Here are the latest news highlights kicking off the week of Monday, October 9, 2023.
Free Flu Vaccinations Offered through October
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The Long Beach Health Department is offering free flu vaccinations throughout the entire month of October. The program encompasses all city-run vaccination sites and community clinics, with vaccinations available while supplies last. This proactive approach aims to prepare residents for the upcoming flu season, typically spanning from mid-fall to mid-spring. The largest clinic will be on Oct. 19 at Main Health, offering both walk-up and drive-in options.
In addition to the flagship clinic at Main Health, flu vaccines will be readily accessible at various community clinics throughout October. The schedule is as follows:
- Wednesday, Oct. 4, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at McBride Park (1550 Martin Luther King Jr Ave.)
- Tuesday, Oct. 10, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at El Dorado Park West (2800 N. Studebaker Rd.)
- Tuesday, Oct. 17, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Admiral Kidd Park (2125 Santa Fe Ave.)
- Wednesday, Oct. 18, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Silverado Park (1545 W. 31st St.)
- Tuesday, Oct. 24, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Long Beach Senior Center (1150 E. 4th St.)
- Wednesday, Oct. 25, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Houghton Park (6301 Myrtle Ave.)
- Friday, Oct. 27, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bixby Park (130 Cherry Ave.)
The Health Department strongly advocates that all individuals aged six months and older receive the flu vaccine annually, especially those with underlying health conditions that may heighten their susceptibility to serious complications from the flu. In addition to conferring immunity to the flu and preventing severe illness due to the influenza virus, the vaccine can also reduce the risk of contracting other respiratory viruses, including those causing COVID-19. Widespread vaccination within the community will also help alleviate potential strains on the healthcare system. Learn more here.
Long Beach Expands Justice Fund for Low-Income Immigrants at Risk of Deportation
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The City of Long Beach is seeking qualified organizations to partner with for the expansion of the Long Beach Justice Fund. This initiative aims to offer free legal representation and outreach to low-income immigrants facing the threat of deportation. The expanded Justice Fund will provide comprehensive community connection services, including outreach, legal education, client advocacy, and various forms of legal representation to protect residents from deportation. It will encompass affirmative applications, appellate removal defense, community outreach, and referrals. The City has initiated a Request for Proposals to identify eligible organizations with expertise in immigration law and deportation defense. Priority will be given to applicants with strong ties to Long Beach and income below 200% of the federal poverty line. The expansion of the Justice Fund is a significant step towards providing essential legal support for immigrant and refugee residents, empowering them to navigate the complex landscape of immigration law and safeguarding families and communities from deportation impacts. Learn more here.
Long Beach Expands Resource Line for Early Childhood Development
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The City of Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services has secured a grant to enhance the Long Beach Resource Line, providing valuable information on child development for children under five. The City’s online resource directory will also incorporate vital resources to assist residents in connecting with early childhood developmental and intervention services. Residents can access information and resources about their child’s development through an online assistance form or by calling the line during weekdays. Resource Line navigators can assess eligibility and provide referrals to various organizations and city departments. This initiative is part of Help Me Grow LA, a collaborative effort by First 5 LA and the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, aimed at linking families with resources for early childhood development. The initiative aims to strengthen referral pathways and better connect families with developmental support. Learn more here.
Call for Participants for Long Beach Día de los Muertos Parade
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Local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community groups are invited to take part in the upcoming Día de los Muertos Parade on Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023. The eighth annual celebration, honoring departed loved ones, welcomes entries ranging from floats and decorated vehicles to marching bands, equestrians, bicycles, and motorcycles. Participants are encouraged to embrace the vibrant and culturally relevant theme of Día de los Muertos. Applications and necessary documentation must be submitted by Oct. 13, 2023. Further details about the parade and related events will be available at longbeach.gov/diadelosmuertos. The parade will also be broadcast live on ABC7 Los Angeles’ digital channel and aired on Nov. 5, 2023. Learn more here.
Second Annual Liwanag Literary Festival Celebrates Filipino-American Stories
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The Long Beach Public Library (LBPL) proudly presents the second annual Liwanag Literary Festival, dedicated to honoring Filipino-American literature and stories. The event will be held on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library. In observance of Filipino-American Heritage History Month, the festival, named ‘Liwanag’ which means ‘Light’ in Tagalog, aims to shed light on the diverse experiences of Filipino-Americans. The festival will feature author readings, dynamic panel discussions, and book signings in collaboration with the Filipina-owned bookstore, Bel Canto Books. Activities include children’s crafts, enlightening discussions with notable authors, and a cultural performance by Rocksteady Rondalla. With over 20,000 residents of Filipino descent in Long Beach, this event serves as an essential platform for cultural celebration and community engagement. Admission is free, and further information can be obtained here.
