Holiday Celebrations & Welcoming the New Year!

As we approach new beginnings in 2024, I’m reflecting on the moments that defined our first year together in Senate District 20. From the Swearing-In Ceremony (all the way back in January) to CicLAvia The Valley, San Fernando Valley Pride, Herfluence, Veterans Day, district small business tours, and the many resource fairs where Team Menjivar tabled, my heart is overflowing with gratitude for our community partnerships.

Santa checked his list twice and found out that SD 20 was nice, so he brought good tidings and cheer to our Winter Wonderland celebration! This holiday season holds a special place in my heart, and I am thrilled so many of you could join us at the Van Nuys District Office. Team Menjivar and I worked hard to ensure our Inaugural Open House was extra special. Thanks to the student performers, Girl Scouts and UCLA Early Head Start volunteers, and partners like Republic Services and Discovery Cube, the event was a huge success!

Watch the festivities HERE!

Thank you for the generous donations to our toy drive during the Holiday Open House. I stood in for Santa at the Parks Chapel AME Community Holiday Toy Giveaway in San Fernando. The kids were so excited when they saw the extensive selection of gifts!

One of my proudest accomplishments this year is securing $9.5M in the California State Budget to directly invest in SD 20. This month, I delivered checks to three of the organizations allocated funds, which will support their ongoing and vital services in our communities. 

ICON CDC
$1M to support acquisition of a commissary and their Sidewalk Vending Small Business Program.
 

Heartfelt Education through the Arts
$150k for program expansion, so they can continue to provide a safe creative space for SD 20’s youth.
 

MEND – Meet Each Need with Dignity
$747k to expand service capacity and increase their food distribution capabilities.

November Turkey Giveaway
Working alongside UCLA Early Head Start, we distributed Thanksgiving boxes full of fresh ingredients to 70 families with young children in Van Nuys. In partnership with the California Grocers Association, my office was able to ensure every box included a turkey for the first time in the program's history.

Walk, ride, or cheer with the crowds during the Lake Balboa Holiday Parade! On December 23 at 5 PM, we’ll set off from 7944 Paso Robles Ave. and travel North along the circular route.

You may have heard the Granada Hills Holiday Parade is the largest community parade in the San Fernando Valley, but did you also know that at 1.8 miles it is the longest? Here are a few more fun facts about this historic parade:

• The first Granada Hills Holiday Parade was held in 1984.
• Over 100,000 youth from throughout the San Fernando Valley have marched to highlight their positive accomplishments.
• Each year, over 75 awards are presented to outstanding parade entries.

Thank you for reading the Senate District 20 December Newsletter!

Heading into the new year, consider setting resolutions to increase your civic participation. Not sure where to start? Ask yourself, what pressing issues are affecting you, your family, or your neighbors? While my office addresses state agencies and concerns, we’re also happy to direct you to the county, city, or local resources that can assist with solutions.

I cannot succeed alone and value the voices from within our community. This is why I enthusiastically invite you to join me at an upcoming Coffee with Caroline or to introduce your local organization to my staff. Together, we will meet the needs of each unique community that makes up Senate District 20. I look forward to our great achievements in 2024!

Wishing you happy holidays and a joyous new year,

Senator Caroline Menjivar, MSW