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LATEST PRESS RELEASES
CSET is providing free tax preparation services to residents of Tulare County starting February 5, 2024. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program prepares federal and state tax returns at no cost to households with less than $60,000 in annual income. Each year, CSET helps thousands of residents in Tulare County file their income tax returns for free. Additionally, tax preparers can help residents claim federal/state earned income tax credits that may reduce the amount of tax owed or increase their tax refund.
In a united effort to embody the City of Dinuba's mission of "Together, A Better Community," the City has partnered with Community Services Employment Training (CSET) and its Sequoia Community Corps division, along with other local organizations, to revitalize KC Vista Park. Guided by the City's 2020 Parks and Recreation Master Plan, the project aims to elevate residents' quality of life and enhance the overall well-being of the community.
This Giving Tuesday (Nov. 28th), Community Services Employment Training (CSET) is shining a light on the significance of contributing to the community through acts of kindness and generosity. At the heart of this global movement, CSET invites everyone to be part of this special day, especially if you have a personal connection or passion for alleviating poverty in Tulare County.
On Saturday, October 28, 2023, Community Services Employment Training (CSET), along with dedicated volunteers and partners, will join forces in communities across Tulare County to celebrate Make a Difference Day, the nation's largest day of volunteering. People of all ages in the local area will come together to volunteer for various community projects throughout Tulare County (register to volunteer at www.cset.org/madd).
The Sequoia Community Corps, a division of Community Services Employment Training (CSET), is excited to announce the launch of the Giant Sequoia Emergency Response Grant, a groundbreaking initiative geared towards protecting the majestic Giant Sequoias in the Sequoia National Forest. This visionary program aims to clear a 30-acre area around the Giant Sequoias, enhancing its resilience in case of a fire in the region.
CSET in partnership with California Water Services (Cal Water) is pleased to announce a community event to assist Visalia residents who are facing challenges in paying their current or past due water bills. The water bill assistance event will be held on Friday, July 28th, from 10 am to 6 pm at the CSET Main Office located at 312 NW 3rd Ave in Visalia. Sponsored by Cal Water, lunch and dinner will be provided from 12 pm - 6 pm.
Visalia Unified School District announced an amendment to its policy for serving meals to students under the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs for the 2023-2024 school year. All school sites will operate school meal program under the Community Eligibility Provision during the 2023-2024 school year. Under this provision, ALL enrolled students will be offered breakfast and lunch at no cost at ALL Visalia Unified school sites.
The Community Services Employment Training (CSET) Board of Directors invites Tulare County residents to attend a Community Action Plan Public Hearing to share their input on important community needs, issues and goals. The hearing will be held on Thursday, June 15, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at CSET’s main office in Visalia located at 312 NW 3rd Avenue.
CSET is honored to receive a grant from Alta Healthcare District totaling $73,992 to support its Senior Services and Meals on Wheels programs. Funds will be used for the purchase of meals provided to eligible seniors aged 60 and older residing in the Alta Healthcare District, including the communities of London, Monson, Sultana, Orosi, Cutler, Yettem, and Dinuba.
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LATEST UPDATES & HIGHLIGHTS
The opportunity to participate in a college campus tour is a life-changing experience for many first-generation students, particularly those from the Central Valley, where college enrollment rates remain low. Our #LEAD program breaks down barriers by creating equitable initiatives for young people in Tulare County to access college and post-secondary planning.
During this festive season, gratitude celebrations were held at various local senior centers through a series of engaging events. These events successfully fostered intergenerational connections and highlighted the importance of mental health, empathy, and inclusivity within the community, all of which are central to the spirit of the holiday season.
The Energy Services team conducted ten (10) Community Outreach Events in 2023, connecting with more than 360 Tulare County residents for utility bill assistance, including the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). Funded by the State of California’s Community Services and Development department, LIHWAP aims to reduce the financial burden of water bill expenses for eligible households in Tulare County.
On December 7th, we participated in an exciting groundbreaking of the KC Vista Park revitalization project in Dinuba. Thanks to the collaboration with our Sequoia Community Corps and support from the Local Conservation Corps Nature-Based Solutions Grant Program, we're set to transform this space with new trees, pathways, lights, and even a butterfly garden.
Introducing Carolyn Haynes-Thomas, CSET Director for Visalia Navigation Center (VNC). Carolyn has over 25 years of experience in Social Services and Financial Services, working with diverse populations. The construction team for the Visalia Navigation Center is making substantial progress, as the much anticipated grand opening is set for Summer 2024.
It was an honor to attend Porterville's 2023 State of the City event hosted by the Porterville Chamber of Commerce at the Eagle Mountain Casino. The event provided information regarding the developments by the City and its departments throughout the past year and updates on City projects. As proud partners with the City of Porterville, CSET was recognized for our collaborative efforts in addressing homelessness, housing instability, unemployment, and city beautification through Clean California.
Make a Difference Day was a huge success, as our incredible volunteers came together in communities across the county, from Cutler-Orosi to Strathmore, Porterville to Pixley, and Earlimart.
#LEAD welcomed its newest cohort, engaging 100 young people from Dinuba, Visalia, Tulare, and Porterville.
On October 4th, the Workforce Investment Board of Tulare County and Employment Connection held its 31st Annual Tulare County Job Fair at the Visalia Convention Center.
The Energy Services team continues to assist as many residents of Tulare County who require help with their water bills through the Low-Income Home Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP).
Visalia Unified School District announced an amendment to its policy for serving meals to students under the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs for the 2024-2025 school year.
ALL Visalia Unified school sites will operate the school meal program under the
Community Eligibility Provision during the 2024-2025 school year.
Under this provision, ALL enrolled students will be offered breakfast and lunch at no cost at ALL Visalia Unified school sites.