San Francisco nonprofit workers demand wage increases from budget committee

San Francisco County's Budget Committee meeting on July 4, 2025, highlighted urgent calls for increased funding and wage support for nonprofit workers, who are deemed essential in the city's homeless response system. Numerous speakers, including nonprofit leaders and frontline workers, emphasized the critical need for higher wages to ensure the sustainability of services provided to the community.

Wendy, a representative from Hospitality House, urged the committee to invest in nonprofit workforce salaries, noting that many essential workers are struggling to make ends meet despite their vital roles during the pandemic. She highlighted the dedication of staff who often work multiple jobs to support themselves, underscoring the need for fair compensation.

Carl Kramer from the San Francisco Living Wage Coalition pointed out operational challenges that delay wage increases for nonprofit staff, stressing that many workers have not received necessary funding to support their livelihoods. He called for a more systematic approach to ensure that wage increases are timely and effective.

Lehi Benitez, director of housing and shelter programs at Dolores Street Community Services, shared the struggles faced by nonprofit workers, particularly those from marginalized communities. He emphasized the importance of addressing systemic racism and underfunding that disproportionately affects black and brown workers in the sector.

Several speakers echoed these sentiments, detailing the impact of low wages on staff retention and service delivery. They reported high turnover rates and vacancies that hinder the ability to provide adequate support to vulnerable populations. Many workers shared personal stories of financial hardship, illustrating the unsustainable nature of their current wages.

Laura Valdez, Executive Director of Dolores Street Community Services, called for a minimum living wage of $25 an hour, arguing that current compensation levels are insufficient for the essential work being done. She urged the committee to take decisive action to support nonprofit workers and the communities they serve.

The meeting concluded with a strong consensus among speakers that without significant investment in the nonprofit workforce, the city risks undermining its efforts to address homelessness and support its most vulnerable residents. The Budget Committee's response to these urgent requests will be crucial in shaping the future of nonprofit services in San Francisco.