Winter 2022 BBS Newsletter

BBS Relief

It’s been a busy few months for everyone at the BBS! We have hosted a number of happy hour meet ups, a US book launch, and most recently our Members Reception at the official residence of HM British Consul General. And, while we strive to keep the community connected, we are always focused on the mission of the charity and helping Brits in need.

 

Through the end of summer and into fall, the Relief Committee received a number of requests from struggling Brits throughout the western US.

 

The Consulates in Los Angeles and San Francisco put us in contact with six different Brits requesting repatriation. One applicant was recovering from a head injury and unable to maintain consistent work in the US despite her dual citizenship and legal right to work in the US. She returned to the UK in the hope of receiving treatment and staying closer to the support system of her family. Two other recipients suffered from mental health issues and could no longer afford to remain in the US. We received two separate applications from Brits whose passports were stolen thus resulting in missing flights and needing to apply for emergency travel documentation.

 

The Relief Committee also approved compassionate financial assistance for two elderly Brits – one living in San Francisco and the other in Sedona. One applicant had married an American who then drained her bank account and left her with nothing. She contacted the BBS as she was trying to piece her life back together and asked for assistance in paying rent. The other applicant was violently mugged 2 years ago at SFO and suffered a head injury. His Green Card and UK passport were stolen during the assault. Social Security recently stopped paying his benefits – his only source of income. Social Security requires a valid Green Card in order to provide benefits, but he has been unable to get a replacement as of yet. The BBS is working with his caseworker and providing financial assistance covering day-to-day necessities and paying for the replacement of these documents.

 

Our primary focus remains helping British nationals who find themselves in times of need. So that we may continue the legacy of the BBS, we need the help of the British community and rely on donations from supporters like you.

 

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Upcoming Events

Annual General Meeting

Tuesday 15 November

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) will take place at 5:30 PM preceding the reception. There is no charge to attend the AGM only. All members are encouraged to attend both the AGM and the Reception.

Drinks and light appetizers will be provided at the reception. Please RSVP to info@bbsofca.org for AGM registration only.

All members are encouraged to attend both the AGM and the reception.

 

Members: $30.00 | Non-members: $40.00

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November Happy Hour

Thursday 17 November

Date: Thursday 17 November

Time: 5:30

Place: Ounces Outdoors

5800 Northgate, San Rafael CA

Tickets: $10 optional donation

Join the BBS for a no-host happy hour at Ounces Outdoors, to experience the newest beer garden space in San Rafael.

Bring your friends and family! If you haven’t been to Ounces, you will love their feature local craft beer, cider & wine – paired with tasty, shareable, and locally sourced menu items. Looking forward to connecting and reconnecting with members and friends of the BBS.

The $10 fee is optional and considered a charitable donation. All of the donations directly help us to provide support British nationals.

 

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BBS Christmas Dinner

Tuesday 6 December

Join us for our 2022 BBS Christmas dinner to be held at The City Club of San Francisco. The evening will include a raffle and carol singing led by ‘Pitch Please’ an a capella group.

Dress code is cocktail or formal attire.

Early Bird Ticket Prices End 14 November

Date: Tuesday 6 December

Time: 6:00 PM

Location: The City Club of San Francisco

 

 

 

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Donate Today

As a 501(c)(3) the BBS relies on donations from supporters like you. We have had a busy summer and in addition to bringing the community together, we continue to provide support to Brits most in need. If you haven’t made a tax deductible contribution to the BBS in some time, please consider doing so today.