The courtyard at Veterans Park came alive as residents gathered to honor fallen service members with food and fellowship.
A live rendition of the national anthem set the tone as neighbors came together in remembrance. And with the help of Thundar, Lighting and Peace, a nonprofit dedicated to advocating and empowering veterans, residents received military-style backpacks, hats, first aid kits and valuable resources.
Adding to the excitement, professional soccer players from the Inland Empire Strykers joined the celebration, handing out rally towels and mini soccer balls.
Service Coordinator Melody Sitt said the support that National CORE and Hope through Housing extends beyond housing – it boosts mental health, education and community.
“Events like this invite our veterans and their families to come out, have some good food and socialize,” Melody said. “We want them to find and build a community with each other. We want them to know that they are not alone.”
Opened in 2021 by National CORE, Veterans Park offers 60 apartment homes specifically designed to serve former service members and their families. Onsite services provided by Hope through Housing aim to promote stability, connection and long-term wellbeing.
While Memorial Day is a time for remembrance, it also calls us to serve those who made it back home. Veterans remain one of the most vulnerable populations when it comes to housing and homelessness. In 2024, the number of unhoused veterans exceeded 32,800 nationwide.
Through programs like Unlocking Opportunities, National CORE and Hope through Housing are bridging these gaps by providing personalized support, critical resources and pathways to success.
As we remember those we’ve lost, we must also commit to caring for those still with us – by not just offering a home but the hope and care that they deserve.
“A lot of times, everyone has their own schedules, and we can go days without seeing one another,” Veterans Park resident James said. “This event was great—we got to reconnect, and it helps us feel seen.”