San Francisco Department on Status of Women secures $7M grant for youth services

In a recent San Francisco County government meeting, significant discussions centered around a new grant aimed at addressing the commercial exploitation of children. The meeting, held on July 4, 2025, included a resolution to retroactively authorize the Department on the Status of Women to accept and expend a $7 million grant from the California Department of Social Services. This funding is designated for a three-year period, running from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2025.

The grant is intended to enhance existing programs that support youth at risk of or currently experiencing commercial exploitation. During the meeting, program manager Nazini Bridal Foster highlighted the importance of this funding, noting that it builds upon a previous grant that expired at the end of last year. The new program, referred to as SF Soul (Safety, Opportunity, and Lifelong Relationships), aims to provide low-barrier access to services and housing for affected youth, including a home-based care model called Family and Me.

Foster emphasized the collaborative nature of the initiative, which involves partnerships with various systems such as child welfare, juvenile probation, public health, law enforcement, and community organizations. The goal is to implement these services across all nine Bay Area counties, addressing a critical need for comprehensive support for vulnerable youth.

The meeting also included procedural reminders for public comment, allowing community members to engage with the discussions remotely. The resolution is expected to appear on the Board of Supervisors' agenda on March 7, pending any changes.

This grant represents a significant step forward in San Francisco's efforts to combat child exploitation and provide essential services to at-risk youth. The collaborative approach outlined in the SF Soul program reflects a commitment to addressing the complex challenges faced by these young individuals, ensuring they receive the support necessary for their safety and well-being. As the program moves forward, its success will likely depend on continued community engagement and effective inter-agency collaboration.