December 2025 Newsletter: Holiday Toy Drive, Healthcare Updates, & Winter Resources
Dear Neighbors,
As we close out 2025 and enjoy the holiday season, I want to share some updates and invite you to join us for upcoming events.
Thanksgiving in Our Community
This November, I was honored to once again partner with several community organizations including but not limited to Chinatown Service Center, Eastmont Community Center, the Dodgers Foundation, CGI, Niagara Bottling, Kaiser Permanente. It was wonderful to help distribute turkeys and meal fixings to families across our district. Seeing our community come together - neighbors helping neighbors - reminds me why I do this work. Thank you to everyone who volunteered and to the families who participated.
CalFresh Fruit & Vegetable Pilot Returns
I'm pleased to share that the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable Pilot Program has restarted with $36 million in new state funding. This important program gives CalFresh recipients a dollar-for-dollar match on fresh fruits and vegetables purchased at participating stores and farmers markets - up to $60 per month. Over 90 grocery stores across California are now participating, including Mother’s Nutritional Centers and the LA River Farmers Market in Chinatown.
If you or someone you know receives CalFresh benefits, this program can help stretch food dollars further and bring more nutritious options to your table. Find out more here.
Annual Holiday Toy Drive - December 16
You're invited to our Annual Holiday Toy Drive on Monday, December 16 at 6 PM. This event brings joy to children throughout our community, and we'd love your help making it special. Whether you can donate a new, unwrapped toy or simply join us for the evening, your presence makes a difference. Please RSVP here or call our office at (213) 483-9300 for location details and more information.
Holiday Events Throughout Senate District 26
Our district is filled with so many wonderful holiday celebrations this December, from tree lightings to parades and community festivals. Whether you're in Boyle Heights, Eagle Rock, Koreatown, or any of our vibrant neighborhoods, there are opportunities to celebrate with your neighbors and experience the rich diversity of our community. Visit our website to find an event near you and discover what makes our district so special during this season.
Important Healthcare Updates for 2026
As we enter the new year, there are critical changes to healthcare coverage that may affect you and your family. Please read this information carefully and take action if needed.
For Undocumented Californians: If you know someone who is undocumented, eligible, and does not currently have Medi-Cal, it is urgent that they enroll before January 1, 2026. Starting in January 2026, undocumented adults in California won’t be able to newly sign up for full Medi‑Cal because of state budget cuts. Those already enrolled will keep their coverage, and children can still enroll at any time. Additionally, starting in July 2027, undocumented adults enrolled in Medi-Cal will need to pay a $30 monthly premium. Visit the Department of Health Care Services website for more information.
For Those on Covered California: Open enrollment for Covered California continues through January 31, 2026. If you need health insurance or want to change your plan, now is the time to enroll. To sign up for coverage starting January 1, you must enroll by December 31. Nearly half Covered California enrollees qualify for plans costing $10 or less per month. Nearly 92 percent of Covered California’s enrollees receive financial help. Visit CoveredCA.com or call (800) 300-1506 to learn more.
Many changes are on the way, and we’ll keep you updated as key deadlines approach. We know this can feel confusing, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our office is here to answer your questions and connect you with enrollment assistance.
Winter Resource Guide
As temperatures drop, resources are available to help you and our neighbors stay warm, fed, and safe this winter. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Emergency Shelter & Housing Support
- Winter Shelter Program: Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority operates winter shelters through March 31, 2026, providing beds, meals, and support services. Call 211 for immediate assistance or to find the nearest shelter location.
- All winter shelters welcome pets and emotional support animals and provide three meals daily.
Food Assistance
- CalFresh: Apply online at www.benefitscal.com or call (866) 613-3777 to see if you qualify for food benefits.
- Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: Find local food pantries by visiting www.lafoodbank.org or calling 211.
Utility Bill Assistance
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Get one-time help paying heating or cooling bills. Find your service provider at this California Department of Community Services and Development website.
- Income-Qualified Programs: Qualify for 30-35% discount on electric bills and 20% discount on gas bills through California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE). Contact your gas and electric utility companies to apply.
General Assistance
- Dial 211: This free service connects you with health, human services, and emergency resources 24/7.
- My District Office: Call (213) 483-9300 for help navigating available resources or assistance with state services.
These resources exist to support you, and there is no shame in asking for help.
Know Your Rights
As your State Senator, I stand with you and am committed to ensuring you have immediate access to vital legal information, trusted resources, and unwavering support to protect your families and uphold your rights.
Click here to download the bilingual Know Your Rights Card (English/Spanish)
These cards are also available in:
If you have concerns if you see ICE in your neighborhood or if someone you know is detained, you can call the Los Angeles Rapid Response Hotline: 1-888-624-4752. This is a multilingual, confidential hotline.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This article and these documents are for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice from the California State Senate. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney.
Celebrating and Reflecting This Season
The holidays can be a time of great joy, but I know this season can also be challenging for many. Beyond the resources listed above, my office is here to help connect you with support for any state-related services you may need. You can reach us at (213) 483-9300 or senator.durazo@senate.ca.gov.
As we approach the new year, I want our immigrant communities to know: I stand with you. You strengthen our neighborhoods, drive our economy, and enrich our culture. California remains committed to protecting the rights and dignity of all who call this state home, and my office will continue fighting to ensure everyone can access services and live without fear.
So as we gather with loved ones this December, let's remember what binds us together as a community - our shared hopes for a better future and our commitment to supporting one another. Whether you're celebrating Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or simply taking time to be with family and friends, I wish you moments of peace, warmth, and connection. Whether you're celebrating Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or simply taking time to be with family and friends, I wish you moments of peace, love, and warmth.
From my family to yours, may this season bring you comfort and renewed hope for the year ahead.
In solidarity,
State Senator María Elena Durazo
