Just when you thought no one cared about the voices of children, seniors or low-income families, California's parks department offers a glimmer of hope.
The state agency has awarded Latino Health Access -- which organized hundreds of residents to lobby city officials for more some green space -- a grant of $3.5 million to build the only park and community center in the 92701 zip code of Santa Ana.
Until now, kids in Santa Ana have often made make-shift playgrounds around back-alley Dumpsters.
The park and community center represent the collective action of public agencies and engaged residents to open safe, green spaces in Santa Ana, said Ana Carrichi, policy director for the organization.
State bureaucrats said they found the participation of children an "especially heartwarming" aspect of the Latino Health Access pitch for more green space.
Ruth Colement, director of California State Parks said her agency received 475 pitches from community groups vying for 62 grants. The outpouring, she added, "clearly shows the extent of recreation needs throughout California."
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
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