I have observed close up the devastation financial hardships can cause residents. And I’ve seen just how quickly it can happen. A medical emergency or unplanned expense can easily spiral into not being able to pay one’s rent or utilities. This is especially difficult for seniors on a fixed income.
As a community manager at the Walnut Grove Senior Apartments, I frequently refer residents to rental assistance organizations when they are behind on rent and are at risk of eviction—or even homelessness. I have worked with many organizations over my years in this industry. And since January 2024, I’ve had the pleasure of working with the Los Gatos Anti-Racism Coalition LGARC) in a professional capacity, many times. I’ve consistently been impressed by the professionalism, dedication, humanitarianism and commitment I’ve observed from this organization and its team of volunteers.
LGARC has been one of my preferred places to refer residents because of its effectiveness. They communicate clearly and involve the landlord in the process of helping get rent arrears paid for the applying residents. I can say from personal interactions with the LGARC team that they go above and beyond to help people in need.
I first met Jeff Suzuki, the president of LGARC, in person before my office closed for holiday break last year. He was worried that an awarded rental check would not reach us in time by mail (the usual method of delivery from other rental assistance programs) before we closed for twoweeks. So, he took the initiative to bring the check to my office himself. His proactiveness helped bring peace of mind to the resident during a very tumultuous time in their life. Talk about dedication!
I’ve consistently been impressed by the professionalism, dedication, humanitarianism and commitment I’ve observed from this organization
That’s why I was shocked and confused when I read how Council members and the Finance Commission targeted LGARC’s rental assistance program. I’ve never published an opinion article before, but I felt compelled to offer my thoughts—because I’ve seen first-hand how crucial LGARC has been in the lives of the community members they’ve helped.
Residents will talk to me about their experiences with various organizations. They always have
high praise for LGARC. They express that they feel seen and heard by the team at LGARC. They report being treated like a person who is asking for help, not just someone looking for a “handout.” It’s hard enough asking for help in the first place. Many residents go through arduous application processes from other organizations just to be denied assistance because their situation did not fit precisely within the program’s criteria.
LGARC stands out, because they allow for more flexibility in their criteria and how they help people. That’s a benefit, not a drawback. LGARC has proven itself to have records that are “good enough to be considered an example for other organizations to follow,” as Town staff reported. I would say that speaks for itself!
I have a hard time believing that the “naysayers” on the Finance Commission or Town Council could ever relate to those whom LGARC and other assistance organizations serve. The disconnect is apparent. Adding more barriers, by removing accessible assistance organizations, will not help anyone in our community. I am especially concerned for my senior residents who do not have the resources to pull themselves out of financial emergencies. This would also place a greater burden on the other great assistance organizations in the area, making it harder for those in need to seek and obtain assistance. It increases the likelihood of eviction and homelessness for some residents. Let LGARC do their job. They aren’t even getting paid for it.
Danneen Woods is a Los Gatos resident employed by Eden Housing Management, Inc. who works at Walnut Grove Senior Apartments, an affordable housing community for people 55 and older. The opinions expressed here reflect her personal views.
