City Heights, San Diego
Restoring Hope. Renewing Dignity. Empowering Lives.
FREC is a community-based center in City Heights, San Diego, dedicated to supporting refugees, asylum seekers, and families in need — through education, social services, and the power of community.
"Dr. Johny Oxeda arrived in San Diego as a refugee from Haiti in 2010. FREC was born from his firsthand experience of the challenges refugees face."
— Dr. Johny Oxeda, Founder & Executive Director
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FREC's primary goal is to empower individuals and families through education, social services, and community support — helping them achieve stability, self-sufficiency, and a renewed sense of purpose. We envision a thriving community where every person, regardless of background, income level, or immigration status, has the tools, support, and opportunities needed to live with dignity and hope.
common.learnMore4,700+
Haitians resettled in San Diego (2020–2023)
1M+
Internally displaced in Haiti
5,000+
Haitians in Tijuana seeking entry
Est. 2016
City Heights, San Diego
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Education & Youth
Tutoring, after-school programs, ESL classes, and youth mentorship to build futures for the next generation.
Social Services
Case management, food assistance, mental health referrals, and wraparound support for families in crisis.
Housing & Stability
Emergency housing navigation, rental assistance, and connections to long-term stable housing resources.
Legal Aid & Immigration
Immigration legal support, asylum guidance, and advocacy for refugee rights and documentation.
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May 2, 2026
Taste of Haiti
Join us for a buffet of traditional Haitian dishes — Griot, Diri Djon Djon, Fritay, Pate Kode, and more. $10 donation. All proceeds support FREC's Fairmount Avenue community center.
common.learnMoreThe Crisis Behind the Journey
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Haiti is experiencing one of the most acute humanitarian emergencies in the world — gang violence, displacement, and the collapse of essential services have forced over one million people from their homes. Understanding this crisis is essential to understanding the people we serve.
common.readMoreYour support changes lives in City Heights.
Every contribution helps FREC provide education, housing, legal aid, and community support to refugees and families who need it most.
