A line of needy families awaits distribution of gift boxes by the San Bernardino Corps of the Salvation Army. Photo by Chris Sloan
San Bernardino Salvation Army Corps Officer Maj. Nancy Ball and volunteer Tara Murphy give gift cards to a recipient of one of 600 holiday gift boxes distributed last Christmas. Photo by Chris Sloan
Jason Hulsey, a Salvation Army volunteer, loads gift boxes onto a dolly so that he can give them to recipients. Photo by Chris Sloan
(San Bernardino, Calif.) During the holidays, area businesses, churches and organizations join together with the San Bernardino Salvation Army Corps (www.salvationarmyusa.org) to sponsor families, by making donations that bring the joy of Christmas to those in need.
Every year, hundreds of families in need turn to the Salvation Army to help feed their families during the Christmas season and to provide their children with joy through the toy donations received from the “Christmas Giving Tree” program.
“As the economy tightens, we have seen an increase in the number of families that are in need of our help, especially around the holiday season,” said Major Stephen Ball, director of the San Bernardino Corps. “Some families struggle year-round. Others find themselves in unusual need due to a recent job loss. Regardless of the situation, we are here to help as much as possible.”
As in years past, each family will receive a Christmas gift basket filled with canned goods and a gift certificate to Stater Bros. Adopted families also benefit from the Salvation Army’s annual “Christmas Giving Tree” program, which accepts donations of toys through Dec. 24, giving them to the children.
“This year we plan to help more than 600 families with food and toys for Christmas,” said Maj. Ball. “With the increase in families seeking assistance, we are asking the public for additional donations of canned food items, as well as Stater Bros. gift certificates.”
The Salvation Army is also seeking organizations and businesses that can help some of these families by taking part in its “Adopt-A-Family” program. Participants in this program are matched with one of between 25 to 50 identified families with the greatest needs, receiving additional food and clothing from their benefactors.
To make a donation or sign up for assistance call the San Bernardino Salvation Army Corp at (909) 888-1336
Those individuals who want to donate toys can find the Salvation Army’s “Christmas Giving Trees” at the following locations:
San Bernardino Corps – Inland Center Mall (500 Inland Center Drive, San Bernardino) near the food court.
The Ontario Corps – in front of JC Penney’s at the Montclair Plaza (5060 E. Montclair Plaza Lane, Montclair)
The Redlands Corps – at Wal-Mart (2050 W. Redlands Blvd., Redlands).
The Riverside Corps asks shoppers to call (951) 784-4490, ext. 100 to obtain the name of and requests of more than 3,000 children on its “Angel” list.
The Salvation Army urges Inland Empire residents and families to help other families have a holiday they will never forget.
The San Bernardino Corps benefits residents of San Bernardino, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto and Bloomington. About the Salvations Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Radio Network assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The San Bernardino Corps serves: Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto and San Bernardino.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian church and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY.
For local help, please call (909) 888-1336.
Supporters can add an Angel to their Christmas list at jcp.com/angel
(San Bernardino, Calif.) The Salvation Army and JCPenny have joined forces again this holiday season to give joy to even more children and seniors in need by offering businesses, churches or civic organizations the option of adopting multiple angles through the Angel Giving Tree Online program at jcp.com.
The annual Christmas gift drive provides toys, clothing, special-needs gifts or other wish list items to kids and senior citizens experiencing financial hardship. The Salvation Army expanded this annual Christmas tradition by partnering with JCPenney to make its easier for supporters to participate this holiday season.
In a few easy steps, customers can visit jcp.com/angel to request an angel by zip code, city/state, age range and gender. An Angel who matches the criteria will be e-mailed to the customer along with a list of requested items. The confirmation e-mail includes a link to view drop-off locations in the recipient’s area and ship-to addresses for online orders.
The Angel Giving Tree Online program enables individuals or groups to shop for Angel online at jcp.com, in JCPenny stores or at any retailer they choose. Families can sign up for Online Angel Tree through their local Salvation Army
In collaboration with UPS, Angel Giving Tree gifts purchased through jcp.com can be shipped free of charge to a local Salvation Army collection center – putting the entire selection, shopping and delivery process at the customer’s fingertips.
In order to ensure all gifts are delivered in time for Christmas, the deadline for adopting and shopping for your angel online is Dec. 9; otherwise supporters have until Dec. 13 to purchase a JCPenney gift card.
The Salvation Army of San Bernardino has approximately 1,600 children in need of adoption by angels. About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Radio Network assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The San Bernardino Corps serves: Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto and San Bernardino.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian church and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY.
For local help, please call (909) 888-1336.
Arlene and Priscilla Delgado, ages 4 and 8, each used their savings to purchase Christmas toys for a less fortunate child through the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corp’s Giving Tree program at Inland Center Mall. Help the Salvation Army obtain more toys for children in need by going to the Giving Tree near the mall’s Food Court. Photo by Kelly Silvestri-Raabe
To share Christmas joy with a deserving child, come to Inland Center Mall and select a tag indicating a child’s age, sex and gift preference. Or find and order a gift for a local child online at jcp.com/angel. Photo by Carl Dameron
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calf.) It might seem like a very small gesture in the grand scheme of things, but when the local Salvation Army Corps (www.salvationarmyusa.org) and several businesses annually join forces to make the holiday season memorable for the needy children of the Inland Empire, it makes a huge difference in so many lives.
Known as the Angel Giving Tree programs, it revolves around actual Christmas trees, which are set up in local malls the day after Thanksgiving to match shoppers with the hundreds of children in each location who are relying on the Salvation Army this year to bring them a Merry Christmas.
Shoppers wishing to participate will find attached to branches of the tree cards with the names of children whose families simply cannot afford to buy gifts. Shoppers who want to take part by helping disadvantaged children simply pluck a tag off the Giving Tree, read the child’s name and wish list, and then head for the appropriate store for a little sharing of their own.
“This is a great way to start a tradition with your own family, by selecting a gift for a needy child together. The gifts are based on their individual wishes and for some children, it may be the only gift they receive all year,” said Major Nancy Ball of the San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army.
San Bernardino Corps puts its Giving Tree in the Inland Center Mall (500 Inland Center Drive, San Bernardino) near the food court.
The Ontario Corps puts trees in front of JC Penney’s at the Montclair Plaza (5060 E. Montclair Plaza Lane, Montclair) inside the Macy’s store. The Redlands Corps puts a tree at Wal-Mart (2050 W. Redlands Blvd., Redlands).
However, not all corps have actual trees. The Riverside Corps asks shoppers to call (951) 784-4490, ext. 100 to obtain the name of and requests of more than 3,000 children on its “Angel” list.
Since online shopping is also a popular way to buy Christmas gifts, JC Penney’s has a partnership with the Salvation Army allowing shoppers to go to jcp.com/angel and search for children (and in some places senior citizens) in any ZIP Code. The website allows online shoppers to order a gift for them from JC Penney’s online catalog, and gives them the choice of dropping the gift off at their local Salvation Army’s collection center, or of having UPS ship it, at no charge, to that collection center.
The Salvation Army also is looking for other businesses in both San Bernardino and Riverside counties, who would like to have a tree at their place of business for employees and/or customers.
To host an Angel Tree in San Bernardino, Colton, Grand Terrace, Rialto, Bloomington or Highland, call (909) 888-1336. Elsewhere, call 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY.
“Soccer balls, dolls and clothes are just a few items on each child’s wish list,” said Major Ball. “Shoppers who participate in the program are encouraged to shop for more than what is needed on the list. I can’t think of a better way for business owners and managers to help the community and spread the spirit of Christmas.”
Salvation Army volunteers make sure the presents are earmarked for each specific child. About the Salvations Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Radio Network assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The San Bernardino Corps serves: Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto and San Bernardino.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian church and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY.
For local help, please call (909) 888-1336.
Magnolia at Highland, Western Seniors Housing newest luxury senior living complex, built for those age 62 and better. Photo by Michael Downer
Walk-in showers are designed to make life easy and living senior friendly at the Magnolia at Highland. Photo by Michael Downer
Residents of the new Magnolia at Highland senior living community will enjoy outdoor activities on a spacious patio, complete with bar-b-que area and outdoor fireplace. Photo by Michael Downer
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) As Baby Boomers grow older, the one thing that has become clear is their desire to stay active and independent. With that in mind, creating housing that will feature innovative ideas for senior-friendly living has increased.
Researchers report in The Gerontologist, that there is a greater sense of well-being and independence in daily activities derived from living in a more senior-friendly accessible home. It also found that housing quality plays a major role in the psychological security of older people living independently within a community.
Consideration must be given in all details, including the style of floor lamps, bathroom fixtures or armchairs. Also of great importance is the interior design, as it plays a key role that many tend to overlook.
For instance, navigating a long hallway can be a real challenge for a person with vision impairments. An example could be the use of neutral colors for both the wall and handrails. It could prove extremely difficult to differentiate between the two for person with a problem in depth perception. Contrasting colors, in the form of a darker-colored wallpaper with a cream-colored handrail (or vice versa) would make navigation much easier.
Noting that even the color of the carpet in a multi-level building must be a consideration, Kim Pollack, senior vice president of Western Seniors Housing, Inc., a leader in the senior apartment management industry, explains how this attention to detail makes a huge difference in the lives of seniors living in their senior-living apartments.
“When completing our new senior-living community in San Bernardino, the Magnolia at Highland, we worked with an interior designer who specializes in senior communities. She assisted us in developing a plan, which offers our residents a leisurely lifestyle in a home-like surrounding,” said Pollack. “While there must be a balance between what is user-friendly and what is attractive, the overall goal is to provide our residents with an opportunity to make friends, have fun, keep active and enjoy life.”
Pollack points out that as the population ages, a lack of senior-friendly or accessible housing could become an increasing problem. Having the ability to use standard bathtubs and other items has proven too difficult for some seniors. As a result it has caused some select developers in the industry to rethink their designs to attract the Boomers.
In a study of accessible housing design published in the Journal of Housing and Society, researchers point out that the growing elderly population means more adaptable, accessible, and safe family housing is needed in all parts of the country.
The study states that this approach would permit people to age in place, because houses would have features such as accessible entrances and ramps, grab bars and walk-in showers in bathrooms, and a single-level design.
Baby Boomers, who over the years have provided a new outlook on staying active, often wish to continue this trend into their senior years. By staying healthy and physically fit, they increase their ability to maintain an independent lifestyle.
“The Magnolia at Highland has made every effort to include these aspects in our design. In addition, we haven’t forgotten that Boomers also want amenities like outdoor fireplaces, walking trails, swimming pools, bar-b-que areas and a fitness center. They want to remain active even as they are getting older,” said Pollack.
Along with these outdoor activities as part of that active lifestyle, Pollack said Western Seniors Housing has incorporated several indoor activities as well.
“At the Magnolia at Highland we also have a computer center, billiards room and a clubhouse offering resident programs through the nonprofit organization EngAGE.,” said Pollack.
Founded in 1999 as More Than Shelter For Seniors, EngAGE transforms aging and the way people think about aging by turning affordable senior apartment communities into vibrant centers of learning, wellness and creativity.
Taking the whole-person approach to creative and healthy aging, EngAGE provides arts, wellness, lifelong learning, community building and intergenerational programs to thousands of seniors living in affordable senior apartment communities in Southern California.
“By partnering with an organization like EngAGE, we are supplying seniors with activities that help them maintain a healthier and happier lifestyle,” said Pollack.
The Magnolia at Highland is located in San Bernardino on the southwest corner of Highland and Medical Center Drive. As part of an ongoing redevelopment program, Western Seniors Housing has turned an automotive site into 80 upscale, spacious, affordable apartments for adults age 62 and older. The community is scheduled for occupancy in December 2011.
To schedule an appointment or to learn more information about The Magnolia at Highland senior living community contact Western Seniors Housing, Inc., at (909) 473-1000.
Last year Sandy and Mike Rowles passed out cold drinks to guests at the Salvation Army’s Thanksgiving dinner. The couple came from Fontana to volunteer. Photo by Ricardo Tombac
A happy crew of volunteers pauses while serving meals from the kitchen at a previous Salvation Army’s Thanksgiving Dinner. Photo by Ricardo Tombac
(San Bernardino, Calif.) This Thanksgiving, the San Bernardino Corps of the Salvation Army will once again provide Thanksgiving dinner to help the needy families of the Inland Empire.
The San Bernardino Corps will serve dinner from 11 am to 1 pm on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 24, at its Corps headquarters building, 746 West Fifth St.
“Times are really tough for everyone, especially at this time of year when people really need an extra hand to get them through the holiday season,” said Major Nancy Ball, San Bernardino Corps officer. “We have a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner planned, complete with turkey, potatoes, gravy, stuffing, vegetables and pie.”
The annual Thanksgiving meal brings in hundreds of families and individuals who do not have the means to provide themselves a Thanksgiving dinner. People come from throughout the Inland Empire for the celebration. The San Bernardino event has traditionally served close to 400 people in one year.
The hungry families are joined by hundreds of volunteers for the day who help prepare the food and serve meals to the families. Along with sending out a call to volunteers to help serve, the Salvation Army is encouraging people to donate turkeys or hams, side dishes and other food by calling (909) 888-4880.
“An effort of this magnitude is not a one person show,” said Major Ball. “Volunteers are needed to help prepare and serve the food along with decorating the facility. It is truly is a community effort in making this event a success. Thanksgiving should be a special day for everyone, not just for those who can afford it.”
Other Salvation Army Corps in the Inland Empire are also planning Thanksgiving dinners. Dates, times and locations are as follows:
Salvation Army Redlands Nov. 24th from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Salvation Army Riverside Nov. 23rd from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Salvation Army Moreno Valley Nov. 24th from 11:00 am – 1:30 pm
Salvation Army Ontario Nov. 24th from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Salvation Army Victor Valley Nov. 25th from 11:00 am – 1:30 pm
To receive more information about the dates and times for the dinners at San Bernardino Salvation Army and other corps, or to volunteer please call 1800-SAL-ARMY or 1-800-725-2769. About the Salvations Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Radio Network assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The San Bernardino Corps serves: Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto and San Bernardino.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian church and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY.
For local help, please call (909) 888-1336.
Ribbon Cutting for the new Coachella Valley Rescue Mission. Left to right: Chairman Coachella Valley Rescue Mission Floyd Rhoades; Riverside County Supervisor John Benoit; U. S. Congressional Representative Mary Bono- Mack; Indio Mayor Lupe Ramos Watson; Coachella Valley Rescue Mission Board Member and Building Chair Ed Alderson and Executive Director of the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission Darla Burkett.
A large crowd of media, invited guest, donors and dignitaries attend the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission ribbon cutting. The new facility will house 150 homeless women, children and men and feed 500 people a day. The Federal Home Loan bank of San Francisco gave a $1.5 million grant to help make the $12 million facility possible.
Kevin Blackburn, Assistant Vice President for The Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco and U. S. Congressional Representative Mary Bono- Mack. The Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco gave a $1.5 million grant to make the new$12 million Coachella Valley Rescue Mission a possibility in the Congresswomen’s district.
(Indio, CA) Building new beginnings and a mission accomplished were the words of the day when Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack, the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco and other locally elected officials gathered at the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission for the ribbon cutting of their new facility located at 47-518 Van Buren Blvd, in the City of Indio, California.
“It has been a long eight years since the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission stepped out on faith, purchasing 7.75 acres of land directly across the street from its current location,” said Floyd Rhodes, Chairman of Coachella Valley Rescue Mission’s Board of Directors. “With the completion of the new 45,000 square foot building, we increase our ability to continue serving those in need through the provision of food, shelter, clothing, and spiritual recovery.”
A long time desert resident, Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack, of the 45th Congressional District noted how important the work of the mission is in helping those members of our community who have fallen on tough times.
“Regardless of what level of government you serve these days, everyone has a tight budget. However, nobody has a tighter budget right now than the American family,” said Congresswoman Bono-Mack. “I am happy to support organizations like the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission, which is helping people with their passion and compassion to better their lives. It is because of you and everything that you do to make our community so wonderful to live in that we are able to tell the success stories like this one today.”
“When the sound public policy provides a path for the private sector, public sector, and faith-based community to work together toward a common objective, it shows what can be done to address challenges communities face” said Kevin Blackburn, Assistant Vice President for Federal Home Loan Bank San Francisco. “The $1.5 million Affordable Housing Program grant was a critical component of the funding for this amazing facility.”
County Supervisor John Benoit related how Riverside County provided $2 million to acquire the land for the Mission. He also pointed out some sobering facts, related to Riverside County’s homeless situation and the need for the expanded services that the new Coachella Valley Rescue Mission will provide.
“While we are here on such a beautiful day, it is unsettling to hear some of the statistics when it comes to homeless in Riverside County,” said Supervisor Benoit. “One in five homeless persons is a child, with women and children making up nearly half of the homeless population and one out three men who are homeless are military veterans. It is clear just how important this rescue mission is to helping turn this around.”
“Today is an important day because we are able to give people hope and strength for their future,” said Darla Burkett, executive director of the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission. “This facility would not be here today if it was not for each and every one of you. The most important thing to remember is that today is not about the building, so much as it being about the people we serve.”
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The Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco
The Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco delivers low-cost funding and other services that help member financial institutions make home mortgages to people of all income levels and provide credit that supports neighborhoods and communities. The Bank also funds community investment programs that help members create affordable housing and promote community economic development. The Bank’s members—its shareholders and customers—are headquartered in Arizona, California, and Nevada. Members may include federally insured depositories—commercial banks, credit unions, industrial loan companies, and savings institutions—as well as insurance companies and community development financial institutions.
Slide Show of the Ribbon Cutting Event <iframe width=”420″ height=”315″ src=”http://www.youtube.com/embed/cf73tVopZlw” frameborder=”0″ allowfullscreen></iframe>Speech by Kevin Blackburn, Assistant Vice President for Federal Home Loan Bank San Francisco <iframe width=”560″ height=”315″ src=”http://www.youtube.com/embed/YKCt0ccFGck” frameborder=”0″ allowfullscreen></iframe>
Taking vows that last a lifetime, Alison Bailey and Sean Bailey, U.S Navy, Senior Chief Petty Officer – San Clemente, CA.
A happy couple, David Castillo and Maritza Alvarado United States Marine Corps. Sergeant – Rosamond, CA
United States Marine Corps, Private First Class Kevius Tamagyow with new bride Jayline Dugwem – Vista, CA.
(Ontario, CA.) Recently, local business professionals, volunteers, service professionals and community activists from throughout the Inland Empire joined forces to provide ten lucky military couples with a free wedding with all the glitz and glamour that made the day a memorable one.
It was an example of generosity at its finest. Donations came in the form of wedding dresses, tuxedos, flowers, limos and a dinner reception for 600. All done to give these couples, who have sacrificed so much, a heartfelt “thank you.”
Going by the name Community Cupid, everything was provided for the brides and grooms.
“The call went out to hundreds of Inland Empire entrepreneurs, volunteers, service professionals and community activists, asking them to dedicate the last ten weeks to showing their gratitude to military men and women with more than the usual salute,” said Bill Anthony, publisher of the Inland Empire Business Journal, who along with Ryan Orr, founder of Operation Community Cares, Inc., created Community Cupid.
Selected to receive the nuptials were ten soldiers who either recently returned from or will soon be deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan.
The couples who received the outpouring of appreciation are:
Erika Acevedo and Victor Martinez, United State Marine Corps. Corporal – Los Angeles, CA.
Melissa (Moore) Rodriguez and Emerson Rodriguez, United States Marine Corps. Lance Corporal.
David Castillo and Maritza Alvarado United States Marine Corps. Sergeant – Rosamond, CA.
Alison Bailey and Sean Bailey, U.S Navy, Senior Chief Petty Officer – San Clemente, CA.
Jayline Dugwem and Kevius Tamagyow, United States Marine Corps, Private First Class of Vista, CA.
Rosa Rivera and Anthony Stewart Roldan, United States Marine Corps. Lance Corporal – Long Beach, CA.
Raymond Jennings and Jennifer E. Donnely, U.S. Coast Guard, Second Class Marine Science Technician – Long Beach, CA.
Australia Herrera and Jose G. Herrera, United States Marine Corps. Sergeant – Camp Pendleton, CA
Thomas Wright, Jr., and Rocel Basco United States Marine Corps. Lance Corporal
“This could and would not happen without a great many people so graciously willing to volunteer their time, services, products and money to help these brides and grooms,” said Anthony. “The response has been simply amazing.”
Beginning with a parade down Haven Avenue, the procession went south to Inland Empire Boulevard in Ontario and headed east to the Ontario Airport Hilton Hotel, where the ceremony took place. Various pastors performed the weddings with music provided by the Riverside Lyric Opera, supplying the event with the romance and memories found in a single wedding.
In fact, couples and their bridesmaids and groomsmen arrived in a limo. Each wedding party then took turns walking down a rose petal-strewn walkway where their groom was waiting for them.
The ceremony was followed by a reception with Blues Hall of Fame artist Darrell Mansfield headlining the entertainment, which included Them Novus, a band performing 1980s to contemporary music and featuring vocalist/bassist Devin Vasquez, guitarist Johnny G and drummer/vocalist Mark Romans; The Lindy Sisters, a trio performing 1940s songs in the style of The McGuire and Andrews sisters; and talented teen and Upland High School graduate Tim Rotollo on baby grand piano.
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Media: If you would like any of the photos in the slide show below please send an email to Mike@DameronCommunications.com and Chris@DameronCommunications.com with the photo id number and i will have it to you within 24 hours. If you require the photo sooner please call Mike Downer at (909) 888-0017.
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) Whether newly diagnosed or a long-term survivor, knowing where to turn for medical care can be overwhelming for persons living with HIV.
“In San Bernardino County, 12% of all adults do not have health insurance,” said Dr. Maxwell Ohikhuare, Health Officer, San Bernardino County Department of Public Health. “However, a lack of insurance should not prohibit persons from seeking qualified medical care and treatment for HIV. The Department of Public Health HIV clinics provide one such resource for persons who do not have health insurance. The County’s HIV clinics offer clients a qualified team of HIV providers with experience serving persons living with HIV/AIDS.”
“Our goal is to provide quality care and treatment in a confidential setting that addresses the holistic health of the person. Services include medical care, health education and risk reduction, mental health services and access to the California AIDS Drug Assistance Program”, Dr. Ohikhuare said. The County’s HIV clinics also provide support for partners of persons living with HIV/AIDS, known as Partner Services. Support is offered in the form of HIV/AIDS prevention education, risk reduction, and HIV testing and counseling.
The Department of Public Health collaborates with community-based organizations that provide a variety of support services to persons living with HIV/AIDS. These support services include, but are not limited to, individual counseling, support groups, housing assistance, food and medical transportation, and linkages to additional sources of medical care.
For more information about services available for people living with HIV/AIDS, partners and other family members, call the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health AIDS Program at (800) 255-6560, or visit the website at http://www.KnowSBC.com.
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) Para las personas que han sido diagnosticadas recientemente o han vivido con VIH por mucho tiempo, saber a dónde acudir para cuidado médico puede ser difícil.
“En el condado de San Bernardino, el 12% de adultos no tienen seguro medico” dice el Dr. Maxwell Ohikhuare, Oficial de Salud, Condado de San Bernardino Departamento de Salud Publica. “Sin embargo, la falta de seguro medico no debe de impedir que las personas obtengan buen cuidado médico y tratamiento para el VIH. Las clínicas de VIH del Departamento de Salud Publica proveen un recurso para personas que no tienen seguro medico. Las clínicas del condado ofrecen un equipo de proveedores calificados en el tratamiento de VIH y experiencia atendiendo a personas que viven con el VIH/SIDA.”
“Nuestra meta es proveer cuidado y tratamiento de calidad en un ambiente confidencial que contribuye a la salud holística de la persona. Los servicios incluyen cuidado médico, educación de salud y reducción de riesgos, servicios de salud mental y acceso al Programa del Estado de California de Ayuda para Medicinas Recetadas Contra el SIDA,” dice el Dr. Ohikhuare. Las clínicas de VIH del condado también proveen apoyo para las parejas de personas viviendo con VIH/SIDA, este servicio es conocido como el Servicio a Parejas. Apoyo es ofrecido en la forma de educación de prevención contra el VIH/SIDA, reducción de riegos y disponibilidad de la prueba de VIH.
El Departamento de Salud Publica colabora con organizaciones comunitarias que proveen una variedad de servicios y apoyo para las personas viviendo con VIH/SIDA. Los servicios de apoyo incluyen, pero no son limitados a, consejería individual, grupos de apoyo, asistencia de vivienda, alimentos, transportación médica y enlaces a recursos adicionales.
Para más información sobre los servicios disponibles para personas viviendo con VIH/SIDA, parejas y familiares, llame al Programa de SIDA del Departamento de Salud Publica del Condado de San Bernardino al (800) 255-6560 o visite el sitio de web www.KnowSBC.com.
Dameron Communication's Michael Downer, reviewing promotional campaigns for client. Photo by Chris Sloan
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) Michael Downer began working at Dameron Communications, as a public relations freelance writer in October of 2010. Now in his role as public relations executive, he is responsible for handling the publicity needs of clients in media relations, copy writing, and event promotion.
“I am very excited about coming on staff full-time and working for Dameron Communications,” said Downer. “There is such a wide range of clients from practically every industry. It is fast paced, and requires you to use your skills in communicating their needs differently and uniquely for each one. It really is a fun place to work.”
Michael possesses a diverse background and experience, which garnered him two recognitions from the 2000 Communicator Awards, which honors excellence in the field of communication.
Prior to Dameron Communications, Michael was the managing editor for the Inland Valley News. Before that, he served as communications and special projects aid to Congresswoman Maxine Waters, manager of public relations at Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science, account manager at Lagrant Communications and manager of community relations for PacifiCare of California.
His work within the entertainment industry as a public relations consultant to both individual and corporate clients has allowed him to create entertainment-focused publicity, special event promotion and marketing campaigns as well.
Some of the entertainment clients he has worked for include: Jazz At Drew, Patrice Rushen, Lance Henrickson, Billy Zane, Michael Gross, Karyn Parsons, Richard Karn, Middleman & Associates, Angel City Records, Promotion Management Network, Sony Music, Nike, Mervyns, Nordstroms, MCA/Universal and Sears & Roebuck.
Michael graduated from San Jose State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations and a Minor in Marketing. He also has earned a Certification in Corporate Community Involvement from Boston College Carroll School of Management.
He currently lives in Pomona, California About Dameron Communications, LLC
Since 1989 Dameron Communications has creatively met the needs of our diverse client base locally, regionally and nationally. It is an award-winning agency that creates integrated advertising and public relations solutions to increase clients’ sales and profits, win elections, inform the public or gain acceptance of potentially controversial issues.
Dameron Communications creates advertising for television, radio, newspaper, magazine, and billboards, web sites, mobile web applications, email and more. Public relations services include press releases, press conferences, media relations, television programs, web sites, opinion editorials, promotions, event creation and management, government relations and community relations.
Dameron Communications has earned media coverage for clients from: ABC, CBS, NBC, CNBC, CBS MarketWatch; Fox News, CNN, Nightly Business Report; The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, Dow Jones News Wire, Bloomberg, Reuters, Associated Press, The Press Enterprise, The Sun, The Daily Bulletin, The Daily News, The Daily Press and many more.
