This holiday season, the Rotary Club of Chula Vista–Eastlake embodied the spirit of Service Above Self by bringing comfort and essential supplies to housing-insecure families and individuals in San Diego. In partnership with the nonprofit Dreams for Change, Rotarians distributed approximately 400 blankets, along with hygiene kits, food, and beverages, to residents living in secure tent encampments near downtown San Diego.
The giveaway took place on Sunday, December 7, 2025, and left a lasting impression on both the givers and those served. Rotarians even brought along not one, but two Santas, helping spread holiday cheer and moments of joy. One resident captured the spirit of the day with a simple but powerful message to one of our
Santas: “I still believe in you!”
Through a Dreams for Change administrator, the impact of the visit was unmistakable. “I’ve heard nothing but wonderful things from both our clients and staff — your visit was, as always, a huge success,” shared J.J. Abujasen, Fundraising & Development Specialist at Dreams for Change.
Dreams for Change operates safe sleeping lots that provide temporary shelter while helping individuals and families overcome barriers to stability through employment opportunities, education, and income-building resources. Reflecting on the partnership, Abujasen added, "The joy, dignity, and connection you bring to those we serve is truly invaluable.” Partnering with this organization enabled our club to connect directly with those in need during one of the coldest times of the year, offering both warmth and dignity.
This partnership began in 2023, led by committee chair Miriam Gonzalez, whose longtime commitment to feeding the homeless inspired the club to adopt this effort as a priority. Since then, Rotary’s support has grown significantly — expanding from serving approximately 150 people to now reaching nearly 400 individuals across two downtown San Diego sites.
Through compassion, collaboration, and consistency, the Rotary Club of Chula Vista–Eastlake continues to make a tangible difference for some of our community’s most vulnerable neighbors.