The San Francisco County government meeting on July 4, 2025, focused on the pressing issues surrounding supportive housing in the city. Community members and stakeholders voiced their concerns regarding the effectiveness of current supportive housing initiatives, particularly those managed by HomeRise, and the impact on surrounding neighborhoods.

Several speakers highlighted the urgent need for more supportive housing options, emphasizing that while many residents benefit from these programs, there are significant challenges that must be addressed. Concerns were raised about the safety and well-being of both supportive housing residents and nearby community members. One resident described witnessing alarming incidents, including armed robberies and suicide attempts, which underscored the need for improved on-site support services.

Tabitha Allen, co-chair of the supportive housing providers network, pointed out that while permanent supportive housing has been effective for many, the lack of adequate mental health and crisis support, especially during evenings and weekends, poses a significant challenge. She called for increased investment in clinical support services to ensure a safer environment for all residents.

Another speaker, Sean Nishi, urged the city to require HomeRise to provide 24/7 on-site support services, citing a lack of adequate response to disruptive behaviors that have affected the quality of life in the area. This sentiment was echoed by others who stressed the importance of community engagement and collaboration between supportive housing providers and local residents.

The meeting also addressed the broader context of homelessness and substance abuse in San Francisco. Barry Graves, a resident and services team leader at HomeRise, emphasized that the issues faced are not solely a problem of supportive housing but reflect larger societal challenges, including drug addiction and mental health crises. He called for a collective effort to provide the necessary support and resources for those in need.

As discussions continued, the need for a more comprehensive approach to supportive housing was clear. Many speakers advocated for recovery-based housing options and better screening processes to ensure that individuals entering supportive housing are prepared for the environment. The meeting concluded with a call for increased investment in supportive housing and mental health services, highlighting the urgency of addressing these critical issues for the well-being of the entire community.