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News & Success Stories
Recognized Partners across San Diego County are the driving force behind the strength, reach and impact of the Live Well San Diego vision. Read their inspiring success stories below.
Partnerships Empower Interfaith Shelter Network
Submitted by: Brandon Duran, Executive Director, Interfaith Shelter Network of San Diego
The Interfaith Shelter Network of San Diego (ISN) is excited to reach this milestone of 10 years of partnership with Live Well San Diego. In 2026, ISN will celebrate our 40th anniversary of serving the unhoused. Our programs are only possible because of the partnerships we have built with social service agencies and faith communities of all traditions. Over the decades, the heart of ISN’s mission has remained the same, to serve and uplift the unhoused as they move toward self-sufficiency by providing shelter and resources in collaboration with organizations rooted in compassion and hope.
The Rotational Shelter Program partners with faith communities to provide emergency winter shelter for the situationally homeless. Individuals and families stay in the facilities of local congregations and receive shelter, meals, and case management from our great partner agencies like Family Health Centers of San Diego and Lifeline Community Services.
The El Nido program provides transitional housing for women and children escaping domestic violence. The program provides trauma-informed services such as case management, mental health counseling, and an Enrichment Program with a computer lab, workshops, and a Reading Club for kids. Partnerships with organizations like Community Allies for Psychological Empowerment and One Safe Place, as well as the support of faith communities and caring individuals create a variety of programs and resources that encourage El Nido families.
In 2025, Yasel, an El Nido graduate shared her story with ISN supporters:
“I moved in February of 2024 and stayed at motels in Carlsbad. We were stable and safe. My children were attending school and we felt like we were going to be okay.
Unfortunately, my son’s father found out what city we were living at, and fearing for our safety, I reached out to an organization that worked closely with law enforcement, and they helped locate a domestic violence shelter in San Diego.
My case manager referred me to apply for El Nido, and she spoke very highly of the program.
I started at El Nido [and] I’m slowly but surely getting back on my feet. I’m working part-time as an administrative assistant and gaining job experience so I can continue to be employable. I'm helping my son prepare to graduate from high school, and I'm continuing my healing journey so that my kids can see a healthy, happy mom...I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to share my story and would like to express my appreciation for the space and support to do so. Thank you for your support of El Nido.”
Because of ISN’s volunteers, supporters, and partners, ISN continues to serve San Diego. Get involved with the Rotational Shelter and/or El Nido by contacting us at interfaith@interfaithshelter.org and visit us online at interfaithshelter.org. Let’s find a way to partner and provide for those in need.