San Francisco County officials are urged to support the Tenderloin Community Action Plan (TCAP) during a recent government meeting, as community members shared powerful testimonies highlighting the urgent need for continued funding and support in the Tenderloin neighborhood.

Residents and advocates emphasized the fragility of the current support systems that have helped stabilize lives in a district marked by stark socioeconomic divides. One speaker, Naima, recounted her personal experience with the housing subsidy and support services that prevented her eviction after she had to leave her job due to PTSD. She passionately called for the approval of an additional $4 million in funding for TCAP, which has already leveraged over $6 million in resources, stating, “Don’t let the progress, the trust, or the stability fall apart.”

Bishra Labsey, an early childhood educator, echoed these sentiments, sharing her observations of positive changes in the Tenderloin over the past 30 years. She urged the supervisors to continue their support, emphasizing that funding would directly benefit families, youth, and vulnerable community members.

The meeting also featured stories from individuals who have benefited from TCAP’s services, including Mustafa Warwar, who detailed how he assisted families in navigating the housing system. He highlighted the importance of ongoing support for immigrant families facing language barriers, which can hinder their access to essential services.

Another resident, who identified as a person with a disability, stressed the significance of language access and case management funded by TCAP, which helps clients understand their rights and navigate the housing system effectively.

The collective message from the community was clear: continued investment in TCAP is crucial for maintaining stability and improving the quality of life in the Tenderloin. As the meeting concluded, the call to action was reinforced—supporting TCAP is not just about funding; it is about investing in the future of a neighborhood striving for equity and opportunity.