our town st helena ramona gibbs moved into our new Pope St property in time for Christmas

Ramona and Iliana Gibbs

Ramona Gibbs and her six-year-old daughter, Iliana, moved into OTSH’s Pope St. property in time to celebrate Christmas in their new home. After living in a studio apartment for four years, Ramona and her daughter were delighted to be putting up their Christmas decorations in this 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom house.

When Ramona saw that OTSH was accepting rental applications for the Pope Street property, she applied and was thrilled when she learned that her application had been selected. “My daughter is getting a little older now and she loves having room to spread out and play. It’s going to be wonderful this spring as the weather gets warmer. The orange tree outside is filled with fruit, and we have freshly squeezed juice from our own tree every morning!”

Ramona and her family immigrated from Guanajuato, Mexico

our town st helena 963 pope street living room

Interior view of OTSH’s property at 963 Pope St.

Ramona was 13 when she came to St. Helena. Her parents arrived first, and Ramona and her three siblings followed a few years later. None of the family spoke English, so it was very difficult at first. Her parents came to the US seeking better opportunities for their family, but sometimes it was difficult to understand how this was a better life. Somehow they all learned to speak English and graduated from St. Helena High School. Somewhere along the line, Ramona and her siblings became U.S. citizens.

Strong family bonds; Ramona remains close to her siblings

The tightly knit Hispanic community is known for its strong, supportive families, and Ramona remains close to her siblings. Her sister has a new baby and her brother is a single dad. They all live in the area and help care for their respective children.

Twenty years at Central Valley

Ramona has worked at Central Valley for 20 years. Look for her in the irrigation department. She also works part-time at Hall Winery in the Hospitality Department, where she helps set up for events.

“Iliana and I are so happy to be living in this little house. It’s a wonderful way to start the New Year. We are truly blessed.”