Community Champions 2024

Meals on Wheels for Santa Cruz County, a program of Community Bridges, extends heartfelt gratitude to all who participated and supported this year’s Community Champions!

We are immensely grateful to the following local leaders and elected officials for their unwavering commitment to our community’s older adults:

  • Yvette Brooks, Vice Mayor, Capitola
  • Casey Clark, Watsonville City Council 
  • Jack Dilles, City Councilman, Scotts Valley
  • Zach Friend, Santa Cruz County Supervisor, District 2
  • Ramon Gomez, from the office of Felipe Hernandez, Santa Cruz County Supervisor, District 4
  • Manu Koenig, Santa Cruz County Supervisor, District 1

Their presence during meal deliveries and at senior dining sites throughout Santa Cruz County has not only raised awareness but also provided invaluable human connection to those we serve.

This nationwide campaign, spearheaded by Meals on Wheels America, has underscored the critical importance of addressing isolation, food insecurity, and poverty among older adults. The statistics speak volumes, revealing the stark reality faced by many of our seniors. Yet, through initiatives like Community Champions Week, we unite as a community to provide essential support and nurture the well-being of our aging population.

Meals on Wheels for Santa Cruz County remains dedicated to our mission of delivering nutritious meals and vital support services directly to the homes of seniors in need. With your continued support, we can ensure that no senior in Santa Cruz County is left behind or forgotten.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the success of Community Champions Week. Your generosity and compassion have made a meaningful difference in the lives of our community’s older adults. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding the health, dignity, and independence of seniors in Santa Cruz County.

FREE Food Distributions in Santa Cruz County This August! 💚Community Bridges is proud to support our communities with free food distributions throughout the month. Stop by for fresh produce, pantry staples, groceries, clothing, and other essential items.📍 Nueva Vista Community Resources711 East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz🗓️ August 5 & 19⏰ 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM📍 Mountain Community Resources6134 Highway 9, Felton🗓️ August 6, 13, 20 & 27⏰ 10:30 AM – 11:30 AMWhether you’re picking up for yourself, a neighbor, or a family member, all are welcome.✅ No registration required✅ No ID needed✅ No questions askedJust come as you are. 💚🔗 Learn more: communitybridges.org/frc#CommunityBridges #FoodDistribution #SantaCruzCounty #FoodAccess #SantaCruz #FeltonCA #SanLorenzoValley #CommunitySupport #FreshFoodForAll ... See MoreSee Less
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Every day, Community Bridges programs help neighbors across the Central Coast access food, transportation, education, and health services.Behind that impact is a community of supporters who believe in caring for one another.Members of the Bridge Builders Circle provide steady monthly support that helps sustain essential services across Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Benito counties.Your generosity helps strengthen dignity, stability, and opportunity for families throughout our region.Become a Bridge Builder today:communitybridges.org/monthly/ ... See MoreSee Less
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We're proud to share that Community Bridges CEO Ray Cancino will be speaking at the Nonprofit Advocacy: Roles, Rules & Responsibilities workshop, hosted by the Community Foundation Santa Cruz County and Nonprofit Connection Santa Cruz County. Advocacy is an essential part of building stronger, healthier communities. Join nonprofit leaders from across our region to explore how organizations can effectively advocate for the people they serve while understanding the legal and ethical guidelines that shape this important work.📅 Thursday, August 27, 2026🕘 9:00–11:30 a.m.Register and learn more: cfscc.org/events/nonprofit-advocacy-roles-rules-and-responsibilities#CommunityBridges #NonprofitLeadership #Advocacy #CommunityImpact #SantaCruzCounty #Nonprofits ... See MoreSee Less
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🌟 Congratulations to Esteban Gudino, our July Employee of the Month! 🎉We are proud to recognize Esteban Gudino, our dedicated Facilities Technician!Esteban consistently goes above and beyond in his role, demonstrating an outstanding work ethic, integrity, and commitment to excellence. He approaches every task with professionalism and takes pride in keeping our facilities running smoothly. Beyond his hard work, Esteban treats everyone with respect, kindness, and compassion, making a positive impact on both his coworkers and the people we serve.His dedication, reliability, and positive attitude make him an invaluable member of the Community Bridges team.Thank you, Esteban, for everything you do and for being such an important part of the Community Bridges family. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! #employeeofthemonth #CommunityBridges ... See MoreSee Less
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🌟 Build a rewarding career while making a difference in your community!Community Bridges supports people of all ages and backgrounds throughout Santa Cruz County and North Monterey County, including children, families, pregnant women, older adults, and adults with disabilities.We’re currently hiring for several positions, including:• EED Director• Consulting Pharmacist• HR Administrative Assistant• Director of Communications & External Affairs• Accounting Assistant• Teacher Floater• And more on our website!Benefits for eligible employees include:• 16 vacation days and 11 holidays• medical, dental, and vision coverage• 401(k) retirement plan• A hiring bonus for eligible regular positions, paid after completing a six month probationary period• Life insurance & Employee Assistance program• Flexible spending account (FSA)Join the Community Bridges team and help create a stronger, healthier community.Explore current openings and apply today at communitybridges.org/careers.#CommunityBridges #Hiring #JoinOurTeam #NonprofitCareers #SantaCruzCounty ... See MoreSee Less
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50th Anniversary Meals on Wheels for Santa Cruz County - Community Bridges / Puentes de la Communidad logo

Celebrating 50 Years of Support

Join us at Food From the Heart to honor this legacy and support the future of senior care.

50th Anniversary Meals on Wheels for Santa Cruz County - Community Bridges / Puentes de la Communidad logo

Celebrating 50 Years of Support

Join us at Food From the Heart to honor this legacy and support the future of senior care.

Every Family Needs a Plan

Urge the Attorney General to adopt California’s Childcare Safety Plan.

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giving tuesday

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Our Roots

Since 1977, your generosity has helped our community grow stronger.