Father Joe's Seeks Matching Donations Through New Year's Eve

SAN DIEGO, CA — A Christmas miracle appeared in the form of an anonymous $260,000 matching donation, Father Joe's Villages reported on Monday. That matching donation is valid from Tuesday through midnight Thursday, a spokesperson for the homeless services provider.

It has been a cash-strapped year for Father Joe's Villages, a spokesperson says. Donations are needed if they are to meet the increased community needs during the lengthening COVID-19 pandemic. Help from an anonymous donor will match all donations from Tuesday through Thursday, capping at $260,000.

"Seeing the San Diego community show support for our neighbors in need underlines the true impact we can have when we come together in the name of compassion and dignity," said Deacon Jim Vargas, president, and CEO at Father Joe's Villages. "Donations of all amounts help Father Joe's Villages continue to make a positive difference in the lives of those we are blessed to serve. I'm extremely grateful to the staff, volunteers, and supporters who make our mission a reality."

According to Vargas, people are facing housing and food insecurity in San Diego County in record numbers. Millions of people, or one-third of U.S. households, are potentially facing evictions as moratoriums across the nation are set to expire.

Father Joe's intends to ensure those at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness have access to a warm bed, a roof over their head, nutritious meals, and critical health services.
Father Joe's Villages provides housing for more than 2,100 people each night, along with health care, substance use disorder treatment, job training, and therapeutic childcare.

City News Service, Patch Editor Ashley Ludwig contributed to this report.