True Lasting Connections
by Lorine Parks
Mario Guerra introduced TLC as ‘One if the finest programs we’ve got going in Downey.’ And Luz Perez, Director of TLC, returned the compliment, by saying they could not exist without the generosity of organizations like Downey Rotary.
Mario Guerra introduced TLC as ‘One if the finest programs we’ve got going in Downey.’ And Luz Perez, Director of TLC, returned the compliment, by saying they could not exist without the generosity of organizations like Downey Rotary.
TLC, or True Lasting Connections is a member of Healthy Downey, and has become a part of the Downey Unified School System, a great example of school-community cooperation. The goal is to provide a true, lasting connection between the City of Downey and the families of the Downey Unified School District, “to ensure healthy and successful futures for all our children.”
Case Workers screen families for financial need and then are matched with appropriate programs. Case Workers are the connection between the families and the services that are available to them. From providing school supplies, backpacks and eyeglasses, to investigating child abuse and neglect, TLC provides. TLC has more than 50 agencies providing support.
Using two of our members, Darren Dunaway and Jim Mogan tell the TLC story, Luz showed us the many areas of help. Health and dental services work well because the two local hospitals, Kaiser and PIH, cooperate with referrals. Again, Case Workers support the families to ensure follow-up on the referrals and take the necessary action needed to make lasting progress toward their goals.
If a child does not have insurance, TLC enrolls them. All TLC services are at no cost to the children and families they serve if they are uninsured or under-insured. TLC is an authorized Enrollment Entity for the State of California Healthy Families and Medi-Cal for Children.
Of special importance is good attendance at school, and TLC counselors work to achieve that. Counselors are available for all kinds of problems that families and individuals might need, such as homeless support. TLC helps families deal with evictions and foreclosures. Some homeless families live on the street, some in cars, some in shelters, and some take temporary refuge with others who have homes and apartments.
At holiday times, many organizations are generous, making sure needy families have food and presents. Vision Express helps with eye exams and glasses, and operations if necessary.
None of this would be possible without donations, and TLC makes their big fund raiser a community affair. The 2016 Fourth Annual 5K Run/Walk takes place Saturday, February 27 at Apollo Park. Rotarians are encouraged to enter or to sponsor entries.
A festive air will prevail and commemorative tee shirts come with registration or are for sale. There will be music and food trucks for the family event. Registration and check-in are from 6:15-7:30 am, and the Walk/Run begins at 8. Awards will be given as soon as the last contestant crosses the finish line, which should be around 9:30a.m. It’s a day of pride in an awesome community endeavor.
TLC exists solely on charitable contributions and foundation grants. Your tax deductible donation can make a difference in meeting the critical life needs of children. If you would like to make a donation, please contact TLC at 562-904-3577.