Community advocates urge restoration of budget for critical support services

The Los Angeles City Council held a budget hearing on April 25, 2025, where community leaders and advocates voiced urgent concerns regarding proposed cuts to vital services. The meeting highlighted the potential impact of budget reductions on vulnerable populations, including domestic violence survivors, youth, and day laborers.

Laura Lullin, CEO of Rainbow Services, emphasized the critical need for funding to support domestic violence survivors, noting that 43% of homeless women cite domestic violence as a primary cause of their homelessness. She urged the council to restore the full budget for domestic violence supportive services, stressing the importance of collaboration to address this pressing issue.

Chuy Orozco, a youth protection analyst, raised alarms about the elimination of his position and the youth development division, which plays a crucial role in preventing child exploitation and promoting youth wellness. He argued that the proposed cuts would not only harm the city's youth but could also lead to increased future liabilities and crime, as the division is highly effective in delivering a significant return on investment.

Community members also shared their experiences with local programs. One resident praised the InsightSafe initiative for improving quality of life in Van Nuys, particularly in areas previously plagued by large encampments. Another speaker, Mark Moreno, a helicopter mechanic and union member, criticized the mayor's budget cuts, arguing that they would force city employees to do more work with fewer resources, ultimately compromising service quality.

The meeting underscored the ongoing debate over budget priorities in Los Angeles, with advocates calling for the protection of essential services that support the city's most vulnerable residents. As the council deliberates on the budget, the voices of community members highlight the critical need for thoughtful consideration of how funding decisions will affect public welfare.