There’s something special about the way San Diego shows up for one another — and nowhere is that more obvious than during the holiday season. Take the Burrito Boyz, for example. What started as one dad’s Christmas lesson for his 12-year-old son in 2010 has now grown into more than 700 consecutive Sundays of service. Every weekend before sunrise, volunteers gather inside Long Island Mike’s Pizza in Tierrasanta to crack eggs, roll nearly 400 breakfast burritos, and hand them out to people experiencing homelessness downtown. Over 15 years, they’ve served more than 317,000 burritos, plus hygiene kits, clothing, pet food, and more — all powered by community donations and young volunteers learning what compassion looks like in action. It’s a reminder that giving doesn’t have to be big or complicated to make an impact — it just has to be consistent and from the heart.

If you’re looking for meaningful ways to give back this season, here are some great places to start. Whether you want to volunteer, donate, or “adopt” a family, there’s a way for everyone to help make the holidays brighter across San Diego.

Food & Meal Support
Organizations like the San Diego Food Bank, Feeding San Diego, Father Joe’s Villages, and the San Diego Rescue Mission always need helping hands — whether you’re distributing food, serving meals, or supporting special holiday events. These groups work year-round to fight hunger and support individuals experiencing homelessness, and the holidays are some of their busiest times.

Holiday Toy & Gift Programs
The Salvation Army, Miracle Babies, Interfaith Community Services, Youth Tennis San Diego, Gently Hugged, and the Slavic Refugee and Immigrant Services Organization host toy drives, essentials drives, and family sponsorship programs. From donating a jacket to providing toys for kids in the NICU, these acts of generosity go straight to families who could use a little extra joy.

Adopt-a-Family Opportunities
Programs like Sharia’s Closet, Interfaith Community Services’ Winterfaith Wonderland, Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest San Diego, and SRISO’s Thanksgiving Adopt-a-Family match donors with local families facing hardship. You can provide gift cards, pantry staples, holiday meals, new clothing, and gifts for all ages.

Support for Seniors
Groups like ElderHelp of San Diego, Serving Seniors, and Meals on Wheels help older adults stay independent and connected — something especially meaningful during a time that can feel lonely for many seniors. Delivering a meal, a gift card, or even just a friendly hello can make a huge difference.

Help for Youth & Families
Nonprofits such as Voices for Children, Just in Time for Foster Youth, Promises2Kids, and Big Brothers Big Sisters provide mentorship, essentials, and long-term support for kids and young adults who need stability and encouragement.

Animal Welfare
If you’re an animal lover, consider giving your time or donations to groups like San Diego Humane Society, Helen Woodward Animal Center, FACE Foundation, or Baja Animal Sanctuary, all of which care for local pets and support families who love them.

Military Support
Organizations such as Operation Courage Is Beautiful and STEP (Support the Enlisted Project) provide essential items, financial guidance, and care packages to active-duty service members and their families — a powerful way to support those who sacrifice so much.

Environmental & Community Support
From HandsOn San Diego’s volunteer calendar to beach cleanups, community events, and year-round service groups, you’ll find countless ways to give your time locally.