As a gift to beautify the façade of Homebase on G, a new housing development for disabled residents and low-wage earners in Lompoc, four adult trees were planted with help from a $1,500 donation from the Lompoc Valley Botanic and Horticultural Society. The trees are
two holly oaks, and two Chinese flames.
“It really represents our shared hope to make Homebase on G a home,” said Frank Ricceri, associate director at Transitions-Mental Health Association (TMHA). “It’s a living gift that will just keep giving.”
The trees have been a big help with Homebase on G. The funds that would have been spent on planting trees have been redirected to furnishing the studio apartments, such as installing refrigerators and microwaves in every apartment, and making them more adaptable for those with disabilities.
“The Homebase on G represents a great partnership in Santa Barbara County,” said Hannah Brown, TMHA publicist.
The partnership that has banded together with TMHA to aid those in need is made up of the Santa Barbara Housing Assistance Corporation, Housing Authority of County of Santa Barbara, and Santa Barbara Alcohol, Drug, and Mental Health Services.
Homebase on G will unveil 39 units on Nov. 20 at its location at 513 North
G St.
The association is also running a fundraising program for Christmas trees. The prices run from $28 to $198, and the trees available include grand fir, noble fir, and Douglas fir. The deadline is Nov. 12, and funds raised go to the Growing Grounds.
For more information on Homebase on G, contact hbrown@t-mha.org or visit t-hma.org; for the Growing Grounds trees fundraiser, contact the TMHA Holiday Tree Line at 541-5144, Ext. 152.
Intern Henry Houston compiled this week’s Community Corner. Send comments or ideas to the Sun via e-mail at intern@santamariasun.com.
This article appears in Nov 5-12, 2009.