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Dear Friends,
This year, our office received 79 applications for District Five Inventory Grants and after a rigorous vetting process, we proudly awarded funding to 39 organizations that either operate in District Five or serve our residents. These grantees provide educational programs, cultural enrichment, mental health support, leadership training and food access to those in need. Whether these organizations are expanding their reach or just getting started, each one was selected because of its promise and its commitment to our community.
As a county supervisor, I believe in nurturing new and evolving organizations with seed funding that helps them blossom. These grants help groups take root, build momentum, and serve more residents. Already, several grantees have put their funding to work, meeting residents where they are and making daily life in District Five easier. |
West Valley Community Services |
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West Valley Community Services is bringing nourishment and dignity straight to District Five neighborhoods—delivering fresh produce, canned goods and dairy products to those who need them most. With support from the County’s Inventory Grant, WVCS recently launched a refrigerated mobile outreach van that expands food access for unhoused individuals or those who face transportation access challenges in the West Valley. At a time when over 133,000 Santa Clara County residents rely on food assistance and federal SNAP benefits will be cut, this kind of mobile outreach is more essential than ever.
WVCS’s impact goes far beyond food. Its Park-it Market van brings resources directly to where residents already gather, visiting high schools, elementary schools, community colleges and even the Los Gatos Library. At each stop, families have free access to nutritious food and essential services such as financial assistance, information about public benefits, bus passes, and special programs. In the photos below, the arrival of a retrofitted refrigerated van purchased with the grant was celebrated with enthusiasm. |
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These unique efforts are a lifeline. They fight hunger, reduce barriers, and offer real support to our most vulnerable neighbors. I am proud to have supported West Valley Community Services and to witness the help and happiness they are delivering through the Park-it Market mobile food van. |
LGBTQ+ Victory Institute |
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The next grantee that received an Inventory Grant from my office was the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute, the leading global organization advancing LGBTQ+ public leadership. I was honored to sponsor and speak at their recent Leadership Summit in Palo Alto, which I highlighted in a recent newsletter.
The Summit featured workshops and panels so that attendees can find pathways to leadership and coalition-building. The event was designed to engage and inspire LGBTQ+ and allied leaders toward deeper civic involvement. If we want leadership to emerge, we have to nurture it. My advice to guests and anyone who aims to serve their community is to lean into your experiences, connect with your mentors and peers and never underestimate the impact you can have when you lead with authenticity and purpose. |
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Latinas Contra Cancer |
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The final Inventory Grant recipient I’ll highlight today is Latinas Contra Cancer (LCC), a women-led organization dedicated to supporting families and individuals navigating a cancer diagnosis. Their work centers on education, prevention, and connection. Through culturally responsive outreach, they help residents understand their diagnosis and build support networks with others who have walked a similar path.
As a breast cancer survivor, I know firsthand the power of a strong support system. During my own diagnosis, local cancer care organizations made all the difference. That’s why this grant mattered so deeply to me. With this funding, Latinas Contra Cancer is expanding its educational reach and strengthening its connection with residents of District Five. As part of this effort, they will host the Women’s Health Summit on Tuesday, October 28 from 8:30AM to 1:30PM at the Mitchell Community Center in Palo Alto. |
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Timed with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the summit will spotlight the importance of early detection and breast health, while also addressing key issues including reproductive care, mental health, chronic disease prevention, and maternal health. This community-centered event is designed to foster wellness, prevention, and access to care for women—bringing people together, strengthening networks, and ensuring no one faces a diagnosis alone.
RSVP here and join us for a day of learning, support, and empowerment.
I'm proud to support organizations whose community-serving efforts foster connection and opportunity across our county. Thank you for reading. I’m glad to keep you informed.
With commitment and care, |
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Stay Informed: Your Guide to Supervisors’
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This section of my newsletter will feature key Board of Supervisors meeting dates to keep you informed about decisions that shape our community.
Below are the upcoming August and September meetings that you can join in person at the Board of Supervisors Chambers at 70 W. Hedding Street, San Jose, CA 95110, or virtually
As always, please email or call our office with any questions at 408-299-5050. |
How to Participate in Board Meetings |
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Residents are encouraged to get involved in the decision-making process in the following ways:
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March with the MAK Pack in the
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Join the “MAK Pack” and show your support for the LGBTQ+ community by marching with us in the Silicon Valley Pride Parade on Sunday, August 31 from 10:30AM-12PM.
Join me, my D5 staff and neighbors at Julian and Market Street by 10AM if you'd like to march with us.
Look for a D5 staffer in a purple shirt to check in. If you're bringing items, pack light: a backpack, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and water are recommended.
We strongly encourage public transit, walking, biking, carpooling, or being dropped off. Wear comfortable shoes, we’ll be walking to Cesar Chavez Plaza, where the festivities continue after the parade! |
Meet MAK at the Market |
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Over the next few weeks, my team and I will be tabling at farmers’ markets throughout District Five, and we’d love to see you there.
Whether you have a question, a concern, or just want to say hello, we’re here to listen and share updates.
The times listed in the flyer are when I will be at the table. If you can’t make it in person, you’re always welcome to reach out to my office at 408-299-5050 or by email. We’re here to help, and we’re proud to serve. |
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District 10 Leadership Coalition Meeting –
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Almaden Valley residents are invited to the District 10 Leadership Coalition meeting, where I’ll share updates from recent Board of Supervisors meetings, highlight initiatives I’m leading in District Five, and answer your questions about how County government works and how we can address everyday challenges together.
This is an opportunity to hear directly from your elected officials and government department heads about the issues that matter to you.
Where: Vineland Branch Library – Community Room 1450 Blossom Hill Road, San Jose, CA 95118 When: Saturday, September 6, 9AM to 12PM
Pre-registration is required. An email confirmation will be sent upon registration. |
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Speaking with Almaden Valley Community Association – Monday, 09/08 |
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I will join the Almaden Valley Community Association on Monday, September 8, at Westgate Church South Hills Campus at 7PM to share county updates, answer questions, and hear directly from residents.
As implementation of H.R. 1 begins, I will share how the County is preparing to adapt to serve residents and what the community can do in the meantime. |
New Turn Restrictions in Effect at
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Drivers in East San Jose should be aware of new traffic changes near the Capitol Expressway and Ocala Avenue intersection. These turn restrictions are due to VTA’s light rail construction for the Eastridge to BART Regional Connector (EBRC) project.
What’s Changed: · No left turns from northbound Capitol Expressway to westbound Ocala Avenue (In effect August 20 – October 31, 2025.) Both left-turn lanes are closed. One will reopen after construction. · One left-turn lane from southbound Capitol Expressway to eastbound Ocala Avenue remains open (In effect June 2025 – April 2026.)
Drive Safely: · Follow posted signs and detours · Slow down through construction zones · Stay off mobile devices · Use alternate routes when possible
These changes are designed to keep everyone safe and support progress on the Eastridge to BART Regional Connector project, which will connect VTA’s Orange Line to BART at the Milpitas Transit Center.
For updates and detour maps, visit www.VTA.org/EBRC |
Level up Your Skills—Become a Master Composter! |
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Interested in sustainability and community service? Santa Clara County’s Master Composter program is gearing up for its next training cycle and they’re looking for volunteers.
Complete the interest form to receive the application as soon as it opens this fall. The application window will be open for just two months, and selected participants will take part in a hands-on training course from mid-March through the end of June in 2026.
Not ready for a full training commitment? You can still get involved by volunteering at the Community Composting Demonstration Site. |
Fast-Tracked Fire Safety: I-280 Fuel Break Project Launches to Protect Communities |
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A major wildfire risk reduction project is coming to I-280, spanning Palo Alto, Los Altos, and Cupertino. |
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This community safety effort will remove years of accumulated brush, damaged trees, and roadside vegetation along 18.6 miles of freeway. Covering approximately 152 acres from Permanente Creek (milepost 12.9) to north of Page Mill Road (milepost 18.8), the project was approved July 31, and is expected to finish within 18 months. Crews will clear hazard trees, ladder fuels, and debris while preserving tree canopies to maintain ecological health and shade.
It is designed to protect communities, infrastructure, and evacuation routes. The project lowers wildfire ignition risk from vehicle accidents and improves evacuation safety for both residents and commuters. It also enhances firefighter access and connects to a broader network of shaded fuel breaks across the region. Fast-tracked under the Governor’s Emergency Proclamation, the Los Altos Hills County Fire District is accelerating this work to boost wildfire resilience year-round. Thank you, LAHCFD!
Follow LAHCFD social media and visit lahcfd.org/i-280 for progress updates and safety tips as the project moves forward.
You may also join the LAHCFD Commission meetings, held on the 3rd Tuesday of each month, to hear the monthly report on the I-280 Project. LAHCFD Commission meetings are held in-person or by virtual zoom link and are recorded and available to the public at lahcfd.org/meetings. |
Apply This Fall:
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Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) will soon launch the CARE Power-building and Engagement (Pb+E) Grant Program, an opportunity to invest in the leadership, vision, and capacity of community-based organizations across the region.
With up to $1.3 million in funding available, this program is designed to support organizations working at the intersection of housing, transportation, and environmental justice, especially those serving Equity Priority Communities.
The Pb+E Grant Program is part of MTC’s broader Community Action Resource and Empowerment (CARE) initiative, which aims to strengthen multi-sector partnerships and elevate community-led solutions that improve livability for all. In addition to direct funding, grantees will receive technical assistance, peer learning opportunities, expert coaching, and access to tools that support local leadership development and neighborhood-level impact. Eligible organizations can apply for grants in three categories:
Whether you're expanding your organizational infrastructure or implementing solutions, this program is designed to meet you where you are and help you grow. Key dates:
Stay connected by signing up for the mailing list to get updates and the Call for Projects when it is released: https://mtc.one/carepbe |
Register for the Reentry Rise Up and Run 5K
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Run for change at the County of Santa Clara’s 2025 Reentry Rise Up and Run 5K Fundraiser on Saturday, October 18, at Hellyer Park at 9AM.
The County of Santa Clara’s Office of Diversion and Reentry Services invites you to run, walk, or donate in support of justice-involved residents rebuilding their lives.
This year’s Rise Up and Run 5K Fundraiser helps provide essential resources such as clothing and hygiene items, small but critical steps toward a dignified reentry journey. Your participation sends a powerful message: our community believes in redemption, resilience, and the right to start again.
Register by August 31 to receive the early bird discount, and by September 5 to guarantee your race shirt size and medal. |
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Register for Cupertino’s Citywide Garage Sale by September 12 |
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Clear out your space, earn extra cash, and meet your neighbors during Cupertino’s annual Citywide Garage Sale. This community tradition is back!
Register to sell your items by Thursday, September 12 and your sale will be featured in local news, social media, and the City’s interactive online map. You’ll have until September 19 to update your listing.
Sale hours: Saturday and Sunday, September 20 and 21, 9AM to 4PM |
Help Strengthen Local Transportation Accountability |
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VTA is now recruiting for the 2016 Measure B Citizens' Oversight Committee (MBCOC). This volunteer committee plays a vital role in making sure transportation funds from the 2016 Measure B ballot initiative are spent responsibly and transparently. Members bring community voices into the oversight process, ensuring investments align with what voters approved.
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Teachers & Tacos:
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Join others in the education sector on Friday, September 12, from 4 to 6PM at the Santa Clara County Office of Education for an afternoon of food, connection, and inspiration.
Explore STEM activities inspired by Hispanic scientists, pick up free classroom supplies and enjoy tacos—all at no cost.
Location: 1290 Ridder Park Drive, San Jose, CA 95131
Register: bit.ly/september2025teachersandtacos |
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Office of Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga 70 W. Hedding Street (408) 299-5050 |
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