Briefly In the News

Helping Hand group needs storage space

The Helping Hand Worldwide, a Laguna Beach-based organization that collects food and other items from retailers and distributes it to food banks and low-income housing facilities, is in desperate need of warehouse space, according to Executive Director Sita Helms.

The group is seeking donated or low-cost storage space anywhere in South Orange County. The organization collects donations from retailers, distributing about 4 tons of food every day.

The ideal storage and distribution center would have a minimum of 2,000 square feet of warehouse space, an area for a small thrift store in front, an office for two people, parking and no nearby residential neighbors, according to Helms.

To offer help, call Helms at (949) 230-7318.

Earth Hour celebration planned for March 27

Transition Laguna Beach is hosting the second annual Earth Hour party from 8 to 10 p.m. March 27 outside Laguna Beach City Hall, followed by a march through downtown with drums, ending at Endangered Planet Gallery, 384 Forest Ave., Suite 13.

During Earth Hour, from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m., all residents, businesses and municipalities are encouraged to turn their lights off.

The global event is organized by World Wildlife Fund. In 2009, 88 countries participated the event. Laguna Beach was one of the four participating cities in Orange County. This year, more than 100 countries are expected to participate.

For more information, visit www.earthhour.org.

Group offers grants, scholarships

The AAUW Laguna Beach Foundation, nonprofit arm of the Laguna Beach Branch of the American Assn. of University Women, is planning to award more than $20,000 in the spring of 2010 to local programs relating to the education and needs of women and girls.

“The national AAUW mission is advancing equity for women and girls through advocacy, education and research,” said Gail Sahara, branch co-president. “We encourage any local nonprofit group whose work supports that mission to apply for a grant.”

AAUW-LBF invites local nonprofits to submit an application for grants from $200 to $1000 that address needs related to AAUW’s mission. The deadline to apply is April 30.

For more information, visit www.aauw-lagunabeach.org or call Marion Jacobs at (949) 494- 4272.