December Newsletter

As we celebrate the one-year anniversary of my election to the Assembly, I am more grateful than ever for the opportunity to serve our community and champion the issues that matter most.

November holds special significance, as we pay homage to the brave men and women who selflessly served our nation, protecting the very values we hold dear. I am honored to serve as the Chair of the Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, a role that allows me to advocate tirelessly for our veterans and their families.

Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women. My father, a proud veteran, served during the Vietnam War. My brother served in the Iraq war. My father's dedication to duty came at a great personal cost, as he was exposed to Agent Orange—a toxic herbicide used during the war that has had lasting health implications for many veterans. My father's journey has fueled my commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of our veterans. Now, as the Chair of the Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, I am dedicated to ensuring that veterans like my father receive the care and support they rightfully deserve.

I am also thrilled to share exciting news about my recent appointment to serve on the Select Committee on Retail Theft. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our community, and I am committed to addressing the challenges they face, including the pressing issue of retail theft. By fostering a safe and secure environment for our local businesses, we strengthen the foundation of our community and pave the way for economic prosperity.

Small businesses have always held a special place in my heart, as I was a small business owner myself and the daughter of small business owners. My experience has given me a unique perspective on the challenges faced by local businesses and the importance of creating an environment where they can thrive.

Thank you for allowing me the privilege of representing you. I look forward to the continued journey ahead and the positive impact we can make together.

Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo

P.S. Don't miss our office event: "Tis the Season for Community," and you're invited! This district holiday gathering hosted by our office is on Monday December 11 from 5:30 - 7 p.m.

RSVP for our Holiday Community Party & Toy Drive

Military and Veterans Affairs Committee Hearing

I believe we need to bring the work of Sacramento to our community, so last month I brought our Military and Veterans Affairs Committee hearing to Santa Clarita. We discussed critical issues around veterans' housing, homelessness prevention, mental health support, and heard testimony from veterans and those on the front lines of serving the veteran community. I was proud to stand alongside state and local agencies who shared vital insights and updates on services, housing, and resources. Together, we're doing the work and making an impact. While we've made significant progress on reducing veteran homelessness, we must continue to support programs that are working and ensure that we don't let up on our efforts to improve the lives of our veterans.

Our AD 40 Veteran of The Year

We are thrilled to honor our 2023 Veteran of the Year, Jeff Stabile, not only for his service in the Air Force, but for his continued service supporting veterans in our community through his volunteer leadership at the Santa Clarita Veteran Services Collaborative. Thank you for your service, Jeff. Congratulations!

CalVets' Veteran Home of California

It was great visiting the state-of-the-art Veterans Home of California, which offers affordable long-term care to aged and disabled Veterans. Thanks to the Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans are eligible for a home-like atmosphere, engaging activities, and comprehensive healthcare for those who need more support. It was wonderful to see the comprehensive services and meet such dedicated staff.

Veterans Military Ball

I had the privilege of attending the Veterans Military Ball, where we paid tribute to the incredible men and women who served our nation. It was a pleasure to come together to express our heartfelt appreciation for our veterans and all they've done for our country. We honored Don Kuehl, a WWII veteran from Santa Clarita for his bravery while providing communications on the frontlines of the battlefield.

North Valley YMCA

As a former employee and swim instructor at the YMCA, it holds a special place in my heart. Over the years I have been able to share the YMCA with my daughter – a space for us to exercise, bond, and build a healthy life together. The North Valley YMCA is more than a gym; it's a community hub that supports parents and kids alike. We are grateful for the dedication of their staff and volunteers that support the health and wellness of our community!

Samuel Dixon Turkey Giveaway

Too many in our community are struggling to put food on the table. That's why I was so happy to be a sponsor of the annual Samuel Dixon Family Health Center Turkey Giveaway just prior to Thanksgiving where we gave away 200 Turkeys with all the “fixins.” Our community is better off because of the incredible work the Samuel Dixon Family Health Center does to serve Val Verde, Newhall and Canyon Country.

$171,000 Infrastructure Grant For Seniors & Disabled Adults

I'm thrilled to announce that our office secured $171,000 towards infrastructure improvements for the Community Integration Services, including building and technology updates for their computer classes! We also participated in a beautiful community Thanksgiving celebration and gave out turkeys to all program participants. Together, we are creating opportunities for growth, empowerment, a sustainable future… and making the holidays a little brighter.

VICA After Dark

We had a fantastic time at the VICA After Dark event, connecting with business leaders passionate about the San Fernando Valley's economic growth. Together with Senator Caroline Menjivar, we discussed how we can continue to propel our community forward! Thanks to VICA for fostering a platform that brings business leaders together!

Upcoming Events

Granada Hills GrubFest
Every Friday
5 - 10 p.m.
17723 Chatsworth St.
Granada Hills, CA 91344

Toy Giveaway
Friday, December 8
4 - 7 p.m.
Olivo at Mission Hills
10310 Sepulveda Blvd.
Mission Hills, CA 91345

All Ages Drum Circle
Saturday, December 9
3:30 p.m.
Granada Hills Branch Library
10640 Petit Ave.
Granada Hills, CA 91344

39th Annual Chatsworth Holiday Parade & Festival
Join me Sunday, December 10
Parade Step off @ 1 p.m.
TRAVELS EAST ON DEVONSHIRE ST FROM TOPANGA CYN
Festival @ 12 - 5 p.m.
ON CANOGA AVE

Tis the Season for Love: Holiday Community Party and Toy Drive
You're invited to a community holiday gathering hosted by our office. Join us for updates on our work this year, a toy drive and a special interfaith message for the season. RSVP online and learn more.
Monday, December 11
5:30 - 7 p.m.
AD40 District Office
27441 Tourney Rd.
Santa Clarita, CA 91355

Christmas Toy Drive
Saturday, December 16
9 a.m.
LAPD Devonshire PALS Youth Center
8721 Wilbur Ave.
Northridge, CA 91324

Crafty Kids: Ice Skating
Saturday, December 16
3:30 p.m.
Granada Hills Branch Library
10640 Petit Ave.
Granada Hills, CA 91344

Blood Donation Drive
Saturday, December 23
8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Fire Station #87
10124 Balboa Blvd.
Granada Hills, CA 91344