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The City of Santa Cruz in partnership with the Downtown Association of Santa Cruz will host the third annual Parking for Hope downtown holiday parking program from Dec. 18 through 25. The usual parking rates will apply, however, the proceeds from street meters during these eight days are being donated to Hope Services, a local nonprofit. Hope Services’ mission is to enable individuals with developmental disabilities to live and participate fully in their communities. The nonprofit provides training and support services to developmentally disabled Santa Cruz adults who have helped to keep downtown streets clean for over 20 years. Parking for Hope began as a pilot program in 2014 and has been well received by the public. A check for $30,000 was presented to Hope Services in January 2016 and a check for $21,000 was presented in 2015. According to Santa Cruz Hope Services Manager Sheryl Hagemann, Parking for Hope improves the quality of the lives of the nonprofit’s workers while improving the community overall. “The Parking for Hope program has increased work opportunities for our crew members as well as their enthusiasm for keeping Santa Cruz clean,” said Hagemann. “The Hope Services team takes pride in this important work that helps our community shine.” Downtown street parking meters will be posted with placards describing Parking for Hope. Parkmobile fees of 35 cents per transaction will be waived for the eight program days. The City’s Wharf holiday parking program will remain the same as last year with the first hour free of charge. More City of Santa Cruz parking information is available at http://cityofsantacruz.com/departments/public-works/pa.