Resolutions & Renewal: Welcoming a New Year of Service 🎉
Resolutions & Renewal: Welcoming a New Year of Service 🎉
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
As we welcome the 2026 new year, may we look forward with a sense of resolve and renewed purpose. On January 5th, the California State Legislature officially convened for the beginning of the 2026 legislative session, marking an important recommitment to community service. These past few months have allowed me to engage directly with community leaders and on-the-ground constituent priorities. Now, as lawmakers return to the Capitol, the focus is once again on advancing thoughtful, effective policy that responds to the needs of our constituents across the state.
The opening of session sets the tone for the year ahead, filled with committee hearings, policy discussions, and collaboration aimed at delivering results. In 2026, my key legislative priorities remain centered on improving affordability, strengthening public safety, expanding access to quality education and healthcare, and continuing California’s leadership on climate resilience and economic opportunity.
Despite being in Sacramento for session, my team and I continue to meet with neighbors, listen to community concerns, and ensure that the voices of our region are represented clearly in the legislature. To stay updated with our work, look out for district initiatives on my website and check out the community events below! Additionally, as we look towards our upcoming Unhoused Health Fair in early 2026, I encourage you to donate coats to our District Office Coat Drive for those in need. In partnership with Opening Doors, be sure to stop by our office (1155 Meridian Ave Suite 100, San Jose) during business hours, drop off a coat, and receive a receipt for your donation.
Thank you for your continued trust, collaboration, and partnership. As we begin the 2026 legislative year, I look forward to building a stronger, more equitable California. As always, if you need any help navigating state services, accessing emergency resources, or participating in local events this month, please don’t hesitate to call my District Office at (408) 723-4154 or send an email to Senator.Cortese@sen.ca.gov. Happy New Year!
With Hope,
Dave Cortese, Senator
California Senate District 15
HERE IN DISTRICT 15
EMPOWERING EMERGING LEADERS
This past month, I toured The Foundation for Hispanic Education at Roberto Cruz Leadership Academy in East San Jose, and I had the privilege of meeting with students in its Social Justice class. Their passion, curiosity, and commitment to improving their community were truly inspiring.
We talked about the power of civic engagement — from speaking up on issues that matter, to voting, to shaping policy that reflects the needs of our neighborhoods. These students are already emerging leaders, and their voices will play a critical role in building a more equitable future for Silicon Valley.
GIVING TO OUR YOUTH
I want to give a special recognition to both West Valley Recycles and the City of Campbell Police Department for partnering with Campbell Union School District for their annual bicycle giveaway!
Dozens of refurbished bicycles were given to CUSD students at Monroe Middle School. The giveaway helps promote transportation sustainability, safety, and healthy activity for our children and youth. It is a great example of how our community comes together to support students and their families.
COLLABORATING WITH COUNTIES
I am honored to have delivered remarks at the 131st Annual Meeting of the California State Association of Counties (CSAC), held at the San Jose Convention Center. As a former Santa Clara County Supervisor, I’ve seen firsthand how counties serve as the backbone of California’s safety net. County governments are where our most vulnerable residents turn for behavioral health care, housing assistance, child welfare services, and essential community support.
In times of economic strain and growing need, protecting these vital services must remain our steadfast priority. Counties cannot — and should not — shoulder this responsibility alone. Our state must continue to partner with and invest in local governments to ensure every resident has the opportunity to thrive.
CREATING CLEAN ENERGY SOLUTIONS
Recently, I had the opportunity of touring Bloom Energy Corporation’s world-class facility right here in Silicon Valley. They are at the cutting edge of clean energy solutions helping California combat climate change, reduce air pollution, and create a more sustainable energy future by decreasing reliance on fossil fuels. Their work is a reminder that California must continue leading with forward-thinking energy policy that supports both reliability and sustainability.
Last year, I authored Senate Bill 1298, which would have strengthened our state’s ability to deploy clean, decentralized power technologies that reduce emissions, protect our electrical grid, and keep communities powered during emergencies.
AGING WITH DIGNITY
In 2017, as a former President of the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors, I led efforts to designate our county as an Age-Friendly County by the World Health Organization (WHO). Now, the County continues to hold an annual Age-Friendly Summit bringing together regional leaders, advocates, researchers, and policymakers to discuss strategies that may shape how our communities across Silicon Valley can be more responsive to the needs of older adults.
This year’s Age-Friendly Summit placed a vital spotlight on LGBTQIA+ seniors, who too often face unique barriers to care, housing, and social connection. I’m grateful to our community partners and advocates who are ensuring every older adult, regardless of identity, has access to the resources and support they deserve. Together, we’re building a county where aging with dignity is a right—not a privilege.
MEETING MOMENTUM FOR HEALTH
In 2022, Santa Clara County officially declared a mental health crisis, driven by record increases in suicides and drug overdoses, a statewide shortage of behavioral health workers, and inadequate treatment facility beds.
That is why organizations like Momentum for Health are critical to the health and well-being of residents as it serves as the backbone of our community’s mental health network – providing treatment, crisis support, housing services, and compassionate care for people navigating some of life’s toughest challenges. Thank you to Momentum’s staff for inviting my office to tour your facilities.
CELEBRATING ITALIAN AMERICAN HERITAGE
I was proud to present the Italian American Heritage Foundation with a California Senate Resolution commemorating its 50th anniversary! For five decades, the Foundation has preserved Italian American history, culture, and contributions that have helped shape California and our nation.
As a co-founder of the Italian American Caucus in the California Legislature, I’m honored to stand with my community and celebrate a legacy of leadership, service, and pride that continues to inspire future generations.
ADVANCING TRANSFORMATIVE TRANSPORTATION SOLUTIONS
I am honored to have delivered the keynote address at Move Bay Area's Transportation, Climate, and Health South Bay Summit. My keynote address was followed by a Q&A moderated by former Santa Clara County Supervisor and CA High-Speed Rail Authority Board Chair, Rod Diridon, Sr.
As Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, I’m committed to advancing transformative transportation solutions that cut greenhouse gas emissions, expand equitable, transit access, and protect the well-being of every Bay Area community.
From cleaner transit to safer streets and climate-smart infrastructure, our region is leading the way toward a more sustainable future. I am grateful to all the partners working with us to make this progress possible.
PREPARING FOR THE SUPER BOWL
I am proud to have had my office represented at the Bay Area Host Committee's 60-Day Countdown to Super Bowl LX which will be held on February 8th at Levi's Stadium in the City of Santa Clara!
The Super Bowl brings an incredible opportunity for our region—boosting local businesses, supporting hospitality and tourism workers, and showcasing the vibrant communities that make the Bay Area one of the most dynamic places in the world.
Thank you to the Host Committee and regional partners for their hard work ensuring a safe, sustainable, and community-focused event as we prepare to welcome visitors from across the country.
HONORING A TRAILBLAZER
It was fun to have joined in celebrating LGBTQ+ trailblazer Wiggsy Sivertsen on her 90th birthday! Wiggsy has spent a lifetime on the front lines of queer liberation, standing up against discrimination when it was far more dangerous to do so.
Her courage in the face of historic battles for equality helped pave the way for the protections and visibility we continue fighting for today. Thank you, Wiggsy, for your fearless leadership, your unwavering advocacy, and the path you forged for generations to come. Happy 90th Birthday.
PLANTING TREES WITH OUR CITY FOREST
My office joined Our City Forest for a community tree-planting along McKee Road, made possible through CAL FIRE Santa Clara Unit Urban & Community Forestry funding.
OCF’s Marisa Zulaski and CAL FIRE’s Evan Jones walked our team through how this project is helping transform a high-traffic corridor into a healthier, cooler, and more climate-resilient neighborhood. These trees will provide shade, improve air quality, and support long-term environmental benefits for local residents. We’re grateful for partners like Our City Forest and CAL FIRE who are creating greener public spaces across Santa Clara County.
HONORING A COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP
I had the honor of meeting with photographer Andy Nguyen and President of the Vietnamese American Organization, Quyen Mai. They gifted me a community photograph at my District Office. VAO is a community development organization focused on inspiring and motivating individuals to engage, learn, and lead projects that empower and benefit the local community. Thank you for all you do for our constituents!
FINDING STRENGTH IN ORGANIZED LABOR
It was great to join the Nor Cal Carpenters Union for their 62nd annual Moose Feed—a proud tradition that celebrates solidarity, craftsmanship, and the strength of organized labor. With San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie as a speaker, the luncheon was a powerful reminder of the vital role working families play in building California’s future.
What makes this event especially significant is how it reflects the Carpenters Union’s enduring commitment to good-paying union jobs, world-class apprenticeship and training programs, jobsite safety, and pathways into the middle class. For more than six decades, the Moose Feed has brought together workers, leaders, and allies to recommit to those shared values. I’m proud to stand with Nor Cal Carpenters as we continue the fight for fair wages, strong labor standards, and an economy that works for everyone.
SUPPORTING INDEPENDENT SENIORS
It was a pleasure meeting with Alma Soto, the Executive Director for Heart of the Valley, an organization that works tirelessly to facilitate, advocate, and support independent living for seniors residing in West Santa Clara County. Thank you, Alma!
IN OUR STATE CAPITOL & BEYOND THE DISTRICT
STANDING WITH THE UNITED FARM WORKERS OF AMERICA
I recently attended the annual UFW Gala, where former Vice President Kamala Harris delivered powerful remarks about dignity, justice, and the essential role of the workers who feed our nation.
As the federal administration escalates harmful immigration enforcement raids, our agricultural workers — many of them Latino and immigrant community members — are living with fear no family should have to endure. These raids don’t just tear apart lives; they threaten the stability of California’s agricultural industry and the very backbone of our food supply.
We must continue to stand with UFW and all who are fighting to protect farmworkers’ rights, safety, and livelihoods. I remain committed to advancing policies that uphold our values, protect immigrant families, and ensure that every worker in our fields is treated with the respect and humanity they deserve. Thank you to UFW President Teresa Romero for your continued leadership.
PLANNING FOR SUCCESSFUL TRANSITION HOUSING
As a member of the Bay Area Legislative delegation, I recently joined my fellow colleagues on a trip to San Antonio and Austin, Texas to learn first-hand how both cities have delivered results successfully transitioning thousands of unhoused Texans into temporary and permanent housing solutions.
We got to tour Haven for Hope in San Antonio which can house an estimated 1,600 unhoused residents on a daily basis while the Community First! Village is able to house more than 420. Their centralized, community-driven approach has proven itself an efficient way to get people off the streets and into safe, secure housing. Learn more about the trip and how we're going to work on addressing California homelessness here.
INVESTING IN HIGH-SPEED RAIL
California’s High-Speed Rail project is more than a transportation system — it is a generational investment that will reshape the economic landscape of the Central Valley, and that of California. Read my full statement here responding to U.S. District Judge Dale Drozd’s decision to reject the Federal Administration’s attempt to block California’s High-Speed Rail funding.
ADVANCING CLEAN-TRANSPORTATION INNOVATION
I had a great visit to Lucid Motors' headquarters in Newark, where some of the most cutting-edge electric vehicle technology in the world is being designed and built right here in California.
Lucid is on the frontlines of clean-transportation innovation — pushing the boundaries of efficiency, performance, and sustainable manufacturing. Their work is a powerful example of how California’s clean-energy economy continues to lead the nation. As Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, I’m committed to supporting policies that accelerate EV adoption, expand charging infrastructure, and keep California at the forefront of next-generation mobility. Companies like Lucid show what’s possible when we invest in innovation and a greener future.
My Work, In the News
SENATE BILL 429: THE NATION’S FIRST PUBLIC WILDFIRE MODEL
SB 429 establishes the first-in-the-nation Wildfire Catastrophe Public Model to assess wildfire risk, inform insurance rates, and educate the public. This bill will ensure transparency to help homeowners understand if they’re getting a fair deal on insurance. This bill will also improve wildfire preparedness and response through better data and planning tools. Check out these recent articles to learn more:
TECHNOLOGY
- Northeastern Silicon Valley: Envisioning an Inclusive Future: Student Voices on AI & the Workforce
HOUSING AND AFFORDABILITY
- CalMatters: What veto drama and a Texas trip tell us about a potential shift in California’s homelessness strategy
- CBS News Bay Area Prime Edition 8pm re: Texas Visit
TRANSPORTATION
- The Center Square: Bill designed to make U.S., California transit safer, cheaper
- Repost by AOL News, Just the News
- Al Jazeera: Waymo runs into safety concerns and competition as it expands in the US
JUSTICE AND PEACE
- NBC News: California high schoolers who formed human swastika will face 'justice,' principal says
- SF Gate: 'Deeply disturbed': Officials investigating 'human swastika' at Bay Area school
- The Mercury News: San Jose high school investigating ‘human swastika’ formed by students in photo on campus
- San Jose Inside: Branham High Student Swastika Post Prompts Condemnations, Student Protest
- CBS News: High school students in San Jose form swastika on football field, post image with Hitler quote on social media
CHECK OUT OTHER NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
Check out my full 2025 legislative package HERE!
Free Community Events
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY OF SERVICE CLEANUP
Join Keep Coyote Creek Beautiful for their MLK Day of Service Cleanup on January 19th from 9AM to 12PM. This community creek cleanup event is a perfect opportunity to meet new people, improve a neighborhood park, and build community around a shared sense of service. Free litter kits and community service hours are available.
For more information about the exact location and to reserve a spot, please see here: MLK Day Cleanup Registration, Mon, Jan 19, 2026 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite.
U.S. CITIZENSHIP TEST PREPARATION SERIES
The Central Park Library invites you to practice the 128 Civics questions provided by the USCIS office. During this 6-week series, you will also get a chance to practice the reading and writing portion of the exam. Free study materials will be provided. Everyone is welcome! The class will meet in the Redwood Room every Thursday during January 22 to February 26.
For more information on this series and for additional details on US Citizenship naturalization, see here: U.S. Citizenship Test Preparation Series Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite.
WINTER WONDERLAND CULTURE NIGHT MARKET
Winter Wonderland presents: Culture Night Market at Paseo de San Antonio in downtown San Jose! This exciting event will take place over two weekends, from November 29th to Jan 3rd, right next to the beloved Christmas in the Park at Cesar Chavez Plaza.
Join from 5:00PM -10:00PM for a festive holiday market featuring local small businesses, artists, and artisans offering unique gifts.
For more information, see here: Winter Wonderland: Culture Night Market Holiday Gift Fair Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite.
MUNICIPAL ROSE GARDEN WINTER CLEAN UP
Join the Municipal Rose Garden Winter Clean Up for a day of deadheading roses and cleaning up the garden, on January 10th from 8:30AM to 12PM! The event will take place at 1649 Naglee Ave. Turn your compassion into action and help keep our parks healthy! No experience is necessary! All tools and instructions will be provided.
For more information, see here: Municipal Rose Garden - Winter Clean Up Tickets, Sat, Jan 10, 2026 at 8:30 AM | Eventbrite.
SJSU FINANCIAL LITERACY FAMILY DAY
Join SJSU’s Financial Literacy Family Day 2026 for a hands-on day to complete your FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (CADAA), learn about fellowships and scholarships, and connect with campus and community partners dedicated to helping families plan and pay for college.
This event will take place on Saturday, January 31st from 9:00Am – 1:00PM at the Student Union Ballroom at San José State University.
For more information, see here: SJSU Financial Literacy Family Day 2026 Tickets, Sat, Jan 31, 2026 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite.
MORGAN HILL WINTER BIKE RIDE
Join Bike Therapy for their weekly Tuesday morning Winter Bike Ride, an intermediate 30-mile Road bike ride every Tuesday at 6:30AM. The ride will begin at 17540 Depot St. Morgan Hill, CA 95037. Upcoming dates include January 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th.
For more information and to fill out the Ride Waiver in advance, see here: Tuesday Morning Winter Bike Ride Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite.
URBAN FORESTRY EDUCATION CENTER WORKDAY
Help Our City Forest care for their Arboretum and Demonstration gardens and learn more about Urban Forestry at the Urban Forestry Education Center on January 10th from 9AM to 12PM! Participants 18 and older must submit a Participant Waiver and Release Form, and participants under the age of 18 must have a parent/guardian complete the Participant Waiver and Release Form. Forms can be submitted electronically to volunteer@ourcityforest.org, or brought with.
For more information about the waiver and to reserve a spot, see here: Urban Forestry Education Center Workday Tickets, Sat, Jan 10, 2026 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite.
WEDNESDAY WORKDAY AT MARTIAL COTTLE PARK
Join the UC Cooperative Extension Compost Education Program for a fun and productive day at Martial Cottle Park! The Wednesday Workday event is the perfect opportunity to get outdoors, meet new people, and give back to the community. Whether you're a composting guru or just looking to lend a helping hand, volunteers of all skill levels are welcome. Spend the day working on various compost projects, enjoying the fresh air, and making a difference in this outdoor space. Email Lvonaspen@ucanr.edu for questions. Specific directions will be sent out in a confirmation email to attendees.
For more information and to sign up, see here: Wednesday Workday at Martial Cottle Park Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite.
ROOTS COMMUNITY HEALTH VISION BOARD EVENT
Join Roots Community Health Women of Wellness for their 2nd Annual Vision Board Party at 1811 S. 7th St., Suite D on January 15th from 5-7PM! Step into the new year with purpose as you create a visual roadmap for your goals in health, wealth, and wellness. Connect with coaches, resources, and your community for a fun, inspiring night of self-discovery. Announcement of guest speakers and event details coming soon!
For more information, see here: Your Life, Your Script: A Vision Board Party! Tickets, Fri, Jan 16, 2026 at 5:00 PM | Eventbrite.
CHECK OUT OTHER FREE EVENTS IN DISTRICT 15:
To get all state and local resources, from health insurance to building permits, click here: Resources | Senator Dave Cortese.
As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions‚ comments‚ or concerns. I can be reached at senator.cortese@sen.ca.gov or by calling (408) 723-4157.
IMPORTANT UPDATES & RESOURCES
THE SANTA CLARA COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT ISSUES WARNING REGARDING JURY SCAM
The Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara is issuing a critical public advisory regarding an increase in jury-related scams that are currently circulating across the county. Scammers are adopting sophisticated tactics, presenting themselves as representatives of government agencies and using manipulated images of official locations to deceive unsuspecting individuals. In these scams, perpetrators often employ persuasive techniques, claiming to be court officials or law enforcement officers. They have been known to provide fake badge numbers and utilize photoshopped images to create an illusion of authenticity. One unfortunate consequence of these tactics is that individuals may genuinely believe they have missed a court appearance and owe money as a result.
In coordination with the California Judiciary, the Santa Clara County Superior Court encourages the public to stay informed and share this information with friends and family to prevent further incidents.
If you receive communication from someone requesting your personal information, please contact the fraud unit of your local police department immediately and the County of Santa Clara’s jury office: ssjuryinfo@scscourt.org.
CONCERNS REGARDING CLAYTON ROAD: A NOTICE FROM THE COUNTY
Santa Clara County recently addressed community concerns regarding Clayton Road. Moving forward, the County advises that the following concerns be dealt with as follows:
- Concerns regarding the striping edge missing along the roadway on Upper Clayton: The paint crew is scheduled to be dispatched to install edge striping today (Bill reported via separate email that some striping has already taken place.
- Vegetation Management concerns: Please identify those areas of concern via address or geolocate by photograph, and crews will be dispatched.
- Concerns regarding trash/ garbage at the base of the slide: Crews will be dispatched to clean up this area.
- Evaluation of current signage/ striping/ speeds: Staff will be conducting a survey/ inventory of all current signage. Please contact: Daniel Connors daniel.connors@rda.sccgov.org with any questions or additional traffic safety question.
SEE UPDATED GUIDANCE TO HELP SCHOOLS NAVIGATE IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT
Following the passage of new laws, on December 1, California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued updated guidance for students, families, educators, and school officials to help ensure a safe and secure school environment for all. Approximately 133,000 undocumented children attend California’s public K-12 schools, and many more have parents or relatives who do not have legal status. The updated model policies and recommendations released today are intended to help staff develop practical plans to protect the rights of immigrant students and their families to safely access schools, in accordance with state and federal laws. More resources can be found at oag.ca.gov/immigrant/resources.
SUBMIT ART TO THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY'S JUSTICE FOR ALL POSTER CONTEST
The deadline to submit art for the District Attorney’s Justice For All Poster Contest is almost here – Friday January 9, 2026! This year’s contest asks high school students in Santa Clara County to create and submit original art that helps the office fight against animal neglect.
The winner will receive $1,500. The second-place winner will receive $1,000 and the third-place winner will receive $500. All other submissions will receive a Starbucks gift card. For more information on details regarding the submissions and contest rules are available here.
CONGRATULATIONS TO A LOCAL WILDFIRE PREVENTION GRANT RECIPIENT!
CAL FIRE’s Wildfire Prevention Grants Program recently announced a grantee in Senate District 15! Congratulations to the City of Morgan Hill’s High Fire Risk Fuel Reduction Project for this award!
CAL FIRE’s Wildfire Prevention Grants Program provides funding for projects and activities that focus on increasing the protection of people, structures, and communities. Over the last six years, CAL FIRE has awarded more than $566 million in grants to over 575 projects across the state.
AN UPDATE TO HIGH-SPEED RAIL
The California High-Speed Rail Authority is pleased to share this new construction video that highlights nearly 60 completed structures to date. The video showcases impressive achievements, such as 68% of the guideway being completed, 91% of utilities relocated, and 99% of the right-of-way purchased. Titled "The Future of Transportation Is Growing from the Ground Up in California’s Central Valley," the short video beautifully captures the progress of the project.
AN UPDATE TO BAY AREA TRANSIT
Now, as part of the Next-Generation Clipper system rollout, all Bay Area transit riders can pay adult fares using cards you already have in your wallet: plastic or mobile contactless bank cards—credit or debit—Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover.
To ensure that the correct card gets charged, riders should remove their card from their wallet before tapping. To reduce the risk of improper or multiple charges to your cards, use the same card to tap in and out of dual-tap agencies. Riders paying with a mobile device should select their preferred payment in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet.
Want to learn more? The Clipper website has everything you need to know about the key features of the Next-Generation Clipper system! Find an overview of additional features, including contactless bank card payments, at http://www.clippercard.com/enhanced-features.
APPLY TO THE CA PARTNERSHIP TO END DOMESTIC VIOLENCE YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD
For 10 years, the California Healthy Youth Act (CHYA) has shaped how students in California learn about healthy relationships, consent, communication, and safety. As they celebrate this milestone during Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month 2026, The Partnership wants to center the voices that matter most: our youth.
The Partnership is launching a Youth Advisory Board (YAB) to help guide our statewide TDVAPM campaign, 10 Years of CHYA: Stronger Schools, Safer Relationships. They are looking for six youth ages 14–19 who want to help inform how California promotes healthy relationship education, supports strong school communities, and uplifts youth voices.
AN UPDATE OF HOMELESSNESS IN CALIFORNIA
Governor Gavin Newsom today announced nearly $181.1 million in grant funding to revitalize communities and increase homeownership opportunities for 1,275 lower-income California households — including agricultural workers and their families. The funding was provided through a streamlined process created by the Newsom administration to help simplify the process for communities to access funding and create housing.
In 2024, while homelessness increased nationally by over 18%, California limited its overall increase to just 3% — a lower rate than in 40 other states. The state also held the growth of unsheltered homelessness to just 0.45%, compared to a national increase of nearly 7%. States like Florida, Texas, New York, and Illinois saw larger increases both in percentage and absolute numbers. California also achieved the nation’s largest reduction in veteran homelessness and made meaningful progress in reducing youth homelessness. For more information, see here: California outperforms the nation in reducing the growth of homelessness, state sees largest decrease in veteran homelessness in the nation | Governor of California
SARATOGA PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION OPENING
Get involved and help shape Saratoga’s future! The Parks & Recreation Commission has one full-term seat available, with the term ending September 30, 2029. If you’re passionate about making a difference, we encourage you to apply. Please note you must have attended a commission meeting as part of the application process. Applications are due by January 23, 2026. Learn more about the commission and submit your application here.
APPLY FOR THE CALASSIST MORTGAGE FUND
The state's CalAssist Mortgage Fund provides much-needed relief from mortgage payments for families whose homes are destroyed or severely damaged to the point they have been deemed uninhabitable as the result of a qualified disaster. Eligible homeowners can qualify for 3 months of mortgage payments, up to a maximum of $20,000. Funds never have to be repaid and it’s free to apply. Learn more about the program and apply here.
PREPARE AND PROTECT AGAINST OUTBREAKS
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH), in an effort to assist Californians seeking help and support in response to the nationwide outbreak of infant botulism, has opened a public-facing hotline for concerned parents and caregivers with questions about infant botulism. The public can reach CDPH directly toll-free at 1-833-398-2022. CDPH and federal officials have recommended that anyone with ByHeart infant formula stop using it immediately and report any signs of infant botulism to their health care provider as soon as possible. Learn more here.
BEWARE OF PG&E SCAM!
Recently, a number of constituents have received a notice posted on their door stating that the customer is not enrolled in the California Self-Generation Incentive Program that would pay up to 37% more for electricity due to increased transmission and delivery costs. Please be wary, as this is a scam. Should you receive a SGIP Customer Flyer from PG&E, please report it to our office or directly to your provider.
GET FLOOD READY WITH VALLEY WATER!
The rainy season has arrived, bringing the possibility of storms and flooding. While Valley Water’s flood protection projects have reduced flood risks for more than 100,000 homes, businesses, and properties, some areas of Santa Clara County remain vulnerable each year. Now is the time to make sure you and your loved ones are ready for potential flooding or other emergencies.
To get emergency alerts and gain essential tips in preparation for flood season, see here: Get Flood Ready Essential Tips | Santa Clara Valley Water.
CHECK OUT THE STUDENT LOAN EMPOWERMENT NETWORK
The California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) has partnered with Student Loan Empowerment (SLE) Network grantees to promote a new video series for student borrowers, linked here: https://studentloanhelp.dfpi.ca.gov/videos/. These videos examine a wide range of student loan topics to help borrowers manage their student loans, guide borrowers through repayment options, explain loan types, and provide information on loan forgiveness and relief programs.
FAMILY GUIDE FOR DONOR HUMAN MILK
Mothers’ Milk Bank California recently produced a new educational resource for young families, parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers who may be seeking support with donor human milk. This Family Guide for Donor Human Milk provides clear, easy-to-understand information about donor human milk, including when it may be recommended, how the donation and safety processes work, and how families can access it.
THE SACRAMENTO PRESS CLUB SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
The Sacramento Press Club is pleased to announce an expansion in its annual scholarship program. Applications are now open and will be accepted through midnight on Jan. 23, 2026 for 13 scholarships for college journalists. Scholarships range from $6,000 to $10,000.
Applicants must be college juniors, seniors or in a graduate program during the 2026-27 school year. They must demonstrate an interest in journalism, either through their designated major or work experience on or off campus. Details about the scholarships, the eligibility criteria, and a link to our online application can be found at www.sacpressclub.org/scholarships/.
RECRUITMENT FOR THE 2026-27 SANTA CLARA COUNTY CIVIL GRAND JURY BEGINS
Presiding Judge Julie A. Emede of the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara, is inviting civic-minded residents to apply for service on the 2026–27 Civil Grand Jury, a cornerstone of government transparency, accountability, and public oversight. Recruitment for the upcoming Civil Grand Jury term officially opened on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, with applications due by Friday, March 27, 2026.
Applications and informational materials — including the Civil Grand Jury brochure and online application — will be available on the Court’s website. For questions or additional information, please contact Britney Huelbig, Deputy Court Manager for the Civil Grand Jury, at 408-882-2721 or CGJ@scscourt.org.
NAVIGATING MEDI-CAL CHANGES FOR ADULT IMMIGRANTS
The Western Center and National Health Law Program (NHeLP) have new consumer resources on 2026 and 2027 Medi-Cal Changes for Adult Immigrants (link) and Medi-Cal and Immigration Privacy (link). These resources can also be found on the Heath Consumer Alliance website: Medi-Cal Changes and What You Need to Know. The HCA website also includes the Medi-Cal Changes for Adult Immigrants (ages 19 and up) fact sheet in the following languages: Arabic, Armenian, Cambodian, Chinese (Traditional), Chinese (Simplified), Farsi, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese.
CALIFORNIA’S CALRX® INSULIN WILL BE AVAILABLE TO CALIFORNIA CONSUMERS SOON!
Following the Governor’s Executive Order N-01-19 and Senate Bill 852 (Chapter 207, Statutes of 2020), we are pleased to announce that CalRx® Insulin Glargine pens are coming soon to Californians at a maximum recommended price of $55 per five-pack of pens beginning January 1, 2026. This milestone significantly expands access to this lifesaving insulin medication at an affordable price, supporting efforts to combat diabetes across California. This CalRx® insulin product is interchangeable with Lantus® and will be available to any pharmacy in the state. You can find more information about this announcement via the Governor’s press release and CalRx’s website.
STATE TREASURER'S OFFICE’S SAVINGS PROGRAM FOR INDIVIDUALS
The State Treasurer’s Office's Savings Programs for Individuals (SP4I) offer free tools to build financial security across life stages. These are free, life-changing resources, and many families are unaware they are eligible and have free money waiting for them. Check out the following programs:
-
CalKIDS: Savings account with funds for public school students and newborns - over two billion dollars available today!
-
CalSavers: Retirement accounts for workers without employer plans
-
For employers with 1-4 employees, be sure to register by December 31st, 2025!
-
-
CalABLE: Tax-free savings for people with disabilities
THE LIVE BEYOND CAMPAIGN
The Live Beyond Campaign is a California statewide initiative focused on raising awareness about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and toxic stress and providing resources for healing. It specifically targets youth, young adults, and their caregivers to help them understand the impact of ACEs and toxic stress and to encourage them to seek support and healing. Toolkits and resources for CBOs, libraries and educators, and healthcare providers are available for download in multiple languages at livebeyondca.org/campaign-resources/. Physical toolkits can be mailed to organizations upon request by emailing info@livebeyondca.org.
REPORT A CONCERN THROUGH GILROYCONNECT
To our Gilroy constituents, be sure to check out the newly launched mobile app, GilroyConnect, to submit and track service requests to the City of Gilroy Government! The app is available on Apple and Android. Check out the GilroyConnect website here and download the app on your mobile device!
JOIN THE CALIFORNIA SERVICE CORPS
Governor’s Office of Service and Community Engagement (GO-Serve) Director Josh Fryday announced California is seeking 10,000 people to join the California Service Corps. California Service Corps programs offer participants meaningful work experience while making a real impact in their communities — while reducing the burden of college debt.
The California Service Corps is the largest service force in the nation, consisting of four paid service programs: #CaliforniansForAll College Corps, California Climate Action Corps, Youth Service Corps, and AmeriCorps California.
Learn more and join at http://www.CAServiceCorps.com. *Please note that recent federal funding cuts to this program may limit capacity.