WCV member Bea Palmer, Board President, and Esperanza Zapico, Executive Director, of Operation Hope – North County (OHNC) were Woman’s Club of Vista’s featured speakers at our September 11, 2024 day meeting last week. The mission of Operation Hope – North County is to provide a safe, caring, and supportive environment for families with children and single women experiencing homelessness. OHNC serves as more than a shelter – it’s a stepping stone toward rebuilding lives and reclaiming independence.
Bea mentioned that the North County part of the name Operation Hope – North County is important as there is another group called Operation Hope. One sobering fact is that homelessness is increasing in our area and especially in two vulnerable groups: seniors and working families with children. Many of OHNC guests are experiencing homelessness for the first time. Sixty-three percent of OHNC guests are children.
In the 2022-2023 Impact Report, 94% of OHNC clients did not have a substance abuse disorder and 98% did not come from chronic homelessness. Ninety-six percent of OHNC guests previously lived in the County of San Diego, and 65% are from Escondido, Oceanside, Vista, Carlsbad, or San Marcos. Sadly, 57% of OHNC clients experienced domestic violence.
OHNC offers numerous programs and services, including case management; youth programs; financial literacy and parenting skills classes; and Pantry of Hope and New Beginnings Boutique. One of many things on Bea’s wish list is a commercial kitchen.
There are many ways to help OHNC. You can:
- Make a donation – one-time, recurring, or become a Legacy of HOPE giver through your estate or trust. Only 37% of OHNC funding comes from government grants.
- Sponsor a meal. Help out at meal time by providing a meal, serving, or delivering meals from restaurants.
- Volunteers donated 4300+ hours in 2022-2023. Opportunities include:
- Working the front desk, pantry, boutique, or community room.
- Working with kids in the Kids Hope Club or as tutors.
Woman’s Club of Vista members were impressed by the important work OHNC is doing. To find out more about Operation Hope – North County, visit OHNC website at https://operationhopeshelter.org/
