This holiday season, a simple idea turned into a powerful act of service.
Thanks to the leadership of Alfred Esparza, Managing Partner of Red Robin International in San Dimas, and the generosity of Red Robin patrons, a successful gift card program brought meaningful support to veterans and active-duty service members throughout Southern California.
By encouraging restaurant guests to purchase gift cards specifically for veterans, Red Robin transformed everyday dining into an opportunity to give back. The result was a tangible expression of gratitude—one that reached veterans receiving medical care, those transitioning into stable housing, and service members spending the holidays far from home.
Where the Gift Cards Went—and Why It Matters
To ensure the greatest impact, the gift cards were distributed to organizations and installations serving veterans and active-duty personnel directly:
Veterans Administration Loma Linda Healthcare System – $2,825
Since 1977, the VA Loma Linda Healthcare System has provided care to more than 78,000 veterans across San Bernardino and Riverside counties. Named for World War II Army Air Forces veteran and Congressman Jerry Lyle Pettis, the medical center continues his legacy by improving the health and quality of life for those who have served. These gift cards will help bring comfort and a sense of normalcy to veterans receiving care during the holidays.
Veterans Park Housing, Pomona – $1,000
Veterans Park is a low-income housing community exclusively for veterans, located just blocks from the Pomona Transit Center and near the Downtown Arts District. Offering affordable one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes, along with supportive services through the Hope Through Housing Foundation, Veterans Park promotes stability, dignity, and long-term well-being for veterans rebuilding their lives.
Los Angeles Air Force Base – $1,000
At Los Angeles Air Force Base, the gift cards will be included in Christmas packages for single Airmen assigned throughout the Southern California region. For many young service members stationed far from family, this small gesture sends a powerful message: you are seen, you are valued, and your service matters.
Coast Guard Base Los Angeles/Long Beach – $1,000
Located on Terminal Island, Coast Guard Base LA/LB supports a wide range of Coast Guard missions throughout Southern California and the West Coast. Home to numerous operational units and cutters, the base provides essential support services to those standing watch along our coastline. These gift cards will go directly to the men and women serving during the holiday season.
A Community Effort With Lasting Impact
What makes this program especially meaningful is how accessible it was. Every Red Robin customer had the chance to participate—turning an ordinary meal into an act of gratitude. Through that collective generosity, lives were touched across multiple branches of service and stages of military life.
At Feeding Military Families, we are proud to partner with community-minded businesses like Red Robin that understand service does not end when the uniform comes off—and that active-duty families and veterans alike deserve support, especially during the holidays.
We extend our sincere thanks to Alfred Esparza, the Red Robin team, and every patron who chose to give. Your efforts truly made the holiday season brighter for military families and veterans across Southern California.
If your business or organization is interested in partnering with Feeding Military Families, we invite you to connect with us and join the mission.
Together, we serve those who serve.
