District 5 Updates – Happy Holidays
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays
From our family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Holiday festivities look very different this year. For example, the Los Banos Chamber of Commerce did a backwards parade! Participants stayed in place, and the community drove by. This is an example of the creativity and innovation the Westside has. Our community is resilient, and it is an honor and privilege to serve as your County Supervisor.
Rent, Mortgage and Utility Assistance
As the current pandemic rages on and is in the middle of the second surge, many of our residents and neighbors are struggling to pay the bills. Over the next few months, I will be sharing information on other expansions, all creating skilled jobs right here at home.
At a recent meeting, the Merced County Board of Supervisors provided funding to the Central Valley Opportunity Center for a Merced Rental, Mortgage, and Utility Assistance Program). This program is now available, and the application period is Monday, December 14, 2020 through Monday, January 25, 2021. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, contact CVOC directly at: 209-357-0062 or visit www.cvoc.org/contact-us.
COVID-19
Like many of you, I am frustrated and tired of COVID-19. Unfortunately, for many of our residents that frustration has turned to despair, sickness and death. Every death is a loss for a family, regardless of the circumstance. For those of you who have lost a loved one, please accept my deepest sympathies. As many of our businesses face another round of closures, I understand many of them will be closed for good, causing immense hardship for owners and employees alike. Small business is the backbone of our community. As a dairy farmer, I understand the bottom line, employees and financial strain. I am asking us all to do our part. If you are in a position to help, please do. Shop local, order take-out or deliver, and be kind. We are all in this together
For specific information on closures, restrictions, employer resources as well as testing sites visit www.countyofmerced.com/3350/Coronavirus-Disease-2019.
If I can be of service, you are having an issue, or need assistance, please call me at (209)385-7366, or send me an email at scott.silveira@countyofmerced.com.
Scott
