The Milpas Community Association (MCA) announced it’s delighted to participate in a large-scale Eastside clean-up this Saturday. MCA President Alan Bleecker said, “This clean up is an excellent opportunity to work on our mission to make the Milpas corridor a place where everyone can live, play, work, and prosper. Having a clean neighborhood is essential to that mission. That’s why we totally support this effort.”
This is the 8th annual clean-up, organized by several area churches, in partnership with Looking Good Santa Barbara. The focus has been on the Eastside for the past three years. This year, the newly formed community association is excited about the chance to participate. So far, the MCA has spread the word about the clean-up to its members and community partner organizations, and encouraged them to volunteer. The MCA also asked local businesses to donate raffle prizes. “The Milpas Community has generously donated to the clean-up, including Design Fusion Studio, Scolari’s, the Eyeglass Factory, and a terrific neighborhood resident,” said Sharon Byrne, the MCA’s Executive Director. The donated items will be given away as part of a free raffle for the clean-up volunteers.
Clean-up efforts extend from the Santa Barbara High School down to the beach area, from just west of Milpas to Salinas St. It’s a large area, and more than 500 people are expected to turn out for it. Families are invited, and community service hours are available. The clean-up starts at Eastside Park at 9 AM, and finishes at noon. Lunch, a street festival, and raffle will follow.
“Milpas is the heart of the Eastside,” notes MCA Vice President Sebastian Aldana. “It’s the main artery through the area. We want it to look good for everyone, and encourage our neighbors to take pride in their neighborhood. A clean neighborhood – that’s the foundation for making a neighborhood great.”