SAN DIEGO -- On March 28, former SDSU cornerback Xavier Hamlett brought the San Diego community together through his Block Party of Hope, an outreach event powered by BoogsHeart and Daygo’s Finest. What began as a vision to serve the unhoused community transformed into a vibrant day filled with music, resources, and meaningful human connection.
The event provided free haircuts, food distribution, clothing resources, hygiene kits, prayer, and access to support services, creating a space where individuals felt seen, valued, and supported. Live music and games added to the welcoming atmosphere, turning the day into more than just a service effort, but a true community gathering.
Local partners including Tony’s Pepperoni Pizzeria, Blackstone Products, Luck Duck Foundation, Samaritan’s Feet, and Simply G Meals contributed supplies and support, helping expand the reach and impact of the event.
Palomar Holdings, Inc. joined the effort by bringing together student-athletes from SDSU, USD, and UCSD, turning the day into their March Day of Service initiative. Alongside local volunteers, these athletes worked directly with community members, reinforcing the spirit of unity and service at the heart of the event.
Held in downtown San Diego under warm skies, the block party reflected Hamlett’s mission to create spaces rooted in compassion, dignity, and consistency for the unhoused community.
“My vision was to create a real party for the unhoused, a space where they could feel appreciated, comfortable, and free to have fun and simply enjoy the day,” Hamlett said. “Seeing that vision come to life was an amazing feeling. I get told all the time that my ideas are unrealistic or not rational, but this only sparked something even bigger in me. It gave me even more motivation to keep creating outreach events rooted in love, joy, and community.”
This marked the first Block Party of Hope of its kind, bringing together volunteers and organizations from across San Diego to contribute their time and energy toward a shared cause.
“It means so much to be able to come out with my fellow student-athletes and others who care about the same thing to make a positive impact in the community together,” said Katie Senn, women’s soccer student-athlete and SAAC President. “It is a very powerful experience to be a part of. Serving the San Diego community is a great way to give back to the city that has given me a place to thrive.”
BoogsHeart was founded with the goal of creating ongoing, community-centered outreach rooted in compassion, structure, and dignity. Prior to this event, the organization has served over 1,500 meals and distributed care bags with feminine essentials to more than 300 women.
As the Block Party of Hope continues to grow, BoogsHeart remains open to donations and partnerships, expanding its mission to deliver direct, meaningful support to communities across San Diego.
Xavier Hamlett’s Block Party of Hope Unites San Diego Community in Day of Service
Hamlett’s Block Party of Hope united San Diego Community in Day of Service.