Veterans Explore Oakland's Space Place

Veterans enjoyed a terrestrial trip to the cosmos during a visit to Chabot Space and Science Center this January!

An intentional part of our permanent supportive housing programs, outings like these bring together residents from our six San Francisco housing sites to explore the Bay and strengthen bonds with their peers.

Take it from mental health specialist, Shautavia Mayers, who led veterans across the bridge to enjoy the day in Oakland: "There were so many smiles during this outing. It truly touched my heart. The veterans were intrigued by the space gear exhibits, the planetarium show, and the exhibits of space crafts. I saw how excited the veterans were to interact with each other, even beyond what they do in their housing communities."

In 2025, 463 veterans lived in Swords' permanent housing. 60% of these residents are 55 years or older; many live without connections to family and struggle to leave their home on their own. Outings like these help veterans experience the Bay beyond their immediate surroundings and provide an avenue for senior veterans to connect with peers - and staff - outside of regular services. In other words, they build necessary community.

Swords to Plowshares is proud to regularly offer these social activities through our participation in a statewide housing pilot focused on strengthening housing stability: An Update on Our Work to Support Veteran Residents.