In the heart of Los Angeles, just blocks from MacArthur Park, a small but powerful community center is making a big impact.

Casa Milagrosa, operated by DePaul, is more than a place to grab a meal - it’s a space rooted in dignity, compassion, and connection. And for the hundreds of people who walk through its doors each week, it’s also a place where something that seems simple to many of us, such as clean water, can make a meaningful difference.

Community for Those Who Need it Most

“We’re a little center,” says Veronica Garcia, Program Manager at Casa Milagrosa, “but we do so much.”

Each day, Casa Milagrosa serves individuals experiencing homelessness and members of the community facing food insecurity. Guests can access breakfast, clothing, hygiene supplies, mail services, and even a computer lab for job searches and communication.

But even more than its offerings, what sets Casa Milagrosa apart is its approach.

“We’re not a place where you just come in, eat, and leave,” Veronica explains. “We have a lounge where people can rest. We serve them. We treat them with dignity and respect.”

This philosophy - often described as radical hospitality - is at the core of everything they do.

“Public water fountains are gone,” Veronica explains. “And if someone doesn’t have money, they have to choose - food or water.”

Meeting Growing Los Angeles Needs

Veronica, a Los Angeles native with over a decade of experience in social work, has witnessed firsthand how homelessness has changed across the city.

“Years ago, homelessness was concentrated in Skid Row,” she says. “Now it’s everywhere - throughout downtown, MacArthur Park, and beyond.”

Rising housing costs, inflation, and limited access to stable employment have pushed more people into precarious living situations. Many are working, but still unable to afford rent.

“It’s real,” Veronica says. “There are people on the edge every day.”

That reality makes places like Casa Milagrosa - and the resources they offer - more essential than ever.

Why Access to Water Matters

Among those resources is the Waterbox - a simple, powerful system that provides clean, accessible drinking water.

It might seem basic. But for people living on the street, access to water is anything but guaranteed.

“Public water fountains are gone,” Veronica explains. “And if someone doesn’t have money, they have to choose - food or water.”

Even when individuals receive food assistance benefits, those funds often run out before the end of the month. As a result, hydration becomes inconsistent, leading to serious health risks - especially during Los Angeles’ hot spring and summer months.

“If they can’t access water,” she says, “they won’t drink it.”

A Simple Solution, A Big Impact

At Casa Milagrosa, the unit is rolled out during community support days and throughout the week when volunteers are available. Guests can refill bottles or use cups provided on-site.

The reaction is often one of surprise.

“People are amazed,” Veronica says. “They’ll say, ‘The water just comes out of here?’ And we show them how it works - it’s a full filtration system. It’s incredible.”On busy days, the center serves 100 to 130 people - many of whom rely on the Waterbox as a primary source of hydration.

“It’s free, it’s accessible, and it’s there when they need it,” she says. “That makes all the difference.”

More Than Water

Beyond hydration, the Waterbox represents something deeper: equity.

“It’s a blessing,” Veronica says. “Because if someone doesn’t have money, how are they going to get water?”

At Casa Milagrosa, the presence of clean water reinforces a broader message - that every person deserves care, dignity, and basic human rights.

Looking Forward

As temperatures rise in Los Angeles, the need for accessible water will only grow. Casa Milagrosa plans to continue expanding Waterbox usage, especially during peak summer months, while working with volunteers and partners to meet increasing demand.

And Veronica remains committed to the work.

“I love what I do,” she says. “Every day, we’re giving back. Every day, we’re helping someone take a step forward.”