Columbus Hall in City Heights opened its doors to hundreds of families in need Thursday morning for the 8th annual “Shane Harris Christmas Day Breakfast and Gift Giveaway.”
The gathering served more than 500 foster youth, low-income and military families, and people experiencing homelessness with a hot meal, thousands of gifts and free groceries.
“Today was beyond what words can describe,” said San Diego Public Advocate Shane Harris. “Seeing so many smiling faces, hearing the laughter of children and knowing that we helped make this Christmas morning brighter — that’s why we do this. This event exists to make every child feel seen and every family feel at home.”
Harris said the Christmas Day event began eight years ago as a personal mission, inspired by his experience as a former foster youth who lost both parents at a young age.
“Christmas morning can be an incredibly lonely time for families facing hardship,” Harris said. “Today, we opened doors not just to a meal or gifts — but to connection, shared joy and a sense of belonging.”
