South County Outreach: Five Years of Transformational Change
Over the past five years, South County Outreach (SCO) has redefined what it means to prevent hunger and homelessness in Orange County. What began as emergency response during a global crisis has transformed into a year-round, dignity-centered system of care that empowers people to thrive.
Hunger Prevention: Expanding Access with Dignity
SCO evolved from a single modest pantry to a multi-site, high-capacity hunger prevention program. Strategic upgrades – like adding a refrigerated shipping container and redesigning the pantry layout – led to a 33% increase in fresh produce distribution, ensuring families have consistent access to milk, eggs, butter, and culturally relevant foods. The opening of a second pantry in Laguna Niguel in 2024 doubled service capacity, meeting the needs of over 8,000 individuals in 2023, up from 5,500 in 2020.
At the heart of this evolution is SCO’s client-choice model, promoting autonomy and dignity while reducing food waste and expanding healthy options for families in crisis.
Homelessness Prevention: From Relief to Stability
SCO’s rental assistance program scaled rapidly during the pandemic, supporting 731 households in 2021 – four times the previous year. Since then, the organization has delivered millions in rental and utility support, including over $2 million in Santa Ana alone. Today, SCO combines financial assistance with proactive case management, addressing root causes before eviction occurs, and building pathways to lasting housing stability.
Education & Self-Sufficiency: Building Financial Resilience
Launched in 2022, SCO’s reimagined financial literacy program empowers clients with budgeting, debt reduction, credit repair, and savings skills. In partnership with Farmers & Merchants Bank, SCO delivered 150+ hours of personalized education in 2023, with participation growing by 45% in 2024. This program equips families with the tools to move from crisis to control, breaking the cycle of poverty through knowledge and confidence.
Organizational Growth: Scaling for Impact
Since 2020, SCO has transformed into a data-driven, resilient, and future-ready nonprofit. Investments in leadership, technology, and infrastructure have eliminated all operating debt, built a six-month operating reserve, and established an endowment and investment portfolio for sustainability. Its volunteer program now mobilizes 200+ dedicated volunteers each week, while partnerships with over 300 schools, businesses, and faith groups amplify resources county-wide.
Looking Ahead
Today, South County Outreach stands as a cornerstone of Orange County’s social safety net, driven by a values-based team and a community united in purpose. Supporting SCO means investing in dignity, prevention, and transformative solutions that empower neighbors to thrive for years to come.
Did you know each month thousands of our neighbors rely on us to provide the food and other housing essentials to survive. You can help them and SCO today by joining our monthly recurring program called HOPE365! Your monthly reoccurring gift of any amount will help feed hungry people each day, week and month for years to come! Join today at https://www.sco-oc.org/recurring-donation/
