The San Diego Rescue Mission hosted a Christmas meal Saturday for nearly 1,000 San Diegans experiencing homelessness or living in unstable conditions.
The annual Christmas Community Outreach meal, a traditional roast turkey dinner and trimmings, took place at the Elm Street homeless shelter in Bankers Hill. Hot showers and haircuts were offered too, along with live music, medical care and pet services.
“Christmas at the Rescue Mission is truly a community celebration,” said Donnie Dee, president and CEO of the San Diego Rescue Mission. “Neighbor to neighbor, this season reminds us of what generosity can do. We’re grateful for every volunteer and donor who helps us welcome our guests with dignity, good food and joyful fellowship.
“No one should feel alone at Christmas, and thanks to this community, our guests won’t.”
In addition to the meal, guests were offered free backpacks, hygiene supplies and other essentials, along with medical services and spiritual support. Transportation assistance was provided through the Rescue Mission’s “HOPE” vans from the city’s O and B safe camping sites and The Neil Good Day Center.
In 2025, the San Diego Rescue Mission gave 1,319 people immediate shelter, supported 293 people in securing permanent housing and celebrated a record-tying 160 graduates from its year-long Mission Academy Residential Program, according to a statement from the nonprofit.
Updated 7:40 p.m. Dec. 20, 2025
