Upcoming Events for the Week of February 16th

February 16, 2026 LA Best Babies Network Los Angeles County, Upcoming Events

Here is a roundup of this week’s conferences, webinars, and trainings for home visitors and others who work with pregnant people and families with little ones. Also included: events around L.A. County that you can share with the families you serve. Want to look further into the future? See the comprehensive lists we update weekly for:

Do you have something for us to include? Email info@labestbabies.org. And stay in touch with us on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube!

February is:

Ongoing Opportunities (See upcoming events below.)

Specifically for Immigrant Families
(Also see our list of Support Resources for Immigrant Families in L.A. County for continually updated opportunities, resources, and upcoming events.)

Online Workshops: We Are One: Know Your Rights Friday Webinars (and in Spanish)
1^st and 3^rd Friday of the month, 9:00am – 10:30am
2^nd and 4^th Friday of the month, 5:00pm – 6:30pm
Use this Zoom link to join. Spanish translation provided. See flyers in English and Spanish.
Presented by Los Angeles Unified School District
Know Your Rights: Pick up a Red Card
The L.A. County Department of Public Social Services is giving out “red cards” that list basic rights people have when dealing with ICE. Get these cards from a DPSS district office near you. More information: 800-593-8222 or OIA.LACounty.gov
Agents of Change Hotline to Help Move Immigration Hearings Online
USC law students launched a Civil Rights Advocacy Initiative aimed at supporting those at risk of detention by federal agents when attending court hearings in person. Through this initiative, trained volunteers help people file a Motion to Change Hearing Format so that their hearing can be conducted online. To get this assistance, call the Agents of Change hotline at 888-462-5211 or 213-787-6211.
Mobile Immigrant Services Program
Legal assistance and case management services for immigrant families across L.A. County. To request support, complete this form or text 213-314-1454.
Presented by Esperanza Immigrant Rights Project, Amanecer Community Counseling, and Asian Americans Advancing Justice
Long Beach Justice Fund
The Long Beach Justice Fund is a legal defense fund and program that provides legal help for low-income immigrants at risk of deportation that live or work in Long Beach. To find out who is eligible for this support and how to access services, click here.
Baldwin Park Emergency Relief Program
This program supports Baldwin Park residents facing financial hardship due to recent ICE activities. Contact 626-813-5245, ext. 564, for more information.
Presented by the City of Baldwin Park, in partnership with Los Angeles County Chair Pro Tem and First District Supervisor Hilda L. Solis and others
Free Citizenship Clinics
By appointment only: Locations vary
Receive free assistance with the citizenship application and a fee waiver. To schedule an appointment, call 323-224-9077 (English and Spanish) or 323-616-5696 (Korean).
Presented by the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles
Free English Classes for Adults
The South Bay Literacy Council is hosting free English classes for community members. These classes help learners build skills in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English for everyday life, work, and community engagement. To register, complete this interest form or call (310) 373-7003 (for English) and (424) 903-3106 (for Spanish).
Chinese-Language Mental Health Support Group
NAMI San Gabriel Valley’s peer-led support groups are for adults who have a loved one experiencing a mental health condition. If you speak and read Chinese/Mandarin and would like to be a facilitator, email Mary Chan.
Presented by National Alliance on Mental Illness — San Gabriel Valley
Free Groceries Delivery
Operation Healthy Hearts has a grocery delivery program. If you’re unable to leave your home and need groceries delivered, submit a request here.

Toy Loan Programs
Families can check out toys just like they do library books for their kids. DPSS-operated lending center is open Mondays and Wednesdays, 2:30pm – 4:30pm, at 2200 N. Humboldt St., Los Angeles.
See a list of Toy Loan centers in L.A. County. For questions, call 833-8TY-LOAN, 323-986-2741 or 213-744-4344, or email toyloan@dpss.lacounty.gov.
Presented by L.A. County DPSS and others

CalWORKs Families Can Receive Up to Two Years of Free Child Care
As of July 1, 2025, CalWORKs cash aid customers may be eligible for up to 24 months of child care. See eligibility requirements and learn more here or call the Child Care Hotline at 877-244-5399.

Pregnancy Research Project
The PRO-Health research team at California State University, Long Beach, is studying the experiences of parents and their babies during pregnancy and after birth. They are recruiting participants who are pregnant and at least 18 years old. Gift cards provided. See their flyer (English/Spanish) here. To sign up or learn more, contact 562-285-7074 or prohealth@csulb.edu or visit bit.ly/Interest-RFBH.

Let the City of L.A. Know About Your Child Care Needs
Take this quick survey to help the City of L.A. learn about your family’s needs and how they can better support you.
Presented by Child Care Policy Unit – Los Angeles Community Investment for Families Department

CSU Dominguez Hills Study: Seeking Participants Who Are Expecting Their First Child
Are you currently pregnant for the first time? You are invited to participate in a new research study at CSU Dominguez Hills focused on daily emotions and experiences during pregnancy. You can earn up to $150 for participation in this study. For more information, contact perch@csudh.edu or call (323) 379-9118.
Study conducted by the CSU Dominguez Hills Department of Psychology

MotherToBaby Study: Seeking Participants
MotherToBaby is currently enrolling pregnant women in an observational study to explore how asthma and its treatment affect pregnancy. All studies are conducted through phone interviews — no changes to your normal routine or travel required.
Study conducted by MotherToBaby

Stress and Wellness Survey for Teens
California teens aged 12- to 17-years old are invited to take the Youth Mindful Awareness Program’s survey about their health and well-being. The survey takes about 10 minutes, and participants are eligible for a $10 gift card. Complete the survey here.

Join the LA County Youth Commission
The Youth Commission assists the Board of Supervisors in improving L.A. County’s youth-facing departments, programs, and policies. They are seeking applicants who are at least 18 years old and have lived experience in child welfare, juvenile justice, probation, kinship care, and adoption.

Become a DIY Workshop Instructor
LA County Parks and Recreation is looking for instructors to lead DIY workshops at LA County Parks. Could be a good money-making opportunity! Apply here.

Museums for All
Find free or discounted museum entry for CalFresh participants.

Job Opportunities for Young Adults and Youths from Eaton Fire Area
As part of this year’s Youth@Work initiative, the LA County Department of Economic Opportunity is providing a minimum of 500 job opportunities to youth ages 14–24 who lived in or were displaced from communities impacted by the January 2025 Eaton Fire. Eligible youth include those who resided in evacuation zones or areas under evacuation warnings during the emergency. Interested youth can fill out the Eaton Fire Youth@Work Form for youth to get started.

Families with Preterm Babies Invited to Participate in Research Study(Spanish)
The USC Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy is conducting a study aimed at supporting early walking development in preterm infants. They are looking for families who have infants from 6 – 36 months to participate. The study involves brief, play-based visits, and families will receive compensation for their time. If you have any questions, please contact Nora Almoadi at almoadi@usc.edu or (323) 949-6188.

Share Your Early Intervention Story (also in Spanish)
The Infant Development Association of California wants to hear from parents raising young children with developmental delays or disabilities. The purpose is to help advocate for early intervention services.

Seeking Participation from African American/ Black Fathers for Research Study
Dr. Tamkin at Santa Clara University is conducting a research study to explore different parent-child relationships among Black men. Participants can receive up to $100 in Amazon gift cards for their time.

Every Body Plays After School Program
September 2 – May 22, 2026
Parks in L.A. County assist children with homework and offer activities throughout the school year. See participating parks and register here.

LAUSD Meals for Students
About 600 schools are serving dinner to students Monday-Friday. See LAUSD.org/foodhelp for details and a list of schools and other food resources in the L.A. area, or call their 24/7 hotline at 213-443-1300. Also see this LAist article.

LA County Parks Food Programs (Spanish and Chinese)
LA County Parks’ Youth, Teen and Senior Program is providing meals for teens and seniors (60+ years old) and snacks for youth who are 17 and under. Find participating parks here.

Kitchen to Capital Culinary Workforce Program by The SoLa Foundation
Through June 10, 2026
This hands-on program offers real kitchen training, career-building skills, and an introduction to entrepreneurship in the food industry as well as a $1,300 stipend upon completion.

Eat, Play & Celebrate
Hot Supper will continue until February 20
Festive Friday Snack Packs will continue until April 17
LA County Parks is providing hot supper and festive snacks for youth (up to age 18). Hot supper at participating parks, Monday – Friday, 5:30pm – 6:30pm. Festive snacks at participating parks, Fridays, 2:30pm – 6:30pm. See participating parks here.

Help Me Grow LA Is Hiring Family Partners
Help Me Grow LA is looking for parents to work part-time as Family Partners in the San Gabriel Valley and the South L.A. and southeastern L.A. areas. Family Partners are parents of children with special needs who work in Public Health Clinic’s Wellness Communities and other locations. Learn more.

Join the Commission on HIV!
The Los Angeles County Commission on HIV is seeking engaged individuals with lived experience, community knowledge, or professional expertise who are prepared to have a seat at the table and actively participate in shaping HIV planning, policy, and funding decisions across Los Angeles County. Apply here.

BrightLife Kids Health Educator Internship
This is a paid opportunity designed for students or new professionals looking to gain hands-on experience in behavioral health and advocacy.

2026 Summer Internship Opportunities with the LA County Sanitation Districts
The LA County Sanitation Districts Summer 2026 Internship applications are now open for students! Interns will gain real-world experience working alongside experienced professionals and learn how the agency protects public health and the environment. To learn more and apply visit, lacsd.org/jobs

Social Security is Hiring a Claims Specialist
The position is in the Los Angeles Metro area. If you are interested, apply here.

Earn Cash Back Through the California Fruit and Vegetable EBT Pilot Project
The California Fruit & Vegetable (CF&V) Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Pilot Project is back. Eligible CalFresh households will receive a dollar-for-dollar benefit match of up to $60 per month when purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables at any participating retailer or farmers’ market. Learn more at CalFresh F&V EBT Pilot Program.

Claim Your Tax Credits
Receive free assistance from volunteer IRS-certified tax preparers and claim your tax credit. Those eligible may get cash back through the California Earned Income Tax Credit, Federal Earned Income Tax Credit, California Young Child Tax Credit, and California Foster Youth Tax Credit. Learn more at CalEITC | FTB.ca.gov.

Training Program: Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Training at LA County Training Center
February – June 2026
This 20-week EMS training program is designed to support individuals facing barriers to employment, including those with prior involvement in the justice and/or foster systems. Applicants should be 18-26 years old, reside in California, and meet the program’s physical requirements and housing rules. Participants will be required to stay on site Monday through Friday for all 20 weeks of the program. Apply here.
Presented by the Los Angeles County Justice Care & Opportunities Department and EMS Corps

LA County Library’s Free Tutoring Program Available for Students in Grades 1- 6
January 20 – May 21
STAR Tutoring is a small group, in-person tutoring program held at select LA County Library locations, designed to help students improve their reading or math skills. Tutoring services are open to students who are enrolled in Grades 1-6. Learn more here.

Emergency Rent Relief Program Reopens with Expanded Access for Tenants
Application Deadline: March 11
If you’re a homeowner, landlord, or tenant affected by the 2025 Eaton or Palisades fire and windstorm events or any other emergency financial hardships, you may be eligible for financial assistance. Interested renters and landlords can review eligibility requirements, sign up for webinars and events, and apply at lacountyrentrelief.com.

National Foster Youth Institute Leadership Academy: Los Angeles
Application Deadline: February 20
The Leadership Academy: LosAngeles is a seven-month cohort leadership development program that empowers current and former foster youth ages 18–30 in Los Angeles County to build the skills and confidence to influence systems at the city and county level. Applicants must have lived experience in the child welfare system and reside in Los Angeles County.

Girls Who Code: A Free, Virtual Summer Program
Application Deadline: February 25, 2026 (priority); April 10, 2026 (final deadline)
Girls Who Code is excited to offer Pathways this summer from June 29 to August 14, 2026. This seven-week program is a free, flexible online learning opportunity for students who want to learn coding at their own pace. No prior experience necessary. Need more info? Reach out to pathways@girlswhocode.com.

Black History Month Celebrations at Los Angeles County Parks
Through February 28
Celebrate Black History Month with the Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation Department’s month-long series of cultural events. Enjoy workshops, art exhibits, music, storytelling, and community activities that highlight Black history, culture, and heritage. Click here to find upcoming events at a park near you.

Free 16-Week Basic Mechanics Program
Acceler8 Education invites you to enroll in their free 16-week Basic Mechanics course for young adults ages 18 and older. Participants will gain hands-on automotive skills and build pathways toward future career opportunities. Classes have already begun, but there is still space available. Contact Yvonne Negrete-Woodruff at ynegrete@acceler8education.org.
Presented by Acceler8 Education

This Week’s Events

Monday, February 16

We don’t know of any events happening on this day.

Tuesday, February 17

Webinar: Mental Health & Emotional Well-Being
February 17 – November 17 (Third Tuesday of the month), 9:00am – 11:00am
Presented by Visión y Compromiso

Webinar: Integrated Behavioral Health in the Digital Age
February 17, 10:00am
Part of the “Understanding and Addressing the Childhood Chronic Disease Crisis” webinar series
Presented by the Connected Communities Health Initiative (CCHI)

Webinar: Work Ready: How to Talk About Yourself So That People Remember You
February 17, 11:00am – 12:15pm
Presented by the L.A. County Library

Virtual Training: Touchpoints Training: The How of Child and Family Engagement
February 17 – 26 (Tuesday – Thursday), 12:00pm – 4:00pm
Presented by Brazelton Touchpoints Center

Virtual Support Group: Pregnancy and Infant Loss (Birthing Parent)
February 17 – March 24, Tuesdays, 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Presented by Return to Zero: H.O.P.E.

Community Dialogue on Maternal and Infant Health
February 17, 6:00pm – 8:00pm: Art + Practice, 3401 W. 43rd Place, Los Angeles, CA 90008
Presented Black Women for Wellness

Wednesday, February 18

Webinar: Teaching Our Boys How to Cry
February 18, 9:00am – 10:00am
Presented by the DMH + UCLA Wellbeing for LA Learning Center

Webinar: Child Trafficking 101
February 18, 10:00am – 11:30am
Presented by California Training Institute

Webinar: Navigating Uncertainty: A Healing Approach to Ambiguous Loss
February 18, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Presented by LA County Department of Mental Health Countywide Birth to Five Collaborative Workshop

Webinar: From “Screech!” to “More Please”: Building Infant and Toddler Communication Skills to Spark Learning, Foster Calm, and Ease Difficult Moments
February 18, 11:00am – 12:30pm
Presented by Early Childhood Investigations

Prenatal Mommy Meet Up
February 18, 1:00pm – 3:00pm: CinnaMoms Crenshaw, 3667 Crenshaw Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90016
See all CinnaMoms events here.
Presented by CinnaMoms Crenshaw

Thursday, February 19

Webinar: Parental Resilience
February 19, 9:00am – 11:00am
Part of the Protective Factors Series
Presented by California Training Institute

Webinar: De-escalating Crisis and Conflict: A Non-coercive Approach
February 19 & 20, 9:30am – 12:00pm
Presented by DMH + UCLA Wellbeing for LA Learning Center

Webinar: Maternal and Child Health Access Monthly Meeting
February 19, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Presented by Maternal and Child Health Access

Webinar: Pathways Forward: Support for Personal Transformation
February 19, 10:00am
Open to all women. If you attend the three workshops, you will be eligible for a $75 grocery gift card. Register here.
Presented by Maternal and Child Health Access

Webinar: Perinatal Mental Health 101
February 19, 10:30am – 12:00pm
Presented by the Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health

Webinar: Messaging Research & Recommendations: Building Support for Immigrant Children & Families
February 19, 12:00pm
Presented by Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights, the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP)

Seminario Virtual: Impulse su bienestar: Talleres virtuales para una vida saludable y prosperas
19 de Febrero – 18 de Julio, 12:00pm – 1:30pm
Presentado por Visión y Compromiso

Virtual Support Group: No Living Children Not By Choice (Birthing Parent)
February 19 – April 2 (Thursdays), 4:00pm – 5:30pm
Presented by Return to Zero: H.O.P.E.

Webinar: Trailblazers in Conversation with Dr. Beronda Montgomery: When Trees Testify: Science, Wisdom, History, and America’s Black Botanical Legacy
February 19, 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Presented by the L.A. County Library

Friday, February 20

Webinar: Introduction to the ASQ:SE-2
February 20, 10:00am – 12:00pm
Presented by California Training Institute

Housing, Legal Aid, and Employment Resource Fair
February 20, 10:00am – 12:00pm: Ted’s Place, 12426 Whittier Blvd., Whittier, CA 90602
Presented by Whittier First Day Coalition

Webinar: Learning to Breathe: Understanding & Managing Anxiety through Art
February 20, 12:00pm – 1:30pm
Presented by Art & Healing Initiative

Saturday, February 21

2026 Annual African Cultural & Community Well-Being Summit
February 21, 10:00am – 4:00pm: Magic Johnson Recreation Center, 12645 Wadsworth Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90059
Presented by African Communities Public Health Coalition

Black History Month Festival
February 21, 11:00am – 6:00pm: La Brea Tar Pits, 5801 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036
Presented by Open Arms Food Pantry & Resource Center

Tap In: Let’s Talk About Water
February 21, 12:00pm – 2:00pm: West Athens Victory Garden, 10500 S Normandie Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90044
Presented by Black Women for Wellness and others

Webinar: African American Genealogy Workshop
February 21, 1:00pm – 4:00pm
Presented by L.A. County Library

Sunday, February 22

Day of the Ancestors: Festival of Masks — Story Gathering
February 22, 1:00pm – 3:00pm: Aziz Gallerie, 3343 West 43rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90008
Presented by LA Commons