San Francisco – The Excelsior neighborhood is buzzing with family‑focused generosity and community events. The Birth Companions Community Center, a nonprofit that provides free, multilingual doula services, is distributing baby clothing, strollers and toys every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 29 San Juan Ave., just off Mission Street. The giveaway also runs on the first and third Saturdays of each month for families who cannot attend during the week.
“We have been doing this for almost six years,” said Jeny Trejo, co‑founder of the center. Trejo explained that the organization relies heavily on donations, so the exact items each mother receives can vary. In addition to the weekly giveaways, the center hosts free baby showers for expectant mothers every three months, serving about 30 pregnant women per event with blankets, clothing, toys, strollers and baby bathtubs. The next shower is scheduled for Jan. 9, 2027, and the center welcomes any contributions, including surplus food from local restaurants. “Anything would be great,” Trejo added.
Excelsior Night Market Returns
The Excelsior Action Group is preparing its fourth monthly “From the E” night market, set for Friday, Nov. 20 at the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Mission Street. This month’s theme features live music by San Francisco world‑music group La Gente SF, cumbia dance lessons and a selection of local bites. Attendees can RSVP for a chance to win raffle prizes. A final market is planned for December, promising holiday cheer for the neighborhood.
Local Faith Community Relocates
The Christian Pentecostal church formerly located at 4782 Mission St. has moved to the Mission District near 23rd and Mission streets after the Excelsior building was sold. Pastor Jeremias Nolasco said the congregation secured the new space within two months and is now guiding members to the new location.
Business Updates
Several local businesses announced temporary schedule changes. Zabb Thai Cuisine, a longtime Excelsior favorite at 4440 Mission St., will close from Nov. 15 to Dec. 10 while owner Anna So travels to Thailand for family time after a decade away. The Levant Rug Company at 4570 Mission St. will have limited hours this month as staff exhibit rugs at the Delaware Antiques Show (Nov. 3‑20). Customers can arrange appointments by calling 415‑714‑0868 or emailing [email protected]. Beauty For You, a nail salon at 4830 Mission St., now operates Monday‑Saturday, 10 a.m.‑7 p.m., and remains closed on Sundays.
Community Remembrance
A poster honoring 17‑year‑old Rolando Jose “RJ” Dusuau, who was killed on Oct. 16 in Potrero Hill, was displayed on the window of APEX Barbershop at 4802 Mission St. The poster includes a QR code linking to a GoFundMe page supporting Dusuau’s family, with a tribute reading, “Smart. Funny. Driven. So full of life. His smile could light up any room. Our family is facing a very hard time. Any help or share means more than we can say.”
Original reporting: Mission Local — read the source article.
