A steady voice for San juan families

Last Friday, a few members from the Community Leader Coalition sat with city officials and staff. Resident leaders shared from their own lives and asked questions about the future of housing in San Juan Capistrano. The conversation touched on building lasting relationships with local officials, shaping an inclusionary housing requirement of ten to fifteen percent, and meeting our Regional Housing Needs Allocation in ways that truly serve marginalized families. These are decisions that determine whether families can remain rooted in the city they call home. 

As I listened, I thought about how far we have come. What was once only a thought is now an organized voice, advocating for housing stability, dignity, and belonging. And yet, I am also aware of how much further we must go. Policy changes do not happen overnight. Trust and persistence are required, one faithful step at a time.

Hearing our neighbors speak with such steadiness made one truth unmistakable: hope grows when people keep showing up. Ephesians 3:20 has been on my heart: God is able to do far more than we would dare to ask or even dream. I see that truth unfolding here. None of this is accidental. It is the fruit of steady formation, countless hours of preparation, and neighbors who love this place enough to keep showing up. 


Miriam Zuniga
Adult Program Director,                                     
Lead Facilitator (CLC)