The County of Orange is addressing the rising number of COVID-19 cases, especially during the holiday and flu season, by making testing both convenient and accessible.

I urge everyone to stay vigilant this holiday season, not only for yourself, but for your grandparents, your children, and your fellow neighbors. Together, we can all do our part to stop the spread of this virus!

There are several ways you can access a free COVID-19 test in Orange County. Everyone can receive a FREE test. Your personal information will remain private and will not be shared with anyone. Remember, legal residence status is NOT required to get a FREE COVID-19 test.

Click here to check out a list of testing options.

On November 10th, we celebrated the 50th Anniversary Commemoration of the Japanese Garden & Teahouse in Orange County’s Civic Center.

The history of the Japanese Garden & Teahouse has been a well-kept secret for 50 years. With the re-dedication ceremony, especially with the upcoming completion of the County Civic Center and our new soon-to-be-completed County Administration North building, this garden will continue to thrive and be used by our residents, our county employees, and city employees here in the Civic Center for the next 100 years.

Check out the video to learn more about the history and significance behind this symbol of resilience for the Japanese community in Orange County.

Click here to view the video.

Give a gift that makes someone’s holiday season bright.

This December, consider supporting the County of Orange Social Services Agency’s Operation Santa Claus or Senior Santa & Friends. All donations benefit the children in Orange County’s foster care system, those from disadvantaged families, as well as disabled seniors who are at increased risk of isolation due to COVID-19.

Let’s spread the holiday joy and support Orange County’s foster kids.

Click here to learn more about making a donation.

Next Wednesday, the First District Team and Saddleback Church will be back at Mile Square Park for the last drive-thru food distribution of the year.

We’ll be serving the community from 8 am until supplies last. The entrance is by Euclid Street.

Click here for more information.

The Red Cross and the First District Team are partnering to host two blood drives during the month of December.

Join us on December 16th at Magnolia Science Academy or on December 17th at Santa Ana College to support those in need of critical blood treatments, especially as COVID-19 hospitalizations increase.

For more information, and to sign up, check out the event pages below.

Click here for Magnolia Science Academy and enter sponsor code: MSASA

Click here Santa Ana College and enter sponsor code: SACollege