The San Francisco County Board of Supervisors meeting on July 4, 2025, featured a series of passionate public comments focused on the potential budget cuts affecting vital community services. Several speakers, primarily from the Chinatown area, expressed deep concerns over proposed reductions to funding for the SRO (Single Room Occupancy) Family United Collaborative and labor outreach programs.
Mei, a single mother residing in an SRO, highlighted the dire living conditions in her building, including electrical issues that hinder access to fresh food. She emphasized the importance of the SRO Family United Collaborative in advocating for residents' needs and urged the board not to cut their budget.
Xing Li, another SRO resident, shared her struggles with persistent maintenance problems in her building, which have gone unaddressed by management. She credited the collaborative for helping resolve these issues and called for continued support for their services.
Chi Wei, a worker outreach advocate, voiced strong opposition to budget cuts that would impact labor rights activities. He stressed that many workers, particularly in the restaurant industry, face exploitation and rely on organizations like the Chinese Progressive Association for support in securing their rights.
Yong Yifang, a mother of three living in an SRO, echoed similar sentiments, detailing the slow response from building management regarding urgent repairs. She expressed gratitude for the assistance provided by the collaborative and urged the board to maintain funding.
Angela, a San Francisco resident, spoke about the challenges faced by workers in Chinatown, many of whom are unaware of their rights due to language barriers. She called for increased resources for labor outreach and enforcement to protect these vulnerable workers.
Dr. Jamie Chan, a founding member of Sisterhood Gardens, advocated for continued funding for community green spaces that serve diverse populations. She highlighted the garden's role in promoting wellness and environmental restoration, urging the board to preserve its financial support.
The meeting underscored the critical need for community resources and support systems in San Francisco, particularly for marginalized groups facing economic and social challenges. The board's decisions regarding the budget will significantly impact these essential services and the residents who rely on them.