Easter Appeal 2026

You never know when unforeseen circumstances can happen—and you may need help putting food on the table.

That is the reality many community members across San Diego County are facing today.

At Catholic Charities’ Emergency Food Distribution Network Plus (EFDN+) Program, individuals and families who never expected to need assistance are now finding themselves standing in line for help—doing their best to keep food on the table as the cost of living continues to rise.

Across our region, nearly 1 in 4 San Diegans—about 850,000 people—are experiencing food insecurity, struggling to consistently access enough nutritious food for themselves and their families.

At our distribution sites, volunteers witness this shift every week: new faces, longer lines, and neighbors quietly navigating circumstances they never anticipated.

But alongside this growing need, there is also compassion in action.

Here, you can read the stories of Brahadis, Jessica, and Vicky—community members who came to our pantries for support and chose to share their journeys.

You can also hear from the volunteers who show up each week to help hand out food, offering not just meals, but dignity, kindness, and connection to every person they serve.

These are the faces of our community—those receiving help and those giving it.

Explore their stories and see how your support helps keep hope on the table.