On July 16, the completion ceremony for La Veta Village took place in Orange City, Orange County, led by the organization “Homeaid”. The village consists of six housing units with 20 beds, aimed at addressing housing issues for the elderly and homeless families.
Located in the old town area of Orange City, La Veta Village was developed by Homeaid with funds raised to purchase three bungalows from the city government. The century-old avocado trees and other large trees were preserved as part of the courtyard landscape. The village also features a community center, outdoor kitchen and barbecue area, children’s playground, and laundry facilities.
Gina Cunningham, the executive director of Homeaid, stated that the example of La Veta Village demonstrates that through collective efforts towards meaningful goals, success can be achieved. She emphasized that having housing is the first step for people to overcome crises and move towards a stable life.
Homeaid in Los Angeles/Orange County was founded by the Southern California Builders Association. Over the past 35 years, the organization has raised $48 million and completed 105 projects in the two counties to provide safe and decent housing to improve the lives of families in need. With the aging population in Orange County, the community designed for the elderly and homeless families will bring intergenerational social interaction, a sense of belonging, and security to residents.
The project at La Veta Village was a collaboration between two builders, New Home Co. and Landsea Homes. Leveraging industry advantages, they were able to save over 50% of the costs for La Veta Village. Landsea Homes has since been acquired by New Home Co.
CalOptima Health, an independently operated healthcare system established by the Orange County government in 1995, provides health insurance plans for low-income children, adults, the elderly, and disabled individuals. Yunkyung Kim, the Chief Operating Officer, expressed their commitment to working with all residents to promote health.
Residential designers, builders, and personnel from various companies involved in outdoor landscaping and interior decoration participated in the completion ceremony of La Veta Village. The project, costing over $2 million, received a $1.4 million donation from CalOptima Health, along with contributions from donors who funded through matching donations or building materials. Many volunteers contributed their time and holidays to the project.
In March 1988, Irvine Corporation donated two abandoned farmhouses, which were demolished and renovated by the Irvine government to create transitional housing for the homeless. The Orange County Builders Association led the project, completing it in November of the same year. Subsequently, the association initiated the Homeaid project to help address the increasing homelessness issues in the 1980s.
Mike Lennon, now residing in Chicago, was the executive director of Homeaid at its founding in 1989. He was also one of the creators of the Aragon affordable housing project in Irvine. Lennon emphasized the crucial role of the construction industry in making a difference, highlighting the involvement of industry professionals, suppliers, subcontractors, and their dedication to giving back and creating positive impact.
Compared to over thirty years ago, California has seen a rise in homelessness. Lennon mentioned various reasons for this increase, underscoring the importance of collaboration among cities.
At 79 years old, Lennon continues to be involved in such initiatives, believing that being a volunteer brings greater rewards than being helped. He emphasized the purpose of serving those in need and fostering hope for a better future.
The ownership of the three bungalows at La Veta Village originally belonged to the city government. Mayor Dan Slater expressed satisfaction in selling them to Homeaid at a discounted price to provide permanent supportive housing for the elderly and families. City Manager Aaron Schultz highlighted the collaboration with Homeaid to restore and expand the historic houses, now offering housing for the homeless and elderly.
Yvette Ahlstrom, the project operations director, reflected on her emotional journey with Homeaid and the incredible teamwork that led to the realization of La Veta Village. She emphasized the importance of collective effort and compassion in addressing homelessness and creating a sense of community care.
La Veta Village stands as a symbol of hope and community collaboration, showcasing the positive impact that can be achieved when individuals and organizations come together to address housing challenges faced by vulnerable populations.