PALMDALE, CA - A new era of foster care is taking shape in Palmdale! On Tuesday, Oct. 28, City leadership joined Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and Together California's visionary co-founders, Dr. Eric Esrailian and Christian Bale, and Executive Director Tim McCormick to introduce an innovative foster care model launching right here in our City in 2025. This partnership is made possible under the leadership of Los Angeles County Fifth District Supervisor Kathryn Barger, who is the impetus for bringing this program to Palmdale.

"Taking care of our children is the most important work we can do, and we are honored that Palmdale has been chosen as the launch site for this first-of-its-kind foster care initiative in California," said Palmdale Mayor Austin Bishop. "Our community is proud to be a trailblazer in this space, building a brighter future for the next generation."

City Councilmembers Eric Ohlsen and Andrea Alarcón also attended the announcement, emphasizing the City's commitment to this transformative partnership.

Together California acquired a 4.67-acre site adjacent to William J. McAdam Park in 2022, its first location on the West Coast. 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 architecture firm AC Martin is partnering with Together California to design the village.

"Palmdale is leading the charge in reimagining foster care by keeping siblings together," said Mayor Pro Tem Richard J. Loa. "With $23.8 million already invested by Together California, the City is stepping up with $6 million in upgrades for the adjacent William J. McAdam Park. Together, we are transforming dreams into reality."

This dynamic partnership reflects Palmdale's commitment to uplifting families, fostering community and creating lasting change. As the first City in California to pioneer this transformational model, Palmdale is not just meeting today's challenges - it's shaping a brighter future for foster care, proving that when communities come together, anything is possible.

For more information on Together California and its mission, please visit www.TogetherCalifornia.org.

About the City of Palmdale

The City of Palmdale, with nearly 165,000 residents, sits perfectly nestled in the Antelope Valley against the picturesque backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains. Our community thrives on its forward-thinking and innovative ethos, driving progress across multiple sectors, from transportation to aerospace to public safety. Families enjoy Palmdale's excellent schools, affordable housing, abundant recreational opportunities, diverse local culture and welcoming atmosphere, all within reach of the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Despite its urban proximity, Palmdale retains its identity as a desert oasis, boasting stunning landscapes, native Joshua trees and over 300 days of sunshine each year. Explore our possibilities at www.CityOfPalmdaleCA.gov.

About Together California

Together California is dedicated to providing care and support for children, youth and families in need. Focusing on enabling siblings to remain together in nurturing and supportive environments, Together California works tirelessly to ensure that every child grows up with love, respect and security. For more information, visit www.TogetherCalifornia.org.

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