Message from David Cortese

From Sccgov.org. 

Dear Friend,

Last month, I had amazing opportunities to work with the community.  I, along with CHAM Deliverance Ministries, Gardner, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and the Low-Income Self-Help Center, hosted a health fair for low-income, uninsured, and homeless residents in downtown San Jose. Together we provided health screenings, haircuts, blankets and toiletries, information, and more. 

I also ran in the Turkey Trot, an event that raised more than $1M for local nonprofit organizations. There are many ways to share your gifts and talents with others.  I hope that this holiday season you will have opportunity to do so. Below, I have listed information on Operation 2nd Chance, low-income car loans, foreclosure assistance, volunteer opportunities, and more.  If you have questions, comments or concerns, please feel free to contact me at dave.cortese@bos.sccgov.org or 408-299-5030.

Sincerely,

Dave Cortese
County Supervisor, Third District

Do you know someone who wants a furry friend?
The Santa Clara County Animal Shelter has a December adoption special – $12 on all adult dog and cat adoptions.  This is a great opportunity to give a home to a special friend.  For more information, please visit their website at http://www.sccgov.org to find your new friend.

Do you know someone with a nonviolent misdemeanor criminal or traffic warrant?
The Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with all other Santa Clara County law enforcement agencies, is holding Operation 2nd Chance during the month of December.  Through this program, individuals with nonviolent misdemeanor criminal and traffic warrants can receive a citation with a new court date, in lieu of being booked into the County Jail.  For more information, please contact Sheriff’s Office Records at 408-808-4717.

Do you know someone who lost a home due to foreclosure?
If you know someone who lost a home between January 2008 and December 2011, please share this information with them.  If you lost your home and your mortgages were serviced by Ally/GMAC, Bank of America, Citi, Chase, or Wells Fargo, you may file a claim under the (Attorney General) National Mortgage Settlement.  Claims must be filed by January 18, 2013.  Please visit http://nationalmortgagesettlement.com  for information on how to file a claim. Compensation in this settlement will not affect eligibility in other settlements. 

Do you know a veteran of the Korean War?
This year marks the 60th Anniversary of the Korean War.  There is an opportunity for veterans of the Korean War to receive a Certificate of Appreciation for their service.  For more information, please contact Lou Horyza at loupegh@aol.com or my office at 408-299-5030.

Do you know someone who needs a car but can’t afford one?
The Ways to Work Vehicle Loan Program provides low-interest car loans for those who can’t get a traditional loan.  This program, provided by Peninsula Family Services, offers the opportunity to improve mobility and gain financial stability.  For more information on the Ways to Work Vehicle Loan Program, please visit their website at http://www.peninsulafamilyservice.org/need-a-hand/financial-empowerment-services/loans/.

Do you know someone who would like to support foster youth?
Santa Clara County is sponsoring “Operation Santa Drive” for children and youth in foster care.  Through this program, Santa Clara County will collect and distribute donated gifts and cash to children and youth ages 0-21 in our foster care system.  Items will be collected at the San Jose Family Resource Center (591 King Road, San Jose) through December 21, 2012.  Monetary donations can be sent to the Department of Family and Children’s Services, Operation Santa, 379 Tompkins Court, 2nd Floor, Gilroy, CA  95020.  For more information, please contact my office at 408-299-5030.

Do you know someone who has a coat they would like to donate?
There are many people who don’t have a warm shelter to stay in that will keep them warm and safe.  If you have a coat you would like to donate to someone in need, please drop it by the Democratic Headquarters (25 N. 14th Street, San Jose) any weekday or Saturday from 10am to 2pm now through January 4th.

Do you know someone who wants a good volunteer opportunity?
The Tax EZ program is looking for volunteers to help community members file their taxes during the upcoming tax season.  Through this incredible program, low income community members receive assistance in filing their taxes.  This is an opportunity for them to get a refund that they can use to support their families.  FREE training is provided to volunteers.  Volunteers are needed across the county for this program.  For more information, please visit their website at http://www.catholiccharitiesscc.org/tax-ez.

Are you interested in serving on a Santa Clara County Board or Commission?Santa Clara County has more than fifty Boards and Commissions.  These groups play an important role as advisors to the Board of Supervisors on various topics.  We currently have openings in a number of Boards and Commissions including, but not limited to:

• HIV Planning Council for Prevention and Care,
• County of Santa Clara-Moscow Sister Commission
• Social Services Advisory Commission

If you or someone you know would like more information about Santa Clara County’s Boards and Commissions, would like to see what Board or Commission opportunities are available, or would like to apply to serve as a member, please call my office at 408-299-5030 or visit my website.

To visit the San Jose City Hall home page, click here.