Here are the latest highlights to kick off the week of Monday, Oct. 30, 2023.
‘Produce to Market’ Project Provides Low-Cost Produce to Supermarkets
The City of Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services has introduced the “Produce to Market” project, an effort to enhance access to affordable, culturally relevant, and healthy produce for the community. Partnering with Long Beach Fresh, the program aims to support six markets in underserved areas of Central, West, and North Long Beach. Participating stores will receive free culturally relevant produce and a customized “Health Shelf” display for a minimum of three months. The cost of the produce will either match or be lower than the average price of similar items found in larger markets across Long Beach. This project aligns with the Racial Equity and Reconciliation Initiative, focusing on increasing fresh food accessibility for communities in food deserts. Learn more here.
LB Hosts Job Fairs for Part-Time Positions in Parks, Recreation, and Marine
The City of Long Beach Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine (PRM) is organizing a series of job fairs to provide information about current and upcoming part-time, non-career job openings. These fairs will cover various recreation programs including Aquatics, Day Camps, Youth Sports, and more. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet supervisors and current staff to get insights into the role of a Long Beach Recreation Leader. Information-only job fairs will be held on Nov. 11, 2023, and Dec. 5, 2023, with an additional fair on Jan. 20, 2024, offering opportunities for onsite interviews. Learn more here.
Long Beach Hosts Food Safety Workshop for Aspiring Business Owners
The city’s Environmental Health Bureau is organizing a food safety workshop aimed at business owners, entrepreneurs, and those interested in running a food-based venture at community events or certified farmers’ markets. The event, scheduled for November 2, 2023, from 9 to 11 a.m., will be held at Long Beach Energy Resources. The workshop will cover permit requirements, responsibilities for event organizers and temporary food facility operators, as well as exemptions for non-profits. Attendees will gain insights into the application process, inspections, and health permit approval. Spanish, Tagalog, and Khmer-speaking inspectors will be available to address questions. Learn more here.
The City Seeks 300 Volunteers for 2024 Homelessness Point in Time Count
The city is calling for 300 community volunteers to assist with the 2024 Point in Time Count, a crucial initiative to assess homelessness in Long Beach. The count, taking place on January 25, 2024, is a collaborative effort to engage residents, local businesses, and volunteers in understanding and addressing homelessness. Volunteers must be 18 years or older and commit to orientation, training, and a four-hour canvassing shift. The count aims to determine the extent of homelessness, assess available resources, and identify gaps in services. Additional involvement opportunities include raising awareness, recruiting volunteers, and making donations of essential items or funds. Learn more here.
Safe Parking Program Expanded for People Living in Their Vehicle
Long Beach has extended and relocated its Safe Parking Program to a larger, medium-term site near the Multi-Service Center. The program offers a safe and dignified overnight parking space for individuals living in their vehicles, while also providing access to supportive services and housing options. The new site at 1664 W. Anaheim St. provides increased capacity, offering 50 parking spots, along with essential amenities like privacy, restrooms, and handwashing stations. Operating seven days a week from 5 p.m. to 8 a.m., the program aims to connect participants with necessary services during the day. The move is part of the City’s efforts to enhance access to services for vehicle dwellers, with ongoing work to identify a permanent program site. Learn more here.
