Ashley Cohen

Group photo of staff at an ECRC location

MVA Supports Veterans Through New ECRC

LOS ANGELES, CA (January 2026) — Since launching earlier this month, Los Angeles County’s Emergency Centralized Response Center (ECRC) has responded to hundreds of referrals by bringing county and city departments, outreach teams, and service providers into a single system. Embedded within this system, the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA) serves as the County’s primary veteran-focused response partner, ensuring veterans are identified quickly and connected to housing, VA benefits, and veteran-specific services.

ECRC operates as part of a broader countywide shift toward centralized coordination, including the establishment of the Los Angeles County Department of Homeless Services and Housing (HSH), which was established to consolidate homelessness programs, funding, and staff that were previously spread across multiple departments.

“By working together, ECRC and MVA have been able to address gaps in services and respond more effectively to client needs,” said Julie Jimenez, administrative manager with MVA’s Homeless Services Division (HSD).

As the primary point of contact for agencies engaging with veterans during outreach and encampment response efforts, MVA connects veterans to VA benefits, verifies VA shelter bed availability, matches eligible veterans to VA Project-Based Voucher housing, and links individuals to veteran-specific housing and supportive service programs. In addition to street outreach, MVA proactively works with homeless service providers and shelters to identify veterans already enrolled in programs and ensure they are connected to the full range of veteran-informed services available to them. MVA also provides training and technical guidance to partner agencies on veteran and VA systems.

MVA’s embedded role within ECRC allows the department to function as both a connector and problem-solver, helping partner agencies navigate veteran-specific systems while reducing delays and service gaps during outreach and encampment response efforts.

This coordinated approach strengthens continuity of care by ensuring veterans are not lost between systems and that follow-up remains consistent as individuals move through housing, benefits, and supportive service pathways.

“The ECRC–MVA partnership has directly contributed to improved access to resources and more consistent follow-through for participants, demonstrating what is possible when agencies align their goals and work collectively toward shared outcomes,” Jimenez said.

MVA’s ongoing work within ECRC reflects a commitment to strengthening coordination across county systems and ensuring veterans experiencing homelessness are connected to timely, appropriate, and veteran-informed services that support long-term stability.

Community members who encounter someone experiencing homelessness are encouraged to contact 2-1-1 for information, referrals, and access to countywide services, or submit a request through LA-HOP, Los Angeles County’s online portal designed to assist people experiencing unsheltered homelessness by connecting them with outreach services.

Story and photos by Layla Romero, Staff Assistant, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

Facilitator presenting artwork during women veterans social

Women Veterans’ Social Afternoon Expands Connection

ARCADIA (January 25, 2026) — The Women Veterans’ Social Afternoon launched on January 25 as a community-based extension of the ongoing Monday Women Veterans’ Social at the West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs (VA) campus. Designed to increase access for women who are unable to attend weekday evening gatherings, the Social Afternoon brings connection and support directly into the community.

The Social was conceived through a partnership between Krystal Rains, an Air Force veteran and certified peer support specialist, and Aspyn Adams of the American Red Cross, with a shared focus on creating accessible spaces for connection.

The January gathering also included outreach support from Marisol Gonzalez, a Marine veteran and Peer Support Specialist with Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN) Supervisorial District 4 (VPAN SD4) and Jobs. Vision. Success. of Southern California.

At the first Women Veterans’ Social Afternoon, participants got to know one another through resiliency-focused and art-based activities.

“This was created as a time and space where women veterans can come together in shared experience,” said Rains. “Extending the Monday West LA VA Social into the community allows more women to participate in a way that fits their schedules.”

The Arcadia Social Afternoon received additional support from community partners, including Disabled American Veterans and Southern California Grantmakers.

Building on the positive response, the next Women Veterans’ Social Afternoon will take place on Sunday, February 22, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the American Red Cross building in Arcadia. Light refreshments will be provided, and space is limited.

Women veterans interested in additional opportunities to connect are also encouraged to explore the Veterans Stand Together – VPAN SD4 Galentines event and ongoing programs through Women Vets on Point, which offers employment, housing, and mental health resources, as well as regular virtual connection opportunities for women veterans and their families.

Story and photo by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

West LA VA Peer Center Celebrates One Year of Service

LOS ANGELES (January 22, 2026) — What was once a quiet space on the West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs (VA) campus has become a vibrant, welcoming hub where veterans gather, connect, and build community, shaped by veterans, for veterans.

Located in Building 306 at the West Los Angeles VA Medical Center, the Peer Center is celebrating its first year of service, marking a meaningful milestone in the creation of a veteran-led space rooted in trust, shared experience, and peer support. The center reflects a strong collaboration between the Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System (VAGLAHS), the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA), and a network of Veteran-serving organizations working together to ensure peer-led support remains accessible and welcoming.

“All veterans deserve a place where they feel welcome and respected,” said MVA Director Jim Zenner. “The Peer Center removes barriers and creates connection, regardless of service era or discharge status, and establishes a strong foundation for continued partnership.”

Operated by Veteran Peer Specialists, the Peer Center offers a welcoming environment where veterans can gather, participate in activities, access technology, and receive one-on-one support navigating VA services and community resources.

“When you see veterans coming back week after week, talking, laughing, and connecting, that’s the community we set out to build,” said U.S. Army veteran John Follmer, Veterans Advisory Commissioner for Supervisorial District 3 and Peer Support Specialist with the Veteran Peer Access Network in Supervisorial District 3 (VPAN SD3).

Through his work with MVA and VPAN SD3, Follmer was closely involved in the planning and launch of the Peer Center and continues to support peer-led engagement on the West Los Angeles VA campus. His role focuses on ensuring veterans have consistent, trusted access to guidance, connection, and peer support.

“The Peer Center is a safe, barrier-free space built and staffed by veterans, for veterans,” Follmer said. “That’s why we host Bunker Social at the Peer Center every Monday. That consistency is crucial for building confidence and trust, alongside other Veteran-led programs shaped by participant feedback.”

In its first year, the Peer Center served more than 1,000 veterans and their family members, welcoming an average of 25 veteran visitors each day and hosting more than 30 special events and recurring programs developed in response to veteran input.

Guided by a veteran-led steering committee and supported by partners including VAGLAHS, MVA, VPAN, The Veterans Collective, Disabled American Veterans, and Village for Vets, the Peer Center continues to serve as a trusted space for connection and support for veterans living on campus and those visiting from across the region.

All veterans, their families, and supportive members of the community are welcome to attend Bunker Social at the Peer Center every Monday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Peer Center is located at the West Los Angeles VA Medical Center, 11301 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90073, in Building 306 on the North Campus next to the canteen. Hours are Monday, Tuesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Questions or inquiries about hosting events can be directed to VHAWLAPeerCenter@va.gov.

Story and photo by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

Jan 21, 2026 — Veterans Advisory Commission – January

Veterans and support staff gathered together

A Veteran’s Transition Toward Stability, Supported by Countywide Care

LOS ANGELES, CA (December 29, 2025) — U.S. Army Veteran Wesley Clemans and his wife were supported in transitioning into interim housing through a coordinated, veteran-centered outreach and placement effort on Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025, along Broadway Avenue in the Compton Sheriff’s Station area, after county teams worked across agencies to build trust and align the right resources to meet their medical, family and personal needs with dignity and care.

The effort was led by the Central Homeless Outreach Services Team (HOST) in partnership with the Veterans HOST (VHOST), Veterans Mental Evaluation Team (VMET), Veteran Peer Access Network Supervisor District 2 (VPAN SD2), the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA), the Chief Executive Office of Homeless Initiatives (CEO-HI), and the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), following weeks of outreach and coordination.

As the team met with Clemans, hesitation was evident and rooted in years of unmet expectations. Rather than rushing the process, VPAN SD2 Battle Buddy Arman Feldman, a Marine Corps veteran with lived experience, focused on meeting Clemans where he was and creating space for trust.

“As a fellow veteran, especially one who has suffered from PTSD and homelessness, I knew what Mr. Clemans was going through,” said Feldman. “I got down on a knee and slowed the process down for him. I wanted him to know that even though there were a lot of moving parts, it was all for his well-being.”

Feldman explained that many veterans approach outreach with caution, shaped by past experiences and a fear of hidden motives. Establishing intent clearly and respectfully was essential to moving forward.

“Most veterans feel that the only reason someone wants to do anything kind for them is because there is a hidden agenda,” said Feldman. “I let Mr. Clemans know that the only agenda that day was to serve a veteran who had served honorably.”

The placement required close coordination across multiple teams, each contributing expertise while maintaining a shared focus on respect and veteran-centered care.

“What made this collaboration work was a common desire to help a veteran who was suffering and the respect every single member of the team had for our country’s troops and veterans,” said Feldman.

As conversations continued, two practical concerns became central for Clemans and his wife: ensuring the safety of their cats and securing transportation for their personal belongings. These details played a critical role in the couple’s willingness to accept assistance.

“Pets are family members,” said Feldman. “When everyone else and society has failed us, betrayed us, used us, and spit us back out, pets have been there — loyal and always loving. To leave a pet behind is to betray the morals and principles we have been trained by.”

Feldman also emphasized the importance of honoring a veteran’s sense of identity and dignity through their personal belongings.

“Our belongings, even though they are not important in the bigger scheme of things, are all we have,” said Feldman. “It makes us feel human, gives us a sense of ownership, and gives us a way to justify our human value and worth.”

With assistance from Animal Control, both cats were safely secured and later delivered once the couple was settled. Feldman volunteered to transport the couple’s belongings, ensuring nothing was left behind.

During transport to the interim housing site in East Los Angeles, Clemans shared his personal history, including his service as an Army medic, the loss of both parents, and significant medical challenges in recent years. He also shared that this was the first time anyone had clearly explained the VA benefits he was eligible to receive.

“The only way I made sense of it all and got the help I needed was because another veteran helped guide me and show me the way,” said Feldman. “It was an honor and a privilege to do the same for Mr. Clemans.”

Upon arrival at the Courtyard Inn, the team coordinated with hotel staff to ensure continuity of care, while LAHSA outreach workers assisted with unloading belongings. Follow-up support will continue through the Central HOST, VHOST and VMET teams.

Looking ahead, Feldman emphasized that this placement represents the beginning — not the end — of the journey.

“The journey for Mr. and Mrs. Clemans has just begun,” said Feldman. “I am so happy that they have a stable roof over their heads, but there is so much more ahead. As their personal battle buddy, I will help make their dreams turn into a reality.”

Story by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

Photos Courtesy of Veteran Mental Evaluation Team (VMET)/ Veteran Homeless Outreach Services Team (VHOST)

MVA Monthly Thread – December 2025

House model with a compass symbolizing guidance toward housing

LA County Launches Veteran Housing Navigation Program to Expand Support

LOS ANGELES, CA (December 19, 2025) — The Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA) today announced the launch of the Veteran Housing Navigation Program (VHNP), a new countywide effort designed to accelerate housing placements for homeless and justice-involved veterans and strengthen long-term housing stability across all five Supervisorial Districts.

“We have our sights set on the federal benchmarks for ending veteran homelessness and the County’s investment in standing up this program is further proof our Board is fully invested in the One Team partnership with our federal, state, and city partners,” said MVA Director Jim Zenner. “Our veterans who are experiencing homelessness on our streets deserve nothing less than the level of devotion to the mission they maintained during their military service from the staff employed to assist them getting off the street. That has been and will continue to be my expectation on the road to meeting this Countywide goal.”

The program supports the County’s broader strategy to end veteran homelessness by expanding dedicated housing navigation services and improving coordination across agencies and providers. Through One Team, a collaboration that unites Los Angeles County departments, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, housing partners, and community organizations, VHNP enhances system alignment and strengthens the collective effort to connect veterans with permanent housing and sustained support.

“I think we all feel a collective shame that any veteran finds themselves living on our streets. We have made progress getting veterans housed and cared for, but we have to do more, and we have to do better,” said Supervisor Janice Hahn, Fourth District. “This new program is designed to break down the bureaucratic barriers that have existed between departments and ultimately get more veterans connected to permanent housing more quickly. Our veterans don’t just deserve our praise – they are owed our support and our care.”

Housing Navigator teams in each Supervisorial District provide hands-on assistance with housing searches, unit identification, document readiness, landlord engagement, transportation to viewings, and help with rental applications. Navigators also connect veterans to employment support, behavioral health care, legal advocacy, and VA benefits as part of a comprehensive stabilization plan.

Earlier this year, a coordinated team from MVA, the VA, and County partners helped Gar, a 59-year-old veteran, move from unsheltered homelessness to a permanent home after entering interim housing through the Pathway Home program. His experience, featured in “A Pathway Home for Gar,” shows what targeted navigation and cross-agency coordination can accomplish while also underscoring the barriers many veterans still face in securing permanent housing. The Veteran Housing Navigation Program is designed to meet that need by adding dedicated navigators whose primary focus is helping veterans move into stable housing as quickly as possible.

By accelerating placements, reducing administrative and practical barriers, and strengthening communication across providers, VHNP fills a critical gap in the veteran homelessness response system. Navigators work closely with the Veteran Coordinated Entry System to ensure timely referrals, a coordinated experience, and ongoing support that helps veterans remain stably housed.

“Stories like Gar’s show us that stability is possible when the right support meets a person’s determination,” said Sarah Mahin, Director of the Department of Homeless Services and Housing. “We look forward to continuing to collaborate with MVA to ensure the people who served their country receive the services and housing resources they deserve.”

VHNP further strengthens cross-agency alignment by coordinating with County departments, the VA, nonprofit housing providers, and community partners through the One Team framework. This collective approach ensures that housing navigation, supportive services, and stabilization efforts remain integrated, consistent, and centered on the needs of veterans.

As Los Angeles County continues to strengthen its response to veteran homelessness, the Veteran Housing Navigation Program plays a critical role in expanding support and improving coordination across systems. VHNP not only connects veterans to permanent housing but also opens the door for new partners to get involved. Landlords willing to rent to veterans, community organizations looking to support housing efforts, and veterans seeking assistance are encouraged to contact MVA. Every unit, partnership, and outreach call helps move the County closer to ending veteran homelessness.

Resources for Veterans: Veterans experiencing homelessness can call 310-268-3350 (Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.) for same-day housing assistance, or 211 for after-hours support. Additional resources are available at: va.gov/greater-los-angeles-health-care/health-services/homeless-veteran-care

How to Connect with MVA:

Call 877-4LA-VETS (877-452-8387), Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Email intake@mva.lacounty.gov
Submit a form at mva.lacounty.gov/contact-us
Access in-person services across Los Angeles County at mva.lacounty.gov/contact-us

Dec 17, 2025 — Veterans Advisory Commission

Awards presentation with certificate recipients

Los Angeles County Veterans Service Partners Recognize FY25 Annual Awardees

LOS ANGELES, CA (December 10, 2025) — Veterans service organizations and community partners from across Los Angeles County gathered on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at The California Endowment to celebrate the recipients of the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Annual Veteran Service Awards. The event recognized individuals, teams, and partners whose work continues to strengthen access, trust, and care for veterans and their families countywide.

“The work recognized through these awards represents the heart of our veteran-serving community,” said Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA) Director Jim Zenner. “Each recipient plays a role in building trust, strengthening access, and ensuring veterans feel supported every step of the way.”

Nominees were honored for their exceptional service, collaboration, and commitment to veteran-centered care.

Among this year’s honorees was the Veteran Peer Access Network Supervisorial District 1 (VPAN SD1) team, which received VPAN Supervisorial District of the Year, while their Program Manager Leo Chirinos was named VPAN Program Manager of the Year.

“This year’s recognition is especially meaningful given the challenges our team faced,” said Leo Chirinos, VPAN SD1 Program Manager. “We experienced staff reductions, the loss of experienced team members, and the emotional toll of the wildfires impacting Los Angeles County. Despite it all, our team stepped up and supported wherever we could. This award reflects the dedication and commitment each team member showed in serving our communities when they needed it most.”

Chirinos also highlighted the strength of long-standing partnerships.

“Through the collaborations we’ve built over the years with JVS SoCal and MVA, we’ve remained a constant source of support for veterans and their families across SD1 and Los Angeles County,” he said. “It’s humbling to know our partners felt strongly enough to nominate our team. We’re proud of this honor and excited for what 2026 will bring. Semper Fi!”

The Annual Veteran Service Awards reflect excellence throughout the year. Nominations are submitted anonymously, with monthly award winners advancing to quarterly consideration, and annual recipients selected from those recognized across the year.

“It’s important to recognize those delivering veteran services because their efforts directly affect veterans’ health and quality of life,” said Keith Niesen, FY25 Veteran Service Officer of the Year. “These awards raise awareness of veterans’ needs, encourage continued support and funding, and boost morale for the people doing this critical work.”

The Los Angeles Veterans Collaborative brings together agencies committed to improving access, coordination, and outcomes for veterans and military families across Los Angeles County. Participating organizations include the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA), the Department of Mental Health Veterans Mental Health and Family Services (DMH VMFS), the Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN), Jewish Vocational Service of Southern California (JVS SoCal), and the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet). Together, these partners form a growing, innovative network dedicated to meeting veterans and their families where they are.

FY25 Annual Award Recipients

Volunteer of the Year
Norma Peña (DMH VMFS)
Recognized for her dedication, compassion, and thoughtful care for clients during her internship.

Creative Solution of the Year
Hector “Manny” Arroyo (JVS-SSVF)
Honored for building strong landlord partnerships and expanding housing opportunities for veterans.

Community Partner of the Year
Anthony Rodriguez (CalVet)
Recognized for connecting agencies across Los Angeles and Ventura counties and strengthening interagency collaboration.

Support Service Staff of the Year – DMH VMFS
Alejandro Vasquez
Acknowledged for hands-on leadership, mentorship, and commitment to staff development.

Support Line Agent of the Year
Jorge Marcia (DMH VMFS)
Honored for his problem-solving approach and dedication to improving support line services.

Battle Buddy of the Year (VPAN)
Enrique Conchas (JVS-SD5)
Recognized for exceptional peer leadership, advocacy for LGBTQ+ veterans, and mentorship of peer support specialists.

Support Service Staff of the Year – MVA
Veloice Crosby, Jr.
Celebrated for creating a welcoming, respectful, and supportive environment for veterans and staff alike.

Veteran Service Officer of the Year
Keith Niesen (MVA)
Honored for expert advocacy, mentorship of fellow VSOs, and life-changing outcomes for veterans.

Program Manager of the Year (VPAN)
Leo Chirinos (JVS-SD1)
Recognized for leadership, expertise, and empowering teams to succeed.

Supervisorial District of the Year (VPAN)
JVS-SD1
Honored for consistency, creativity in engagement, and unwavering commitment to veterans and families.

Article by Layla Romero, Staff Assistant I, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

Photos by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

Patriotic Hall 100th anniversary graphic

Event to Honor 100 Years of Bob Hope Patriotic Hall

LOS ANGELES (December 3rd, 2025) —The L.A. County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA) and The Warrior Heritage Foundation (WHF) will commemorate the 100th anniversary of Bob Hope Patriotic Hall on Saturday, February 21, 2026, with a two-session celebration honoring a century of dedicated service to L.A. County veterans, service members, and their families while showcasing the Hall’s vital role in the community’s future.

Under the theme “Honoring 100 Years of Service, Building the Next 100,” the centennial event will celebrate Bob Hope Patriotic Hall’s historic role in serving L.A .County veterans, service members, and their families and raise awareness about the impact the iconic landmark will continue to have on the community for generations to come.

“This event showcases the allure of Bob Hope Patriotic Hall and brings life to each space within the building to demonstrate its potential and tell the stories of the Hall; highlighting our commitment to leaving no veteran behind in LA,” said Justin Garza, Executive Director, Warrior Heritage Foundation.

“Bob Hope Patriotic Hall has stood as a testament to Los Angeles County’s commitment to serving those who served us. As we mark one hundred years, we honor the many people who have walked through these halls in search of connection and support and recommit ourselves to building the next century of service for veterans, service members, and their families,” said MVA Director Jim Zenner. “We invite the entire community to join us, celebrate this moment, and help drive the work that will define the next century.”

The celebration will feature two distinct sessions designed to engage the entire community. A free, family-friendly morning session from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. will welcome the public to experience the Hall’s living legacy through engaging programming for families, veterans, civic leaders, and community icons.

A ticketed evening session from 5 p.m. to midnight will honor donors and supporters with a formal gala featuring casino night entertainment and a plated dinner, providing crucial fundraising support for the Hall’s continued mission.

Designed by the Allied Architects Association of Los Angeles in the Italian Renaissance Revival style, Patriotic Hall was built and opened in 1925 to honor and serve veterans of the Civil War, Spanish-American War, and World War I, with its grand opening celebrated in 1926. Upon completion, the twelve-story equivalent structure claimed the distinction of being the tallest building in Los Angeles.

Throughout its storied history, Patriotic Hall has adapted to meet the changing needs of those who serve. During World War II, the building provided housing for service members on leave and became a premier entertainment venue, hosting legendary performers including Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, and Dorothy Lamour who came to uplift the troops. The facility later housed the city’s municipal courts in the 1940s and served as a processing center for the Army and Air Force during the Korean War.

After years of deterioration and deferred maintenance left the building’s infrastructure outdated, the County of Los Angeles launched an ambitious rehabilitation project in 2006 with a cost of approximately $46 million. The comprehensive restoration preserved the building’s historic character both inside and out, from marble finishes and decorative murals to cast stone facades and copper cornices.

The meticulous preservation effort earned Bob Hope Patriotic Hall a Conservancy Preservation Award in 2014, recognizing the successful restoration of one of Los Angeles’ most prominent historical facilities. Today, the building thrives as a multipurpose facility offering meeting and conference space where veterans and community members gather, connect, and recreate.

The centennial celebration will mark not only a century of service but also a commitment to ensuring Bob Hope Patriotic Hall continues its mission for generations to come.

EVENT DETAILS:

Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026
Morning Session: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Family-friendly, free and open to the public)
Evening Session: 5 p.m. – midnight (Ticketed formal gala with casino night and plated dinner)

For more information about the 100th anniversary celebration or to purchase tickets for the evening session, please contact the Warrior Heritage Foundation or visit https://www.bobhopehall.org/100yearcelebration.

WHF Media Contact:
Greg Sisa | Warrior Heritage Foundation greg@warriorheritagefoundation.org1 970-420-3499

MVA Media Contact:
Ashley Cohen | Communications Director acohen@mva.lacounty.gov1 213-824-5455

Get Connected to MVA and VPAN Services:
📞 Call: (877) 4LA-VETS
📧 Email: intake@mva.lacounty.gov
🌐 Visit: mva.lacounty.gov