VETERANS ENRICHED NEIGHBORHOOD – City of Palmdale – Government
Made a Major milestone Saturday with handoff of ceremonial keys to six new veterans and their family members.
Among the six receiving keys was Palmdale’s 2023 “Tom Hilzendeger” Veteran of the year. Award named by City of Palmdale for the founder of Vets 4 Veterans Antelope Valley
Saturday marked the 30th home built in central Palmdale by the Homes 4 Families veteran housing nonprofit. The homes, underwritten by the city, by Calvet Board California Department of Veterans Affairs.
Among those in attendance Lindsey Sin, Secretary CalVet, Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger alongside Assemblyman Tom Lackey and Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo, chair of Assembly Military and Veterans Affairs Committee. Also, Austin Bishop Mayor of Palmdale.
Homes are built by Homes4Families on model similar to Habitat For Humanity with volunteers. To qualify veterans invest “sweat equity,” their own hours and labor.
High Desert Medical Group along with major sponsors like Boeing Co., Lockheed Martin and Lou Gonzales among the early, key supporters along with more than 120 nonprofits and business leaders of Los Angeles County and the Antelope Valley. Juan Carrillo Assemblyman of Palmdale was represented by field director Vicky Ventura.
Additional event photos by Atherine Blanco and Totortolano family photos provided by longtime family friend Dee Black.
Click on the images to view gallery.