07/01/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/01/2026 11:32
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Dear Santaneros,
As we move into the month of July, I want to take a moment to wish you and your families a safe and enjoyable summer season. This time of year brings many opportunities to rest, reconnect, and also take advantage of programs and services designed to support our community.
In this month's newsletter, you will find valuable resources focused on youth enrichment, education, financial wellness, job opportunities, summer safety, and ways to stay cool during the warmer days ahead. These programs reflect my ongoing commitment to investing in the well-being and success of our residents.
I encourage you to explore what is available and make use of the many services offered throughout our city and county. Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving you. I hope you have a safe, healthy, and meaningful July, and a happy Fourth of July with your family and loved ones.
In Solidarity,
Councilmember Vazquez
Ward 2
Congratulations to the Carr Intermediate School Track Team on winning the district track and field championship for the second time in school history, following its first title in 2023. Under the leadership of Luis Rivera, who has guided the program for 26 years, the team continued its tradition of excellence.
The championship was a true team effort. Carr Intermediate finished with 331 points and 61 medals, including 13 first-place finishes. All relay teams placed in the top three, with district titles earned by the 7th-grade girls, 6th-grade boys, and 8th-grade boys relay teams.
Several athletes delivered outstanding performances, including Rebecca Arreola, the district's highest-scoring athlete in her grade level with 36 points and four medals. Daniel Olivares earned first place in every event he entered and scored 30 points, while many others made significant contributions to the team's success.
On behalf of the City Council and our community, congratulations to the athletes, Coach Rivera and the coaching staff, school administration, and families for this remarkable achievement. Thank you for representing your school and community with pride, sportsmanship, and excellence.
Summer Movies in the Park are back! Grab your blankets, lawn chairs, families and friends and watch free movies under the stars throughout the month of July.
Help protect the air quality in our community by reporting odors, smoke, dust, or other air quality concerns. Recent incidents, including a chemical leak in Garden Grove that affected thousands of Orange County residents and businesses, serve as an important reminder to stay alert and report potential air pollution issues.
Residents can submit complaints through the South Coast Air Quality Management District's Online Complaint Reporting System. Air quality concerns can also be reported by calling 1-800-CUT-SMOG (1-800-288-7664).
If you smell something unusual or observe a potential air quality issue, report it promptly to help protect public health and safety.
Be prepared and know where to find a cooling center around you. During periods of extreme heat, it's important to take steps to stay safe and cool. The County of Orange County provides a list of cooling centers throughout Orange County where residents can find relief from high temperatures.
Cooling Centers
Staying prepared and aware can help prevent heat-related illness during extreme weather. Access the risks and take the necessary steps to keep safe and cool this summer!
Tips to Stay Safe in Hot Weather
Take important steps to help ensure that you and your family stay safe at the pool, beach, or other waterways this summer. Drowning can happen quickly and silently, making preparation and supervision essential. Learn the ABCs of water safety - Active Adult Supervision, Barriers, and Classes & CPR - to help prevent water-related injuries and emergencies. Simple actions such as keeping children within arm's reach, using proper flotation devices, and learning CPR can make a life-saving difference.
Safe Splashing All Summer: Water Safety Tips for Kids Under 5 - OC Health Care Agency
American Academy of Pediatrics Updates Recommendations on Drowning Prevention
Swimming is an important life skill that can help reduce the risk of drowning and build confidence in and around the water. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that families consider swim lessons based on a child's age, development, and readiness. While swim lessons can improve water safety, they should always be combined with active adult supervision and other safety measures.
Swim Lessons - City of Santa Ana
Swim Lessons for Children: When to Start & What to Consider - HealthyChildren.org
Clases de natación para niños: cuándo comenzar y qué tener en cuenta
Building financial stability starts with having access to the right tools and support. The following trusted organizations offer free or low-cost financial coaching, planning, and assistance to help individuals and families achieve their financial goals.
SparkPoint OC - Financial Empowerment Program
Operated by Orange County United Way, SparkPoint OC provides free one-on-one financial coaching and personalized financial action plans to help individuals and families build long-term financial stability. Participants can work with a financial coach for up to 12 months to set goals and make progress toward improving their financial well-being.
Services include:
Location: Washington Elementary School, Santa Ana
Eligibility: Families of students attending Washington Elementary
For more information, visit Orange County United Way's SparkPoint OC program.
Financial Planning Association of Orange County (FPAOC)
The Financial Planning Association of Orange County offers free virtual financial planning sessions with Certified Financial Planner™ professionals. Participants receive confidential guidance on budgeting, debt management, saving, investing, taxes, and workplace benefits.
This program is educational in nature; planners do not sell financial products or services.
Learn more and register:
FPAOC Pro Bono | Financial Planning Association
YMCA Financial Assistance Program (Santa Ana)
The YMCA of Orange County offers financial assistance to help ensure programs remain accessible to individuals and families in the community. Support is available based on need and helps reduce program costs for youth and family services.
Application forms:
The Santa Ana WORK Center is committed to connecting you to services, resources and opportunities available. If you are looking for a job, in a career transition, a youth looking to thrive in the workforce or a business looking to build a strong workforce, the WORK Center is here to help. The WORK Center has a strong collaboration between the Employment Development Department, OC Social Agency, City of Santa Ana, and others to deliver a high quality product for you. A few of the services and resources offered include:
Services
Resources
Trainings
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Santa Ana WORK Center
Open: Monday-Thursday and alternating Fridays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
For questions, please call 714-565-2600
Interested in what the WORK Center has to offer?
The Santa Ana Public Library offers a variety of free educational and enrichment programs for children, teens, and families. From leadership development and STEAM activities to technology assistance, tutoring, and early literacy programs, these resources provide opportunities for learning, creativity, and community engagement throughout the year.
Teen Leadership
Develop leadership skills, participate in community projects, and connect with fellow teens.
STEAM Teens
Explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math through hands-on activities and creative projects.
Jerome Tech Desk
Receive one-on-one assistance with computers, mobile devices, ebooks, and technology questions.
Roosevelt Walker Center Tech Desk
Get personalized technology support and digital literacy assistance.
Tiny Tots Storytime
Stories, songs, and early literacy activities designed for young children and their caregivers.
Dungeons & Dragons
Join fellow adventurers for collaborative storytelling, problem-solving, and imaginative gameplay.
Online Tutoring
Free virtual tutoring support for students in grades K-12 to help strengthen academic skills and confidence.
For program dates, times, and registration information, visit the Santa Ana Public Library events calendar.
Register for this year's all-ages Summer Reading Program to earn prizes and a chance to win a grand prize. To enroll, visit the Delhi Library beginning Monday, June 1, 2026, or register online through Beanstack at https://santaana.beanstack.com/reader365. Registration at the Newhope Library starts July 13, 2026. The last day to register is Saturday, August 8. Contact us at 714-647-5358 for more information.
The Santa Ana Public Library is bringing back its popular Math Mania program this summer to help students strengthen their math skills while school is on break. The program is open to youth in grades Pre-K through 8th grade and provides free math workbooks (while supplies last) along with opportunities to earn prizes.
Math Mania will run June 1-August 7 at the Delhi Library and July 13-August 7 at the Newhope Library. Families can register in person starting June 1 at the Delhi Library and July 13 at the Newhope Library.
For more information, contact the Delhi Library Branch at (714) 647-5358.
Stay connected, creative, and supported this summer with Santa Ana Public Library Tech Services, offering a wide range of tools and digital resources for work, school, and personal use.
Internet Access
Computers & Devices
Digital Resources
Printing Services
Tech Assistance & Support
Note: A library card is required for borrowing. Please contact the library for details.
The Santa Ana Public Library offers a unique "Library of Things" collection, where residents can borrow a wide variety of non-traditional items such as games, kitchen tools, cameras, music equipment, bike gear, and more. This resource helps support learning, creativity, hobbies, and everyday needs.
Items available for checkout include:
AND SO MUCH MORE!
Take advantage of this collection to support school projects, personal interests, and new skills.
We are always encouraged to see students taking an active role in helping their peers succeed. After featuring FAFSA resources in past newsletters, we received a recommendation from a local student about an additional beneficial guide designed to simplify the financial aid process. Resources like these can help students and families better understand the steps to accessing college funding and planning for their educational future. Thank you Ms. Lee and Robin for sharing this incredible resource!
FAFSA Made Simple: Your Comprehensive Financial Aid Guide
Pre-college programs provide students with valuable opportunities to explore academic interests, develop new skills, and gain hands-on experience in a college environment. These programs can help students learn about potential career paths, connect with mentors, and prepare for future educational goals. We encourage students and families to explore the resources below and take advantage of these enriching opportunities.
College & Career Exploration
Internship & Work-Based Learning
Leadership, STEM & Enrichment
Arts, Leadership & Special Interests
Note: Many programs fill early or require applications in spring. If formal programs are closed, students can still build strong experience through:
The Dragon Kim Foundation Fellowship Program supports youth-led projects that create meaningful impact in their communities through service, leadership, and innovation. Fellows receive mentorship, funding, and guidance to help bring their ideas to life.
Applications for the *2027 Fellowship* open in November 2026.
Learn more about the program and view application details:
Fellowship | Dragon Kim Foundation
OC Fellows is a two-year leadership development program based in Orange County that helps early-career professionals grow their skills, expand their networks, and gain exposure to local industry leaders. The program includes quarterly learning workshops, social networking events, and community engagement opportunities designed to build leadership capacity and professional connections across Orange County.
Participants also engage with CEOs and business leaders, develop career skills, and connect with peers across multiple industries while contributing to community-focused initiatives.
Learn more or apply: https://ocfellows.org
Summer learning workbooks and educational training programs help students maintain academic skills, reinforce key concepts, and stay engaged throughout the summer months. These resources provide opportunities for continued learning, helping students build confidence and prepare for a successful transition into the next school year.
Make a splash this summer at Summer Splash Day Camp! Open to children ages 6 to 12, this exciting 10-week program is offered on a weekly basis (spots are limited per location) at El Salvador Community Center, Jerome Recreation Center, and Salgado Recreation Center.
Campers will enjoy fun-filled days of outdoor group activities, recreational swimming, swim lessons, games, lunch, and weekly off-site excursions. Summer Splash is all about personal growth, building confidence, and most importantly - making new friends and unforgettable memories. Don't miss out on a summer of fun in the sun!
Summer Splash Day Camp - Youth Camp
The Santa Ana Summer Teen Camp is a dynamic summer program designed for teens to stay active, engaged, and connected throughout the summer months. Filled with group activities, swim lessons, recreational swim, and weekly off-site excursions. Each week a new unique theme is featured, camp includes Wednesday excursions and Thursday swim days along with a variety of recreational, team-building, leadership-building activities.
Weekly themes and excursions June 8 - August 7
Location:
501 N. Lacy St., Santa Ana, CA 92701
The sun is getting warmer and spring is upon us! Now is the perfect time to take yourself, your friends, or your family out for some fresh air and outdoor fun at California's beautiful state parks. Did you know the Santa Ana Public Library offers cardholders the opportunity to check out a California State Park Pass for free. This pass allows you to explore participating state parks without paying the day-use parking fee. It's a great way to enjoy nature, go for a hike, have a picnic, or simply spend time outdoors while discovering the incredible parks our state has to offer. Stop by your local Santa Ana Public Library to learn more about checking out a pass and start planning your next outdoor adventure!
Adventure Pass
The California State Park Adventure Pass gives all California 4th-grade students and their families free access to 54 participating state parks for an entire year. It's a great opportunity to explore nature, learn about California's history, and enjoy outdoor adventures together.
Golden Bear Pass
The Golden Bear Pass provides eligible low-income California residents with free day-use access to participating California State Parks. This pass helps make outdoor recreation, natural landscapes, and historic sites more accessible for individuals and families across the state.
Distinguished Veteran Pass
The Distinguished Veteran Pass provides honorably discharged California veterans who meet eligibility requirements with free lifetime day-use access to participating California State Parks. This benefit recognizes veterans' service while offering opportunities to enjoy California's natural, cultural, and historic resources.
California State Library Parks Pass - Find more passes here!
California State Parks Pass Access Programs-Flyer (English)
California State Parks Pass Access Programs-Flyer (Spanish)
Discover the best of Santa Ana with the Travel Santa Ana Events Calendar. From live music and performing arts to cultural festivals, art walks, family activities, and community celebrations, there's always something happening in the heart of Orange County. Explore upcoming events and experience the vibrant culture, creativity, and local pride that make Santa Ana unique.
Santa Ana Events | Fairs, Concerts, Festivals, And Shows
Tap in with your Neighborhood Association
The Neighborhood Association (NA) is a neighborhood-driven effort that is in partnership with the City of Santa Ana Neighborhood Initiatives and Environmental Services (NIES) program. Each Neighborhood Association has a president (elected) that coordinates agenda-related items for meetings, neighborhood cleanups, essential drives and more. The purpose of the NA is for residents to meet, discuss local issues relevant to their neighborhood, stay informed about updates within the Santa Ana community, and build a stronger partnership amongst your neighbors! NA meetings can consist of discussion of local issues relevant to your neighborhood and Santa Ana, City staff presentations on projects, and residents' concerns.
See if your neighborhood is active and connect with your Neighborhood Association:
Enjoy these free local events and bring your friends and family to the fun! (Bring ID-proof of residency)
July 5, 12, 19, 26: Bowers Museum Free Day for Residents
July 7: Discovery Cube Free Day for Residents
July 19: Santa Ana Zoo Free Day for Residents
View meeting agenda and minutes.
View meetings live on our Santa Ana YouTube Channel.
My First Home Information Session: July 1
First-time home buyers! Looking to buy a home in Santa Ana? Come for an information session on "My First Home"- a first-time homebuyer program. The presentation includes information on eligibility, application process, and frequently asked questions.
If additional translation services are needed, please contact two weeks in advance.
Contact: (714) 667-2250.
My First Home - Information Session
Bring Your Own Baby - Tour & Tea: July 1
We welcome new parents and caregivers of babies one and under for a monthly half-hour tour followed by complimentary tea in the Fueling Station at the UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art in Costa Mesa. Held the first Wednesday of the month from 11-11:30 a.m. Free tickets become available two weeks before the program date.
Art & Play: July 8 & 15
These free monthly programs introduce art and creative thinking to children ages 0-5 and their caregivers. Programs are held on separate dates for each age range at the UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art in Costa Mesa:
Tickets become available two weeks before each program date.
Join the City of Santa Ana for a screening of "Goat" as part of the Summer Movies in the Park series. Gather your friends and family for a fun-filled evening under the stars and enjoy a free family-friendly movie in the park.
What to bring:
Location:
Jerome Park, 2115 W. McFadden Ave.
Time:
Activities begin at 6:30 p.m.; movie begins at dusk
Summer Movies in the Park Week 4: 'Goat'
Join us for the grand reopening of the Newhope Branch Library on July 11, 2026, at 10 a.m. at 122 N. Newhope St. The renovated library features a new entrance, updated outdoor spaces, and an Innovation Lab designed for hands-on STEM learning. Enjoy a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Lion Dance performance, library tours, Take-and-Make kits, a photo booth, balloon twisting, free library bags (while supplies last), and refreshments.
We look forward to celebrating this exciting community milestone with you!
Newhope Branch Library Grand Reopening
Summer Movies in the Park - 'Guardians of the Galaxy': July 17
Join the City of Santa Ana for a screening of "Guardians of the Galaxy" during the Summer Movies in the Park series. Gather your friends and family for a fun-filled evening under the stars and enjoy a free family-friendly movie in the park.
What to bring:
Location:
Centennial Park, 3000 W. Edinger Ave.
Time:
Activities begin at 6:30 p.m.; movie begins at dusk
Summer Movies in the Park Week 5: 'Guardians of the Galaxy'
Quarterly Bulky Item Drop-off Day - El Salvador Park: July 18
Missed your neighborhood cleanup or have bulky items to dump? The City of Santa Ana's Public Works Agency (PWA) is hosting its Quarterly Bulky Item Drop-Off Day. Dump unwanted bulky items such as furniture, mattresses, carpets, beddings, books, non-donatable clothes, or toys. Show up and line up early! Lines start an hour before open and bins fill up fast!
This event is free to Santa Ana residents, and no appointment is necessary. Proof of Santa Ana residency will be required.
Items NOT accepted include but are not limited to hazardous waste, such as paints, oils, chemicals, pesticides, and batteries; concrete, dirt, rocks, brick, asphalt; tires, refrigerators, freezers, and AC units.
For more information, call (714) 647-5411 or visit the Neighborhood Cleanup Program for the full 2026 Quarterly Bulky Item Drop-Off Days schedule.
Location:
El Salvador Park, 1825 W. Civic Center Drive
Time:
9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Quarterly Bulky Item Drop-Off Day - El Salvador Park
Quarterly Bulky Item Drop-off Day - Cabrillo Park: July 18
Missed your neighborhood cleanup or have bulky items to dump? The City of Santa Ana's Public Works Agency (PWA) is hosting its Quarterly Bulky Item Drop-Off Day. Dump unwanted bulky items such as furniture, mattresses, carpets, beddings, books, non-donatable clothes, or toys. Show up and line up early! Lines start an hour before open and bins fill up fast!
This event is free to Santa Ana residents, and no appointment is necessary. Proof of Santa Ana residency will be required.
Items NOT accepted include but are not limited to hazardous waste, such as paints, oils, chemicals, pesticides, and batteries; concrete, dirt, rocks, brick, asphalt; tires, refrigerators, freezers, and AC units.
For more information, call (714) 647-5411 or visit the Neighborhood Cleanup Program for the full 2026 Quarterly Bulky Item Drop-Off Days schedule.
Location:
Cabrillo Park, 1820 E. Fruit St.
Time:
9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Quarterly Bulky Item Drop-Off Day: Cabrillo Park
Summer Movies in the Park - 'Zootopia 2': July 24
Join the City of Santa Ana for a screening of "Zootopia 2" as part of the Summer Movies in the Park series. Gather your friends and family for a fun-filled evening under the stars and enjoy a free family-friendly movie in the park.
What to Bring:
Location:
Lillie King Park, 500 W. Alton Ave.
Time:
Activities begin at 6:30 p.m.; movie begins at dusk
Summer Movies in the Park Week 6: 'Zootopia 2'
Free Local Events
Free Resident Days at Santa Ana Zoo • Third Sunday of each Month
Bowers Museum free Sundays • Santa Ana residents get in free each Sunday
Discovery Cube Waste Free Days • Santa Ana residents get free admission to the Discovery Cube on the first Tuesday of the month
Important phone numbers:
City Hall main line: (714) 647-5400
Code Enforcement: (714) 667-2780
Graffiti Hotline: (877) 786-7824
Emergency Water Services: (714) 953-8026
Public Works dispatch (street sweeping, trees): (714) 647-3380
Find more phone numbers for all City services
Southern California Edison:Call 1-800-447-6620
Southern California Gas:Call 1-800-207-8567
Trash pick-up: Call (877) 328-2074
Starting a small business?
How to start a business in Santa Ana
The mySantaAna mobile app puts the power of the Santa Ana city government in the palm of your hand! Residents with an iPhone or Android smartphone can download the mySantaAna application for free allowing them to quickly and easily report issues with photos to the City for clean-up. You can report potholes, downed tree branches, graffiti, trash and much more! The app is now available in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.
Schedule a bulky item pickup: Call Republic Services at (657) 467-6220
Police Non-Emergency Line: (714) 245-8665
Emergency Water Services: (714) 953-8026