Share Ourselves

Where Potential Begins

Every person's potential begins in childhood. To reach their highest potential, every child needs the reassurance that someone cares, and access to healthcare, nutritious food, and support and resources to come into a classroom prepared.

This need reaches across Orange County. One in eight residents (and one in six children) experience food insecurity, and more than one-third of households fall at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. For families balancing rent, utilities, groceries, and healthcare, one unexpected expense can destabilize the foundation children need to thrive.

Share Ourselves is a community health center and social services organization committed to providing comprehensive healthcare, social services, and supportive community programs to all, regardless of income or insurance status. Our clinics and food pantry are located in Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Santa Ana and Mission Viejo and serve individuals and families across Orange County. We believe everyone deserves access to quality healthcare—and that health is shaped by far more than what happens during a medical appointment. Our mission is to provide care and assistance to those in need and act as advocates for systemic change.

That mission guides our whole-person approach. Pediatric care is only the beginning. Children and families can find medical and dental care, behavioral health support, medications, nutritious food, care management, financial assistance, and connections to essential resources—all working together to strengthen their health and stability.

Healthy development is shaped both inside and outside the exam room. A pediatric checkup can monitor milestones and help prevent illness. An eye exam can ensure a child has the vision they need to see the whiteboard in their classroom. Dental care can relieve pain that makes it difficult to focus on school. Behavioral health support can strengthen a child’s social and emotional well-being. Food assistance and care management can help families navigate challenges by connecting them to the resources they need.

In 2025, Share Ourselves distributed more than 78,000 bags of groceries to community members. Our new market-style food pantry at the Rob Richardson Welcoming Resource Center in Santa Ana will soon open its doors, expanding access to nutritious food and essential support for students and families facing even greater need.

This approach also comes to life through our community programs. This summer, our Back to School Program distributed over 2,000 new backpacks filled with grade-appropriate school supplies, helping local students begin the year ready to learn. During the holidays, Adopt A Family supported 1,227 families and over 4,000 children by connecting donors to help fulfill their holiday wish lists, so that they could celebrate the season with dignity, joy, and hope.

Rooted in a legacy of volunteerism and compassion, Share Ourselves leads with dignity, champions justice, strives for excellence, and serves with heart. We meet people where they are, break down barriers to care, and help connect every part of a person’s well-being.

On September 16, your Igniting Potential gift will help us continue surrounding Orange County youth and families with the care, resources, and support they need to grow, learn, and thrive.

Because health shapes every beginning, every opportunity, and every future. Health is Everything—and it is where potential begins.