Nov-Dec 2020 / Volume 20 / Issue 5
City of Elk Grove
NEWSLETTER The Other Side of the Coin A Message from Jason Behrmann, City Manager
Across traditions and cultures, as one year gives way to another, people around the world have always taken time for reflection and thanks. We’ve faced many challenges this year stemming from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and not only has our City stepped in with a myriad of grants, funding, and programs, but our community has also risen in our collective response to address them. While the downsides are undeniable, the other side of the coin is that we’ve shown that we can be there for each other.
Where many have faced disruptions to income from furloughs, job loss, or losing their business, we have also seen an enormous uptick in charitable support. As just two examples, our local food bank and its many supporters have seen demand rise more than 600% yet has continued to meet the need, and local restaurants have fed more than 611 of our seniors through the Great Plates Delivered program. Where mental health issues have become both more common and pronounced, we have also seen an enormous growth in resources. From churches, schools, businesses, and the county office of public health, there are more options available now to help people manage these issues than at any time in the recent past. Where the shelter in place order has led to isolation and loneliness, we have also seen adaptation and response. Beyond simply protecting our most vulnerable populations, there has been a tremendous surge in outdoor activities. From
increased trail use to countless reports of residents sitting on front porches or walking their neighborhoods (when air quality is good), we’re getting to know our neighbors (albeit from a distance), often for the first time. There is a word for the larger collection of circles of families and friends that make up Elk Grove—that word is community. The Elk Grove community has been there for each other in 2020 and will continue to be there for each other in the coming year, allowing us to thrive together in the future. Look inside this issue for a complete listing of the City’s COVID-19 Response and Recovery Activities.
Send a Holiday Smile! November 30 to December 18
The holidays can be a lonely time for our eldest residents. Compound that with the current restrictive health guidelines that have secluded seniors more than ever before, and it’s clear that NOW is the time for making spirits bright. It’s the season for GIVING, so why not send our seniors a smile? We’ll make it easy for you. Just stop by City Hall to pick up a card-making kit that you and your family can use to craft your own holiday cards to send to Elk Grove seniors. The City has coordinated with local senior care centers and senior apartment complexes to identify Elk Grove seniors who may need a little extra love this holiday season. Card-making kits include everything you need to create a special holiday wish to send in the mail, including pre-addressed and stamped envelopes. They will be available at City Hall from November 30 to December 18. They will also be given away at the NeighborGOOD Holiday Market on December 3. NeighborGOOD Market is every Thursday at District56 from 4-8pm on Big Horn Blvd. and Civic Center Drive.
elkgrovecity.org
INSIDE:
Page 2 • Elk Grove Food Bank Services Recognized as National Leader in Operational Efficiency • Illuminate Elk Grove – A Citywide Celebration of Lights! Page 3 • Virtual Elk Grove Gobble Wobble • Transform Your Holiday Cooking Scraps and Leftovers into a Win • FOG-Free Holidays • NeighborGOOD Holiday Market • Your Guide to Elk Grove Services Page 4 and 5 • COVID-19 Response & Recovery Programs and Activities Page 6 • Recycle Your Christmas Tree • Recycle Your Holiday String Lights • Waste Collection Takes a Holiday • Railroad Relic Helps Spur New Life in Old Town District