1243 18th st
santa monica pm
Envoi de mon iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Heather Baroff
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on wheels funding!
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 4:00:06 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Heather Baroff
Santa Monica resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Debbie Alexander
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals On Wheels Funding!
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 12:14:22 PM

EXTERNAL
May 8, 2023
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Deborah Alexander
1066 Corsica Dr.

Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
(310) 422-9334
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Belen Briz
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MEALS ON WHEELS FUNDING
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 5:03:15 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.”
Thank you very much!!
Belén Briz
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Rob Sherman
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals On Wheels West Today!
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 11:51:08 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Councilmembers,
TODAY
MOW West will deliver more than 210,000 nutritious meals this year to people’s doors. We are serving more people than at the height of the Covid pandemic, which was at that time record breaking for us.

That's what's happening today. And we've been at it a long time. For nearly 50 years Meals on Wheels has been serving seniors, veterans, people with living with disabilities and other homebound people in Santa Monica.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and is Top 10 in the new City of Santa Monica Review Panel Ranking.

MORE THAN A MEAL
In addition to serving delicious nutritious meals our volunteers and staff perform Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We make referrals to other social service agencies with an emphasis on physical and mental health.

Five years ago, in response to the growing number of unhoused people in Santa Monica, Meals on Wheels West started our Food & Shelter program which serves people formerly experiencing homelessness.Once formerly unsheltered people are housed, we deliver healthy nutritious meals, in-person and we add phone Wellness Checks including referrals to social services that help maintain stability and keep people off the street.
26% of MOW West’s clients are formerly unhoused people.

STRONG COMMUNITY CONNECTION
MOW West has strong community support MOW West and was voted Favorite Nonprofit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I am writing to urge you to support the funding of MOW West at the staff recommended level.

Sincerely,
Rob Sherman, treasurer, board chairman emeritus
--
Rob Sherman
[email protected]
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
310-463-1046 mbl
shermanmarketing.net
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: lou La Monte
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MEALS ON WHEELS WEST
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 9:12:06 AM

EXTERNAL
As a Former Malibu Mayor and Councilmember, I have been involved with MEALS ON WHEELS West for years and I now
serve on the Board of this wonderful organization.

For nearly 50 years Meals on Wheels has been serving seniors, veterans, people living with disabilities and other homebound people in Santa Monica. MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and is Top 10 in the new City of Santa Monica Review Panel Ranking.

This year MOW West will deliver more than 210,000 nutritious meals to people’s doors. We are Delivering More Than a Meals to more people than we did at the height of the Covid pandemic.

Our volunteers and staff perform Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We make referrals to other social service agencies with an emphasis on physical and mental health.
26% of MOW West’s clients are formerly unhoused
people. Once formerly unsheltered people are housed, we deliver healthy nutritious meals, in-person and phone Wellness Checks including referrals to social services that help maintain stability and keep people off the street.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted
Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to please support the funding of MOW West at the staff recommended level.

Sincerely,
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
Lou La Monte
MOW West Board Member
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: David Brodie
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on Wheels West
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 10:06:46 AM

EXTERNAL
Hello Councilmember Brock.

I’m reaching out on behalf of Meals on Wheels West, which I serve as a board member. MOW West has has served LA’s coastal communities since 1974, last year alone delivering over 200,000 meals. Our client list has grown significantly over the last three years, with 26% of our clients being formerly unhoused, and 21% are veterans or their spouses. Meals on Wheels West has developed innovative programs to help address both of these issues, including Food and Shelter and Supporting Veterans on the Homefront. As our list of clients grows, and as the cost of food continues to rise, we need support to continue meeting these challenges.

I hope that the Santa Monica City Council can continue to work as a partner with MOW West, and I urge you to support the funding of MOW West at the staff recommended level.

Sincerely,
David Brodie
Editor // Director // Creative Director
[email protected]
310-586-0600
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: chris pirrone
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on Wheels West
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 9:54:21 PM

EXTERNAL
Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I volunteer and deliver meals to people in Santa Monica. I see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Thanks
Chris Pirrone
17th street 90402
Santa Monica homeowner and resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Catherine Bodnar
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on wheels, a critical need for so many.

Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 2:36:05 PM

EXTERNAL
Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
For the last five years, I have been delivering meals on wheels in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Nonprofit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Thank you for your consideration, sincerely, Catherine Bodnar, Pacific Palisades Sent from my iPad
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Scott Zimmermann
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Jen Kappelman
Subject: Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 3:20:36 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of our clients. I have been delivering food for more than 10 years.

MOW does the following, among other things:: 1/ gets sustenance to clients; 2/ clients get interaction with the outside world; 3/ they know that someone cares about them. Almost all of my clients live alone I am proud to be associated with MOW.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Scott Zimmermann
322 10th Street
Santa Monica
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: J Renshaw
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals On Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:48:41 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Jeannine Renshaw
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: [email protected]
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals On Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:35:15 PM
Attachments: image001.png
image002.png
image003.png
image004.png

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Thank you!
Geoff Taylor
CEO/Founder
The EB-5 Investor Portal
Office: 844.754.9225
WhatsApp: +1
818.262.8176
Schedule a call with me
This communication is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal advice or an offer or solicitation for the purchase of any financial instrument. You should consult with a qualified immigration attorney as part of the ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
EB-5 process.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Kevin Khalili
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on Wheels
Date: Thursday, May 4, 2023 4:33:25 PM
Importance: High

EXTERNAL
Hello there,
For nearly 50 years Meals on Wheels has been serving seniors, veterans, people with living with disabilities and other homebound people in Santa Monica.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and is Top 10 in the new City of Santa Monica Review Panel Ranking.

This year MOW West will deliver more than 210,000 delivering nutritious meals to people’s door. We are Delivering More Than a Meals to more people than we did at the height of the Covid pandemic.

The volunteers and staff perform Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We make referrals to other social service agencies with an emphasis on physical and mental health.

Once formerly unsheltered people are housed, we deliver healthy nutritious meals, inperson and phone Wellness Checks including referrals to social services that help maintain stability and keep people off the street.

MOW West has strong community support MOW West and was voted Favorite Nonprofit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West at the staff recommended level.

Sincerely,
Kevin Khalili
Chief Executive Officer
Alliance Hospitality Group
10850 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 510
Los Angeles California 90024
T. 310-474-8633 x106
F. 310-388-0967
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Harriet Madsen
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 2:35:06 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Thank you!
Harriet Madsen
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Tognozzi, Elissa
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 2:43:01 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I have been a resident of Santa Monica for 43 years. I have seen many changes over the years and I was one of those highly critical over what appeared to be lack of action with regard to the homeless and people struggling with poverty. That opinion changed when I began volunteering for Meals on Wheels. I was encouraged to find out how many people were being assisted by the city, including providing housing and food. I have seen first hand how many meals are delivered and the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help. MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll
I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Thank you for your consideration.

Elissa Tognozzi
1122 6th St., Apt 201
Santa Monica, CA 90403
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: [email protected]
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:55:15 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Eitan Feldman
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Wendy Dembo
To: councilmtgitems; Council Mailbox
Subject: Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:51:10 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

I understand that this year MOW West will deliver more than 200,000 nutritious meals to people’s doors. I help deliver those meals and it makes the recipients happy to have a visitor. Most of them live alone.

As a volunteer, we keep an eye on the people we deliver to, performing Wellness Checks that monitor people’s health and wellness. We tell Angel, Jen, and MOW staff about things clients need or if they are ill and they follow up. MOW staff makes referrals to healthcare and other agencies that can help.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Best,
Wendy Dembo
Santa Monica resident and voter
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Sylvia McNitt
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MOW support
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:58:34 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sylvia Mcnitt
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: David Reed
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MOW West makes life better for SM seniors
Date: Sunday, May 7, 2023 8:35:42 AM
"Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Get BlueMail for Desktop
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Lisa Arnold
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MOW West
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:35:20 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Lisa Arnold
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Nello Torri
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MOW
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:46:49 PM

EXTERNAL
Councilmembers,
I deliver meals to people in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Keith Weitzenhoffer
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MOWW
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 1:27:07 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Keith W.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Catherine Bodnar
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please consider all the people that are benefited by Meals on wheels Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 2:33:55 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Santa Monica City Councilmembers,
For the last five years, I have been delivering meals on wheels in Santa Monica and see the difference that MOW West makes in the lives of seniors, veterans and other people that have difficulty getting around.

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sent from my iPad
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Mary Ellen
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please continue to fund Meals on Wheels West
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:38:48 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Chris Baca
Executive Director
(310) 394-5133 x4
[email protected]
1823-A Michigan Ave
Santa Monica, CA 90404
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Nancy Stark
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please support Funding for Meals on Wheels West Date: Saturday, May 6, 2023 6:05:12 AM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Nancy Stark
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: ruth laurent-kocher
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please Support Meals on Wheels West
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:37:17 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
RUth Kocher
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Christopher Camp
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Please Support Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 2:28:33 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Chris Camp
Santa Monica Resident for more than 10yrs
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Anjuli Kronheim Katz
To: councilmtgitems; Gleam Davis; Phil Brock; Oscar de la Torre; Lana Negrete; Christine Parra; Jesse Zwick; Caroline Torosis
Subject: Re: Human Services Grants Programs
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 11:38:04 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I urge you to continue prioritizing funding for early childhood programs and to support the City staff's funding recommendations for the Human Services Grants Program.

As a new parent of an almost 9 month old, I support the staff recommendation of an award of 85% of the agency ask for (among others) Connections for Children, the Growing Place, and Family Service of Santa Monica, the three HSGP agencies most involved in directly serving young children and their families. More would be great as well!
Thank you,
Anjuli Kronheim Katz
Former Santa Monica Housing Commissioner
--
Anjuli Kronheim Katz
Cell: 484-213-4811
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Nomad1800
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: re: Meals on Wheels West
Date: Saturday, May 6, 2023 5:07:01 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Chris Baca
Executive Director
(310) 394-5133 x4
[email protected]
1823-A Michigan Ave
Santa Monica, CA 90404
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Erin Angerer
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SUBJECT: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations Date: Saturday, May 6, 2023 1:36:56 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

As a member of this community and a parent to a toddler who attends the Growing Place, I can attest that investing in early childhood programs is critical for ensuring our children's and families success.

My partner and I moved our family to Santa Monica in 2016 in large part because of the support we saw at the local level for early childhood education. We are now deeply committed to this community.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Erin Angerer
Santa Monica Growing Place Family
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Larry Birstock
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Support for Meals on Wheels West
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:53:31 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Larry Birstock
2607 26th St
Santa Monica, CA 90405
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Flores, Clive
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Support Funding of Meals on Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 1:23:03 PM
Attachments: image001.png

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
Clive Flores
Clive Flores Inclusion, Diversity & Equity Business Partner Pronouns: She/Her E: [email protected] P: (310) 426-4883 L: Los Angeles, CA I use the Atkinson Hyperlegible font from the Braille Institute for email. It provides increased legibility for people with low vision. If you haven’t installed it on your machine, Outlook substitutes another font. |
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Emma McKillop
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Support Funding of MOW West
Date: Sunday, May 7, 2023 11:38:44 AM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.
--
*Please note my new email address
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Amanda Hough
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Support funding of MOW West
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 9:23:50 AM
Attachments: image001.png

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West
Amanda Hough
Associate Director, Digital Strategy
RPA Advertising
2525 Colorado Ave., Santa Monica, CA 90404
T 310-633-6055
rpa.com
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
____________________________
This email may contain information that is confidential or is otherwise the property of RPA or its clients. Any use of this information for purposes other than that for which it was intended, including forwarding the information to unauthorized parties or using the ideas or materials contained in this email, may violate U.S. or foreign laws, and is prohibited. If you received this message in error, please let the sender know and delete the message immediately.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Mindy Owens
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Support the funding of MOW West!
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:58:27 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely,
A volunteer for MOW West
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Tracey Gronemeyer
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: We Need Meals On Wheels
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023 12:48:52 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Tracey Gronemeyer
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Joseph Acevedo
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:30:47 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy * Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
* Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: [email protected]
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 10:20:42 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers: I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program. High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities: * Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy * Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care * Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource. Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Adam Popichak
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Adrian S
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 8:11:04 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! A majority of Santa Monica residents are renters, this financial assistance helps lots of families who are struggling to pay for childcare.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Adrianna W. Spilatro
818-744-0587
View My Profile
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Emily Ann
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:50:26 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:

Sincerely,
Emily Ann
Resident and Parent
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
Elaine Barringer, PhD
1725 Ocean Ave. #410
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(213) 926-2059
[email protected]
May 8, 2023
Santa Monica City Council
1685 Main St
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendations
Dear Council Member,
This letter is regarding funding for the St. Joseph Youth Middle School Support Team. As a parent living in Santa Monica, I have witnessed the impact of the pandemic on the youth in our community. The past three years have been difficult for my child who was 15 years old when the pandemic struck. We, like many families, have faced unique challenges. With school closures, modified classroom settings, extracurricular activities canceled, and social gatherings prohibited, many young people struggled to find ways to stay engaged and connected. This struggle has wounded the mental health and wellbeing of the young person in my family, as he and his peers seem to have been derailed over the course of the pandemic.

The St. Joseph Youth Middle School Support Team has played a critical role in supporting us through these crippling times and works throughout the community to help our youth get back on track.

By supporting the St. Joseph Youth Middle School Support Team, the Santa Monica City Council can help ensure that our youth have access to the resources and support they need to recover from these challenging times.

I sincerely hope the Council offers to contribute to this critical effort.

Sincerely,
Elaine Barringer
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Bay
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:45:09 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Greg Behar
Santa Monica Resident
1655 Oak St
Santa Monica
CA 90405
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Alisa Bizzul
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:25:09 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program, to sustain its programming for young children and families in our City.

I’ve lived in Santa Monica for over 20 years, I work at Growing Place, and my children attended Growing Place, so I know firsthand the value this school provides to the community.

I also know how difficult it is to find childcare a parent can trust and rely on, both from personal experience and from the many inquires we receive at Growing Place.

Best regards,
Alisa Bizzul
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Juan Bustamante
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 9:48:14 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Cecilia Carrillo
To: Glynna Grimala
Cc: councilmtgitems
Subject: Re: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 8:01:27 AM

EXTERNAL
Thank you so much, Glynna!
Wish me luck today!
On Mon, May 8, 2023 at 9:40 PM Glynna Grimala <[email protected]> wrote:

Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am a single, working mother. Both my children have attended The Growing Place and I can honestly say the reason we’re not only surviving but thriving is thanks to the incredible education and support we receive at the Growing Place.

The staff and teachers are the most impressive group of educators I have had the pleasure of meeting and collaborating with. My two sons have been cared for and prepared for their next steps because of the Growing Place. Additionally, I have been able to keep my job and support my family because my children have child care.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
community have the opportunity to thrive.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Glynna Grimala
Santa Monica Resident
--
Cecilia Carrillo
Director | Growing Place, Marine Park
1406 Marine Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310-392-9737
For the privacy and protection of our families, this email is intended for the sole use of the original recipient(s). Images or documents contained within belong to Growing Place. If you are not the intended recipient, we request that you please notify us, by reply email, and destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. Thank you for your cooperation.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ChangeLives.org

Downtown Los Angeles
522 S. Main St.

Los Angeles, CA 90013
(213) 806-6300
Orange County
290 S. Anaheim Blvd.

Anaheim, CA 92805
(714) 204-3000
San Fernando Valley
13545 Van Nuys Blvd. Ste. 1
Pacoima, CA 91331
(818) 794-4200
Santa Monica
1853 Lincoln Blvd.

Santa Monica, CA 90404
(310) 401-9400
May 8th, 2023
Santa Monica City Council Members
City Hall
1685 Main Street, Room 209
Santa Monica, California 90401
Re: Council Meeting on May 9th, 2023 – Agenda Item 11.B.

Dear Mayor & Councilmembers:

I am writing today in reference to Item 11.B. on the Council’s agenda for May 9th, 2023, “2023‐27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendations.” We would like to thank the Council and the City for your ongoing support of the Human Services Grant Program (HSGP). We support staff’s recommendations for funding in the FY2023‐27 cycle.

We appreciate the inclusion of funding for jobs programs and employment services. We are thankful to see the support for services supporting economic stability and wellness for vulnerable members of our community. Providing employment services to City residents fills a critical need and we thank you for that investment.

Founded in 1984 and having opened in Santa Monica in 1994, Chrysalis’ mission is to serve people navigating barriers to the workforce by offering a job‐readiness program, individualized supportive services, and paid transitional employment.

We empower our clients on their pathway to stability, security, and fulfillment in their work and lives.

Chrysalis has been focused on working with some of the most vulnerable members of our Santa Monica community through these challenging times, including individuals experiencing homelessness and those impacted by the criminal justice system.

We appreciate the City’s ongoing funding for the Human Services Grant Program. We are committed to doing our part to support vulnerable local residents, to provide qualified candidates to local businesses, and to be a partner of the City for years to come. If you have any questions or concerns, I can be reached at [email protected].

Thank you,
Mark Loranger
President & CEO
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: [email protected]
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 12:54:32 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy
* Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care * Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community
The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Thank you for your attention to this important issue.
- James Clark
Sent from my iPhone
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Manuel Contreras
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:18:53 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Sincerely,
Manuel Contreras
Parent of child at Growing Place Marine Park
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Kemper Donovan
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 10:32:40 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy
* Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care * Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community
The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Kemper Donovan
Santa Monica Resident and Parent
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Melissa Dooley
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 3:00:20 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

The Growing Place has been close to our hearts for over 6 years. My son, Ryder(6) who is now at Franklin, and my daughter, Marley(3) who is a current student spent much of their young lives with the Growing Place, and it has been such an incredible blessing to our family. My husband, Drew, has served on the board of directors and we could not speak more highly of the mission, the benefits and the value to the Santa Monica community.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Melissa Kaspers
Santa Monica Resident, Mother of 2, Santa Monica-based entrepreneur ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
Mary 9, 2023
The City Council of Santa Monica
1685 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
[email protected]
RE: Item 11.B. 2023-2027 Human Services Grants Program Funding Recommendations
Dear City Councilmembers,
JVS SoCal is honored to be a recommended funding recipient for the Human Services Grants Programming to fund our Santa Monica Youth Employment program.

JVS SoCal has been building better lives, one job at a time by empowering individuals to achieve dignity and economic independence through sustainable employment for 93 years. We have been fortunate to partner with the City of Santa Monica to provide our Santa Monica Youth Employment Program (SMYEP) for at least 13 of those years.

We have operated the SMYEP in partnership with the staff at Virginia Avenue Park (Park). We receive participants from the Park and we provide services on-site, and we place youth in their first jobs in various programs at the Park. We not only receive referrals from Virginia Avenue Park, but from Olympic High School, Santa Monica High School and the City’s Youth Resource Team. Furthermore, many of the youth we serve introduce their friends, parents and other family members to the youth and adult services JVS SoCal has available through the West Los Angeles America’s Job Center we operate.

It is a successful program and partnership, so we respectfully as for the City Council to support staff’s recommendation.

Sincerely,
Jeff Carr
CEO
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Frisco Fayer
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:24:20 AM

EXTERNAL
I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program.

As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities.

Sincerely,
Frisco
Law & Mediation Office of Frisco Fayer
{website}
100 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 700
Santa Monica, CA
(310) 917-1074
CONFIDENTIALITY: This message may contain privileged information for the specified recipient(s) only. Unauthorized disclosure, copying, distribution, or use is prohibited. If received in error, please contact us by phone or email and delete the message. Thank you.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Maria Franco
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 6:01:10 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As an employee and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:

Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care
Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the wellbeing of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community I have taught at Growing Place Marine Park for over 12 years. In those twelve years, I have partnered with over 150 Santa Monica parents and nurtured over 200 of our youngest Santa Monica residents.

The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Sincerely,
Maria Franco
Santa Monica Childcare Workforce
Sent from my iPhone
For the privacy and protection of our families, this email is intended for the sole use of the original recipient(s). Images or documents contained within belong to Growing Place. If you are not the intended recipient, we request that you please notify us, by reply email, and destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. Thank you for your cooperation.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Alison Havel
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SM CITY COUNCIL SUBJECT: 11.B FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 5:05:19 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

As a resident of Santa Monica and parent of two kids in our public schools, I can attest that investing in early childhood programs is critical for ensuring our children's and families' success. The education and support that my daughter received through both The Growing Place and Lincoln Child Development Center (part of SMMUSD) led her to get access to critical early intervention services for occupational therapy and social skills. Today, she is a successful, independent sophomore at Santa Monica High School, but I know she wouldn't be where she is without the programs we were able to access starting at age three. We initially found The Growing Place through a referral from Connections for Children, and that I why I currently volunteer as a Board Member for that organization. ALL CHILDREN, regardless of income, deserve to have access to quality child care and early childhood education opportunities that my children had. The grant that the City of Santa Monica provide to the Growing Place at Marine Park and to Connections for Children through HSGP helps make these high quality programs available to residents of our city.

Again, I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the City Council and our City Staff. Thank you in advance for your consideration with regards to the funding recommendation for the HSGP.

Keep families earning, children learning, and communities growing! Sincerely,
Alison Havel
22-year resident of Santa Monica
Parent of two students at JAMS and SAMOHI
Board Member and Fund Development Chair, Connections for Children Former Board Member, The Growing Place
Board Member, Santa Monica Education Foundation
[email protected]
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Garrett Bradford
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 6:40:24 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy
* Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care * Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community
The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Garrett Bradford
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Glynna Grimala
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 9:40:46 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
Sincerely,
Glynna Grimala
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Jessica Reynaga
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Jennifer Cowan
Subject: Public Comment: Agenda Item 11, B
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 4:47:14 PM
Attachments: image001.png

EXTERNAL
Hello,
As the Director of Programs at Connections for Children, I would like to submit the following comment on behalf of one of our child care providers, Celia Fisher, who provided permission for this statement to be shared:
“My name is Celia Fisher, and I have been the Director of Beach Moms Child Development Center at 1720 Broadway Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90404 since it first opened on December 24th, 2012. We recently celebrated our 10-year anniversary. Before opening this center, I spent eight years as a Family Child Care Provider. Had it not been for Connections for Children (CFC), I wouldn’t still be doing this work. I am submitting this public comment to ask the City Council to fully fund Connections for Children’s HSGP request.

I started out as a client with CFC. I met Martha (CFC Subsidized Program Manager) and Connie (CFC Emergency Child Care Bridge Navigator) when I utilized the subsidy program service for my kids while working at Los Angeles Unified School District. Back then, I was working and studying at Santa Monica College (SMC) at the same time. Those were hard nights, but I got through it thanks to CFC.

My cousin, Shelly Crawford, was working at CFC at the time. She worked in the Resource and Referral Department and helped parents find child care across the city. Shelly was the one who suggested that I start my family child care business. I was part of the pilot group of quality support coaching through Los Angeles Universal Preschool (LAUP). That’s what got me prepared to open my own center. I eventually moved across the street from SMC, and during that time, a family child care provider who lived across from me helped me take care of my kids.

CFC made it possible for me to provide service to families in the subsidized program; this was important to me because it’s where I came from. 90% of my enrollment during the COVID-19 pandemic came from CFC’s subsidized program. When everything else was shut down, CFC allowed me to stay employed, pay my bills and my employees. I wouldn’t have made it through the pandemic otherwise.

Being a subsidized program provider also encouraged me to be an active member of my ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
community. I am now on the Board of Directors for the City of Santa Monica’s Chamber of Commerce. I am starting to grow a passion for supporting other small businesses in the area and am proud to represent people of color on the Board. We have to be there and be present as a voice for our community.

The trainings, subsidized program, and support I received through CFC from staff like Sharon (CFC Professional Development Coach) and Sonia (CFC Resource & Referral Program Supervisor) really helped develop me as a leader and a business woman. This is why I urge the City Council to fully fund Connections for Children’s HSGP request.

Sincerely,
Celia Fisher
Director of Beach Moms Child Development Center”
Thank you,
-----
Dr. Jessica Reynaga, EdD, MSW
Director of Programs
5901 W. Century Blvd., Suite 400
Los Angeles, CA 90045
P: (310) 452-3325, Ext. 226
F: (310) 452-3984
www.connectionsforchildren.org
You can make a difference for our youngest learners by donating today! ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Holli C
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 9:25:23 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Holli Clark
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Jenny Hu
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 10:01:55 PM

I am a resident of Santa Monica in the Pico neighborhood and my husband is an employee of a Santa Monica-based company. I am a healthcare professional. My family benefited directly from the city's support of Growing Place Marine Park, where both of my children were cared for until they graduated and transitioned to SMMUSD schools.

My husband and I both have demanding full-time jobs and there was no way we could have continued to earn a living (or live in Santa Monica at all) without the year-round, full-day care that Growing Place provided for us. I dropped my children off every morning with a happy heart knowing that they would be cared for in a loving and nurturing environment by a truly professional staff.

Thank you,
Jenny Hu
Santa Monica resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Josie James
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:54:00 AM

EXTERNAL
TO: SM CITY COUNCIL ([email protected])
SUBJECT: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica and in the Santa Monica workforce I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality childcare services to families in our city.

My family would not have been able to work or live in Santa Monica without the Growing Place establishment. It is so difficult to find qualified help for full time working families that will help prepare our children both educationally and emotionally for the people they will become. We would not have financially made it without a program such as Growing place between the cost of living and the cost of child care as well as the hours we needed it.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
Sincerely,
Jo Anna Provencher
Parent, Santa Monica Resident and Santa Monica work force member ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Kabir Chopra
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 8:43:28 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
Other Office Locations:

Ron Olson Justice Center, 1550 W. 8th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90017 East Los Angeles, 5301 Whittier Blvd., 4th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90022 Long Beach, 601 Pacific Ave., Long Beach, CA 90802
South Los Angeles, 7000 S. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90003 Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles
1640 5th St., Suite 124
Santa Monica, CA 90401
May 9, 2023

VIA E-MAIL
[email protected]
Mayor Davis and City Council
City of Santa Monica
1685 Main Street, Room 209
Santa Monica, CA 90401
RE: May 9, 2023 City Council Special Meeting – Agenda Items 11.A and 11.B Specifically Item 11.A(7): Authorization for City Manager to Execute First Modification to Agreement with LAFLA for the Eviction Prevention and Right to Counsel programs; and, Item 11.B: HSGP Funding Recommendations Dear Mayor and City Council,
I write on behalf of the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (“LAFLA”), and the low-income residents of Santa Monica we serve every day. LAFLA’s Santa Monica community office has served residents for nearly 30 years and seeks to continue its hard work going forward. We offer free legal assistance and representation in: (i) housing disputes and eviction cases; (ii) applications for domestic violence restraining orders and family law orders; and (iii) access and maintenance of public benefits. To that end, we support the staff recommendations in Items

11.A(7) and 11.B.

Item 11.A(7): Funding for Eviction Prevention and Right to Counsel Programs According to the Judicial Council of California, “Eviction is one of the most urgent civil law issues for low-income individuals and families.” We agree. As you know, Santa Monica residents are at greater risk of homelessness and housing insecurity than ever before. Between the Right to Counsel program and our HSGP housing work, we have seen a nearly 28% increase in unduplicated Santa Monica residents assisted with housing cases from January 1, 2022 to January 1, 2023. We only see that number increasing in the future.

Further, a study by Stout Risius Ross, LLC (Stout) found that in the County of Los Angeles, 97% of tenants with unsealed eviction cases were unrepresented, as opposed to only 12% of landlords.

Stout’s analysis of court-assigned case outcomes for unrepresented tenants indicated that 94% of ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
May 9, 2023
2 unrepresented tenants had a high likelihood of experiencing disruptive displacement through the eviction process.

We seek to stem the tide of disruptive displacement to the benefit of tenants and their families, as well as the community as a whole. The City of Santa Monica is in a unique position of having both the resources to address the plight of unrepresented tenants, as well as the practical ability to implement such a program. The continued funding of the Santa Monica Right to Counsel program should be an example to the rest of the county.

In the last 12 months of the Right to Counsel program, in cases where we have provided representation in the unlawful detainer litigation, roughly 70% of tenants have remained in their housing, with the other 30% granted some combination of additional time, a waiver, a sealed record, or a soft landing in new housing. Indeed, representation in unlawful detainers is homelessness prevention, and the program has been successful.

As such, we appreciate the counsel’s consideration of this funding, and its commitment to address the ongoing homelessness crisis. We support the recommendation of staff in Item

11.A(7) as part of a larger strategy to address homelessness and housing insecurity in Santa Monica.

Item 11.B: HSGP Funding Recommendations – Community Office and Domestic Violence Clinic in Santa Monica Courthouse
The LAFLA community office has been a fixture in Santa Monica for nearly three decades. In addition to the vital litigation work addressed above, this HSGP funded program also engages in a large amount of pre-litigation prevention work, finding solutions so tenants and their landlords never have to go to court in the first place. While these attorneys also engage in plenty of unlawful detainer litigation (alongside the Right to Counsel program), there is an emphasis on problem-solving and engagement to avoid litigation where possible.

We further support the staff recommendation to continue funding our long-running domestic violence clinic in the Santa Monica courthouse. The need to protect domestic violence survivors continues to grow. Studies have shown that intimate partner violence increased during the pandemic, even if reporting of that violence did not. However, more survivors are seeking protection as restrictions and the pandemic has lessened. As of January 1, 2023, we saw a nearly 35% increase in Santa Monica residents who received legal services from the DV Clinic compared to the same time in 2022.

LAFLA provides this vital assistance to survivors of domestic violence, as well as support in divorce, custody, and child support cases in a manner most convenient for the client, whether that be through Zoom or in-person assistance. This blended model allows us to serve traditionally hard-to-reach clients and provides the widest access to survivors seeking protection from domestic violence.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
May 9, 2023
3 Finally, HSGP also funds our benefits work for Santa Monica residents. LAFLA provides advice and support regarding government benefits such as Social Security, SSI, Food Stamps, and CalWORKs. Especially in light of the economic hardships experienced by so many due to COVID-19, keeping residents connected to these benefits is essential to their well-being.

Conclusion
All of these services are part and parcel with LAFLA’s holistic treatment of our clients, recognizing their issues are multi-faceted and often require more than one type of support to resolve. Accordingly, we support the recommendations of staff with regard to the Right to Counsel program in Item 11.A(7) and the HSGP funding outlined in Item 11.B.

Very truly yours,
Kevin F. Mitchell
Managing Attorney
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: mike morrell
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 1:20:43 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:
* Cultivate Economic Recovery - childcare is essential to working families, so we can continue our jobs/careers and participate in our local economy
* Equity and Social Diversity - women who must re-enter the workforce after childbirth need access to infant care * Sustainable and Connected Community - child development centers enhance the well-being of families and benefit the social and economic well-being of the community
The benefits are endless for children and parents who attend this twenty-three-year established family resource.

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! Thank you for your attention to this important issue.
> ϻɪĸє
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Alvaro Moya
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 10:51:22 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Karen Page
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: MOW
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 10:07:19 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West."
Sincerely
Karen Page
--
Karen
424-435-9150
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Christine Peng
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 11.B - public support
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 9:56:01 AM

EXTERNAL
Greetings City Council of Santa Monica,
This message is written in full support and celebration of SEWI - the Social Emotional Wellness Initiative. It is my understanding that SEWI has been nominated to receive a city grant to expand their mental health and wellness work throughout schools in the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District. This would be a phenomenal act of love for the youth and families served by the SMMUSD. SEWI makes amazing impacts with young people of all ages in all areas of Los Angeles County, and having such a broad presence in Santa Monica will ensure that SEWI's beautifully constructed programs can help more of our young people change their lives for the better!
Thank you for having Santa Monica's best interests in mind and approving SEWI's funding.

We as a community will all be better for it!
Sincerely,
Christine Peng
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Rachel
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: SUBJECT: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 1:53:14 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program; to sustain its programming to young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this program.

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:

Sincerely,
Rachel Witenstein
Santa Monica Resident & Parent
Santa Monica Business Owner, Camp Cosmo
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Jessica Reynaga
To: councilmtgitems
Cc: Jennifer Cowan
Subject: Public Comment: Agenda Item 11, B
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 1:02:56 PM
Attachments: image001.png

EXTERNAL
Hello,
As the Director of Programs at Connections for Children, I would like to submit the following comment on behalf of one of our subsidy clients, Maribel Jimenez, who provided permission for this statement to be shared:
“My name is Maribel Jimenez and I am a parent that receives subsidy funding from Connections for Children. I am submitting this comment to ask the City Council to fully fund CFC’s HSGP funding request.

Connection for Children really helps families in our community. They are so caring, understanding and always willing to help. They have helped me so much. I really feel they understand the needs you are going through and they help you out. I have to say David was my go-to person even when he wasn’t in charge of my child’s file or case I would call him for any concern and he was always so quick to answer or return my call. I had to change my son to a different school due to his present diagnosis and David guided me on what to do, who to call for a switch of school, and to top it off, when I apologized for always calling him he assured me it was not a problem and to call with any questions. He said, that if he wasn’t able to help me, he would guide me to the right person, and he did. I don’t know how to thank this program and staff. Having your child diagnosed with a disability and trying to get him help and finding places are very overwhelming. Paying for day care just adds more stress; I am soooo thankful that CFC helped me out and got a bit of stress off my back. Amazing service. I could go on and on about how much more they helped my child and me but just want to say I’m blessed to be able to be part of this program.

Again, I ask the City Council to fully fund Connections for Children’s HSGP request so they can continue to help more families like mine.

Sincerely,
Maribel Jimenez”
-----
Dr. Jessica Reynaga, EdD, MSW
Director of Programs
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
5901 W. Century Blvd., Suite 400
Los Angeles, CA 90045
P: (310) 452-3325, Ext. 226
F: (310) 452-3984
www.connectionsforchildren.org
You can make a difference for our youngest learners by donating today! ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Brittany Rogers
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Monday, May 8, 2023 10:13:40 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

Best,
Brittany Rogers, SM resident and business owner
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Teri Rawson
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B 2023-2027 Human Services Grants Program Funding recommendation for Growing Place Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 7:00:05 AM

EXTERNAL
Hello,
I’d like to add my voice in support of the Growing Place Marine Park campus. I have taught at Marine Park for over seven years. The community of families that depend on the MP campus are an integral part of the overall Santa Monica community. Please keep this valuable, quality educational source in tact for the many children who thrive there.

Thank you,
Terilyn Rawson
Childcare Workforce
Sent from my iPhone
--
*For the privacy and protection of our families, this email is intended for the sole use of the original recipient(s). Images or documents contained within belong to Growing Place. If you are not the intended recipient, we request that you please notify us, by reply email, and destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. Thank you for your cooperation.*
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Mike Terranova
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: Agenda Item 11B- HSGP
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 12:04:49 PM

EXTERNAL
Dear Council:

Please support staff’s proposed guidelines to the HSGP. Our city is home to over 4,500 residents under the age of 5 years, and the services they and their families receive through HSGPs are critical to their wellbeing and ability to thrive. Your support helps secure a better future for our city’s youngest residents.

Mike Terranova
Sunset Park Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Shelby Scott
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: I volunteer for Meals on Wheels
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 6:19:05 PM

MOW West is an efficient, impactful organization and has strong community support.

I know that for decades Meals on Wheels has been serving homebound people in Santa Monica.

Many of MOW West’s clients are formerly homeless people and they need help.

MOW West has strong community support and was voted Favorite Non-profit in the SM Daily Press poll.

I urge you to support the funding of MOW West.

Sincerely,
Lauren Scott
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Adrianna Whitehead
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.A.2 FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 8:00:20 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

High-quality early childhood education and care supports the City’s priorities:

Please, invest in early childhood education and provide financial assistance to families who need it most; this will ensure all Santa Monica children and families have the opportunity to thrive! A majority of Santa Monica residents are renters, this financial assistance helps lots of families who are struggling to pay for childcare.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,
Adrianna W. Spilatro
818-744-0587
View My Profile
Sent from Outlook
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Mackensie Yore
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:40:29 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am expressing my support for Growing Place Marine Park to continue to receive City funding through the Human Services Grant Program to sustain its programming for young children and families in our City. As a resident of Santa Monica and a working parent, I urge the City to sustain this critical program, to ensure it is accessible and affordable for the working parents who power this city.

Full-day, high-quality early childcare is essential for working families. The high quality of care available in Santa Monica is the reason we moved here and is the primary reason we would stay; HSGP support allows greater access to Growing Place's program and expands the income range of families able to attend. Investing in and expanding access to high-quality early childcare yields sound economic returns, increases gender and income equity, and builds the Santa Monica of tomorrow.

Sincerely,
Mackensie Yore
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Tracy Yen
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: 11.B. 2023-27 Human Services Grants Program (HSGP) Funding Recommendation for Growing Place Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:18:37 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a resident of Santa Monica, raising three young children, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality child care services to families in our city.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! Sincerely,
Tracy Lochran
Santa Monica Resident
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
From: Annel Zavala
To: councilmtgitems
Subject: FY2023-27 HSGP Funding Recommendations
Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 11:43:44 AM

EXTERNAL
Dear Mayor Davis, Mayor Pro Tem Negrete, and Honorable Councilmembers:

I am writing to express my support for childcare in Santa Monica. As a previous resident of Santa Monica and current part of the workforce in Santa Monica, I benefit from the HSGP through the Growing Place Marine Park; I understand the importance of providing quality child care services to families in our city.

As a Santa Monica native from a low-income household. I clearly remember my parents' constant struggle to make ends meet. I disciplined myself in school to ensure that I would grow up and serve the Santa Monica community I love so much. I became an Early Childhood Educator because I know the value of a child’s first developmental years. I chose Growing Place Marine Park because it strives to serve low-income Santa Monica residents.

I urge the council to continue to fund Growing Place Marine Park to support low income families’ access to high quality care.

Keep children learning, parents earning, and communities growing in Santa Monica! ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
Sincerely,
Annel Zavala
Santa Monica Childcare Workforce
Annel Zavala
Co-lead Teacher | Growing Place, Marine Park
1406 Marine Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310-392-9737
For the privacy and protection of our families, this email is intended for the sole use of the original recipient(s). Images or documents contained within belong to Growing Place. If you are not the intended recipient, we request that you please notify us, by reply email, and destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. Thank you for your cooperation.

ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023
ITEM.11.B.

May 9, 2023

Santa Monica City CouncilMay 9, 2023

Santa Monica City Council
May 9, 2023