Military and Veterans Affairs

SANTA CLARITA (November 2025) — What began as a mechanical breakdown became a clear demonstration of how accountability and collaboration can transform a setback into sustainable progress. A local veteran’s transmission failure left him without reliable transportation to get to work, attend medical appointments, and maintain stability for his family. The $3,285 repair cost created a serious barrier, but through coordinated support between Village for Vets, the Santa Clarita Veteran Services Collaborative, the Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN) Supervisorial District 5 (SD5), and early intervention by Veteran Service Officer Emby Gonzalez, the situation became a real example of what can happen when County systems and community partners move in alignment.  

 The veteran initially met with Gonzalez while seeking support to enroll in VA health care and begin the disability claims process. Upon recognizing the significance of his transportation insecurities, she immediately referred him to Albert Rodriguez at the Santa Clarita Veteran Services Collaborative, setting the coordinated response into motion and ensuring the veteran was connected to the right support without delay.  

 When the veteran later connected with Peer Support Specialist Ty Pryor of VPAN SD5, he had already been actively working to stabilize his situation. He completed applications, submitted required documentation, and committed his own funds toward the repair. Pryor recognized the veteran’s consistency and began to help coordinate efforts across community partners for further momentum.  

 “He did everything right — applied, followed up, showed receipts, and stayed patient,” said Pryor. “My role was to make sure the right people were connected so his effort turned into results.”  

In line with the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA) and its leadership’s vision to strengthen County-community collaboration, VPAN SD5 worked directly with Village for Vets and the Santa Clarita Veteran Services Collaborative to close the remaining financial gap. The Collaborative moved quickly to provide emergency assistance, Village for Vets stepped in through its emergency fund program, and VPAN finalized coordination through its supportive services framework. The veteran also contributed $475 of his own funds, reinforcing that accountability remains central to every outcome. 

 “We’re veterans ourselves — vets helping vets,” said Albert Rodriguez, President of the Santa Clarita Veteran Services Collaborative. “We know the struggle because we’ve lived it. There’s no judgment here, just commitment. The path to stability becomes clearer when County programs and community partners work together instead of separately.”  

By October 29, 2025, the repair was complete. The veteran’s vehicle was back on the road — and so was his sense of control and stability. “It meant everything,” the veteran shared. “I have nothing but gratitude for Ty and the VPAN leadership, Albert and the Collaborative, Village for Vets, and Emby. It was a grind, but they stuck to their word and helped me get back stable.” 

Asked how he persevered through delays and the process itself, he added: “I just kept following up and handling what I could control. As soon as I did my part, VPAN and the partners held up theirs.”  

Now back behind the wheel, the veteran is shifting from survival mode to long-term progress.  

“With the weather changing, having my car back means everything,” he explained. “I used to ride miles on my bike just to get groceries. Now I can pick up extra work, pay down debt, and get back to giving through my church. This cleared the jam and got everything moving again.”  

This case reflects what MVA leadership continues to emphasize across Los Angeles County: when County programs, community partners, and veterans themselves move together instead of independently, stability follows. 

Story and Photos by Tyron Pryor, Peer Support Specialist, Veteran Peer Access Network Supervisorial District 5, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

LOS ANGELES (November 2025) — In honor of Operation Green Light for Veterans, the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA) is joining county departments, cities, and community partners across the nation in illuminating buildings and landmarks green from Nov. 4–11 to honor veterans and their families.

This symbolic gesture demonstrates Los Angeles County’s ongoing commitment to veterans and encourages residents, businesses, and organizations to shine a light of gratitude and hope while raising awareness of the resources available to support those who served.

“Veterans continue to serve long after they take off the uniform,” said U.S. Army Veteran Jim Zenner, director, MVA. “They strengthen our neighborhoods, workplaces, and communities. Lighting Los Angeles County green honors that ongoing service and reflects our commitment to helping veterans thrive.”

Launched by the National Association of Counties (NACo), Operation Green Light raises awareness of the challenges many veterans face and highlights the local, state, and federal resources available to assist them. Now in its fifth year, the campaign invites communities to show their appreciation by shining green lights as a symbol of gratitude and hope.

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, led by Board Chair Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Fifth District, has proclaimed Nov. 11, 2025, as Veterans Day in Los Angeles County and reaffirmed the county’s participation in Operation Green Light. The motion encourages residents, businesses, and local governments to join the effort by lighting their own spaces green in support of veterans.

Los Angeles County is home to more than 230,000 veterans. Many rely on county programs and partners for benefits, housing, employment, health care, and peer support. Through Operation Green Light, participants highlight these resources while honoring the sacrifices and enduring strength of veterans and their families.

Participating county sites include:

• Bob Hope Patriotic Hall, Headquarters for MVA, in downtown Los Angeles
• The Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) headquarters in the City of Industry
• The Board of Supervisors Chief Executive Office at Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration
• The Department of Agricultural Commissioner/Weights and Measures buildings in Arcadia and South Gate
• The Office of the County Counsel
• The County Probation Department
• The County Library
• The County Development Authority
• The Department of Beaches and Harbors:
  • Marina Towers, Marina del Rey
  • Parking Kiosk at Zuma Beach in Malibu
  • Manhattan Beach Maintenance Yard
  • Knob Hill Maintenance Yard, Redondo Beach
  • Entry Fountain at Burton W. Chace Park in Marina del Rey
• The Department of Health Services:
  • Los Angeles General Medical Center
  • Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center
  • Harbor-UCLA Medical Center
  • High Desert Regional Health Center
  • Martin-Luther King Jr. – Outpatient Center
• The City of Pico Rivera City Hall

“Lighting a single bulb may seem small, but together they become a beacon of gratitude,” Zenner said. “I am inviting residents, businesses, and agencies across Los Angeles County to take part and help us honor every veteran and family who has served.”

Residents and organizations can participate by:

• Lighting homes, offices, or landmarks in green during the week of Veterans Day, Nov. 4–11.
• Sharing photos, videos, or posts on social media using #OperationGreenLight and #LAC4Veterans
• Submitting photos or videos through the form at https://forms.gle/qCAHQCwVkW15nZXP6 or emailing pio@mva.lacounty.gov.

“Operation Green Light is an opportunity to thank veterans for both their service to our nation and their contributions to our communities,” said NACo Executive Director Matthew Chase. “With hundreds of counties coming together to light up everything from courthouses to bridges, we know veterans will see and feel our gratitude for their selflessness and courage.”

Through Operation Green Light, Los Angeles County underscores its continued mission to ensure no veteran is left behind — illuminating not only landmarks, but also pathways to connection, care, and community for those who served.

LOS ANGELES, CA (October 31, 2025) — Communities across Los Angeles County are uniting to honor military service through events and outreach that celebrate veterans and connect families with earned benefits and services during Veterans and Military Families Appreciation Month.

“As a veteran myself, I know that recognition matters, but connection matters even more,” said Jim Zenner, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “Every event, every handshake, every act of appreciation helps a veteran know they are not alone and that they have a community that is there to support them.”

To kick off the month, from Nov. 4 to 11, County buildings and landmarks will be illuminated green as part of Operation Green Light, a national initiative that symbolizes gratitude and support for those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The initiative invites departments, residents, and businesses to participate by lighting their workplaces or homes in green as a visible expression of appreciation for veterans in their communities.

“Most veterans come back to our community and thrive. After leaving the military, they bring skills and a commitment to service that strengthens Los Angeles County and beyond,” said Zenner. “We honor their service and sacrifice by lighting our county up in green to show that LA County is united in that honor.”

Throughout November, cities, County departments, and partner organizations will host ceremonies, community gatherings, and resource fairs to honor veterans and raise awareness of programs available to them and their families. The full and continually expanding list of local observances is available at mva.lacounty.gov/events/tag/nov_2025_honoring_veterans.

A few highlighted events include:

• Nov. 2 – VA Greater Los Angeles Veterans Stand Down: A day of community support at the West Los Angeles VA Medical Center offering services, resources, and outreach for veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
• Nov. 8 – East Los Angeles Veterans Day Ceremony and Resource Fair: Hosted by Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, this community event honors veterans with a formal ceremony, live entertainment, and a resource fair connecting attendees to benefits and services.
• Nov. 9 – Veterans Day Celebration at Bob Hope Patriotic Hall: Presented by the Warrior Heritage Foundation, this celebration features tributes, community engagement, and resources for veterans and their families.
• Nov. 15 – Final Salute: End-of-Life Benefits and Honors Event: A free educational event at Highland Church in La Habra providing information on burial, memorial, and survivor benefits for veterans and families.
• Nov. 20 – 9th Annual Veterans Thanksgiving Appreciation Dinner: Hosted by the Veteran’s Advocacy Group of America, this annual Thanksgiving celebration brings the community together for a heartfelt afternoon of gratitude, honoring veterans with a meal, shared stories, and fellowship.

These events represent just a few of the many opportunities to honor service across Los Angeles County. Departments, cities, and community organizations are encouraged to share details of upcoming veteran-related events by emailing PIO@mva.lacounty.gov for inclusion.

“Honoring service is more than a ceremony; it is a call to action,” Zenner said. “By increasing awareness of the benefits and programs available, we are helping veterans and families build stability, opportunity, and a renewed sense of belonging.”

The County continues to strengthen efforts to ensure veterans and their families are connected to the benefits they have earned and deserve. These include assistance with housing, employment, education, health care, and behavioral health resources, as well as access to the County’s Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN), which provides one-on-one support through peers with shared military experience.

Community members are also encouraged to participate by sharing messages, photos, or stories recognizing veterans and military families. Submissions may be featured in upcoming County communications or displays. Submissions can be made through the Veteran & Family Recognition Form or emailed to PIO@mva.lacounty.gov.

Residents may also explore local veteran banner programs, which provide meaningful opportunities to publicly recognize service members in their communities.

“These combined efforts reflect Los Angeles County’s ongoing commitment to honoring veterans, supporting military families, and ensuring access to the full range of services and benefits available to those who have served,” Zenner said. “This work is possible because of our partners across the County, including departments, cities, and community organizations that step forward to serve those who served. Together, we are creating spaces of gratitude, connection, and hope for veterans and their families.”

Article by: Ashley Cohen, Communications Director, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA)

LOS ANGELES, CA (October 31, 2025) —The Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA) and local veteran partners recently worked together to bridge a gap in benefits and dignity—turning one act of kindness into a model for collaborative veteran support.

When Mary Heiss, the surviving spouse of Vietnam War Army Veteran James Heiss, came to the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA), she needed help applying for survivors’ benefits. After losing her son in 2021 and her husband in April 2025, she was struggling financially and unable to obtain her husband’s death certificate or remains because of a balance owed to the mortuary. Without those documents, she couldn’t move forward with her claim.

The MVA team quickly mobilized to connect Mary with community partners who could help. Within the same day, Commander Maria McKinney of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 12034 in La Verne and President Alan Stelzer of Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Chapter 446 in Pasadena stepped in to help.

The VVA paid the full balance owed to the mortuary, allowing Mary to bring her husband home. The VFW provided relief funds, purchased a special urn, and offered to host a ceremony to honor James’s life and service.

The collaboration between MVA, the VFW, and the VVA showed how local veteran organizations can come together to support families in need. As President Alan Stelzer shared through the VVA motto, “Never again will one generation of Veterans abandon another.” Commander Maria McKinney emphasized the VFW’s mission to “ensure that veterans are respected for their service, always receive their earned entitlements, and are recognized for the sacrifices they and their loved ones have made.”

“It takes a community, and this story shows how MVA and our partners across the veteran network can come together to make a real difference for those we serve.” emphasized Jim Zenner, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

This joint effort not only helped one surviving spouse take the next steps toward receiving her benefits but also demonstrated the strength of community partnerships in serving those who have served.

If You or Someone You Know is Struggling

You are not alone. Support is available—judgment-free, veteran-centered, and community-driven.

24/7 Crisis Support
Call or text 988, then press 1 for Veterans

Article by: Layla Romero, Communications Specialist, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA)

LOS ANGELES, CA (October 3, 2025) – With the federal government shutdown pausing certain Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) services, many veterans, service members, and families face uncertainty. Los Angeles County is stepping up to provide stability, ensuring uninterrupted support through its Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA).

“During these challenging times of a federal shutdown, LA County stands firm in our commitment to support our veterans and their families. We understand the critical need for uninterrupted services and are dedicated to ensuring that no veteran is left behind,” said James Zenner, Director, MVA. “Our efforts to bridge the gaps and provide essential services will continue with unwavering dedication. We are here for our veterans, now more than ever.”

VA Services Continuing During Shutdown

According to federal contingency guidance, many essential VA services remain in place despite the shutdown. Veterans can still access:

• VA Medical Centers, Outpatient Clinics, and Vet Centers, which remain open and provide care as usual
• VA benefits payments, including compensation, pension, education, and housing benefits, which continue to be processed and delivered without interruption
• Burials at VA national cemeteries, along with applications for headstones, markers, and standard burial benefits
• Decisions from the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, which remain ongoing
• VA call centers, including MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411) and the Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988, Press 1), which continue 24/7
• Suicide prevention programs, homelessness services, and caregiver support, which remain fully operational

VA Services Temporarily Paused

According to federal contingency guidance, several VA services are impacted by the shutdown. These include:

• The closure of regional benefits offices
• The suspension of career counseling and transition programs
• The shutdown of the GI Bill Hotline (1-888-GIBILL-1) and National Cemetery Applicant Assistance Hotline (1-800-697-6947)
• Delays in processing pre-need burial applications
• The suspension of new Presidential Memorial Certificates
• The pause of VA outreach to community partners

These temporary pauses make local services even more valuable. Veterans and families in Los Angeles County can be reassured that MVA is open, accessible, and committed to meeting their needs.

“Our veterans have given so much to protect our freedoms, so they should never face uncertainty when it comes to accessing the services they’ve earned,” said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger. “I am proud that our Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is stepping up and continuing to provide services and support to our veteran community in Los Angeles County. I want to ensure veterans know they can continue to count on the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs as a reliable partner and steadfast advocate for the men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform.”

 County Services Available Without Interruption

MVA remains a steady resource for veterans by providing many of the services currently unavailable through the VA:

• Claims Assistance: Accredited County Veteran Service Officers (CVSOs) help veterans file, track, and manage benefits claims.
• Education Support: Guidance on education benefit applications and questions, even while federal hotlines are closed. Note: MVA cannot check the status of existing applications or handle payment inquiries.
• Cemetery and Burial Support: Assistance with National Cemetery applications and pre-need burial requests.
• Presidential Memorial Certificates: Application assistance for certificates honoring deceased veterans.
• Community Outreach and Navigation: Peer navigation through the Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN), along with housing, mental health, and caregiver support.

This mix of continuity and disruption highlights the critical role of local services. By stepping in where federal programs pause, MVA provides a steady hand, ensuring veterans and families remain connected to resources without interruption.

“Veterans should never have to bear the consequences of a federal government shutdown. Here in Los Angeles County, we are stepping in where Washington has fallen short. Through MVA, we are making sure our veterans and their families continue to receive the support and resources they deserve,” said Hilda L. Solis, Los Angeles County Chair Pro Tem and First District Supervisor

With more than 230,000 veterans living in Los Angeles County, the region has one of the largest veteran populations in the nation. MVA plays a critical role in ensuring this community has access to services. Bob Hope Patriotic Hall serves as the County’s central hub for benefits, peer navigation, and community programs, while MVA staff work in partnership with local organizations across all five supervisorial districts.

“Too many of our veterans are already struggling — some without a home, others trying to navigate frustrating bureaucracy just to get the care they deserve. A federal shutdown impacting the VA only makes things harder. That’s why I am grateful that here in Los Angeles County, our Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is stepping up to ensure veterans don’t fall through the cracks,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, Fourth District.

 In addition to MVA services, veterans can continue turning to the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet). CalVet offices and services remain open during the federal shutdown. Veterans may contact Local Interagency Network Coordinators or District Offices for assistance. CalVet headquarters services — including the Home Loans Division and Veterans Homes — also remain fully operational.

“Our veterans deserve certainty in uncertain times, and LA County is here to provide the care, respect, and community they’ve earned,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath, Third District. “The federal shutdown has caused unnecessary stress, but our veterans are not alone. LA County will continue offering claims assistance, education support, community outreach, and additional essential services. We are committed to supporting them through this shutdown and ensuring lasting stability, dignity, and belonging for every veteran and their family.”

LA County’s commitment extends beyond filling short-term gaps. MVA programs provide long-term support with housing stability, suicide prevention, justice involved veterans services, family assistance, and workforce connections — building resilience across the veteran community and ensuring no veteran is left behind.

“The critical need to access food, shelter, health care, and other vital services and resources does not pause during the federal government’s shutdown. That’s why we will continue working with all County departments to ensure continuity of support for our veterans, children, seniors, and the millions of residents we serve,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, Second District.

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 or submit a form at https://mva.lacounty.gov/contact-us/
• Access in-person services at locations across the county: https://mva.lacounty.gov/contact-us/

Los Angeles County stands firmly with its veterans, service members, and their families — ensuring consistent, reliable support even during times of federal uncertainty.

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

Media Contact: Ashley Cohen
Communications Director | LA County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
Call: (213) 824-5455
Email: pio@mva.lacounty.gov or ACohen@mva.lacounty.gov