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    The Citrus City Brass to Play at The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Kick OFF

    Citrus City Brass, a quintet based out of Redlands, CA. Our resident members include Kenley Nakao, Mark Perez (trumpets), and Tom Francis (trombone).

    Citrus City Brass, a quintet based out of Redlands, CA. Our resident members include Kenley Nakao, Mark Perez (trumpets), and Tom Francis (trombone).

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.— The Citrus City Brass will play at the Red Kettle Kick-Off this Thursday, November 17th at 5:30 PM, at the Bear Springs Hotel Events Center, 27923 Highland Ave, Highland, CA 92346.

    “The Salvation Army has a wonderful brass band that played at recent Red Kettle Kick Offs; however, they were already booked this year. I was lucky to hear The Citrus City Brass and we are blessed to have them play for us this year. They are wonderful musicians,said Major Isaias Braga.

    “We are honored to play for the Salvation Army,” said Kenley Nakao, Trumpeter, Citrus City Brass LLC., CEO  “They hear a lot of brass music so we are honored to be asked to play for them at their annual fundraiser. Please watch our video of “Love of My Life” by Freddie Mercury at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8cvkRqE6JY.”

    Citrus City Brass, a quintet based out of Redlands, CA. Our resident members include Kenley Nakao, Mark Perez (trumpets), and Tom Francis (trombone).

    For nearly 50 years, Chairwoman Valbuena has held numerous elected and appointed positions within San Manuel tribal government.

    For nearly 50 years, Chairwoman Valbuena has held numerous elected and appointed positions within San Manuel tribal government.

    The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has been a sponsor of this event and Tribal Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena will be giving the keynote address this year. She’s an outstanding speaker and always has a message worth listening to,said Major Braga.

    Hungry, homeless, hopeless? Trouble paying monthly bills, drug, or alcohol addiction? The Salvation Army helps people in need with all these problems and more. Different programs have different funding sources and one of the most important sources is the annual Red Kettle Kick Off campaign each Christmas season.

    The Salvation Army bell ringers in front of your favorite stores collect money that provides food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; food baskets available daily, hot meals, clothing, and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available.

    During the Christmas season, The Salvation Army also delivers holiday food baskets to about 500 local families and provides toys to children whose parents cannot afford them.

    On Christmas Eve, The Salvation Army of San Bernardino hosts a Christmas Dinner that historically provides a delicious meal to approximately 200 people. Donations from people who donate to the Red Kettles help make this possible.

    Donations can be made online at https://sanbernardino.salvationarmy.org by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY, specifying that you want your donation applied to San Bernardino Corps in California.

    Donors are asked to drop off turkeys, hams, canned food, cash, checks or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands, 92373.

    For more information call (909) 792-6868.

     

    About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps

    The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals of all. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world.

    The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino since 1887, and Redlands since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination.  They serve the cities of: San Bernardino, Redlands, Highlands, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, and the mountain communities.

     

    About The Citrus City Brass

    Citrus City Brass LLC.’s mission is to promote the enjoyment of music and highlight the continuous Evolution of the Brass Quintet. Through multi-genre concerts, engaging educational outreach programs, and the inclusion of multicultural diverse backgrounds to supply a well-rounded approach towards instrumental music.  You can also check us out on Facebook and Instagram @citruscitybrass where we post up to date performances, music content, and more.  For more information call (808) 344-6194.

    Non-Profit Organization Takes Action to Combat Homeless Crisis in San Bernardino and Support Local Veterans

    Reaching New Heights Foundation Hosts Stand Down Outreach Event for Veterans and Homeless in San Bernardino 

    Non-Profit Organization Takes Action to Combat Homeless Crisis in San Bernardino and Support Local Veterans 

    SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. (August 24, 2022)—Reaching New Heights Foundation (RNHF), a nonprofit veteran organization, is hosting a Veterans Stand Down and Homeless Resource Event on Wednesday, October 12, 2021, at Perris Hill Park in San Bernardino. The one-day event is designed to support Inland Empire veterans and to provide much-needed resources to the area’s homeless population. 

    On average, there are 960 veterans a year who are homeless in San Bernardino. The 2020 San 

    Bernardino Homeless Count Survey shows the homeless count in 2020 increased 19.9% over 2019. RNHF is hoping the Veteran Stand Down event will be a way to take action against the extensive homeless issue that has been referred to as a “human services crisis.” 

    “We believe in making a difference so we’re bringing over sixty different service providers to one place. We are asking that the providers not just hand out information, but provide on-site services,” said RNHF Founder and CEO Sgt. Major (Ret.) Gregory Coker. “Normally it would take a veteran or a homeless individual several months to receive this kind of service we’re providing in one day.” 

    In the military, a stand down is an opportunity to pause and regroup to help those in need. With this Veterans Stand Down event, two underserved and at-risk populations—veterans and the homeless—will be able to regroup with access to an abundance of resources. 

    “Veterans will receive surplus clothing, access to medical and dental service, counseling and more. The homeless will receive free food, clothing, haircuts, medical checkups, and showers, said Coker. “We want to give our homeless and veterans a hand up, not a handout.” 

    RNHF is collaborating with local city, county, state, and federal organizations to host the event. 

    Key supporters include San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs, VA Loma Linda Veteran Health Care System, The Salvation Army, United Way, Goodwill, IEHP, Molina Healthcare, San Manuel Casino and Volunteers for Veterans Foundation. 

    After the event, RNHF is committed to following up on the success of all individuals who register to receive help and will provide 6 -12 months of additional support. 

    EVENT DETAILS: 

    October 12, 2022 

    Perris Hill Park 

    1135 E. Highland Ave. San Bernardino, CA 92408 10:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 

    Event Website: standdownvet.com 

     

    About Reaching New Heights Foundation 

    Founded in 2013, Reaching New Heights Foundation, Inc. is an award-winning non-profit organization created by a veteran for veterans. It proudly helps Inland Empire veterans successfully transition from active-duty military service, incarceration, or homelessness to life as civilians and productive members of society. Reaching New Heights assists nearly 300 veterans a month with a variety of services including housing, jobs, educational resources, mentorships and more. For more information visit www.rnhf.org 

     

    Press Contact: Sgt. Major Greg Coker

    320 N. E. St.,
    San Bernardino, CA 92401

    (909) 518-4951 info@rnhf.org

    The Unforgettables Foundation Fundraiser at Animatronic Creator Garner Holt Productions

    Garner Holt Productions, Inc. is the gateway to realms of incredible imagination, artistry, technical wizardry, experienced industry experts, and unmatched, proven quality.

    Garner Holt Productions, Inc. is the gateway to realms of incredible imagination, artistry, technical wizardry, experienced industry experts, and unmatched, proven quality.

    Redlands, Calif.  Garner Holt Productions of Redlands will host a fun & fund-raiser party at his 120,000 SF warehouse innovation facility on Saturday, November 5th to help the mission of The Unforgettables Foundation.

    Holt, who is world renowned for his global leadership in the animatronics industry in working with Disney, Knott’s, Universal and other corporate entities, and locally for working with school systems on STEAM training, is a longtime supporter of TUF.  He and TUF immediate past co-chair, LeAnne Chavez, are collaborating on leading the effort.

    Tours of the collectors’ items and rare TV-related collectables will highlight, along with secret special appearances and photo opportunities for the guests.  Garner Holt Productions  is a hometown hero business helping a hometown based 22-year-old charity based in Redlands, that has extension chapters in other states and provinces across North America, is an Inland Empire collaboration for kids and families.

    Garner Holt Productions, Inc.’s (GHP) expressive emotions animatronic figure is the most advanced humanoid robotic head ever created. The figure utilizes theme park quality construction to accomplish incredible special effects movement in a robotic or animatronic human platform. Find out more at http://micechat.com/168204-blurring-m… 

    The Unforgettables Foundation is a 22-year-old, 501 (c)(3), that helps about 200 at risk, grief stricken, and cash-strapped families struggling with their kids’ funeral costs.  To purchase tickets, visit www.unforgettables.org.

    Up Coming Unforgettables Foundation Fundraisers

    • From October 8th until November 5th, The Unforgettables Foundation, in a year of inflation, increasing child death requests and operation costs will try to catch-up budgetarily with the Highland Chamber’s 5k/10k on October 8th.
    • A two day Children & Families in Crisis Education Conference, which is a free teleconference/training symposium via Zoom on October 13th and 14th.
    • the BDA/IE golf tournament on Friday, October 21st.
    • the Garner Holt event on November 5th, and throughout all of this timeframe.
    • the Drs. David & Randy’s Unforgettable Global (bike) ride, involving past long trip rider, Dr. Randy Schell, M.D., formerly of Loma Linda, who with physician colleague.
    • Dr. David Moliterno, both of Lexington, KY, doing a pledge per mile international bicycle trip to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand.  Pledge opportunities are available through our website at www.unforgettables.org.

    LaSalle Clinics Urge Women to Get Screened During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

    “Women should not take chances. Every woman should get an annual breast cancer screening and because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, now is the perfect time to schedule an exam,” said LaSalle Medical Associates CEO Dr. Arteaga.

    REDLANDS, CALIF. LaSalle Medical Associates encourages women to come in for breast cancer screening during October, which is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. ” October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer.,” said the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc

    The National Comprehensive Cancer Network says mammograms should start at 40 for women at average risk, but before40 for women with a higher risk profile, such as a genetic mutation, family history, a benign breast disease diagnosis, or radiation therapy to the chest at a young age.

    “Women should not take chances. Every woman should get an annual breast cancer screening and because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, now is the perfect time to schedule an exam,” said LaSalle Medical Associates CEO Dr. Albert Arteaga.

    Dr. Arteaga himself lost a younger sister to breast cancer when she was in her 40s. “There were three of us,” said Dr. Arteaga. “Our youngest sister never opened up to tell either me or her older sister—both of us being doctors—that she had a lump on her breast. Later we learned that she kept making excuses about it, ‘I bumped myself’ or ‘It’s just a bruise’ and she basically ignored it for over six months.

    “She was in her early 40s and unfortunately, the disease spreads more rapidly in younger women than it does in women who are past menopause, due to female hormones that promote growth. Our family had no history of cancer, and she was otherwise healthy. But at the age of 48 years, six months, and 28 days she died.

    “Once she was diagnosed, she was a good patient and followed her doctors’ orders and participated fully in her treatment. The cancer metastasized to her brain, and she was able to beat that. But in the end, it spread to her liver, and that was the end.”

    When asked what he would say to women about this tragic disease, Dr. Arteaga said, “Stop living in denial! At the first sign of a lump, make an appointment to see your physician. And make it a habit to get screened every October when breast cancer awareness month comes around, which is a good way to remember it’s time for a routine mammogram.”

     

    LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc., clinics accept Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net, and Inland Empire Health Plan coverage, as well as Medicare Medi-Cal and cash.

    For more information or to make an appointment call the office closest to you: Fontana (909) 823-4454; San Bernardino17th Street (909) 887-6494; San Bernardino Mt. Vernon Ave. (909) 884-9091; Rialto (855) 349-6019; and Hesperia(760) 947-2161.

    About LaSalle Medical Associates

    LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. is one of the largest, independent, and Latino-owned healthcare companies in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. The corporate office is in Redlands.

    LaSalle operates six clinics employing more than 100 dedicated healthcare professionals, treating children, adults and seniors in San Bernardino and Riverside counties. LaSalle’s patients are primarily served by Medi-Cal and Healthy Families. LaSalle also accepts Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net, and Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) coverage.

    LaSalle is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals, and clinics, delivering high quality patient care to approximately 380,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Joaquin and Tulare counties.

    The San Bernardino County Medical Society Honors Dr. Albert Arteaga for Hispanic Heritage Month

    LaSalle Medical Associates CEO Dr. Albert Arteaga

    LaSalle Medical Associates CEO Dr. Albert Arteaga

     “The San Bernardino County Medical Society is honored to select Dr. Arteaga for this recognition because he is such a loyal Society member and a standout in health care, advancing critical work in medical treatment and equity in the Latinx community,” said Society CEO Alison Elsner.

     

    REDLANDS, CALIF. The San Bernardino County Medical Society has recognized LaSalle Medical Associates CEO Dr. Albert Arteaga for his dedicated service to the people of San Bernardino County. Dr. Arteaga founded LaSalle Medical Associates 38 years ago. LaSalle’s clinics have served thousands of children and their parents.

    “The San Bernardino County Medical Society is honored to select Dr. Arteaga for this recognition because he is such a loyal Society member and a standout in health care, advancing critical work in medical treatment and equity in the Latinx community,” said Society CEO Alison Elsner.

    LaSalle Medical Associates’ Hispanic roots run deep.  Dr. Arteaga took his medical education at LaSalle Medical School in Mexico City. LaSalle is a French name and the colleges that bear this name trace their origin to the first Latin American college founded by St. Jean-Baptiste de La Salle, founder of the De La Salle Brothers religious order and the Patron Saint of all teachers.

    “I chose to use the LaSalle name for my clinics to give it a subtle connection to its Hispanic roots. People from Mexico and other Latin American countries recognize the name and the quality associated with it,” said Dr. Arteaga.

    “I don’t doubt that my own Hispanic heritage and ability to speak Spanish helps me connect with our Hispanic patients,” said Dr. Arteaga. “Our clinics are here to treat all patients, regardless of their race or ethnicity. We want everyone to come, and we treat African American, Asian, and white patients. Overall, some 60 to 65 percent of our patients are Hispanic.”

    LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc., clinics accept Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net, and Inland Empire Health Plan coverage, as well as Medicare Medi-Cal and cash.

    For more information call the office closest to you: Fontana (909) 823-4454; San Bernardino 17th Street (909) 887-6494; San Bernardino Mt. Vernon Ave. (909) 884-9091; Rialto (855) 349-6019; and Hesperia (760) 947-2161. TheVictorville clinic that was temporarily closed during the height of the Covid pandemic due to staff shortages, will reopen before the end of the year.

    About LaSalle Medical Associates

    LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. is one of the largest, independent, and Latino-owned healthcare companies in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. The corporate office is in Redlands.

    LaSalle operates six clinics employing more than 100 dedicated healthcare professionals, treating children, adults and seniors in San Bernardino and Riverside counties. LaSalle’s patients are primarily served by Medi-Cal and Healthy Families. LaSalle also accepts Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net, and Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) coverage.

    LaSalle is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals, and clinics, delivering high quality patient care to approximately 380,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Joaquin, and Tulare counties.

    How The Salvation Army Started Ringing Silver Bells and Red Kettles

    Captain Joseph McFee

    Captain Joseph McFee, serving with the San Francisco Salvation Army Corps in 1891. started the Red Kettle.

    Captain Joseph McFee, serving with the San Francisco Salvation Army Corps in 1891, wanted to serve Christmas dinner to the poor in his neighborhood. But he didn’t have money to do so.

    REDLANDS, CALIF.— “I have been asked many times, how and why did The Salvation Army start ringing those silver bells during the Christmas season to encourage donations,” said Major Isaias Braga, Commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino. “Well, this is how it all began…

    Captain Joseph McFee, serving with the San Francisco Salvation Army Corps in 1891, wanted to serve Christmas dinner to the poor in his neighborhood. But he didn’t have money to do so.

    As a sailor in Liverpool, England, Captain McFee saw people on the docks throw money into a large kettle called “Simpson’s Pot” to help the poor. He decided this might work in California too.

    Captain McFee set up a kettle at the Oakland Ferry Landing, which operated a ferry that was, in those days, the only way across San Francisco Bay. He put a sign on the kettle saying, “Keep the Pot Boiling” and raised enough money to serve the Christmas dinner.

    His idea spread quickly, and by 1897 Salvation Army Corps nationwide were collecting money in kettles to serve the needy in their communities. Among the Salvation Army Corps collecting money this way before the turn of the 20th Century was The Salvation Army of San Bernardino, which was formed in 1887.

    Tom Brickley rings the bells

    Tom Brickely invites people to donate to The Salvation Army outside of Walmart in Highland. Tom is long time The Salvation Army advisory board member and former president of Brickely Environmental. Please donate to help the children have a great Christmas.

    Lynn Valbuena, Chair of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, is the keynote speaker at this year’s Red Kettle Kick-Off event for The Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle 2022 Christmas campaign on Thursday, November 17th at 5:30 PM.

     For nearly 50 years, Chairwoman Valbuena has held numerous elected and appointed positions within San Manuel tribal government.

    For nearly 50 years, Chairwoman Valbuena has held numerous elected and appointed positions within San Manuel tribal government.

    Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. For local information call (909) 792-6868.  Donors may drop off turkeys, hams other food, cash or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands California 92373

    About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps

    The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals of all. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world.

    The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino since 1887, and Redlands since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination.  They serve the cities of: San Bernardino, Redlands, Highlands, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, and the mountain communities.

    Mikki Cichocki Says Every Student Deserves a Chance!

    San Bernardino City Unified School District board candidate Mikki Cichocki

    San Bernardino City Unified School District board candidate Mikki Cichocki

     

    “Every student deserves a chance to succeed,” says San Bernardino City Unified School District board candidate Mikki Cichocki.

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. When Mikki Cichocki was leaving Starbucks recently, one of her former sixth-grade students called out to say, “Hello.” Cichocki was happy to learn that her former youth court student is now studying to be an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) at Crafton Hills College.

    “I have always been drawn to help students in need,” said Cichocki. “There is not much that can compare to seeing ayoungster turn their life around and get on the road to graduation and a rewarding career. “

    And that sums up why she is now running for the open Board position with the San Bernardino City Unified School District. “We really need to invest in every child because all children have potential, for some that potential is untapped. I want to make sure all children can grow and succeed.

    “It is essential that we increase the resources devoted to providing student support. We need additional counseling services to meet the increased post-pandemic demand. We need to invest in expanding curriculum offerings like vocational, visual, and performing arts. You never know which student might turn out to be the next Steve Jobs, Awkwafina or Banksy, the next Denzel Washington or Jennifer Lopez. We just cannot predict that, so we must nurture each child to unlock their possible futures.”

    Cichocki started Cal Poly Pomona as a business major and never expected to teach. But she soon changed her major to liberal arts, although still envisioning a business-related career. After graduation, she went to work for Xerox but then took a position as an instructional aide and substitute teacher. She loved it.

    “When the district opened up a full-time teaching position, I applied and was selected to teach first-graders at Arrowhead Elementary,” said Cichocki. “I was hooked, I knew I had found my calling.”

    The long list of those who have endorsed Mikki Cichocki for school board includes such notables as former San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Herb Fischer, current Superintendent Theodore “Ted” Alejandre and former SBCUSD Board Member Lynda Savage, as well as the San Bernardino Teachers Association and the Inland Empire Labor Council.

     

    Mikki Cichocki believes that all stakeholders need to have their voices heard. As a former active PTA member, she believes that certainly includes parents. Decisions about funding and setting priorities need to be aired and discussed openly with a view to reaching a consensus.

    Mikki Cichocki’s campaign manager is Patty Taylor, her treasurer is Don Taylor, and Dameron Communications provides advertising and public relations services. For more information on Mikki Cichocki’s campaign, visit her campaign’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Mikki4SBCUSD

    -30-

    About Mikki Cichocki

    Mikki Cichocki traces her interest in education to her parents, both of whom were teachers in San Bernardino. Raised here, she attended public schools until the 10th grade and graduated from Aquinas High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies from Cal Poly Pomona. She has been teaching and working with various programs for the San Bernardino City Unified School District since 1988. Recently, she retired from the Positive Youth Development department in the district, where she led the effort to work with at-risk students, helping them to develop positive attitudes and keep them from becoming involved with and subsequently stigmatized by law enforcement. She also serves on the board of the California Association of Youth Courts and previously served as Secretary-Treasurer of the California Teachers Association, a position that allowed her to build coalitions with educational programs and resources.

    For more information on Mikki go to: https://www.facebook.com/Mikki4SBCUSD

    Rialto Mayor Debora Robertson Endorses Dr. Kelly Erving for Rialto City Council

    Rialto Mayor Debora Robertson Endorses Kelly Erving for Rialto City Council

    Rialto Mayor Debora Robertson Endorses Dr. Kelly Erving for Rialto City Council

    “I think Kelly Erving can add value to Rialto going forward, and this is why I’m supporting her for the Rialto City Council,” says Mayor Robertson.

    RIALTO, CALIF. “As the mayor of our city, I welcome and support Dr. Kelly Erving for a seat on the Rialto Council. You may wonder why. First, Ms. Erving took the time to become familiar with local government and determined she wanted to be a part of continuing the progress and the direction she witnessed in Rialto, after choosing to make Rialto the place to become a homeowner. She chose Rialto, and proceeded to engage with various civic organizations, helping with serving the community by investing her time.”

    Mayor Robertson praises Dr. Erving’s future orientation and supports her priorities. Dr. Erving says, “I want to create partnerships with businesses and organizations that result in affordable housing so that people who work in Rialto can afford to live in Rialto. The Renaissance Center has been an excellent addition to our community, and I am anxious to see more of this kind of economic development here. And I want to be sure that when our Council makes decisions, all the city’s stakeholders have had the chance to be heard and involved in the process.”

    Mayor Robertson goes on to say, “When Kelly made the decision to run for a council seat, she took the time to introduce herself to me and share her reasons for running.  I appreciate her respect for taking the time to seek my endorsement, rather than assume it was a foregone conclusion.

    “We’re a diverse community and inclusion is very important to me. Additionally, I believe the citizens, in the end, will make the final decision on the representation they will support and continue to support. In the end, I believe character and respect for one another count.

    “This election we have five candidates and only one incumbent. I think it’s important to balance between experience and individuals who will continue to want progress in Rialto and embrace technology and innovation.” Said Robertson.

    “As mayor, my decisions will never be made on what my, or previous generations can do; my decisions are focused on embracing new technology, innovation and quality of life we all can enjoy.”

    “I think Kelly Erving can add value to Rialto going forward, and this is why I’m supporting her for the Rialto City Council.”

    For more information email: Kelly@Kelly4RialtoCC.com or go to Kelly4RialtoCC.com

    Paying It Forward, Pays Off!

    "I've quit drinking and for the first time in years, I was able to buy school clothes for my children and a sturdy pair of shoes for myself for work. Mike Delgado at The Salvation Army is helping me now to qualify for section 8 housing. I'm excited about work and feel so much better now that a big weight has been taken off of me. All I can say is that you should never give up."

    “I’ve quit drinking and for the first time in years, I was able to buy school clothes for my children and a sturdy pair of shoes for myself for work. Mike Delgado at The Salvation Army is helping me now to qualify for section 8 housing. I’m excited about work and feel so much better now that a big weight has been taken off of me. All I can say is that you should never give up.” (From left) Angel, Hope, Zoe, Andrew, Nicholas and Noah (twins), and Amanda Arista.

     

    “We’re gonna be okay, thanks to the Salvation Army!” says Amanda Arista

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.—A few years ago, a young mother saw her children’s dad getting into trouble with drugs and going downhill. She got him involved with the Salvation Army’s Hospitality House program and today he’s clean and sober, has a good job and his life is in good order.

    Unfortunately, things later took a turn for the worse for that single mother of six, Amanda Arista. In 2019 she lost her job and was evicted from the residence she had been renting, along with her children ages 10 to 16. She didn’t know what to do and it broke her heart to place three of her children with their father and three with her mother. Then Covid hit.

    Her mom got ill and Amanda started caring for her. For a while, her mother got better but then took a turn for the worse and passed away in August 2021. Amanda went on a mental and emotional roller coaster, sometimes up, sometimes down. Her mom had always been the one to help her with paperwork for things like applying for government help. She found herself unable to fill out Social Security assistance forms.

    Amanda Arista said "I prayed for help from God and who should come to my rescue but my children's father, Miguel, who got in touch and told me he hadn't realized how bad things were."

    Amanda Arista said “I prayed for help from God and who should come to my rescue but my children’s father, Miguel, who got in touch and told me he hadn’t realized how bad things were.”

    Amanda started drinking heavily and got into such a dark mood that she was sometimes afraid to leave her room. She was losing the will to live. She prayed for help from God and who should come to her rescue but her children’s father, Miguel, who got in touch and told her he hadn’t realized how bad things were.

    And that’s when everything started to change for the better. The man she had helped to recover from his own downward spiral now turned out to be the one to help her. On a Saturday, Miguel told her about the Salvation Army’s Hospitality House program and that as it helped him, it could now help her.

    The following Monday, Naomi Goforth, the Hospitality House Program Director, and Mike Delgado, the Social Services Director for the Salvation Army’s San Bernardino Corps, contacted her and processed her into the same program that had been so helpful for Miguel.

    Delgado says, “Usually, our referrals come from churches, county agencies or veterans’ programs. Amanda’s case was different, as her children’s father, who she had referred to us a few years ago, was the one who got her into our program. It’s a great example of ‘paying it forward’ paying off for her and her children.”

    “I was really in a dark place,” says Amanda, “depressed and anxious, talking to myself. Miguel saw that I needed help, and he got me connected with the Salvation Army. Today, I’m mentally stable, I have a place to live, I have my kids back with me and in school, and I have a job working for Super 8. The Salvation Army is paying the rent on two motel rooms for us, as the Hospitality House residence is at capacity right now.

    Mike Delgado says, "Usually, our referrals come from churches, county agencies or veterans' programs. Amanda's case was different, as her children's father, who she had referred to us a few years ago, was the one who got her into our program. It's a great example of 'paying it forward' paying off for her and her children."

    Mike Delgado says, “Usually, our referrals come from churches, county agencies or veterans’ programs. Amanda’s case was different, as her children’s father, who she had referred to us a few years ago, was the one who got her into our program. It’s a great example of ‘paying it forward’ paying off for her and her children.”

    “I’ve quit drinking and for the first time in years, I was able to buy school clothes for my children and a sturdy pair of shoes for myself for work. Mike Delgado is helping me now to qualify for section 8 housing. I’m excited about work and feel so much better now that a big weight has been taken off of me. All I can say is that you should never give up.”

    The Salvation Army is able to help people like Miguel, Amanda and their children thanks to the generosity of the people and organizations who contribute money and other resources like food and clothing. To find out more about the Salvation Army’s Hospitality House Program and other Salvation Army services, visit their website at https://sanbernardino.salvationarmy.org/

    About the Salvation Army

    The Salvation Army is able to help people like Miguel, Amanda and their children thanks to the generosity of the people and organizations who contribute money and other resources like food and clothing. To find out more about the Salvation Army’s Hospitality House Program and other Salvation Army services, go to https://sanbernardino.salvationarmy.org/ or call (909) 888-4880.