A recent government meeting highlighted a transformative housing project aimed at supporting foster care youth and their families in Palmdale. The initiative, which will unfold in two phases, includes the construction of seven residential buildings and one mixed-use building, featuring a total of 168 bedroom units and six affordable studio apartments. The project is designed to create a supportive environment for foster care youth, their caregivers, and family members, with amenities such as outdoor play areas, picnic spaces, and a community center.

The applicant, Together California, emphasized the importance of keeping siblings together in foster care, addressing a critical issue where 75% of children in the system are separated from their siblings. The project aims to provide a nurturing environment that fosters family bonds and educational success, with a focus on improving high school graduation rates among foster youth.

During the meeting, modifications to the architectural and site design were discussed to enhance safety and economic feasibility. The Planning Commission had previously recommended the planting of mature trees and the removal of certain shade structures to improve the site’s aesthetics and functionality.

Council members expressed strong support for the project, recognizing its potential to change the landscape of foster care services in California. They highlighted the multifaceted approach of the development, which not only aims to keep siblings together but also provides transitional housing for youth aging out of the foster system, thereby reducing the risk of homelessness.

The project is seen as a significant investment in the community, with plans to complement it with improvements to nearby McAdams Park. The council's commitment to this initiative reflects a broader effort to enhance the welfare of vulnerable populations and create a model for future foster care services.