CRC (Programs, Food Pantry, Admin & Resale Stores) will be closed on Monday, Jan 19, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Regular hours resume on Jan 20. Domestic Violence Hotline is open 24/7: (877) 633-1112
As we reflect on 2025, we’re very grateful for the many ways our community showed up for neighbors in need, through everyday acts of care and moments of collective action that made a meaningful difference.
Community Highlights
There were so many meaningful moments this year and here are a few that stand out:
Jingle & Mingle: On December 4, supporters came together for an evening of generosity and connection, raising vital funds for CRC programs. Watch a short video message from CEO John Van Cleef sharing his gratitude for the community’s support.
Encampments to Homes:The San Diego Union-Tribune highlighted how CRC, alongside three partner nonprofits and the cities of Oceanside and Carlsbad, is helping unsheltered neighbors along the SR-78/Buena Vista corridor move from encampments into safe, stable homes.
Community Recognition: We were proud to celebrate several leaders whose dedication strengthens our work every day. Congratulations to:
Corrie McCoy, Chief Operating Officer, was honored by the San Diego Business Journal as a Veteran Leader of Influence.
Luis Canseco, Domestic Violence Education & Prevention Program Manager, was honored by the San Diego Business Journal as a Latino Leader of Influence.
Kristine Wexler, CRC board member, was recognized by the San Diego Business Journal as a finalist and awardee for its 2025 Business Women of the Year awards.
I was honored to be named to the San Diego Business Journal’s SD 500 – San Diego’s Top 500 Most Influential People.
Nourish Your Neighbor Food Drive: When food benefits were disrupted, our community came together to help ensure neighbors had enough to eat, with pantry donations and virtual drive gifts pouring in. NBC7 and The Coast News highlighted the community’s support and the impact of the benefits disruptions and shutdown.
These moments reflect the heart of CRC — neighbors helping neighbors, guided by compassion and action.
We are grateful to our supporters, donors and more than 800 volunteers whose time, generosity and dedication made this work possible throughout the year. Your generosity helps CRC impact the lives of over 8,600 neighbors annually with access to food, shelter, safety, resources and compassionate care.
Moments of Transformation
Your support changes lives. Here are a few participant stories from this year that reflect what’s possible with a caring community:
“The food and nutrition center is very helpful to be able to put food on our table, especially with the food prices going up so high.”
Through programs like Holiday Baskets, your kindness brought joy and relief to households in need, who shared:
“This brightened all of our lives immensely.”
“I find myself in a very hard spot right now, living in my car and in between jobs. I was able to get some warm pajamas for the cold nights and a luxurious blanket that I can’t wait to use!”
“This allowed our family to have a joyful Christmas without the stress from a lack of funds to enjoy the season.”
“It means so much to me and my family, the contributions, donations, community, volunteers and staff have all come together in one cause during a special time of year. It’s magical!”
Season of Hope
With your continued support, we can make sure all the neighbors who come to us for help and hope are provided with assistance, through the end of 2025 and into the new year. If you haven’t yet given during our Season of Hope, please consider making a tax-deductible gift before year-end. Your support ensures families have food on their tables, safe places to call home and the resources they need to thrive.
Thank you for ensuring neighbors are met with dignity, stability and care — and for choosing generosity and hope. Wishing you and your loved ones a holiday season filled with warmth, joy and meaningful moments. Happy Holidays from all of us at CRC!
