San Diego City Wire

Hundreds gathered at the North County Superior Court in Vista on Thursday for the inaugural North County Community Resource Fair. The event, organized by the San Diego County Probation Department and the state Division of Adult Parole Operations, aimed to assist individuals reentering society by providing access to various resources.

The fair featured around 90 organizations offering services such as housing, employment, healthcare, food assistance through CalFresh, clothing, documentation help, mental health support, and substance use disorder services. Free showers and haircuts were also available.

Primarily targeting those on probation or parole, the event was open to anyone seeking assistance. Jason, a participant turned provider from Oceanside's mental health sector, shared his experience of receiving vital services like ID vouchers and job referrals at past events.

Eddie Head from the County of San Diego Probation Department noted that organizing the event took a year and was inspired by a similar successful fair held in April 2024 at the East County Courthouse. "Our department ensures client accountability," Head stated. "But our mission also includes providing the highest quality of services."

Attendees included John, a probationer seeking employment opportunities. He emphasized the importance of such events for both practical support and emotional encouragement. “Seeing these (community) fairs are important,” he said. “You know because sometimes you feel alone.”

Participating organizations included Live Well on Wheels bus, San Diego Access and Crisis Line, Vista Community Clinic, Women’s Resource Center, Center for Community Solutions, One Safe Place, San Diego Rescue Mission, Alcoholics Anonymous of San Diego, Center for Employment Opportunities, Goodwill Industries, and Home Start.