Helping Neighbors Through Hard Times: Long Beach Expands HHS Fund

A helping hand at the right moment can make all the difference—and in Long Beach, the Health and Human Services Fund is doing exactly that for residents facing some of life’s toughest challenges.

As we wrap up Public Health Month, we’re spotlighting the City of Long Beach’s Health and Human Services Fund, designed to provide direct support to residents, strengthen public health programs and invest in local nonprofits serving the community.

Managed by the Long Beach Community Foundation, the fund accepts tax-deductible donations that can be quickly directed where they are needed most—whether that means helping a family cover basic necessities, supporting someone recovering from violence or crisis or strengthening the programs public health staff rely on to serve residents every day.

Unlike traditional assistance programs that can take time to distribute funds, the HHS Fund is designed to respond quickly to urgent situations. Once donations are received, Health Department staff assess current requests and allocates funding based on the most immediate needs.

For one resident, that fast response made all the difference. After experiencing car damage in a hate-crime, Kai* needed help covering repairs and replacing damaged tires. Through the HHS Fund, she and her partner were able to receive direct financial support that helped them move forward during a stressful and unexpected situation.

She later shared that the support went beyond the financial help itself—it was the compassion from staff that left the biggest impact. Kai said, "Thank you again for everything you and your team are doing! It’s people like you who make me so proud to call this city home."

Another resident, Ella*, a single mother of six, received support to help her rebuild stability for her family after surviving domestic violence.

As the sole provider for her household, she was waiting for benefits like CalFresh to begin and needed immediate help covering groceries and other essentials. Through the HHS Fund, staff were able to bridge that gap, allowing her to focus on her health, her newborn and caring for her children during a critical time.

“I truly don’t have enough words to express how grateful I am,” Ella said. “Your support came into my life at a time when I needed it most. As a mother, there are moments when the stress and pressure feel overwhelming, and this assistance gave me not only help, but hope. It reminded me that I’m not alone. Because of your kindness, I was able to focus on what truly mattered, being present for my children during such an important moment in our lives.” Stories like these show how even small acts of support can create a lasting impact. The HHS Fund gives the City flexibility to respond to real, everyday emergencies that might otherwise push families deeper into crisis. Every donation helps keep that safety net strong, ensuring residents can access help when they need it most. For those looking to make a direct impact in the community, contributing to the Health and Human Services Fund is one way to help neighbors stay safe, stable and supported. To learn more or make a donation, visit the City’s website.

*Names have been changed to protect participant privacy.