In 2016, I was eager to make an effort to help my community in one way or another. Growing up living in multiple cities throughout Southern California one similarity always persisted, the homeless population. In cities like Venice Beach, Pomona, Ontario, San Bernardino, and Los Angeles, there were always lines of make-shift tents and carts filled with belongings stationed on the sidewalks for miles. Being born and raised here, it's hard to see the growing community of homelessness getting to the point of no return.

This year will mark five years since the beginning of my mission to provide the homeless with care packages. In the beginning I remember creating 30 packages filled with goods, but knew more had to be done. Last year during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, we were able to raise $1,250 and distribute 150 total care packages to the community. Again, more had to be done for the growing community. This year, our goal is to raise $2,000 and to assemble 200 to 250 care packages filled with needed goods to take on the winter conditions. Our goal is to have everything ready to distribute by December 24/25, or early to mid-January if need be.

The care packages will contain the following:

As for myself, my name is Damien Figueroa. I'm a 23 year old graduate from the University of La Verne. My primary goal in life is to provide for my community to the best of my ability and to encourage others to make a difference in theirs. No matter the size or form of the contribution, you're making the positive step towards making a better tomorrow. Thank you, in advance, for every share, donation, and effort made to make this a success. Much love!