Helping Children Experiencing Homelessness
16% of those experiencing homelessness in San Diego are families. At the San Diego Rescue Mission, we know that to prevent homelessness in the next generation, we must start with our children. Children experiencing homelessness face unthinkable challenges: health problems, tendency for delays in development, emotional distress, and more. Academically, they lack the resources and support to keep up with their peers.
Our private, Christian licensed preschool serves children experiencing homelessness ages 2-5 at no cost. The Children’s Center Preschool provides early intervention tools, positively impacting children and their families. This program creates a safe, secure place for children to grow, learn and express their needs.
Our caring teachers are trained to provide a trauma-sensitive approach to help children grow physically, socially, emotionally, cognitively and spiritually so they can reach their full potential. Classrooms are designed to be comfortable and home-like and are equipped with learning centers to spark interest and exploration.
To prevent homelessness in our children, we must support the entire family unit. Moms and dads are supported in their parenting through access to parenting classes, life skills and information to improve their child’s opportunity for a better future.
The Children’s Center Preschool also helps families get the resources they need to become stable and healthy. Learn more about Mission Academy here, our residential program for men, women and women with children.

The Children’s Center Preschool program features:
- Serving children ages 2-5, families experiencing homelessness or transition
- 1:6 Teacher Child ratio
- In-class therapy for children and families
- Outdoor play facilities
- School day hours are Monday-Thursday 7:30am – 3:00pm
- No-cost in exchange for service hours and participation in our Family-School Partnership
Contact
San Diego Rescue Mission Children’s Center
120 Elm Street, San Diego, CA 92101
License #376701042
619-819-1767
Admissions Inquiries
Childrenscenter@sdrescue.org
P.O. Box 80427 San Diego, CA 92138
(619) 687-3720 | sdrminfo@sdrescue.org
We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is qualified to receive tax-deductible donations
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San Diego Rescue Mission is a non-profit homeless shelter and recovery center serving thousands of homeless, hungry, and poor men, women, and children in San Diego since 1955.