The modest sums gifted by the Berkeley Holiday Fund serve a double purpose: it’s money recipients can do something with, but it also helps them feel they’re not alone, that they’re part of a community.

Mary Rees
No permanent address? No problem. Berkeley library makes it easier for those without homes to get library cards
Instead of having to provide proof of an address, patrons will now only have to show a picture ID. The roll-out of the Easy Access Cards begins this week.
‘Buy Nothing Project’ comes to Berkeley to promote gift economy, getting to know your neighbors
Now living simply and giving stuff away can build a neighborhood community.
New film showcases the imagination of Ursula K. Le Guin
Le Guin grew up in Berkeley in a family that included people from all walks of life, from Europeans to Native Americans. That exposure to many cultures gave her a very expansive view of the world.
The Berkeley Emergency Storm Shelter fills a gap — but will close soon
Around 90 people have been sleeping each night at the Berkeley Emergency Storm Shelter. But it is slated to close on April 15.
Berkeley unveils a ‘street for everybody’
Using over-sized scissors, Berkeley officials on Friday opened a model ‘Complete Streets’ project that should make cyclists, drivers, transit-users and pedestrians very happy.
Berkeley woman to be evicted from her home of 53 years despite long fight to stay
After Wells Fargo refused to modify Regina Frazier’s home loan, she turned to some shady operators who promised to help, but only took her money and fled.
Hearst Avenue: Where bikes, buses, cars and pedestrians have to get along
Berkeley transportation planners don’t just look at the flow of cars on streets anymore. They try to consider the needs of people, bicyclists, and wheelchair users too.
Philip Harper-Cotton retires after 49 years in the recreation department
Phil Harper-Cotton grew up playing ball in Berkeley parks and has dedicated his life to creating programs for the residents of Berkeley. He retires Friday.
Berkeley medical cannabis pioneer extends reach with new ‘how-to’ book
Debby Goldsberry, who co-founded one of Berkeley’s first medical cannabis dispensaries, has written a book on how to start and run a marijuana business.
Berkeley makes safety improvements to The Alameda-Hopkins intersection
Berkeley made some improvements, with more to come, to the intersection of The Alameda and Hopkins Street. Drivers have slowed down, making it safer for pedestrians.
Berkeley Rose Garden arbor reopens, completing first part of restoration
The central part of the new pergola, or arbor, at the Berkeley Rose Garden has been rebuilt, and the curved pathway underneath is open to park visitors again. At least for now.