GB Magazine San Diego March 2024 Edition!

Volunteers and partners showed up to support
affected families and helped with cleanup efforts
Paco and his family are among the residents supported by
the Chicano Federation. Paco’s story began in the Republic of
the Congo, enjoying a peaceful upbringing until the outbreak
of war. His family sought refuge in Uganda for four years
before finding permanent residence in San Diego, moving
into the Chicano Federation’s Delta Street Apartments in
Southcrest. Paco’s growing family of six has called Delta
Street Apartments “home” for 11 years; however, their lives
were abruptly disrupted by the recent floods.
Despite this being Paco’s third encounter with catastrophic
flooding that requires a fresh start, he considers himself very
fortunate. Paco’s mother is his upstairs neighbor and has
been cooking warm, nourishing meals for him, his family,
and all of the residents affected by January’s storm. Grateful
for the Chicano Federation for providing housing stability,
Paco’s family is eager to return to Delta Street Apartments as
quickly as possible so they can start to rebuild their lives.
Thanks to dedicated volunteers, the Chicano Federation
cleaned out the 25 affected units - disposing of furniture,
trash, and debris - to start reconstruction. The projected
timeline before families can return to their homes is up to
three months. During these hard times, supporters have
stepped up with donations for lodging, meals, transportation,
and basic needs for these individuals and families.
Nevertheless, the need for support and compassion persists
as Chicano Federation provides residents with culturally
responsive, trauma-informed support in navigating insurance
damage claims, legal assistance, and other critical resources.
Paco standing in what
used to be his kitchen
Since 1969, the Chicano Federation of
San Diego County has been advancing
civil rights, civic participation, and social
mobility for historically marginalized
communities. The organization serves
clients regardless of race, ethnicity,
religion, gender, age, sexual orientation,
and/or immigration status, prioritizing
immigrants, refugees, and low-income,
high-potential communities. Because of
Chicano Federation’s commitment to
social justice, it was recognized as the
“2023 Outstanding Organization for
Diversity & Inclusion” at San Diego’s
51st annual National Philanthropy Day.
Southwest is the official airline of the
Chicano Federation, providing ongoing
support to individuals and families.
MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 51