San Diego Rescue Mission hosts annual Christmas Community Meal

The San Diego Rescue Mission is a nonprofit organization aimed to feed up to 1,000 people experiencing homelessness, food insecurity or housing instability.

“Today is one of those days where we get to celebrate Christmas with our unhoused neighbors and pretty excited about the work that has gone into it,” said Donnie Dee, President of the San Diego Rescue Mission.

People gather to enjoy food along with services like medical care, free haircuts, pet services, hot showers and more.

“I’m very grateful and thankful for this. It’s been awhile since I had good homemade cooking,” Kenneth Perales said.

In 2025, the San Diego Rescue Mission helped 1,319 people receive immediate shelter, supported 293 people in securing permanent housing and celebrates 93 graduates from their year-long Mission Academy Residential Program, according to the organization.  

Father Joe’s Villages will host a similar event on Dec. 22, offering holiday meals, care packages and more to those in need.