Congressman Pete Aguilar has been a dedicated advocate for the Inland Empire, securing federal investments that expand affordable housing, support resident services and create new opportunities for local families. He has brought millions of dollars to the region while ensuring the concerns of its residents are heard in Washington, D.C.
National CORE and Hope through Housing Foundation are grateful for his partnership and the time he has taken to understand our mission and the people we serve. His support has helped turn local priorities into federal action.
That impact can be seen at Arrowhead Grove in San Bernardino. The redevelopment is replacing Waterman Gardens, a public housing community built in the 1940s, with 534 affordable homes and services designed around the needs of the people who live there.
Since 2022, Congressman Aguilar has secured $8.6 million in federal funding for Arrowhead Grove. The funding is helping advance new homes and a Community Resource Center that will offer educational programs, health services, employment assistance and other practical support.
Arrowhead Grove shows what can happen when government, housing authorities, nonprofit organizations and affordable housing developers each bring their resources and experience to the table. We deeply appreciate Congressman Aguilar’s belief in this community and his commitment to a project that will serve San Bernardino families for generations.
He has also taken what he has learned from communities such as Arrowhead Grove and applied it to his legislative work.
Congressman Aguilar introduced the Affordable Housing Resident Services Act to provide federal funding for services within affordable housing communities. The legislation would support after-school programs, financial education, mental health care, employment assistance and services for seniors and people with disabilities.
The proposal gives national attention to something residents and housing providers have long understood: A stable home can change the direction of a family’s life, particularly when helpful services are available nearby.
Congressman Aguilar is also looking ahead to changes in the regional economy. He secured more than $1 million for Hope through Housing’s Artificial Intelligence Innovation Lab, which will give Inland Empire residents access to new technology and training for jobs in growing industries.
“As the Inland Empire grows, so should the opportunities for its residents,” he said when announcing the funding.
That belief runs through Congressman Aguilar’s work. He is proud of the Inland Empire, confident in its potential and committed to making sure local families benefit from its progress.
National CORE and Hope through Housing are grateful for his friendship, his trust in our work and his continual support of the people we serve. We are honored to recognize Congressman Pete Aguilar as this year’s Housing Advocate of the Year.
Learn more about the National CORE Gala.
