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Home Again LA & Burbank Temporary Aid Center Merger - Q&A

Home Again Los Angeles and the Burbank Temporary Aid Center are proud to announce that, as of April 9, 2026, our organizations have officially merged—uniting two trusted, community-driven nonprofits into one stronger force for good. This strategic partnership enhances our ability to deliver impactful programs focused on housing, food, and wellness for individuals and families in need. Together, we are expanding our reach, deepening our impact, and building a more resilient future for the communities we serve.

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To support transparency and address any questions, we’ve created a comprehensive Q&A page with more information about this exciting new chapter.

Q & A

Mission & Purpose

Why did Home Again Los Angeles and Burbank Temporary Aid Center decide to merge?
Home Again Los Angeles (HALA) and Burbank Temporary Aid Center (BTAC) merged after recognizing a strong alignment in mission and values. By combining efforts, the organizations can better serve community members in need by leveraging shared resources and expanding access to critical services.

 

How does this merger strengthen your mission and long-term impact?
The merger enhances and expands the resources previously available to clients of each organization. Together, we now provide a more comprehensive continuum of care addressing housing, food insecurity, and overall wellness, ultimately increasing our long-term community impact.

 

Will the core mission or values of either organization change?
No. The core mission remains unchanged: to support households in need through essential services. Both organizations share foundational values—respect, dignity, compassion, empathy, and empowerment—which continue to guide our work.

 

Programs & Services

Will clients see any disruption in services during the transition?
No service disruptions are expected during this transition.

 

What BTAC programs will continue as-is after the merger?
All core BTAC programs will continue uninterrupted. This includes grocery & hygiene product distribution, the lunch program, and access to showers and laundry services.

 

Are there any programs being reduced or eliminated?
No programs are being reduced or eliminated as a result of the merger. As a matter of fact, BTAC programs have been expanded as a result of the merger.

 

What new services or opportunities are now possible because of the merger?
Service hours have been expanded to increase accessibility:

  • Showers are now available for the unhoused Monday through Friday, 1pm – 5pm. Laundry services are now available for the unhoused and housed, Monday through Friday, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

  • Grocery and Hygiene Product Distribution is now also available on the first Saturday of each month from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

 

How will this merger improve services for households experiencing homelessness or food insecurity?
Clients who previously accessed services through only one organization can now benefit from the services qualified for and offered across both programs, creating a more holistic and supportive experience.

 

Operations & Efficiency

What efficiencies are being gained?
Operations have been streamlined by centralizing staff at a single location: 1304 West Burbank Blvd. Cross-training among team members is strengthening organizational knowledge and improving the quality and efficiency of client support. Shared costs will help with financial stability.

 

Are there changes to service locations, hours, or access points?
Yes. All services and staff operations are now centralized at the BTAC facility located at 1304 West Burbank Blvd.

 

Donations & Financial Transparency

Will my donation still support the programs I care about?
Yes. Donations will continue to directly support the programs and services donors value.

 

How are you ensuring financial accountability and transparency during and after the merger?
HALA has assumed responsibility for resolving BTAC’s outstanding liabilities, and strengthening the organization’s financial foundation. Financial performance and operating costs are being closely monitored to ensure responsible stewardship and long-term sustainability. Financial reporting has been maintained for both organizations separately and will move forward, post-merger, as one legal entity.

 

Will there be changes to how donors give?
Yes. As of April 9, all donations should be made to Home Again Los Angeles.

  • Donations made on or before April 8 to BTAC will be acknowledged under BTAC’s tax identification number.

  • Donations made on or after April 9 will be acknowledged under Home Again Los Angeles’ tax identification number.

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Staffing & Leadership

Who is leading the newly merged organization?
Albert Hernandez, a nonprofit leader with over 20 years of experience and CEO of HALA for the past 12 years, will lead the organization. He is supported by a senior management team including leadership in Finance, Fund Development, Operations, Client Services, Pantry Management, and Facilities.


 

Branding & Identity

Why was the name “Home Again Los Angeles” chosen?
Home Again Los Angeles is the surviving legal entity following the merger and will serve as the organization’s official name moving forward.

 

What happens to the Burbank Temporary Aid Center name and legacy?
BTAC’s 50+ year legacy will continue to be honored. The name will still be used in reference to the Pantry, preserving its longstanding recognition in the community.

 

Will there be changes to logos, communications, or public-facing materials?
Yes. All branding and communications will transition to Home Again Los Angeles. BTAC’s website and social media channels will be phased out, and communications will be centralized through:

Staff email addresses have also been updated to reflect the Home Again LA domain.
Example: Staff member first name followed by @HomeAgainLA.org

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Community Impact

What partnerships are strengthened or created through this merger?
The merger has created opportunities to expand partnerships, including new collaborations with organizations such as Vallarta Supermarkets, Tequila's Restaurant and Corday Productions. Additionally, existing corporate partners are being engaged in pantry-based volunteer opportunities to deepen community involvement.

 

Governance & Oversight

What does the new Board of Directors look like?
The Home Again Los Angeles Board of Directors has expanded to include seven former BTAC board members. The board now consists of 21 members representing the diverse communities served.

 

How will strategic decisions be made moving forward?
This merger was the result of over 18 months of thoughtful planning, including legal and external advisory support. The newly formed board will convene monthly to conduct strategic planning and guide the organization’s future direction.

 

Donor Engagement

How will donors stay informed about the merger’s progress?
BTAC donors have been integrated into HALA’s communication system and have been receiving updates since November 1, 2025. Ongoing updates will be shared through monthly e-newsletters and official communication channels.

 

Will there be opportunities to see the impact firsthand?
Yes. Expanded volunteer opportunities are now available. Recent partners have included Macy’s Burbank, Burbank Marriott, The Walt Disney Company, and the Burbank Elks Lodge. Additional opportunities will continue to grow, including engagement with local students.

 

Are there upcoming events or briefings specifically about the merger?
The 2026 Gala will be the first major event uniting supporters from both organizations, celebrating the merger and raising funds for continued impact.

 

Who can donors contact with questions or concerns?

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