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Building Homes for Heroes at Pomona: A Mortgage-Free Home for a U.S. Navy Veteran

Posted on 2/24/2026 by Steven Crocker
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At Pomona by Hillwood, community means showing up for one another, and this year, that commitment took on special meaning. Pomona by Hillwood Communities proudly partnered with Building Homes for Heroes and David Weekley Homes to provide a mortgage-free home to U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman Gabriel George in Pomona’s master planned community in Manvel, Texas. It was more than a home dedication, it was a community-wide celebration of service, sacrifice, and the power of neighbors coming together.

About Building Homes for Heroes

Founded in 2006, Building Homes for Heroes is a national nonprofit organization that builds or modifies homes and gifts them, mortgage-free, to injured veterans and first responders. The organization’s mission is simple but powerful: support heroes who have sacrificed for our country by providing stability through homeownership.

Through partnerships with builders and community developers across the country, the nonprofit has gifted hundreds of homes to deserving veterans.

Honoring U.S. Navy Veteran Gabriel George

Navy veteran Gabriel George waving American flag in a car while celebrating mortgage-free home gift from Building Homes for Heroes at Pomona by Hillwood in Manvel, TX

Gavriel enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 2004 and served aboard the USS Carney and at Guantanamo Bay, supporting mission-critical operations. In 2008, he sustained life-altering injuries in a vehicle accident that resulted in the amputation of his right arm and a 100% disability rating.

But Gabriel’s story is one of resilience.

He discovered adaptive sports during his recovery and went on to compete for Team USA at the Invictus Games in archery, swimming, and indoor rowing. Today, he is a certified pickleball instructor, coach, and motivational speaker who inspires others to overcome adversity.

Now, thanks to this partnership, Gabriel and his family have a permanent place to call home in Pomona.

A True Community Effort in Manvel, TX

Providing a home is just the beginning. The Pomona community rallied around Gabriel and his family at every stage of the build.

Navy veteran Gabriel George receiving mortgage-free home at Pomona by Hillwood in Manvel TX

Framing Celebration with Notes of Love

During the framing stage, Pomona partnered with Notes of Love to host a special event where community members wrote heartfelt messages and prayers directly onto the framing of the home.

These handwritten notes are now permanently built into the walls as a lasting reminder that Gabriel’s home was constructed with gratitude and love.

Local Manvel Restaurant Giveback Nights Raise Funds for Veteran Family

Pomona residents and supporters also gathered for two special restaurant nights benefitting Gabriel and his family. During these events, 10% of proceeds from participating local restaurants were donated in support of the George family.

Why This Matters in a Master Planned Community

When people search for “best master planned communities in Manvel, TX” or “new homes near Houston with strong community involvement,” they’re often looking for more than amenities and home designs.

They’re looking for connection.

Pomona is known for its award-winning homes, scenic lakes, trails, and resort-style amenities, but what truly defines the community is its heart. Events like this reflect the culture that residents experience every day: neighbors who show up, local businesses that give back, and partnerships that make a meaningful difference.

About Pomona by Hillwood

Located in Manvel, just south of Houston, Pomona is a thoughtfully designed master planned community developed by Hillwood Communities. With homes from award-winning builders, extensive green space, resort-style amenities, and convenient access to major employment centers, Pomona offers the perfect blend of lifestyle and location.

But as this partnership shows, Pomona is more than a place to live, it’s a place to belong.

Supporting Our Heroes

The collaboration between Hillwood, David Weekley Homes, and Building Homes for Heroes reflects a shared commitment to honoring veterans and strengthening communities.

Gabriel’s new home stands as a symbol of resilience, gratitude, and what can happen when people come together with purpose.

To learn more about Pomona by Hillwood and upcoming community events, visit our lifestyle page, follow us on social media, or reach out to us directly.

Because at Pomona, we don’t just build homes. We build community.