On February 7, the City of Palmdale hosted a press conference in partnership with Together California to mark the groundbreaking of a transformational foster housing project in Palmdale. The Together California Village, once built, will serve hundreds of foster children with family housing and vital supportive services.
Together California founder and actor Christian Bale, Palmdale Mayor Austin Bishop, LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, and Together California Executive Director Tim McCormick joined the groundbreaking to celebrate the momentous step forward in ensuring the well-being of children in Palmdale.
“We are immensely grateful to all who have joined us as we embark on this journey to provide nurturing and supportive environments for foster children,” remarked Christian Bale. “Together California’s mission is deeply rooted in the belief that every child deserves to grow up in a loving and secure family environment, and this project is a testament to that commitment.”
In a huge win for the community, the City of Palmdale approved $1.2 million in housing grant funding for Together California to cover pre-construction costs in support of the project. The LA County Board of Supervisors approved $500,000 in funds to support the land acquisition under the leadership of Fifth District Supervisor Kathryn Barger
“We are proud to stand alongside Together California in this groundbreaking initiative that reflects the spirit of unity and compassion in our city,” said Palmdale Mayor Austin Bishop. “By providing a stable and nurturing environment for children in need, Together California not only benefits the individual children, but also strengthens our community as a whole.”
Together California acquired a 4.67-acre site adjacent to McAdam Park in 2022, its first location in LA County. Offering pioneering care designed to keep foster siblings together, the “village” will feature 12 three-bedroom townhomes, each housing six children. A full-time, professionally trained foster parent will provide care and support. Studio apartments will be available to provide temporary housing for birth parents and transitional housing for children aging out of foster care. A 7,000-square-foot community center that will offer enriching programs and services to the entire community is part of the project. Award-winning AC Martin Architects is partnering with Together California to design the village.
In addition to the Together California project, the City of Palmdale unveiled a concept for the upcoming William J. McAdam Park revitalization. Funded by Measure AV, the improvements will include new restrooms, a concession stand, a new ballfield, Musco field lighting, and an updated tot lot. Slated for completion in 2025, it is a major investment in quality of life for residents.
For more information on Together California and their mission, please visit https://togethercalifornia.org/
About the City of Palmdale:
Palmdale is a vibrant community of almost 168,000 that has been on the leading edge of America’s newest technologies, with major breakthroughs in aerospace, materials science, energy and the environment, for more than 50 years. Known for its stunning desert landscape and clear blue skies, Palmdale offers a peaceful and serene environment for its residents. Its many parks, recreational areas, and hiking trails make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Palmdale boasts a diverse community with a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its vibrant festivals and events. With affordable housing options and a strong economy, Palmdale is a great place to live, work, and play. Visit us at www.cityofpalmdaleca.gov.
About Together California:
Together California, formerly known as SOS Children’s Villages California, is dedicated to providing care and support for children, youth and families in need. With a focus on enabling siblings to remain together in nurturing, supportive environments, Together California works tirelessly to ensure that every child grows up with love, respect, and security. For more information, visit https://togethercalifornia.org/