VA San Diego continues 40-year tradition of serving Veterans in need
Veteran hearts ‘overwhelmed with joy;’ VA San Diego Holiday Care & Share
Forty years ago, employees at the VA San Diego Healthcare System identified a growing need among Veterans with food insecurity. In response, the Care & Share Program was established as a grass roots staff initiative to gather food and then distribute meals to Veterans in need during the holidays. Over time, the program became part of the healthcare system’s Social Work Service – specifically the homeless Veteran team. Since 1984, VA San Diego’s Care & Share program has served meals to more than 20,000 Veterans.
“It genuinely is one of the best days of the year! Supporting our Veterans in this way, and seeing their joy and appreciation is the greatest present for our team each holiday season,” said Diana Rossio, VA San Diego HUD/VASH Social Worker and Care & Share Co-Chair. “It means so much to be able to brighten the holidays for so many Veteran families in the community.”
Veteran Robert Prokosh was one of many Veterans served by Care & Share for the first time.
“This was my first delivery with Care and Share and it was fantastic! It gives you the sense that there are people out there that still really care, and it is so appreciated, you have no idea,” Prokosh said.
The personal touch given by the VA San Diego Care & Share team was also appreciated by Veteran Maritza Tapia.
“This Holiday season we felt even more cared for by the sweet team. The fact that my counselor, Fanella, came over to give us a care package from the VA… our hearts are overwhelmed with joy, not only for their gracious gifts, but because they all came by to deliver it! Thanks VA Team!” Tapia said.
Care & Share Today
In 2024, more than $12,000 was raised for VA San Diego’s Care & Share. Funding comes from employees, former service members, and community members who generously give to a coin drive, adopt a family, silent auction, and other fundraisers. Proceeds are used to purchase food and gift cards for Veteran families identified by the homeless Veteran team.
During the 2024 Care & Share, 570 Veterans were served across San Diego and Imperial Counties. Veterans and their families received bags with fruit, vegetables, and meal mixes with a long shelf life. Veterans also received gift cards to supplement their holiday meal with fresh foods.
The Care & Share program demonstrates how a small idea can grow into a large effort. VA San Diego staff will continue looking for ways to support Veterans in as many ways as possible.