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Bridging the Digital Divide

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Thanks to the California Community Reinvestment Corporation’s (CCRC) Bridging the Digital Divide program, 50 LifeSTEPS residents recently received tablets designed for seniors, also known as GrandPads. Our staff trained each senior to use the device, which will foster increased socialization opportunities, access to healthcare through telehealth services and online support from family and friends. Many older adults faced isolation during COVID-19, and we’re so thankful for Mary Kaiser and the CCRC for their partnership to help residents of affordable housing stay healthy and thrive through technology.

LifeSTEPS helps aspiring nurse achieve DACA status

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As a top 10 student in her high school with a 4.0 GPA, 18-year old Jena graduated with honors and dreams of becoming a nurse. With her sights set on higher education, she found herself passing up many opportunities for college scholarships due to her immigration status.

“Unfortunately, the pathway to nursing can be expensive, and without “papers,” I am unable to work or receive financial aid,” Jena told her Director of Social Services Maira at her affordable housing community in Woodlake, California.

Dreams of a better life

Jena’s mother brought her to the U.S. when she was six months old in hopes of giving her daughter a better life. Her mother faced many challenges, and Jena eventually moved in with her grandfather, who raised her and provided support and guidance throughout her childhood and teenage years.

“Now that I’ve graduated high school, there is nothing more that I wish to accomplish than getting my education in the medical field and becoming a nurse,” said Jena.

Opening doors

Maira sat down with Jena and together they made a plan to make Jena’s dream come true. Maira contacted a lawyer familiar with LifeSTEPS who agreed to work on her case. After a consultation at no cost to Jena, the lawyer confirmed that Jena qualifies for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). With critical financial assistance from LifeSTEPS, Jena will now apply for DACA status.

“Through DACA, Jena will obtain a legal social security number which will enable her to work and become financially independent, and also apply for financial aid and scholarships for college. This will open many doors and provide opportunities to help Jena achieve her goals and be self-sufficient,” said Maira.

Giving back

Jena plans to give back by volunteering time at her local library and at future LifeSTEPS events.
Jena is known for being kind and loving to her neighbors and their children, and we’re thrilled that she plans to volunteer in LifeSTEPS’ after-school programs.

“I’m so thankful,” said Jena. “I can now pursue my dreams for a rewarding and successful life and career.”

After-school program helps LifeSTEPS residents beat the summer learning slide

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Our Big Fun in the Sun after-school program is helping LifeSTEPS residents beat the summer learning slide! Check out Villa Serena’s literacy station, created by Program Coordinator Sylvia, which features our summer books and an art gallery displaying our students’ art work. “Our summer reading curriculum focuses on diversity and inclusion, and our young learners love the crafts, games and educational activities built around each book,” said Sylvia.

Meredith Chillemi joins California Health Advocates’ Board of Directors

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LifeSTEPS is pleased to announced that Meredith Chillemi will join the California Health Advocates’ Board of Directors beginning this July.

“This is a transformational time in healthcare as we transition out of the COVID-19 pandemic. I look forward to working with board members on Medicare advocacy and education, as we ensure our older adults in California and younger residents on Medicare with a disability are informed and empowered in understanding, navigating and accessing their health care benefits and rights,” said Chillemi.