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Local Veteran Awarded $1,500 Scholarship from Welcome Home Military Heroes

Just before Christmas, Welcome Home Military Heroes proudly awarded a $1,500 scholarship to Sebastian Aranda III, a local veteran who served in both the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Coast Guard. Sebastian is currently pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education at Cuesta College, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to service both during and after his military career. The scholarship…

VA Expands GI Bill Benefits Following Supreme Court Decision

In a landmark move, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced significant changes to the GI Bill benefits process, offering expanded educational opportunities for Veterans with multiple periods of military service. This update comes in the wake of a 2024 Supreme Court decision and is set to impact over one million Veterans and beneficiaries. Under the previous policy, Veterans…

Local nonprofit delivers donations to Central Coast veterans in need this holiday season

By: McKenzie Diaz Posted 5:49 PM, Dec 16, 2024 On Monday, case workers from different veterans agencies around the Central Coast met at A La Carte in Santa Maria, collecting donations to distribute to local veterans. “There were six or seven cars loaded with presents and it just looked like Santa had done his work here,” said Donna Wilson, owner of A…

Welcome Home Military Heroes Announces Holiday Break

Welcome Home Military Heroes, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring and supporting veterans and their families, has announced a temporary break from operations between December 15 and January 31. During this time, no events will be hosted as the organization encourages its dedicated volunteers to spend quality time with their families and enjoy the holiday season. While most operations will pause,…

7th annual Veteran Tree event made some holiday wishes come true for veterans and families in need

By: McKenzie Diaz Posted 11:42 PM, Dec 08, 2024   and last updated 12:12 AM, Dec 09, 2024 The holidays came early for some local veterans eager to give back to other veterans in need. Veteran-led non-profit, Welcome Home Military Heroes, hosted their 7th annual Veteran Tree event on Sunday. “I know what it takes for a veteran to ask for help because…

Veteran-led non-profit set to host 7th annual ‘Angel Tree Ride’ event Sunday

By: Grace Bennett Posted 11:07 PM, Dec 05, 2024 On Sunday, veteran-led non-profit Welcome Home Military Heroes is set to host its 7th annual “Angel Tree Ride” event. “Angel Trees” are Christmas trees set up by businesses across the Central Coast. Each tree is adorned with tags detailing the wishes and needs of local veterans and families in need, which community members…

Central Coast Veterans Day Discounts: How Restaurants and Retailers Are Honoring Our Military Heroes

Veterans Day is quickly approaching, and many restaurants, retailers, and recreational areas nationwide will honor our military heroes with free meals and special deals. Below is a list highlighting various companies and their offerings. If it’s a national chain, we recommend contacting your local restaurant or store to confirm their participation and eligibility requirements for that location. Please note: Some…

Veteran Day Ceremonies Across the Central Coast

Veterans Day Ceremonies in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties This Veterans Day, numerous ceremonies will take place across Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties to honor the brave men and women who have served in the military. These events provide a meaningful opportunity for the community to come together and pay tribute to our veterans. San Luis…

VA Home Loan Changes Could Impact Our Veterans’ Dream of Homeownership

Veterans on the Central Coast and across the country may soon face an unexpected hurdle on their path to homeownership. A recent shift in the real estate landscape, effective August 10th, now allows veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible survivors to pay commission fees to their own real estate agents. This change, detailed in the Department of Veterans Affairs circular…