James Rodriguez, son of the late J.J. Rodriguez, speaks to the crowd during the grand opening of J.J. Vista Rodriguez.

Our community came together to celebrate the grand opening of Vista de J.J. Rodriguez, a new affordable housing development in Montebello, California. This vibrant community includes 63 homes dedicated to low-income families, along with supportive services specifically designed for survivors of domestic violence.

Rooted in Cesar Chavez’s belief that people’s needs extend beyond the workplace, the Chavez Foundation remains committed to the idea that safe, stable housing is a basic human right. The Chavez Foundation’s Housing and Economic Development Fund works to create high-quality, affordable housing opportunities that are critically needed across the country. In partnership with The People Concern, one of Los Angeles County’s largest social services agencies, residents have access to support that empowers them to heal, rebuild, and thrive.

“Our affordable housing developments cultivate a sense of community and help residents to succeed on all fronts through dedicated community service initiatives,” shared Chavez Foundation President Manuel Bernal. Vista de J.J. Rodriguez will include a Sí Se Puede Learning Center, the foundation’s flagship after-school program, as well as multi-use community spaces and a playground to support family life and neighborhood connection.

Aerial view of the J.J. Vista Rodriguez affordable housing community in Montebello, CA.

This new development honors the legacy of J.J. Rodriguez, a pioneering community leader and key figure in the Chicano civil rights movement. In 1928, Rodriguez began organizing workers at the City of Vernon packing houses, eventually leading to their successful unionization. He served as president of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor and the Community Service Organization, where he worked closely with Cesar Chavez in the 1950s. Upon Rodriguez’s passing in 1991, Chavez eulogized him as a “pioneering trade unionist who fought many early battles of the Chicano movement.” His legacy continues to inspire communities throughout Los Angeles and beyond.

This 43-million-dollar project came to life through the support of strategic partners, including the Los Angeles County Development Authority, the California Department of Housing and Community Development’s Infill Infrastructure Grant Program, the City of Montebello, City National Bank, the San Gabriel Valley Regional Housing Trust, and PNC Bank. We are proud to collaborate with organizations that share our commitment to equity and opportunity.

We remain dedicated to Cesar’s vision and work to provide opportunities that can transform people’s lives and create lasting, ongoing change for generations to come.