Centering Community Voices: Regional Leadership Secures $3M for Central Coast Resilience
Climate resilience on the Central Coast reached a major milestone with a $3 million earmark secured in the California state budget. Coordinated through efforts led by founding Advisory Board member Kirsten Liske (Director of Regional Climate at Ecology Action) and Em Johnson (Director of Climate Resilience at Community Environmental Council), these dedicated funds will accelerate the development of Community Resilience Hubs across northern and southern Central Coast counties.
Driven by Grassroots Leadership
Community Resilience Hubs emerged as a top regional priority during the Monterey Bay climate adaptation roadmap process. Managed by Regeneración – Pajaro Valley Climate Action, the Monterey Bay Area Climate Justice Collaborative (MBACJC) brought together diverse community leaders, tribal representatives, labor unions, and local agencies to shape these solutions.
In our regional workshops, nearly half of all participants represented groups on the front lines of climate impacts. Rather than applying top-down policy models, our network focuses on shared leadership and consensus decision-making, ensuring funding directly supports communities facing the greatest risks.
What Are Community Resilience Hubs?
Community Resilience Hubs are trusted, everyday neighborhood spaces—such as public libraries, schools, community centers, and local churches—equipped to support residents before, during, and after climate emergencies.
Divided equally between the northern and southern counties of the Central Coast, this $3 million state investment provides essential infrastructure to keep neighborhoods safe, connected, and supported during extreme heat, wildfire smoke, or flooding events.
Strengthening Our Region Together
This budget win demonstrates the power of cross-sector collaboration. By bringing frontline organizations, Indigenous partners, and public agencies to the same table, the MBACJC transforms regional challenges into durable, community-led infrastructure.
Real climate security depends on investing directly in the health, safety, and leadership of lower-income neighborhoods and communities of color across Pajaro, Watsonville, the Salinas Valley, and greater Monterey Bay.
Take the Next Step in Regional Climate Action Real change happens when we build power together. Learn how your organization can participate in our decision-making network, align resources, and advance equitable solutions.
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