Newsletter

July 2026

Follow Aaron's Story is a documentary-style reel series from 5Cities Homeless Coalition that follows one man's journey from homelessness toward stability, healing, and hope.

Through Aaron's own words, each short episode explores a different part of recovery—from rebuilding trust and overcoming setbacks to rediscovering purpose, reconnecting with family, and creating a future filled with possibility.

Aaron's story reminds us that recovery is not a single moment—it is a journey built through courage, accountability, support, and the opportunity to begin again.

At 5Cities Homeless Coalition, we believe stability is the foundation that makes lasting change possible. We hope Aaron's journey inspires compassion, challenges misconceptions about homelessness, and demonstrates the power of investing in people.

To protect the privacy and dignity of those we serve, some images, voices, names, and identifying details may be altered or digitally recreated. Aaron's story is shared with permission and reflects his lived experience.

Come Be A Part Of The

Giving Community

Though the Empty Bowls events are two months away, you can still be part of this wonderful community that makes them possible!

Here is how you can get involved:

• Buy a Bag of Clay From The Pottery Grover Beach
• Host or Attend a Paint Party
• Donate Raffle Prize Items
• Attend the Empty Bowls Events

If you are interested in getting involved, contact Alistair Chong by phone at (805) 550-8701or by email at alistair.chong@5CHC.org

Many Hands, One Bowl, One Community

Every Bowl Starts Somewhere

Every handmade bowl tells a story—and it all begins with a $10 bag of clay.

This year, Youth Spring Arts, in partnership with The Pottery Grover Beach, is inviting our community to help create the bowls that will be featured at Empty Bowls 2026 through a clay drive. Each bag of clay purchased can become 12–18 unique handmade bowls, crafted by local ceramic artists, transformed into works of art at community paint parties, and ultimately sold to support the 5Cities Homeless Coalition at the upcoming Empty Bowls events.

Your gift does more than purchase clay. It supports local artists, brings our community together through creativity, and helps provide resources, support, and hope for neighbors experiencing homelessness.

Be one of the first hands in the journey. Purchase a bag of clay today and help create something truly meaningful.

Follow Youth Spring Arts on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/youthspring_arts/

Experience Impact

There are so many ways to make a real impact — and it starts right here!

We’re currently looking for:

• 🎁 In-kind donations to support our programs
• 🤝 Volunteers, especially for our Day Hab program, where consistency and connection make all the difference

Whether you’re giving items, time, or energy — you are helping create stability in a very real, tangible way.

Get more information on our website at: https://5chc.org/volunteer. Or, reach out to our Volunteer Coordinator, Alistair Chong, at (805) 550-8701.

Positive Impact Through Giving

Your donation provides stability, safety, and a path forward for local families.

Most Needed at the Main Office

• New underwear*
• New sweatpants & sweatshirts*
• New socks*
• New beanies*
• Jackets*
• Scarves & gloves
• Bottled water
• Shelf-stable protein shakes
• Hygiene items & sunscreen

*All genders and sizes welcome.

Learn more about other giving opportunities on our website: www.5CHC.org/donate