A new affordable housing complex, named Chris Hartmire Plaza, opened in Pomona on October 22, 2025, providing a vital resource for those in need of stable housing. The 90-unit community aims to address the ongoing housing crisis affecting many low-income families and individuals in the region.
Letty Corral, a 56-year-old resident who has faced significant challenges, received the keys to her first home during the opening ceremony. Corral, who is disabled and unable to work, expressed her emotions, stating, “It’s been a long process — I was overwhelmed. But I’m here today, and it’s a new beginning for us … I am finally getting what I need.” She plans to live in the complex with her 18-year-old son, Joshua.
The project was developed by the **Cesar Chavez Foundation** and is located at the intersection of Holt and East End avenues. The housing community is named after the late Rev. Chris Hartmire, recognized for his contributions to the labor and civil rights movements alongside Cesar Chavez. Paul Chavez, son of Cesar Chavez and chair of the foundation’s board, described Hartmire as an “unsung hero” of the farmworker movement.
During the grand opening, John Hartmire, one of Hartmire’s children, spoke about his father’s legacy, stating he would have been “incredibly humbled” by the honor. The plaza represents a comprehensive effort to connect housing with essential services, aiming to provide support for families experiencing homelessness, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.
Strong community support is evident in the project’s funding, which totaled **$75.8 million** and included investments from various public and private partners. Notably, the state of California contributed **$25.4 million** through the Department of Housing and Community Development, alongside funding from the **San Gabriel Valley Regional Housing Trust** and other sources.
According to data from the **California Housing Partnership**, the state faces a significant shortage of affordable homes, with over **1.2 million** units needed for extremely low-income renters. In Pomona, nearly **63%** of renters spend more than **30%** of their income on housing, which highlights the urgency of initiatives like Chris Hartmire Plaza.
The complex features a diverse range of units, including 30 one-bedroom, 30 two-bedroom, and 30 three-bedroom apartments, all designed for households earning between **30%** and **60%** of the area median income. Additionally, **20%** of the units are set aside for unhoused veterans, with specific allocations for various programs aimed at supporting vulnerable populations.
Health and wellness services will be integrated into the community, with the **Tri-Cities Mental Health Center** offering services and the **East Valley Community Health Center** planning to establish a **6,756-square-foot** facility by 2026, providing medical, dental, and mental health care.
Residents have already begun moving into the complex, with many expressing relief and optimism about their new homes. Linda Carbajal, a new resident, shared her enthusiasm for the stability the community provides for her family, previously living in shelters throughout the Los Angeles area. She noted, “This is a perfect opportunity for anybody that is struggling,” emphasizing the positive impact of having a stable home on her children’s lives.
Amid the celebration, a mural honoring Chris Hartmire was unveiled, created by artist John Park. The mural depicts Hartmire against a backdrop of grapes and farmworkers, embodying his dedication to the labor movement.
As the community continues to welcome new residents, local officials and advocates stress the importance of ongoing efforts to address the housing crisis. Mayor Tim Sandoval remarked, “I imagine (Cesar) Chavez is looking down on us with a huge smile. The work he led extended far beyond farmworkers.”
Chris Hartmire Plaza not only represents a new beginning for residents like Letty Corral but also signifies a much-needed step toward addressing housing shortages and improving lives in Pomona and beyond.
