Mayor Garcetti Celebrates Opening of Women Veteran Housing Program
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The Blue Butterfly units were originally homes for Navy personnel. Today, they have been transformed into beautiful homes, equipped with a park, social services, and drought-resistant gardens. This facility establishes a new national model: renovate unused military housing and put it to good use for our country’s veterans.
“The contributions of our servicewomen do not end when they take off their uniform, and neither do our obligations to honor their service when they return,” said Mayor Eric Garcetti. “And we know that 73% of our homeless women veterans don’t have shelter at night. And, tragically, 60% of all women veterans in L.A. County suffered some form of sexual violence while serving in our country’s military. As mayor, I will ensure Los Angeles will not ignore the needs of our most vulnerable populations.”
The Blue Butterfly Village includes 76 two-bedroom, single-family units that are rent-subsidized. The facility also offers support services to help women navigate the road back to self-sufficiency while juggling the responsibility of childcare.
“Blue Butterfly Village is a part of San Pedro, a community with deep ties to the military,” said Councilmember Joe Buscaino. “It is a place where families can thrive, and where women veterans can get the support they need and deserve.”
Last year, Mayor Garcetti pledged to end veterans’ homelessness by the end of 2015. Since January 1, 2014, the City has successfully housed 3,683 homeless veterans and has secured more federal resources for housing veterans than any other city in the country.
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