The Santa Clarita Veterans Center opened their doors Monday, celebrating a permanent location for military veterans in the valley.

The center opened on Lyons Avenue on Dec. 18 after furnishings and other supplies were donated by a Santa Clarita Home Depot location.

“The premises (on) Lyons Avenue has become a showplace for veterans and their families to enjoy,” said Elliott Wolfe of the Santa Clarita Veterans Center. “A brand new wood plank floor, paint for all newly painted walls and ceiling, refrigeration, new toilet, storage cabinets, and a lot of love for what they do is an effort that we can’t repay them enough.”

Wolfe wanted to thank the manager of the Newhall Ranch location, Toni Perkins, for their generosity in assisting the center.

“Now all new furnishings, the donated baby grand piano and our reference desk are ready to serve those veterans in need,” added Wolfe. “Of course we have a few minor additions to complete, but we thought it best to be open for the holidays so those requiring service can find it at our new and permanent location.”

A trial run, or “soft opening” is now being held, with a grand opening scheduled for early 2018, said officials with the center.

On the premises will be a “one-stop shopping” reference desk, which will provide a multitude of services to the veteran population, including employment opportunities, counseling and therapy, education, transportation, legal and medical services, benefits assistance and a host of additional choices.

“Veterans can also just come on down and hang out, read from the library, play a game or two, do a jigsaw puzzle, kibitz with other veterans and sign up to participate in support groups. Obtaining help with veteran benefits promises to be a highlight,” said Wolfe.

Every Thursday from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., the Food Pantry will be featured, so veterans and their families can partake of the week’s offerings.

Residents are being asked to donate to assist veteran families, and can be addressed to the Veteran Services Collaborative at the Lyons Avenue address.

The Veteran Collaborative will continue meeting at College of the Canyons on the third Friday of every month at 11:30 a.m. in room 301 of the University Center, and new members are always invited to join, participate and provide help.

The Veteran Center is located at 23222 Lyons Avenue. Visit the Veteran Collaborative website for more information.

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