Tenants gave nearly $14,000 to employees
NEILSON WAY — Christmas came earlier this year for employees at The Shores, who on Thursday received envelopes stuffed with cash donated by residents as part of an annual tradition at the resort-style apartment complex.
Jesus Beltran and his fellow maintenance men brandished bright smiles as resident Ken Schonlau, treasurer of the tenants association, handed out the annual Christmas bonuses.
“This is wonderful,” Beltran said as he help his envelope. “This will help me buy gifts for my kids and my wife. I can get her something really special now.”
Tenants have been giving cash bonuses to employees for more than 20 years, according to Schonlau. On average, the tenants are able to raise TENANT GIVING, from page 1 approximately $12,000. This year, tenants gave close to $14,000, which is evenly distributed to all of the workers who clean the pools, fix leaky toilets and keep the grounds free of debris.
Some residents gave small amounts, while others donated as much as $500,Schonlau said.
“These guys work so hard all year round. They deserve a little something extra during the holidays for all of their dedication to the tenants,” Schonlau said. “They really do a great job.
“These are folks who work for an hourly wage,” Schonlau added. “Many of them may be struggling financial so we feel this is a good way to help them out.”
Some employees said they would use the extra money to pay bills, while others wanted to spend it on their families during the holidays.
“It’s going to be a great Christmas,” said Nelson Rivera, who has worked at The Shores for six years and always looks forward to the bonuses.“I’m going to buy presents for all my children and maybe something for myself if I can. Thank you to all the residents. I enjoy working here because of them.”
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on December 22, 2006. Read the original PDF.