Buena Vista shelter residents demand transparency and urgent support for migrant families

During a recent San Francisco County government meeting, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding the housing crisis affecting newly arrived migrant families. The testimonies highlighted a pressing need for transparency and immediate support from city officials.

Miriam Rivera, a single mother from Colombia, shared her family's struggles after arriving at the Buena Vista shelter six months ago. She emphasized the desire for opportunities to improve their situation, stating, "We just want to move forward with our jobs and help those within the city." Rivera's plea for assistance resonated with many, as she called for the city to open doors for families seeking stability.

The urgency of the situation was echoed by the director of housing and shelter programs at Dorosa Street Community Services, who described the current circumstances as an emergency. "Newly arrived families are in desperate need," she stated, urging a redesign of the entry coordination process to better address the unique challenges these families face. As an immigrant herself, she underscored San Francisco's role as a sanctuary city, advocating for the housing of refugees.

Verona Corto, a representative from the Faith in Action movement, also spoke passionately about the disconnect between city communications and the realities faced by families in shelters. She criticized the lack of effective outreach and called for more decisive action to meet the needs of those seeking help.

The meeting highlighted the struggles of families like Rivera's, who have encountered barriers to accessing resources. One family shared their experience of being turned away from access points due to full capacity, further illustrating the urgent need for solutions to support children and families in crisis.

As the meeting concluded, the voices of these community members served as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by migrant families in San Francisco. Their calls for transparency and action reflect a broader need for the city to prioritize housing and support services, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to thrive.