HOPEful Hearts

The Operation HOPE-North County Newsletter

2025 Quarterly Recap (April, May & June)

A Warm Welcome to Our OHNC Community

At Operation HOPE–North County, we remain committed to creating a safe, supportive space for individuals experiencing housing insecurity. Each month, we share updates, success stories, and ways you can get involved in our mission. We’re so grateful for your continued support as we work together to bring hope and transformation to our community.

Watch our latest video by clicking the image to the right and see the impact you help make possible.

Leading with HOPE

A note from our Exectutive Director

This spring has been a powerful reminder of the heart, strength, and unity that fuels Operation HOPE-North County.

In May, we honored Mental Health Awareness Month, recognizing that emotional well-being and trauma-informed care is a critical part of every person's path to healing and stability. Many of the families we serve are navigating deep emotional challenges, and we are proud to provide the supportive environment and resources that promote mental wellness alongside physical safety.

We also celebrated Mother's Day with a beautiful breakfast and volunteer led event. Moms received massages, make-up sessions, hair styling, photography sessions, and were presented with beautiful poems by their children. Thank you to all of our amazing volunteers who showed up with generosity and open hearts!

June marked a special milestone with our annual HOPE-Illuminated Gala. Thanks to the incredible support of our community, we raised over $60,000 to help meet the essential needs of our shelter. The evening was a celebration of resilience, generosity, and the shared belief that everyone deserves the chance to rebuild their lives with dignity.

As we look ahead, I remain deeply grateful for the ways our community shows up—month after month, in countless meaningful ways—to create a place of HOPE. Thank you for standing with us and for being part of this journey.

-Esperanza Zapico

Executive Director

Community Wish List

We need your support!

Donate Now

Client Needs:

We support families and individuals striving for stability. Many face challenges like high housing costs, transportation issues, and financial setbacks. Whether single parents, survivors of loss, or parents seeking better opportunities for their children, they all share one goal: a safe, affordable home & a fresh start.

Your contribution can make a real difference in their journey. Together, we can turn HOPE into reality. Explore our list of specific needs from our current shelter clients.

If you can help any of these families reach their goals, please contact hpfalzer@operationhopeshelter.org.

Pantry Needs:

We are always accepting food donations for our Pantry of HOPE:

Non-perishable foods (canned & dry goods)
Plastic shopping bags
Unopened hygiene products
Shoes & new underwear (bras, underwear, boxers, briefs, etc.) (Please Note: We are not currently taking any women clothing due to high volumes of donations.)

Shelter Needs:

Check out our Amazon Wishlist to purchase much-needed items for our shelter residents and general operations:

New sheets and bedding
New towels
Hygiene products (full-sized shampoos, soaps, etc.)
Cleaning supplies
Party decorations (birthdays, graduations, etc.)
New couch pillows

Volunteer Needs:

We are looking for compassionate, reliable volunteers to support key programs that serve our residents and community.

Meals for HOPE:
Link to Calendar

Kids' HOPE Club:
Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 6:00-8:30 PM

Pantry of HOPE
Mondays: 8:00 - 10 AM
Wednesdays: 2:00–5:00 PM

New Beginnings Boutique
Weekdays: Flexible shifts

Click this link to learn more about our volunteer opportunities

Whether you have a few hours or a full afternoon to give, your time makes a meaningful impact. Interested in volunteering?

Reach out to volunteers@operationhopeshelter.org and be part of something bigger.

Upcoming Events

Mark Your Calendar

Moonlight Theatre Night with OHNC

Fiddler on the Roof | August 12, 2025

Moonlight Amphitheater in Vista, CA

This unforgettable event is more than just a night at the theatre; it's a celebration of community, storytelling, and HOPE. Whether you're a longtime supporter or new to our mission, we'd love for you to join us as we enjoy an evening of culture and connection.

Fiddler on the Roof is a powerful and moving story that speaks to our shared struggles and triumphs—themes that deeply resonate with the work we do every day at Operation HOPE-North County.

This is an excellent opportunity to come together in support of our mission while enjoying world-class live theatre. Gather your friends and family, and let's make this night one to remember!

Ticket information and event details will be available soon!

Want to Learn More?

Contact Evelyn Flores, Director of Resource Development, at eflores@operationhopeshelter.org

HOPE Highlights

A Look Back at Our Latest Events

HOPE-Illuminated: OHNC Annual Gala

Over $60,000 Raised

Operation HOPE–North County’s HOPE Illuminated Gala was a beautiful evening of celebration, connection, and impact! Held on June 14 at the stunning Hidden Barn in Vista, the event brought together community members, supporters, and partners for a night dedicated to shining a light on hope and resilience.

The gala was a tremendous success, raising critical funds to support our programs that empower families and single women on their journey toward stability. Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner, participated in exciting auctions, and heard powerful stories from individuals whose lives have been transformed through Operation HOPE’s support.

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who made this evening possible: our honorees, sponsors, volunteers, board members, staff, and attendees. Your commitment and generosity helped illuminate a brighter future for so many in our community. Thank you for helping us turn compassion into action. The HOPE Illuminated Gala truly lived up to its name!

Dia de los Ninos Resource Fair:

Over 380 Individuals Served!

On April 30th, Operation HOPE–North County hosted a joyful and impactful Día de los Niños Community Resource Fair, welcoming over 380 community members (kiddos included) for an afternoon filled with celebration and support.

Thanks to the collaboration of 25+ incredible community partners, families received access to valuable services including childcare, youth programs, healthcare, dental care, county assistance, and more. Attendees enjoyed complimentary food, free haircuts, clothing, and an exciting toy giveaway with over 700 pounds of toys distributed! The event also featured games, music, a bouncy house and other fun kids’ activities, creating a festive and welcoming atmosphere for all ages.

We are especially grateful to everyone who helped spread the word—your shares and tags on social media extended our reach and helped connect even more families with these essential resources. (And if you haven’t already, tag us on Instagram @operationhopenc—we’d love to see your photos!)

A heartfelt thank you to our partners, donors, and volunteers who made this day possible. Your continued support helps bring moments of hope, joy, and relief to the families we serve.

San Marcos High School Breaks Records

with Empty Bowl Project!

$12,620 Raised

We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible success of San Marcos High School’s Empty Bowl Project, now in its third consecutive year supporting Operation HOPE–North County. This year’s fundraiser was a record-breaking triumph, raising an astounding $12,620 to help us continue serving families in need.

Each beautifully handcrafted bowl was created by talented ceramics students from San Marcos High School, combining art, purpose, and compassion in every piece. These young artists—and the community members who supported them—are making a real impact.

A huge thank you goes out to Mr. Brady Stout, whose leadership and dedication have been instrumental in bringing this project to life year after year. We are so grateful for his commitment to both his students and the broader community.

Thank you, San Marcos High School, for filling our hearts—and bowls—with HOPE!

14th Annual Vista Strawberry Festival

Hosted by Vista Chamber of Commerce

We had a berry amazing time at this year’s Vista Strawberry Festival—the biggest one yet!

Operation HOPE–North County was proud to be there, sharing our mission, connecting with community members, and spreading awareness about the services and support we offer to families facing homelessness.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth, entered our raffle, and showed their support. Events like this remind us of the strength and spirit of our local community and why we do what we do.

NSDC NAACP 2025 Juneteenth Celebration

Hosted by NSDC NAACP Chapter

We were honored to join the 2025 Juneteenth Celebration hosted by the North San Diego County NAACP—what an incredible day of unity, culture, and community!

Operation HOPE-North County attends events like these to stand with our community, celebrate our shared history, and connect with those we serve. The turnout was amazing, the energy was inspiring, and the entertainment was outstanding.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by, showed support, and made this day so meaningful. We’re proud to be part of a community that shows up, stands together, and celebrates freedom.

Click Here to Learn More

HOPE in Action:

Program Update

HOPE Starts Here:

StandUp for Kids Program

Our StandUp for Kids program with StandUp for Kids Oceanside is officially up and running—and we’re now looking to connect with alumni families who may have youth ages 12–18 interested in joining. This free program offers a supportive space for teens to build confidence, develop life skills, and form lasting connections with mentors and peers. Dinner is always provided.

When: Monday nights, 5:30 – 8:00 PM

Where: 852 Townsite Dr, Vista CA 92084

If you know an alum or former shelter youth who could benefit from a positive, consistent environment like this, please reach out! We’d love to have them participate and help them thrive as part of this empowering community.

For more information, contact hpfalzer@operationhopeshelter.org

Interested in Hosting Your Own Program?

Do you have a passion or skill you'd like to share? We’re looking for volunteers to lead enrichment programs for the parents and youth at our shelter. Whether it’s a life skills workshop, a creative arts class, a fitness session, or another engaging activity, your expertise can make a meaningful impact. These programs provide valuable learning experiences, build confidence, and create a sense of community for our residents.

If you're interested in hosting a class or activity, we’d love to collaborate with you! Please reach out to our Director of Operations, Lina, at asthomas@operationhopeshelter.org

Pantry of HOPE Update:

Statistics for April, May, & June

Our pantry continues to be a vital resource for residents, offering non-perishable foods and essential items. With the support of our incredible community, we’re able to provide nourishing meals to individuals and families facing food insecurity. Your ongoing contributions make a difference in ensuring that our pantry remains stocked and ready to serve those in need.

Our Pantry of HOPE serves between 60 to 150 families each week, providing fresh produce, pantry staples, clothing, and essential hygiene items to support our shelter alumni and the broader community

Pounds of Produce Distributed:

26,969 lbs.

Number of Bags Given Out:

2223 bags

Total Number of Individuals Served:

1238 fed

Calling on New Volunteers: We Need Your Help!

Wednesdays: 2pm - 5pm

Your continued support is what makes everything possible—we couldn’t do it without our incredible community members! Whether you’re looking to volunteer, donate essential items, or host a service project, your involvement directly impacts the families we serve

To learn how you can help support our OHNC community!

Click this link, or email: volunteer@operationhopeshelter.org,

Beacons of HOPE:

Honoring Those Who Make a Difference

Volunteer Spotlight:

Over 3 years of service to OHNC!

For the past three years, Demi Castro has been a dedicated volunteer at Operation HOPE-North County, donating her time to both the Pantry of HOPE and the New Beginnings Boutique. Her commitment to serving others stems from a genuine desire to give back to the community and support individuals on their path to stability. Demi finds deep fulfillment in her work, knowing that even small acts of kindness can have a significant impact. Her compassion, reliability, and positive spirit make her an invaluable part of the OHNC family.

If you are interested in volunteering or learning more about how you can support our mission, please click this link, or email: volunteer@operationshopeshelter.org.

Community Partner Spotlight

North Coast Church: Serve Your City

We’re excited to highlight North Coast Church as our Community Partner of the Month! Their heart for service and deep commitment to supporting families in need has made a lasting impact at Operation HOPE–North County.

Recently, North Coast Church, led by long-time volunteers Karen and Jon Bain, organized a powerful Serve Your City project that transformed key areas of our shelter. Their team of dedicated volunteers jumped into action to improve our space, making it safer, more functional, and more dignified for the families we serve.

One of the most impactful projects was the full renovation of our shower and laundry facilities—a space used daily by our residents. Thanks to their hard work and generosity, families now have a clean, welcoming place to take care of basic needs with dignity.

This partnership is especially meaningful to us because Karen Bain is not just a volunteer during Serve Your City—she also shows up every single week to teach financial literacy workshops for the parents staying at our shelter. Her dedication to empowerment and long-term stability reflects the very best of community service.

The impact of North Coast Church’s work will be felt far beyond this month, and we’re incredibly grateful for their continued support and compassion. Their investment in our mission helps create real change—and hope—for those working to rebuild their lives.

Ready to Make an Impact?

Service projects like this help us create a welcoming, functional space for families on their journey to stability. From facility repairs to enrichment activities, there are so many ways to get involved.

If your group, organization, or business is looking to give back in a hands-on way, we’d love to partner with you.

For more information or to discuss ways to get involved, click this link or please reach out to volunteer@operationhopeshelter.org.

HOPE Starts with YOU:

Your continued support is the foundation of everything we do.

It allows us to provide vital services, create a welcoming environment, and offer hope to the families who rely on us. There are many ways to get involved and make a meaningful impact. Whether it’s through donating essential items, volunteering your time, or contributing financially, every effort helps us continue our mission.

Click Here to Donate

Become a Meal Provider

Want to be a Volunteer?

Meal Providers:

At Operation HOPE—North County, we are dedicated to ensuring that our families receive warm, nutritious meals every single day of the year. Providing dinner 365 days a year is no small task, and it wouldn’t be possible without the generosity and dedication of our community partners.

We rely on volunteers to help prepare, serve, and sponsor meals, creating not just nourishment but also a sense of comfort and connection for the families staying in our shelter. Whether you’re an individual, a group, or a local business, your support makes a direct and meaningful impact.

Please help us spread the word—we are always in need of meal providers to serve and feed our families. If you or someone you know is interested in getting involved, we would love to hear from you!

Want to become a Meal Provider?:

Click Here to Sign Up or email: mealsforhope@operationhopeshelter.org

Volunteer:

We’re always in need of dedicated volunteers to support our Pantry of HOPE, New Beginnings Boutique, and Kids HOPE Club. Whether you’re looking to lend a helping hand or give your time in a meaningful way, we’d love to have you on board! We’re also seeking partnerships with professionals who are interested in hosting workshops, providing meal services, or mentoring individuals in our community. Together, we can create lasting impact.

Kids' HOPE Club: Help support our OHNC kiddos during programming

Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 6:00-8:30 PM

Pantry of HOPE: Help distribute food to families in need

Mondays: 8:00 - 10 AM
Wednesdays: 2:00–5:00 PM

New Beginnings Boutique: Help support our free clothing initiative

Weekdays: Flexible shifts

Front Desk Support: Help support our shelter staff on the front lines

Mornings & Afternoons

Interested in Becoming a Volunteer?

Click Here to Sign Up or email: volunteer@operationhopeshelter.org

Donate:

Every dollar helps! Your contribution will change the lives of families experiencing homelessness on their journey to independence, helping to provide essential resources like food, hygiene products, and job training services.

We gladly accept:

Gift Cards (grocery stores, gas stations, general retailers)
Non-Perishable Food Items (canned goods, pasta, rice, snacks, etc.)
New Hygiene Products (shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, soap, etc.)
Monetary Donations (cash and checks are accepted and go directly toward our programs)

Want to Donate?

Make a donation on our website: Visit our Website

Access our Amazon Wishlist: Our Amazon Wishlist

Email: hpfalzer@operationhopeshelter.org

*all donations are tax deductible*

Spread the Word:

Your voice has the power to create change! By sharing our mission with your network, you help us reach more people who can make a difference in the lives of the families we serve. Stay connected with us on social media for updates, success stories, and opportunities to get involved.

Every like, share, and comment helps amplify our impact and brings more awareness to the work we do. Whether you’re spreading the word about our need for meal providers, sharing volunteer opportunities, or simply helping us tell our story, your support makes a real difference.

Join us on social media and use our hashtags: #ohnc #operationhopenc to be part of the movement to bring hope to those in need!

use hashtags: #ohnc and #operationhopenorthcounty

Together, we turn HOPE into action

and action into change.

Stay connected, stay inspired, and help us

keep HOPE alive—because we’re not just offering shelter, we’re offering a future.

Click Here to Donate

Become a Meal Provider

Want to be a Volunteer?

Contact Us:

Visit our website for more info and real time updates

Email: info@operationhopeshelter.org

Website: www.operationhopeshelter.org

Address: 859 E Vista Way, Vista CA 92084

Keep in Touch!

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*Please note—we receive an overwhelming amount of calls and voicemails, we are so grateful for the support but prefer inquiries to be sent via email so we can get back to you efficiently.

Thank you for your understanding!