Happy New Year from Capital Compassion!

We’re running into this year with great excitement, knowing that what happened this past year has prepared us for what’s to come. We’re growing. We’ve acquired a refrigerated van so we can deliver food to people who can’t make it to us. It’s another addition to the work we’re doing and the help we’re able to provide. All of this is possible because of your assistance and your partnership with Capital Compassion.

Today, Johnny came in. He’s been coming for nearly two years, ever since we opened, and has been on the streets off and on while facing significant challenges. He’s dealt with legal issues and behaviors that led him into difficult seasons, but he has a great heart and a strong desire to turn things around.

Just in the last few days, a relative with nearby property allowed him to stay in an RV on their land. Tonight is his first night off the street in that RV. He was in tears as he shared what he described as a God moment. He needed batteries to keep the RV running at night, and we were able to help provide those. He also needed basic supplies—cleaning items, towels, and essentials—and we were able to equip him with everything he needed to get set up. This RV is now his temporary home as he transitions toward getting a job.

Johnny also asked about a church, and I was able to tell him about one right near where he’ll be staying—a solid church with a solid pastor—where he can connect and grow. He has a heart to follow God and is overwhelmed by God’s goodness. And the goodness of God so often comes through God’s people.

Sometimes it’s hard for us to grasp that we are the tools and vessels God works in and through. When we do something for someone, it’s God at work—it’s His love being extended. He’s given us His love for hurting people. We honor them, respect them, and restore dignity and hope in their lives.

 People often come here broken, insecure, and weighed down by shame. We’re able to pour love into their lives, helping them feel worthy, valued, and deserving of the help they receive—because God has already blessed them with His presence and His grace.

That’s what’s happening in Johnny’s life today because of our partnership together at Capital Compassion. There is so much more to come and many more stories to tell. We’re grateful for what God is doing and for the opportunities He’s bringing our way.

 Thank you for partnering with us. We’re looking forward with anticipation to all that lies ahead in 2026.

With gratitude and hope,

Pastor Rick Cole

Dear Friends, 

We’ve had an amazing week at Capital Compassion. Honestly, I could say that every week because there’s always something new happening—people God is bringing our way. Word of mouth is spreading. People who’ve been helped are telling others, “You can get help there.”

One of those is Jonathan. He had been coming for several weeks, a quiet and unassuming guy, always very pleasant. One night, Teresa, one of our kitchen volunteers, woke up in the middle of the night thinking of Jonathan. The next day, she talked with him about taking next steps, and he was ready. That same day, he signed up for rehab. Within just a few hours, an opportunity opened up for him to go. I took him to lunch at In-N-Out, and from there we went to the rehab center. He’s been there now for two weeks and is loving it.

Jonathan even called me yesterday, asking if I could help with a few things. He had my number and said one of the things he needed was a Bible. How could I say no? He also asked for shampoo, conditioner, soap, and other basics to get his life back on track—things he didn’t have when he entered the facility. I went out, picked up the items, and brought them by. When I arrived, they brought Jonathan out to see me, and he handed me a note he had written beforehand.

It said:

“Good morning. I’m doing extraordinarily well here at Centerpoint Rehab. I have every intention of completing the program—I know I will. I have everything I need to complete the program thanks in no small part to the continued support, both financial and spiritual, I receive from your amazing staff and volunteers, you included. I look forward to completing this phase of my recovery and moving on to bigger and better things, like being a more productive member of society and other goals, like being a good father to my two young children. I honestly feel like none of this could be possible without your much-needed attention and support. I want to thank you all for the great work you do. I pray that God continues to work through you for the good of all you’ve helped along their way to a better life. Thank you and God bless each and every one of you.”

Jonathan is going to complete his program. We’re going to walk with him every step of the way—into housing, health, and spiritual growth. He’ll be reading that Bible he just received.

This weekend, I also want to share something personal. Sunday is my birthday—September 28th, I’ll be 68 years old. I feel like I’m in the prime of life, filled with energy, excitement, and vision for this moment God has placed us in. We’re here to make a difference in a broken, divided world—bringing people together and reminding them they have value before God and with us.

If you’d like to do something for my birthday, I don’t need anything for myself. In the past, people have given me Starbucks cards and little things like that, but I don’t need those. Instead, I would ask you to consider making a donation to Capital Compassion. Your gift provides Bibles, hygiene products, food, diapers, clothing, and so much more for people like Jonathan and for families facing refugee-like situations.

This is how we change the world—one person, one family at a time. It only happens because we give and care. With your help, we can continue to impact this community and beyond.

For my birthday, let’s make a big impact together. This year, we’ve had 183 donors—how amazing would it be to grow that number to 500, even 1,000? Maybe you’ve been thinking about supporting what we do—this is the perfect moment to step in.

Thank you for walking with me, for loving the people God has placed in front of us, and for being part of transforming lives like Jonathan’s. Together, God will use us to bring hope, healing, and restoration.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Pastor Rick Cole

Dear Friends, 

I wanted to take a moment to share a powerful story with you—one that truly shows the impact of your generosity and the difference you’re making through Capital Compassion.

Just three weeks ago, a couple walked into our center in tears. They had been living in their car in a Denny’s parking lot, emotionally spent and unsure where to turn. Someone told them about Capital Compassion—a place where people care, where help might be available—and they came through our doors with nothing but hope.

Thanks to the work happening in our respite center, and with Laine’s support, they were connected to critical medical care and mental health services. We also discovered that the husband had his Social Security number stolen, which destroyed his credit. But now, he’s receiving help to correct that. Piece by piece, their lives are being put back together.

Just last night, they moved into a tiny home in South Sacramento. This morning, Laine and I visited them. The transformation was incredible. There was peace in their hearts, hope in their eyes, and even excitement about their future. While we were there, they got a call confirming a much-needed doctor’s appointment. They now receive three meals a day and have a safe space for the next nine months while they work toward permanent housing.

They even expressed interest in coming back to volunteer—to give back the same compassion they received.

This is just one couple. There are many more stories like theirs, and they’re happening every day because of you. Because you care. Because you give.

 We also received a large delivery this week from Convoy of Hope, one of our amazing partners. With our new facility’s loading dock, we’re able to offload supplies more efficiently, allowing us to better serve every person who comes through our doors.

At Capital Compassion, every day is full of both challenge and joy—heartbreak and healing. Your support makes all of it possible.

 When you give, you’re not just donating. You’re transforming lives.

Thank you for being part of this work. Thank you for believing in hope. The journey ahead is great, it’s challenging—but it’s filled with possibility. And we’re so grateful to walk it with you.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Pastor Rick Cole