10/08/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/08/2025 12:57
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Dear Santaneros,
As we turn the page from summer to fall, our community enters a season of new beginnings and meaningful opportunities. Fall is a time for growth, reflection and connection. For many of our seniors, it means taking the exciting next steps toward college applications, while for families, it can be a moment to pause and evaluate where support and resources are most needed. It is important to me to recognize these needs and ensure that residents are connected with programs and opportunities that strengthen and uplift our community.
October also brings with it an important reminder - Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This is a time to reaffirm our commitment to health, early detection, and supporting those who are directly and indirectly impacted by breast cancer. Together, through awareness and access to resources, we can foster resilience, care and hope across our city.
In Solidarity,
Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez
Ward 2
Read my Bio
I am proud to announce that the City Council has backed my recommendation, unanimously appointing Ruben Reyes as the Ward 2 Representative to the Measure X Citizen Oversight Committee. This decision was made with a 6-0 vote for a partial term that will expire on December 8, 2026.
El Grito continued on this year and our community came together and celebrated. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every vendor, performer, staff member, and to the community for showing up and making this event happen. In a time where our voices, spirit, joy, and very existence are attempted to be silent we showed resilience and unity. To my neighbors that celebrated at home, please know you were part of this moment as well. It was a special honor to host our Sister City, Sahuayo, and welcome its Mayor Dr. Manuel Gálvez Sánches in Santa Ana. ¡Viva la independencia de México y de toda Latinoamérica!
The Pico Lowell Neighborhood Association team works hard to ensure that neighbors are both informed and heard. This month, the team hosted a community meeting where representatives from Edison and Santa Ana Public Works came out to listen directly to residents' concerns and answer questions. Their commitment, along with the dedication of the Association, help strengthen the voice of our community. Come out to the next Pico Lowell Neighborhood Association, get to know your neighbors and community!
California offers a wide range of financial aid programs to support students throughout their college journey. Whether you're applying for the first time or renewing your aid, there is federal, state, and institutional funding. This section highlights the most widely used resources - including Cal Grants, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) - along with guides, checklists and webinars designed to make the process less overwhelming and more manageable.
1. California Dream Act Application (CADAA) - What to know
Allows undocumented students who are AB 540-eligible and other eligible non-citizens to apply for state financial aid and pay in-state tuition at California public colleges and universities. |
Remember that completing the CADAA is only the first step to applying for institutional and state financial aid. Make sure you are considered for Cal Grant by completing Step 2.
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2. Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) - What to know
An application for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens to receive federal, state and institutional financial aid. |
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Apply early!Maximize your financial aid opportunities for the 2026-27 academic year.
FAFSA & CADAA. Some colleges have earlier deadlines, check the requirements for each college you are interested in!
Application Type | Deadline |
FAFSA/ CADAA |
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3. California Grants
California offers three state grant programs that do not need to be paid back for California residents. Your eligibility will be based on your FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application responses, your verified Cal Grant GPA, the type of California colleges you list on your application and whether you're a recent high school graduate. Cal Grant is among the most prominent, but not the only state-level aid programs California offers. |
Entitlement vs Competitive award - Cal Grant A and B are available both as Entitlement (guaranteed if you meet the criteria as a recent graduate or CCC transfer) and Competitive (for those who don't meet the entitlement criteria, limited spots available).
For more information on Cal Grant Award types and amounts-
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Cal Grant Type | What It Does | Requirements |
Competitive: Cal Grant A |
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For low- to middle-income students 3.00 High School GPA minimum, or 2.40 College GPA minimum. |
Competitive: Cal Grant B |
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For low-income students 2.00 High School and College GPA minimum |
Cal Grant C Competitive: 7,761 awards each year |
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For low- to middle-income students No GPA requirement |
Cal Grant B Foster Youth Entitlement Award |
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Can apply up to age 26; must meet Cal Grant eligibility. |
Cal Grant Community College Entitlement Award |
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Must be a CA resident (or AB 540-eligible) Enrolled at a CA Community College Meet Cal Grant eligibility. |
4. Scholarship Tracking Chart
Use this PDF chart to keep track of the scholarships and fellowships you want to apply for. |
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5. Financial Aid Help: Webinar/Workshops
Cash for College Online Webinar Our free Cash for College webinars can help you get started on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)or CA Dream Act Application (CADAA)! Financial Aid Workshops In addition to webinars, students can attend Financial Aid Workshops hosted statewide. These workshops offer in-person and online support with completing applications, understanding award letters and staying on top of important deadlines. |
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Sometimes navigating a new college and financial aid can be overwhelming and hard to find where to start. Below is a list of programs, scholarships, fellowships, grants and guides to make your educational journey easier.
1. Immigrant Rising (Scholarship/Fellowship)
Immigrant Rising offers a database of scholarships and fellowships for undocumented students that do not require proof of U.S. citizenship linked below. The list has general application eligibility requirements, including education level, region/state, and immigration status (e.g. DACA, TPS, in-state tuition eligibility). Only opportunities with due dates within the next 120 days are shown in the list. Please refer to the webpage linked under "Click to Apply" for the comprehensive eligibility and application requirements. |
List of Scholarships and Fellowships - Immigrants Rising |
2. Scholarships//Fellowships/Grants
Internship VS Fellowship - Beyond state and federal aid, scholarships and fellowships can reduce college costs. Many are open to all students, while others are tailored to specific communities, majors or life experiences. |
Applying for Scholarships and Fellowships - Immigrants Rising College Scholarships - My Undocumented Life Scholarship Resources - MALDEF Internships and Fellowships for DACA and Undocumented Students | BestColleges California Scholarships Scholarship Directory Disability Scholarships
Middle Class Scholarship (MCS) | California Student Aid Commission Cal Grant B Entitlement Awards- Santa Ana College CAL Grant- Santa Ana College Cal Grant | Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships | UCI
Student Success Completion Grant | I Can Go to College |
Immigrants Rising offers a variety of resources to help undocumented adults and youth bridge the gap between education, finances, entrepreneurship and mental health. Regardless of your immigration status, everyone deserves an opportunity and access to available resources. Listed below are a few resources Immigrants Rising has to offer.
Mental Health Connector
Immigrants Rising's Mental Health Connector connects undocumented students in California with psychological support, allowing them to access their strengths and resiliency to focus on their personal goals and healing journey.
Mental Health Connector For Students in California - Immigrants Rising
Wellness Support Groups
Wellness Support Groups are designed to help undocumented students in postsecondary education tend to their wellbeing, find a support network, and feel a sense of belonging while navigating their postsecondary education journey. Each group is led by trained mental health providers or registered clinicians and meets weekly for six weeks in a closed virtual space. Check back in October for any new availability for classes!
Wellness Support Groups for Students - Immigrants Rising
Promising Practices Roundtable
The Promising Practices Roundtable is a monthly virtual meeting that provides California educators with various new strategies and helpful resources to better guide undocumented students through higher education.
Promising Practices Roundtable - Immigrants Rising
California In-State Tuition Tool
Immigrants Rising's In-State Tuition Tool (ISTT) can help determine whether you qualify for in-state tuition (AB 540) in California.
California In-State Tuition Tool - Immigrants Rising
Immigrants Rising- Explore Immigrants Rising and find more resources here.
The Santa Ana Public Library always finds creative ways to bring the library to you! Whether at home or at our outdoor library at Jerome Park, residents can access a24/7 E-Library, ZipBooks, and the Knowledge Mobile- a mobile technology hub offering Wi-Fi, laptops, tablets and learning programs. Santa Ana Library works hard to ensure accessibility to library resources for everyone in our community. Check out these awesome resources today with just a click!
The Knowledge Mobile
Santa Ana Public Library - Online Borrower Registration
2-1-1helps Orange County residents connect to local health and human services. With a comprehensive database of 1,100 partnering nonprofits and government agencies amounting to over 3,000 programs, navigation is made easier offering a 24/7, multilingual helpline ready to serve and guide you over the phone or in-person. To get connected, dial 2-11 or text your zip code to 988211 OR 211OC.org
Housing Services
2-1-1 offers a variety of services from new housing, shelters,
Housing | | 2-1-1 Orange County
Immigrant Services
Immigrant Resources | | 2-1-1 Orange County
Food Assistance
Food Assistance | | 2-1-1 Orange County
Bills/Financial Support
Bills and Financial Support | | 2-1-1 Orange County
The City of Santa Ana is committed to expanding and protecting affordable housing because we listen to the needs of our community. Safe and affordable housing is essential for every family, and our goal is to make it as accessible and straightforward as possible. Below you will find trusted resources from the City, County, and community partners to help you find rental assistance, housing programs and long-term housing options.
The City of Santa Ana has compiled a list of links and information to help you find and locate affordable housing here in Santa Ana.
Affordable Housing Resources - City of Santa Ana
Orange County Housing Authority has constructed an affordable housing rental list for all of Orange County including Santa Ana. Special Housing Programs
Affordable Housing Resources - OC Housing Authority
Special Housing Programs
The OC Navigator team is dedicated to community engagement, working with community members and community-based organizations in Orange County to create guides such as this one based on the community's needs. Sometimes it is hard to find resources and services that are available in Spanish. OC Navigator has compiled a list of resources in which you will find various types of assistance, whether you and your family need a safe home, assistance to pay your rent/mortgage, or finding a permanent home.
OCNavigator - Resources
Eviction Prevention Program
The City of Santa Ana Rent Stabilization team offers mediation services for landlords and tenants. In mediation, the goal is to help parties overcome communication obstacles that are preventing them from working together effectively to reach their own agreements and ideally avoid going to court. The mediator does not make decisions, suggest solutions or provide any legal advice to the parties. Mediation sessions typically range from two to three hours. To learn more and get in contact to use this resources, click the link below.
Mediation Services
Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and supported - especially in shelters. California law strictly prohibits harassment and discrimination in these spaces, protecting individuals from unfair treatment based on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability or other personal characteristics. To help understand rights and resources, the following guide is available:
California Law Prohibits Discrimination and Harassment in Shelters
Harassment Prevention Guide
Serve the People aims to provide compassionate and comprehensive medical, dental, vision and behavioral health care for patients. In addition, they offer a bi-weekly Food Pantry, pharmacy, enhanced care management, benefits enrollment assistance, legal aid, disaster relief, and many other helpful programs to provide the best healthcare experience to patients. Such programs extend to after-school programming, tutoring, parent education classes, jiu jitsu and nutrition workshops.
Serve the People
Low-Cost Community Health Clinics
Accessing quality health care should not be out of reach. Low-cost community health clinics provide affordable medical, dental and behavioral health services to individuals and families. These clinics are dedicated to ensuring that everyone in our community has the opportunity to receive the care they need in a supportive and culturally sensitive environment.
Low Cost Community Health Clinics
Free Haircuts
Coastline Beauty College will be providing free haircuts to students at Centennial Education Center on October 29. Served on a first-come, first-served basis, no appointment is necessary.
The Orange County Regional Center (RCOC) offers Behavior Management Workshops to support families and caregivers in learning effective strategies for positive behavior at home and in the community. Workshops are available in both English and Spanish, with resources designed to provide practical tools and guidance for everyday situations.
Contact Us - Regional Center of Orange County
Contact Intake Team: (714) 796-5354
Behavior Management Workshop 101
Behavior Management Workshop - Regional Center of Orange County
BehaviorManagmentWS - EnglishPDF
BehaviorManagmentWS - SpanishPDF
Breast Cancer Resources
Whether you are seeking routine screenings, navigating a diagnosis, or looking for support after treatment, there are resources available to guide you every step of the way. Programs across Orange County - including but not limited to Susan G. Komen, Every Woman Counts, local hospitals, and community clinics - offers access to free or low-cost mammograms, diagnostics, tests, biopsies, financial assistance, support groups and educational programs. These services are designed to ensure that everyone has the information, care, and support they need to prioritize their breast health.
1. Orange County Cancer Coalition
Founded in 2009, Orange County Cancer Coalition (OC3) brings together over 35 organizations - including hospitals, treatment centers, universities, and community groups - to improve cancer care across our region. OC3 works to increase access to resources, provide education, and connect residents with support they need throughout their cancer journey.
Orange County Cancer Coalition (OC3)
2. Share Cancer Support
If you need guidance on routine women's health care, navigating any stage of cancer, or life after treatment, there is support available for you. Connect with our community through:
SHARE Cancer Support
3. Susan G. Komen - Financial Assistance and Guidance
Susan G. Komen offers financial assistance and guidance to help individuals access breast health services, including screenings, diagnostic tests and treatment. Their programs can help cover costs for care, medications and insurance-related needs, ensuring that financial barriers do not get in the way of your health journey.
Learn more and access support: Susan G. Komen Financial Assistance
4. UC Irvine Health - Breast Cancer Screening Services
UC Irvine Health provides comprehensive breast cancer services, including mammograms, breast MRIs, and image-guide breast biopsies at locations in Costa Mesa, Irvine, Orange, and Yorba Linda. They offer a high-risk breast clinic for those with increased risk factors.
UCI Health
Contact: (714) 456-8000 for appointment.
5. City of Hope Orange County
City of Hope offers advanced breast cancer care, including 3D mammography, breast-conserving surgery, and access to clinical trials. They provide comprehensive services for early detection and treatment. City of Hope
Contact: (714) 456-8000 for more information.
6. Every Woman Counts
The Every Woman Counts (EWC) Program provides free breast and cervical cancer screenings to eligible women in California. Its mission is to ensure that early detection and prevention care are accessible to all women, regardless of income or insurance status. Through EWC, women can receive vital services such as mammograms, Pap-tests and diagnostic follow-ups at no cost. By removing financial barriers , the program empowers women to take charge of their health and promotes early intervention.
Every Woman Counts Program Homepage
The City of Santa Ana offers students valuable opportunities to gain real-world experience in local governmentwhile pursuing their education. Interns apply academic skills to hands-on assignments, attend professional development workshops, build mentorships with City leadership, and learn how Santa Ana delivers services to the community.
Internship areas include:Administration, Budget/Finance, Engineering, Management, and Student Internships (high school). Requirements vary by position and level of study.
Internship Program
Job Opportunities
Welcome to Immigrant BizHub! This is a community dedicated to empowering and supporting immigrant entrepreneurs. Whether you're just starting or ready to take your business to the next level, Immigrant BizHub provides the resources, knowledge, and connections you need to succeed.
Learn how to monetize your skills and start earning.
Immigrant BizHub
Meet ZOOmie - the newest member of the Santa Ana family! Zoomie is a brand-new recreation vehicle designed to bring the Zoo experience directly into our neighborhoods and parks. This mobile learning hub sparks curiosity, invites questions about nature, and creates opportunities for Zoo staff to share stories while making lasting memories with the community.
Santa Ana residents can look forward to Zoomie popping up at parks at citywide events with:
ZOOmie
Composting in Santa Ana Parks
Do your part to reduce waste and give back to the earth by dropping off your organic and compostable food scraps at our Community Gardens. Composting keeps valuable materials out of landfills and transforms them into nutrient-rich soil that helps our plants - and our community - thrive.
All five Santa Ana Community Gardens have compost piles open to residents:
Not sure what counts as compostable? Visit any Community Garden during operating hours to learn more about composting, its benefits, and how "waste" can become a valuable local resource.
Annual Pumpkin Smash! November 1-12
Don't let your Halloween pumpkins haunt the landfill! Each year, the Community Garden Program hosts a Pumpkin Smash, inviting residents to bring their pumpkins and Jack-o'-lanters to one of our compost piles. Your smashed pumpkins will be turned into compost that rejuvenates the soil in our gardens.
Why Participate?
Community composting
Community gardens
View meeting agenda and minutes.
View meetings live on our Santa Ana YouTube Channel.
Need assistance using technology? Receive one-on-one help with computers, ebooks, mobile devices and more! Contact us at (714) 647-6992 for more information.
Monday-Friday
Time: 2-6 PM
Location: Jerome Center, 726 S. Center St.
Jerome Center - Tech Desk
Students in grades K-12 can register to receive one-on-one assistance with a qualified tutor on Zoom. Register here.Contact us at 714-647-5358 for more information.
Monday-Thursday
Time: 2:30-6:30 PM
Register: Online Tutoring
Join the Computer Lab at the Jerome Center every Wednesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. for computer classes covering a wide range of topics from computer basics to Microsoft Office. Classes are free. Contact (714) 647-6992 for more information.
Time: 6-7:30 PM
Location: Jerome Center, 726 S. Center St.
Jerome Center - Computer Classes
Join us this season at the Jerome Community Garden for a hands-on workshop where participants will learn how to use a measuring bead tool, practice braiding, and attach beards to decorate the benches and gazebo pillars. Add your creative touch to the garen and help make this community space even more beautiful. For more information, call us at (714) 571-4225.
Date:Wednesday, October 8
Location: Jerome Park
2201 McFadden Ave., Santa Ana, CA 92704
Time:2-3 PM
Register Here
Join us at the Santa Ana Work Center for a hands-on interview Workshop designed to strengthen your confidence and skills in job interviews. Learn best practices for answering questions, making a strong impression, and presenting your professional self. For more information call (714) 565-2600.
Date:Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month
Location: 801 W. Civic Center Drive, Suite 200
Time:11 AM-12 PM
Interview Workshop
Build leadership and communication skills, connect with others, and make a real impact in your community. We want to hear your stories, ideas, and observations as we work together to improve and co-create teen programs and services. Offered at Delhi Center, Garfield Community Center and El Salvador Community Center.
Location(s):
Delhi Center, 505 E. Central Ave.
El Salvador Community Center, 1825 W. Civic Center Drive
Garfield Community Center, 501 N. Lacy St.
Time:4-5 PM
Express your creativity and build your artistic skills through the Santa Ana Public Library creative journaling program. Explore the basics of junk journaling, Wreck-this journaling, and bullet journaling concepts. Journals and art supplies will be provided. For more information, call (714) 647-5358.
Date:Saturday, October 11
Location: Delhi Center, 505 E. Central Ave.
Time:2-3 PM
Junk It!, Wreck It!, Bullet It! Creative Journaling Program
Meet QT, Kebbi, and Milo - our friendly ASD Robots. Join us for interactive sessions where you can practice reading, social skills and life skills in a supportive group setting. Alongside our robot friends, you will get to explore sensory toys and virtual technology. Lessons are guided by staff and supported by our Teen Mentors to create a fun and engaging learning experience.
For more information, call (714) 647-5358.
Date:Saturday, October 11
Location: Delhi Center, 505 E. Central Ave.
Time:11:30-12:30 PM
Dive into Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math through fun, hands-on activities! Explore robotics, try out photography, create your own beats, and make unique arts and craft projects. For more information, call (714) 647-5358.
Date:Saturday, October 14
Location: Delhi Center, 505 E. Central Ave.
Time: 4:00-5:30 PM
STEAM Teens
The Santa Ana Work Center offers a variety of services to help you in your career path. Take advantage of the free resume building workshop equipped with tips and tricks on how to keep your resume updated, and relevant
Date:Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month
Location: 801 W. Civic Center Drive, Suite 200
Time:10-11 AM
Resume Building Workshop
Get ready for a spooky night full of thrills at the Jerome Recreation Center! Join us for a spooky night of fun at the Jerome Recreation Center! This free community event will feature games, music, activities, a haunted house, and a festive costume contest - all while showcasing the many programs and services available at your local community center. Open to all ages, the Spooktacular is the perfect way to celebrate Halloween with friends and family.
Jerome Recreation Center Spooktacular Open House
The City of Santa Ana's Economic Development Division hosts monthly Business Start-Up Workshops on the second Wednesday of each month. These workshops are perfect for anyone looking to start or grow a business in Santa Ana. Learn about city resources, get your questions answered by staff, and connect with other local entrepreneurs. Workshops are offered in English and Spanish. For more information, contact us at (714) 647-5477 or [email protected]
Date:Second Wednesday of each month
Location: City Hall, Room 1600
Time:11 AM-12:30 PM
Register here
Business Start-Up Workshop
Resident Days at the Zoo • Santa Ana Zoo offers free admission for residents every third Sunday
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.
Starting a small business?
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.
Download the mySantaAna App
Parking Tickets
Public Works
Neighborhood Initiatives
Utility Services
Schedule a bulky item pickup: Call Republic Servicesat (657) 467-6220
Police Non-Emergency Line: (714) 245-8665
Emergency Water Services: (714) 953-8026
Who Do I Call?