Dear Neighbors,

It is during the holiday season that I find myself reflecting on the joy, the compassion, and the hope I have witnessed over the past year. It is a time when I can slow down and recall the impact that Catholic Charities’ work has had on others, and most importantly, the impact that the strength of those I serve has had on me.

This Christmas Season, I ask you to join me in reflecting on the parable of the mustard seed. I was reminded of this verse by Tim, a participant at La Posada, our Men’s Shelter in Carlsbad. In his recollection of the journey that placed him into a state of being unhoused, he quoted Matthew 17:20, “…For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.”

All our endeavors start small: seeds in the ground with the potential of growing into something great, and it is how we sow these seeds that determines what they will become.

Catholic Charities, through compassionate care, has grown into an agency that supports 133,000 unique individuals every year. However, with needs ever increasing, we must continue to sow our mustard seeds and ensure our branches remain strong enough to support each and every neighbor who needs help.

The current need of our community is unanimous and vital.

Our community needs food.

Since benefit changes in late fall, Catholic Charities has seen a tripling of the need at our food pantries. Catholic Charities has developed the Emergency Food Distribution Plus Network (EFDN+) Program to combat food insecurity in our communities. Without monthly benefits, more neighbors are turning to the program for food assistance. Having lost funding, the EFDN+ Program needs your help to keep the community fed.

Many families are having to choose between keeping the lights on through long winter nights or keeping mouths full. A childhood of food insecurity has long-term impacts, from falling behind in school to developmental issues. Adults facing food insecurity face worsening mental health and often turn to dangerous coping mechanisms.

With the holidays entirely upon us, our neighbors will not have food to eat on Christmas, and many have already gone without for Thanksgiving. But together, we can ensure that this Christmas, our neighbors are fed.

As you reflect upon the parable of the mustard seed and as the holiday season fills your heart with the joyous company of family, friends, and the birth of our savior, I urge you to

think of how you can plant your own mustard seed and how a small contribution can grow to have a huge impact.

By contributing to Catholic Charities, you help strengthen our growing support system throughout the community and support us as we continue on our mission of feeding the hungry.

We need your help to combat food insecurity in San Diego and Imperial County.

Donate to Catholic Charities and plant a seed of hope today.

Thank you for planting your seed with Catholic Charities!

With gratitude,
Appaswamy “Vino” Pajanor