The City of Baldwin Park has received the Outstanding Achievement in Sustainability Award from the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), marking the region’s highest recognition for sustainability. The award honors Baldwin Park’s success in addressing homelessness through two transitional housing projects: Esperanza Villa and Serenity Homes.

Baldwin Park Mayor Alejandra Avila welcomed the honor, calling it a validation of the City’s strategy. “By investing in supportive, sustainable housing solutions, Baldwin Park has reduced homelessness by 70% over four years,” said Avila. “This recognition shows what’s possible when compassion meets collaboration and innovation.”

Transitional Housing Model Shows Results

Esperanza Villa opened in 2021 as the first tiny home village in the San Gabriel Valley. It provides 25 private units with shared amenities and serves up to 100 individuals annually through a 90-day transition model. Serenity Homes followed in 2022 with 16 units tailored for families, offering three- to six-month stays to help residents move toward permanent housing.

Both facilities were developed under the leadership of the City’s Recreation and Community Services Department and highlight Baldwin Park’s shift toward integrated and sustainable service models. Built during the COVID-19 pandemic, the projects were designed to offer privacy, dignity, and long-term benefits through a mix of wraparound services and environmentally efficient design.

Sustainability and Equity Built In

SCAG’s Sustainability Awards spotlight leadership in environmental stewardship, economic resilience, and social equity. Baldwin Park’s approach aligns with each of those goals. The facilities include energy-efficient HVAC systems, LED lighting, water-saving fixtures, and groundwater infiltration infrastructure, reducing both environmental impact and operational costs.

“These facilities represent a new standard in transitional housing,” said Mayor Avila. “We’re proud to serve as a model for how cities can support individuals and families with dignity, stability, and sustainability.”

Baldwin Park Homelessness Strategy Garners Support

Baldwin Park’s housing initiatives were made possible through the support of public agencies and private partners. The City recognized key contributors, including the San Gabriel Valley Regional Housing Trust, Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, Habitat for Humanity, County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, Sen. Susan Rubio, IKEA, and dozens more.

Since launching its housing-focused strategy, Baldwin Park has earned multiple awards from the California Parks and Recreation Society. These include District 13 awards for Esperanza Villa in 2022, Serenity Homes in 2023, and the City’s overall homelessness response in 2025.

More information about SCAG’s Sustainability Awards can be found at www.scag.ca.gov/past-sustainability-program-awards-recipients.

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