Dear Friends of HOPE,
We want to share an important update about our shelter. Very recently, an unfortunate water leak caused significant damage to our facility, requiring us to temporarily relocate our families to a nearby hotel while repairs are completed. The restoration process is expected to take at least three weeks due to the extent of the damage and the care needed for safety measures.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we’ve already received vital support that allows us to continue providing services without interruption. Our programming remains active — families are still attending evening classes, receiving case management, and working toward their goals of stability and independence.
We are especially proud of our staff, who responded with compassion and professionalism, quickly pivoting to ensure our families felt safe, supported, and cared for during this unexpected transition. We’re equally grateful to our volunteers, meal providers, and supporters who have shown flexibility and encouragement as we navigate this challenge.
How You Can Help
While insurance is helping to cover some of the costs, we are incurring unexpected expenses. One way you can make a direct impact is by donating gas cards or Uber gift cards, which help our families get to work, school, and appointments while they are housed off-site. Of course, any donation — financial or in-kind — is deeply appreciated as we work through this unplanned situation together.
If you would like to make a donation you can do so by:
Donating on our website
Dropping off grocery gift cards for meals, gas cards or Uber cards at our office: Monday to Friday 9am-4pm
Placing orders for cards directly on our website through our Amazon Wishlist
Joining our monthly Roots of Hope donor club
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
This moment has reminded us once again that HOPE is more than a shelter — it’s a community. Thank you for standing with us, for believing in our mission, and for ensuring that families in crisis continue to find safety, dignity, and a path toward independence.
With gratitude,
Esperanza Zapico
Executive Director
Operation HOPE – North County
ezapico@operationhopeshelter.org
