CCSA was founded in 1972 by seven churches in the local ministerial association and obtained its nonprofit 501C-3 status in 1973. During 45 years of service, CCSA has grown to include 31 member churches in the Clairemont, Pacific Beach, La Jolla, and University City areas of San Diego. CCSA currently has three paid staff members and has utilized hundreds of volunteers to deliver its services. The agency is supported by its member churches, hundreds of individual donors, businesses, small grants, and various fundraising efforts.