Column curated by Cathy Tylka, for Let’s Talk Plants! January 2025. Article by Linda Johnson, first published in LTP! December 2008, No. 171.
Veterans Village of San Diego - Soothing Surroundings for Homeless Veterans
Providing numerous services for homeless veterans, the Veterans Village of San Diego (VVSD) is undergoing additional expansion as they strive to meet growing demands in our community, and to be a state-of-the-art programs center for co-ed veterans. Located on Pacific Coast Highway (across from Walter Andersen Nursery, whom we thank for bringing this to our attention), the property is bordered by colorful, low water use groundcover, grasses and trees. Bright yellow lantana surrounds the perimeter, accented by waving mass plantings of clumping grasses. Foundation plantings include Indian Hawthorn contrasted against bamboo ‘Alphonse Karr’ that screen utilities. Red Flax and Salvia leucantha provide additional color throughout the perimeter. An engineered swale redirects runoff in this notoriously poor-draining area, fitting in well with the plantings. Queen palms and elms provide nicely contrasting seasonal colors.
Inside the Village is the recently completed Paul Nenner Memorial courtyard, dedicated on Veteran’s Day 2008. Among brick pavers that accent a water-wise design, several areas will create a memorial garden to remember and honor current and deceased veterans of the United States Military Services. Memorial bricks may be purchased and inscribed to commemorate a loved one, or to provide a message of hope for the residents of the Village. These memorial bricks will be integrated with the landscaping and will provide an atmosphere to help residents focus on the decisions they have made to seek a new life.
Also featured are a meditation garden nestled among the seating areas, planters, gazebos, and walkways. A soothing respite is provided with well-placed boulder/seats, shade, and a water fountain.
Jim Hickman, VP/Facilities Manager, envisioned this relaxing area for residents, guests and also for hosting special events. His involvement in the Village began many years ago as a resident, and his enduring passion for providing homeless veterans with an opportunity for a new direction in life is evident. Jim proudly describes the many services of the Village, including transitional housing, meals, fellowship, substance abuse treatment, mental health treatment, primary healthcare, job training/placement, and ultimately a path back to being a productive member of the community.
As part of a ten-year overall facility plan begun in 2000 to increase the capacity of the Village, the landscaping was designed by Nowell & Associates. It was installed by former resident Ross Chambers and his landscaping firm, Proscape. Residents also performed some of the work, led by the tireless Jim Hickman.
To obtain additional information about the programs of the Veterans Village of San Diego, or to make a contribution, please call 619-393-2000, or visit www.vvsd.net. The VVSD relies on grants and donations to keep their programs running successfully. And, as the holidays approach, please keep in mind their many needs: clothing, socks, underwear, toiletries, blankets, towels, department store gift cards, wrapped candies, and children’s gifts.
Learn about Veterans Village today here -
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