In the heart of San Francisco, a gathering of voices echoed through the city hall, each one a testament to the struggles and resilience of families living in Single Room Occupancy (SRO) units. As the sun rose on July 4, 2025, members of the SRO Families United Collaborative passionately urged city commissioners to preserve funding for their vital services, which have become a lifeline for many low-income families.

The meeting highlighted the urgent need for support as families shared their experiences with pressing building issues. One speaker recounted the challenges of living in cramped quarters, where a broken stove forced children to go hungry, and water leaks turned bathrooms into sources of distress. “My 10-year-old had to relieve themselves in our unit,” one mother lamented, illustrating the dire conditions that many face. These stories were not just individual struggles; they painted a broader picture of the systemic issues affecting the community.

Families expressed gratitude for the collaborative’s role in bridging communication with landlords, often resolving issues that would otherwise remain unaddressed. “We have built a trust relationship with our families because we live in the same community and speak the same language,” one organizer noted, emphasizing the importance of cultural understanding in their work. This connection has empowered families to advocate for their rights and improve their living conditions.

As the meeting progressed, the urgency of maintaining funding became increasingly clear. Speakers urged the commissioners to recognize the collaborative’s impact, not only in addressing immediate building problems but also in providing educational workshops on fire safety and tenant rights. “These services are so important to low-income immigrant families,” one participant stated, highlighting the critical need for accessible resources.

The emotional weight of the testimonies resonated throughout the room, as families shared their fears of losing the support that has helped them navigate the complexities of city living. “If the funding is cut, we will lose an important organization that assists us and advocates for our rights,” warned another speaker, encapsulating the collective anxiety of the community.

As the meeting drew to a close, the call for action was clear. The families of San Francisco’s SRO units are not just seeking assistance; they are advocating for their dignity and the right to live in safe, healthy environments. The commissioners listened, but the future of the funding remains uncertain. The voices of these families serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for equity and support in the city, leaving a lingering question: will the city respond to their urgent plea for help?