Our region is in crisis. Each month, the Regional Task Force on Homelessness reports that more people are falling into homelessness than exiting it. Seniors and families are the fastest-growing population losing their housing, and support for these vulnerable San Diegans is at risk. Last week, our Federal Government shut down, threatening and limiting services our neighbors desperately need. Paychecks and benefits are not being distributed, and people are facing the impossible choice of paying for food, medicine, or housing for themselves and their families.
In San Diego, 400,000 people rely on food assistance, including 130,000 children and 100,000 seniors. Additionally, nearly 900,000 San Diegans require Medi-Cal to afford healthcare and maintain their regular health routine. These and other modes of support are at risk, and if funding is not restored or if these programs are cut, we will see more of our vulnerable neighbors on the streets and on the doorsteps of Father Joe’s Villages.
At Father Joe’s Villages, we are stepping up. With the generosity of our donor community, our neighbors will continue to receive the meals, shelter, healthcare, and resources they need to be successful. However, like most everyone, we are being impacted by Federal funding decisions, and the need for donations is unprecedented in our 75-year history. As the shutdown continues, more people are lining up for our meals and food pantry, seeking shelter, needing guidance from our case managers, and visiting our health clinic, where we provide care regardless of ability to pay.
With the increasing demand for services, donations of any amount will help ensure our continuum of care remains uninterrupted. As economic uncertainty and shifts in funding make our work more challenging, it is the power of philanthropy that will give Father Joe’s Villages the stability and fortitude to navigate these unusual times. To our generous donor community, I offer my heartfelt thanks for walking the path with us.
God Bless You,
Deacon Jim Vargas
President & CEO
Father Joe’s Villages
