Homeless In San Diego

In this episode of Homeless in San Diego, we sit down with Sunny Soto-Brisco, the heart and soul of Sunny Street Outreach, a 501(c)(3) organization providing restaurant quality meals to the houseless and underserved communities in Oceanside. Sunny Soto-Brisco is a dedicated activist born and raised on the ancestral lands of the Luiseño/Juaneño band of Mission Indians in Oceanside. In just four years, Sunny Street Outreach has served over 10,000 meals. Tune in to hear Sunny’s inspiring story, her journey from grassroots mutual aid to an established nonprofit, and a discussion on how we can foster collaboration between traditional nonprofits and grassroots initiatives.   Links:  https://sunnystreetoutreach.org/  https://www.instagram.com/

On this episode of Homeless in San Diego, we interview Katie Holden, a former Occupational Therapist Intern at our Abraham & Lillian Turk Recuperative Care Center. As an intern at the Turk Center, she conducted a study on pet ownership during transitional housing. Join us to learn about the benefits of keeping owners and their pets together, the challenges they face, and the barriers to getting an Emotional Support Animal letter. Katie earned her Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Saint Augustine for Health Sciences in San Marcos.  Links: https://www.usa.edu/

Join us this week on Homeless in San Diego to listen to Tom McDaniel’s story. Tom went through both our residential and outpatient programs, worked hard in college, and two months ago graduated with his degree in air conditioning & refrigeration from Palomar College. He was recently accepted into the Davidson Honors College at the University of Montana for Wildlife Biology. In this episode, Tom shares his journey of resilience and growth. He talks about learning how to trust, volunteering at the Rising Scholars Network, the importance of a strong support network, and setting goals for success. Links:   Rising Scholars (Transitions) Program – Rising Scholars Network  https://www.palomar.edu/risingscholars/ 

Tune in to Interfaith’s Homeless in San Diego podcast as we feature local artist Mike Smack. Mike joins us to speak about his inspiring journey and the beautiful mural he created in our Escondido shelter. Inspired by conversations with detox clients, he incorporated serene clouds and even added a citrus design after seeing fresh oranges and lemons in our food pantry. Mike uses painting and other artistic practices to explore his curiosity of the human experience. Whilst wandering the world for 5+ years, he found a universal language in art - a means to connect cultural gaps and ascend communication barriers. Mike calls this mural "one of the most fun and meaningful projects I've ever worked on," and we're grateful for the lasting impact it will have on future residents of our Recovery programs. Tune in to hear Mike’s story of creativity, community, and making a difference through art. Links:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ms.perp/  Website: https://www.mikesmack.com 

Welcome to this special episode of Homeless in San Diego. Today, we are honored to have Brandon O'Connell as our guest. Brandon, a Job Coach at Vantage Point for three years, is now pursuing his own company to help people coming out of incarceration. His journey from Skid Row to a stable and fulfilling life highlights his remarkable resilience, inner strength, and unwavering commitment to personal growth. Brandon runs his own podcast, Trash Can Talk, and collaborates with various companies in T-shirt printing, music, art, clothing, and stand-up comedy.   In this episode, Brandon shares insights on:   His personal journey Reintegration programs for people coming out of incarceration The evolution of mental health facilities   Tune in to hear Brandon’s inspiring story, how to give yourself a chance, and find support.   Links:   Insta: https://www.instagram.com/trashcancut/   Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trash-can-talk/id1628343387

In this episode of Homeless in San Diego, we welcome our first-ever property manager, Eddie Walker. With over a hundred episodes behind us, we're excited to bring you a new perspective on the challenges and solutions surrounding homelessness. Eddie has been working with us for several years at Quince Park Apartments, providing invaluable partnership and support in our mission to help those in need. Join us as Eddie shares his experiences, discusses the obstacles property managers face, and explores the approaches he's seen make a difference. 

This week on Homeless in San Diego, we welcome filmmaker Jason Ritchie, a storyteller driven by the struggles of his own life. Ritchie was incarcerated for over 17 years in the California prison system and has overcome drug and alcohol addiction. He used education for his personal rehabilitation and believes it to be a crucial contributing factor for success in re-entry and recovery. Through Project Rebound, Ritchie has gone on to graduate from SDSU with an Interdisciplinary BA in Film, Journalism, and Art, and was accepted into a Master’s program in Learning Design and Technology. His goal is to help others tell their stories of incarceration and addiction in the hopes of bringing awareness that these issues do not discriminate. Ritchie recently received a fellowship through Columbia University's INCITE program, an interdisciplinary institute that produces knowledge for public action at Columbia University. There, he is creating an experiential theatrical installation piece titled "Street Seen." The play is

In honor of Volunteer Appreciation month we have a remarkable podcast episode for you.   Our guest today is none other than David Fitzgibbons, a dedicated volunteer and donor at Interfaith. David has been serving as an intake volunteer every Tuesday and Thursday for over four years, helping to meet the basic needs of our community. He assists with obtaining food, hygiene products, clothes, resources, and connects people with a Case Manager as needed. David's commitment to our community is exemplary, and we are grateful for his service. Volunteers are the backbone of our organization, and we invite you to listen in and hear David's perspective. You might even be inspired to become our next intake volunteer. https://interfaithservices.org/volunteer/ https://interfaithservices.org/donate/ https://interfaithservices.org/donation-inquiry/

"I think one of the things I'm most proud of about the organization and obviously your leadership is a huge part of that, is that the organization has taken this bold stance to say we are going to stand up against injustice, we are going to serve the most vulnerable, be proud of it, and we're not going to be quiet about it." Dr. Nate Sessoms This week, we have a very special episode in store for 'Homeless in San Diego.' For the first time ever, our podcast is hosted by Dr. Nate Sessoms, CEO of Success Beyond Measure, and our Board Chair, Dr. Kadri Webb. Join them as they explore this year's theme, 'African Americans and the Arts,' delve into black history, and discuss its personal significance. They will share their experiences, stories, and accomplishments, shedding light on Interfaith’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) within the community.

Joining CEO of Interfaith Community Services, Greg Anglea,  are 3 employees each with their own diverse careers and their take on the Point In Time Count. Throughout the podcast, we tackle essential questions, such as the motivation behind participating in the PITC, the personal experiences of those involved, and the impact of the count on our community. Discover the stories behind the statistics, uncover the reasons people decide to work with those experiencing homelessness, and explore the concept of "meeting people where they are at."   2023 Data : https://www.rtfhsd.org/wp-content/uploads/2023-City-of-San-Diego-Region-Breakdown.pdf   Volunteer: https://www.interfaithservices.org/volunteer/

Interfaith's podcast, 'Homeless in San Diego,' is making a grand return! Not only are we launching the first episode back with senior investigative reporter Lisa Halverstadt, but going forward each episode will have a video version. Lisa Halverstadt is a senior investigative reporter for Voice of San Diego who has been digging into the region’s homelessness crisis for more than eight years. Join us for this episode as we interview Lisa the most tenured reporter on homelessness in San Diego. As we cover our broken homeless system, the increased need for behavioral health beds, and the challenges people face experiencing homelessness. If you have ever wondered how difficult it is for people to get help this episode offers invaluable insight. Make sure to look at the show notes below P.S. After we recorded this episode Lisa released a two-part in-depth story on homeless hospital patients detailing the complex reality our San Diegans face on a daily basis. If you have the time we highly encourage you to read the

Join us for a reflective journey in this special episode of "Homeless in San Diego: Real People, Real Stories" as we pay tribute to the late Peter Seidler. Your host, Greg Anglea, CEO of Interfaith Community Services, guides us through a poignant exploration of a past episode featuring Peter Seidler, Managing Partner of the San Diego Padres. In this thoughtful retrospective, we revisit the insightful conversation between Greg and Peter, delving into Peter's background in business and Major League Baseball. Together, they explore the transformative moments that shaped Peter's commitment to addressing homelessness in San Diego. Peter's personal experiences, including his battle with cancer and the meaningful connections he forged while walking the streets of Downtown San Diego, provide a powerful backdrop for this reflection. As we honor the legacy of Peter Seidler, this episode serves as a tribute to his dedication and compassion towards making a positive impact on the lives of those experiencing homelessness.

Scott life had hit rock bottom. After serving in the Air Force and battling homelessness and addiction on the streets of San Diego, he felt trapped in despair. Yet, a glimmer of hope emerged when he realized he had the unwavering support of the VA. With nothing left to lose, he sought solace at the VA hospital, where he began his journey to recovery. During his time there, Aspell was informed a program for homeless veterans run by Interfaith Community Services. Determined to turn his life around, he immersed himself in the program at the Abraham & Lillian Turk Recuperative Care Center.   Aware that the road ahead wouldn't be smooth, Aspell acknowledged the challenges he faced. Although he possessed disability benefits and social security, his credit score is in poor shape. Yet, he holds onto optimism, hoping that he would qualify for a low-income home. With determination fueling his spirit and newfound support guiding his path, Aspell embarked on a quest for stability and a fresh start. The echoes of his

Hugh Hughes is the president of Residency Apparel, a social enterprise using custom, branded apparel to support women transitioning into permanent housing in Los Angeles. For over the last ten years, Residency has worked with and alongside the unhoused population in LA, and they are able to fund that work through their donors and their clients that need their own branded merchandise. Their programs are two-fold: supportive employment, and sponsorship of trauma therapy for women in need. You can learn more about their work at www.residencyapparel.com

We welcome back Lynn Solorzano, Founder and President of Ashley’s Hope.  Lynn started this non-profit in memory of her daughter, Ashley.  Ashley passed away after 8 years living on the streets of San Diego -- she was only 25.  The mission of Ashley’s Hope is to provide people struggling with homeless-related issues dignity, respect and most importantly, hope.  Lynn is providing all Interfaith locations with clean, gently used clothing on a regular basis.   Learn More About Ashley’s Hope: https://ashleyshope.org/

Rich has lived experience of homelessness and addiction. He is a former Marine, MMA, Fighter, and Police Officer whose life has not been easy. While dealing with trauma Rich turned to drugs as an escape from reality. Ultimately, he ended up homeless for 12 years. Since then, Rich has gone through programs and reflects on his journey to self-sufficiency and recovery. Rich has since then overcome homelessness and someone who wants to give back and be of service to those who are in a similar position he was in.  

Shannon came to interfaith through a referral to be part of our RWC Program (Recovery and Wellness). After successfully graduating from the program, she is now a live in Manager of a women's sober living home. Through the trials and tribulations of her life, Shannon has overcome homelessness, is sober, and lives a life to help others. 

We are happy to welcome back Mei. Mei inspires all of us at Interfaith.  In Mei’s own words, she “suffered bouts of homelessness throughout her life and has managed to obtain secure housing and push forward through many years of trauma since childhood. “ In 2020, Mei opened Daydream, a gift shop located on Grand Avenue in Downtown Escondido, and launched a separate line selling her handmade “Humanitote” bags. For every bag sold, Mei donates a Humanitote bag to Interfaith filled with toiletries which are given directly to Humans experiencing homelessness.  As a business owner, and Interfaith partner, Mei furthered her work by collaborating on an ongoing fundraising event called Breakfast & Bags “for a unified effort in helping Interfaith help our houseless neighbors in need,” at Sunny Side Kitchen in Escondido where she launches each new Humanitote Collection at the event. We are grateful to Mei and Sunny Side Kitchen for their support!  Breakfast & Bags are held on the second Saturday of each month fr

Liz Rosas faced homelessness in San Diego for a year, from December 2013 to December 2014. Now, she actively advocates for others who are currently experiencing homelessness. She is a member of the Regional Task Force on Homelessness' Continuum of Care Advisory Board, representing those who are and were previously homeless. Additionally, she actively participates in the San Diego Housing Federation's Homeless-Experienced Advocacy and Leadership (HEAL) Network. 

Drew Moser is the Executive Director of the Lucky Duck Foundation, which raises money to fund, activate and lead high-impact programs that alleviate the suffering of homelessness throughout San Diego County. He has been in this role since early 2019. Drew is passionate about facilitating the generosity of donors who are committed to immediately helping those suffering from homelessness. He joins us to talk about the homeless crisis and the work that is being done to help those in need.