During a recent meeting of the San Francisco Planning Commission, community leaders emphasized the urgent need for local government support in addressing pressing community issues. Roberto Alfaro, the executive director of Homies Organizing the Mission to Empower Youth, highlighted the organization's commitment to serving approximately 3,000 individuals annually, including diverse populations such as Chinese and Latino communities.
Alfaro urged the commission to adopt a proposed plan that reflects the community's vision and needs. He stressed the importance of participation in the planning process, noting that many community members have contributed to the development of this initiative. "We have incredible needs in our community right now," he stated, advocating for immediate action to move forward.
The organization has also provided significant financial assistance, distributing $2.2 million in emergency rental aid to residents. Alfaro called for the commission's support to ensure that the community can effectively plan for future challenges and opportunities. He concluded by expressing gratitude for the commission's consideration and reiterated the necessity of their support for the community's ongoing efforts.
The meeting underscored the critical role of local government in facilitating community-driven initiatives and addressing the urgent needs of San Francisco's diverse populations.