FATHER JOE’S TEAM ACTED TO HELP MOST VULNERABLE

We can all attest to the numerous annoyances, discomforts and dangers of living during the time of COVID-19 — from constant mask-wearing, being unable to enjoy the buzz of a crowded restaurant or bar, to the threat of contracting COVID-19. However, throughout it all, I was able to keep the inconveniences in perspective for one reason: I knew there were people experiencing all of the same things I was, but without the safety and comfort of a home, with little access to hygiene and health care, and with many barriers to vaccination and testing.

With the acute knowledge of the suffering occurring on the streets of San Diego, COVID-19 became a much different experience. For me and the hundreds of colleagues on my team, COVID-19 became about saving lives. In the beginning of the pandemic, Father Joe’s Villages had to pivot quickly to implement the infrastructure needed to minimize the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health of those we serve. We knew that people experiencing homelessness face added layers of health challenges, including compromised immune systems and pre-existing chronic illnesses, that could make COVID-19 all the more deadly.

We also knew that we needed to move people off the streets more than ever. Thankfully, the community agreed. What began was an unprecedented effort to provide shelter and extended services to those who needed it most.

We expanded our shelter beds, our meal locations and mealtimes, and our health center services and testing. During this time, we saw numerous donors and supporters come forward to help us fund the increased services and adjustments that we had to make. An immense amount of collaboration and leadership was needed to rapidly provide additional safe shelter for those most in need through the Convention Center and the many other shelters we offer at Father Joe’s Villages.

Ultimately, the last two years highlighted the true possibility for action when the community comes together to protect those who are most vulnerable. Witnessing this incredible movement converge, I realized the power of our love for this community and our love for all of the neighbors within it.

So, through the many difficulties Father Joe’s Villages and our neighbors have endured during this year, I have emerged more hopeful than ever.

Now, I have even higher expectations for 2022. While I don’t know where COVID-19 will lead us, I do know that recovery is a long road and homelessness will continue to be a prevailing issue. However, I’ve seen proof that incredible change is possible when the community — civilians, governments, service providers, businesses and organizations — team up to push for dignified and effective solutions.

Next year, I hope this trend of increasing resources, shelter beds, affordable housing and innovation continues. The lives and futures of our neighbors experiencing homelessness depend on it. Our community will be all the better because of it.

So, I ask that you, and all of our leaders in San Diego, make one resolution in 2022: push for compassion, respect, empathy, empowerment and dignity in your community. Whether you volunteer, write letters, share on social media, donate or show up at meetings, join me in making it your resolution to take your learnings from 2021 and implement them to better the lives of those most vulnerable.

Personally, I will work to hold on to the great hope that bloomed this year. American virologist and medical researcher Jonas Salk once said, “Hope lies in dreams, in imagination, and in the courage of those who dare to make dreams into reality.” With this hope, my resolution of creating a San Diego without homelessness is possible, if only we have the courage to dream it.

Vargas