(VISTA, CA – September 12, 2025) – Operation HOPE – North County is pleased to announce that the San Diego County Board of Supervisors has officially declared September 9th as Operation HOPE-North County Day. Executive Director, Esperanza Zapico and five of her team members were on hand to receive the honor. Supervisor Jim Desmond presented the proclamation during a ceremony on September 9th at the County Administration Center.
Celebrating 21 years of service, Operation HOPE-North County was recognized for its outstanding efforts in assisting homeless families and single women in need of support. As one of the very few family shelters in San Diego, the program keeps families together, offers stability during a time of crisis, and helps them take meaningful steps toward lasting independence. As a high barrier shelter, all clients must pass drug and alcohol screening, mental health screening and agree to a sober living environment.
This year, more than 150 people have been assisted, including 92 children. Unlike other shelters, Operation HOPE-North County uniquely provides shelter up to 120 days for those in need. Residents are provided with a hot dinner each evening and participate in financial literacy training, parenting and job readiness workshops, and one-on-one case management. By achieving self-sufficiency, graduates experience improved well-being and reduced health risks, while the broader community benefits from lower public service costs and breaking cycles of poverty. Our statistics are inspiring. Sixty-seven percent of families successfully transitioned into stable housing in 2024. More than 75% left equipped with the tools and confidence to sustain their progress.
Jim Desmond, OHNC Executive Director Esperanza Zapico, Evelyn Flores, Director of Resource Development,
Patricia Diaz, Administrative Assistant, and Sonia Cortez, Lead Case Manager.
Operation HOPE-North County also provides food, clothing, and essential resources to hundreds more individuals & families from our community, offering hope and support even as they await a safe place to land.
Winners of the ABC 10 News Leadership Award in 2022 and the 2020 Heroes of Vista – Non-Profit of the Year Award, Operation HOPE-North County continues to make a positive impact in North County San Diego. With more than 60 percent of its funding dependent on individual and community support, it’s crucial that volunteerism and financial support remain essential to sustaining and growing this work.
To make a donation or learn more about Operation HOPE, call 760-536-3880 or visit www.operationhope shelter.org.
