Hello Neighbor,

First, I would like to thank you for the outpouring of support over the loss of my mother. I read your responses to my previous newsletter and am heartened by your kind words. Many of you shared your personal stories of grief and loss, particularly with Alzheimer’s disease. Being able to talk about our experiences with one another helps us to see how truly connected we all are, and know that we are not alone. Please visit the Alzheimer’s Association if you or a loved one need help navigating resources.

In Sacramento, we are focused on developing legislation that will expand access to health care, provide relief and support for small businesses, protect immigrants, build much needed housing, and creating a stronger transition for a clean economy that creates prosperity for all Californians. I look forward to sharing new developments and achievements with you over the next several months.

As always, my door remains open and I am here to listen. If you need help with a state agency or another matter, please contact my district office nearest you.

Sincerely, 

Senator Anna Caballero
State Senator, 12^th Senate District

I am proud to announce that our collective effort to have the State of California establish a grant fund to support microenterprises was achieved. If you run a very small business, please contact my office for assistance to receive a grant.

• The Microenterprise program consists of approximately $50 million dollars that will be granted by the state to participating counties. Beneficiaries of this program may receive approximately $2,500 per owner.
• We estimate that this will result in support for 20,000 micro-business owners.
• For those counties not on the list, this program will be administered by non-profit organizations.
• The list of participating Counties will be announced in early February. You can find it at: Calosba.ca.gov or contact us via email at: osba@gobiz.ca.gov

Requirements are as follows:

• The microenterprise business began its operations before December 31, 2019.
• Microbusiness is currently in operation.
• The business was impacted by the pandemic.
• The business made less than $50,000 in profit in 2019.
• The microenterprise has less than five full-time employees. In 2019, the owner received their largest source of income from the business and the owner did not receive additional funds through the Small Business COVID 19 Relief Grant Program.

Owner can demonstrate their eligibility in the following ways:

A. an ID (state or voter card)
B. Documentation that includes the name of the owner
C. As evidence of the business they can show: bank statements/accounts, business permit or license, taxes

Call my office with any questions.
Salinas Office: (831) 769-8084
Merced Office: (209) 726-5495
Sacramento Office: (916) 651-4012

Joyce Dale is a District Representative in my Merced office, but did you know that she is also considered Merced’s unofficial Poet Laureate? She is pictured here delivering a powerful spoken word poem at this year’s MLK festivities.

Follow me on social media to find other inspiring stories from all across the district in celebration of Black History Month.

The Community Center for the Arts and Technology is a Fresno County gem. I had the pleasure of visiting with Armando and others who make the center possible, and was impressed with everything that they offer. They are doing an outstanding job!

This year I spent MLK Day in Merced. It was wonderful gathering in the spirit of Dr. King and honoring his legacy by uplifting our communities.

Meeting with local elected officials, like those in the City of Soledad, is a vital part of forming strong partnerships to address the needs of our families. I continue to spend a significant amount of time meeting with elected officials from across the district to learn more about their specific city goals, initiatives and challenges and to find ways to work together to get things done.

Whenever I am in Kingsburg, I love to visit Bluebird Home and Lifestyle Market. This mother/daughter-owned small business is located in the heart of downtown. Small business owners like Bri and her mom are why I authored  Senate Bill 87 and #ShopLocal at every opportunity. If you are a small business owner, click the link for valuable resources that can help you.

Concepcion is a Central Valley mother joining her children on a school field trip. I know that these are challenging times for everyone, but simple precautions like wearing a mask, washing your hands, and avoiding others when you are sick, can help us to stop the spread and keep our neighbors safe.

If you would like to make an appointment to be vaccinated, visit: https://myturn.ca.gov/

To request four FREE at-home test kits click here.