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Dear Neighbor,

For decades, our city has struggled with the intractable issue of homelessness, becoming a defining challenge associated with San Francisco. 

However, in past efforts to help those in need, we’ve seen a fragmented, reactive response that has led to dire consequences in some of our most vulnerable neighborhoods, including the Tenderloin. 

Home to over 3,500 children, the Tenderloin has shouldered the responsibility of this crisis. The data is clear: The Tenderloin has 33% of all shelter capacity in the city while its unsheltered population relative to the city is only 18%.

In fact, 75% of all services are concentrated in just 8 neighborhoods in San Francisco, while over 1,000 unsheltered residents in the remaining 30+ neighborhoods remain without capacity to connect residents to care. 

This means that while neighborhoods like the Tenderloin have more resources than needed to serve the local unsheltered residents, other parts of the city are service deserts, unable to provide life-saving services to those most in need.  

But these aren’t just statistics on a page. Each person is someone’s child, sister, brother — often it’s even families — who have nowhere to go and could use a helping hand.

I am a firm believer that it is our responsibility to care for one another and uplift the most vulnerable among us. 
 

That’s why I introduced the One City Shelter Act, a data-driven approach that ensures equitable access to shelter — because it’s time to end the disconnected approach and start addressing this homelessness as one city.

I'm proud to announce that the legislation passed the full Board of Supervisors with overwhelming support, marking a significant milestone in the city’s efforts to address the homelessness crisis with data, fairness, and accountability at its core.

This is the start to rebalancing the types of services in neighborhoods like the Tenderloin and encouraging true economic revitalization, while delivering access to dignified care to our neighbors most in need

Efforts like this have been tried before and the success of this is due in large part to a broad coalition of homelessness advocates, labor groups, business leaders, neighborhood associations, the San Francisco Democratic Party, and my colleagues on the Board.

This goes to show that together, we can make a difference. I look forward to the positive change this will deliver for our neighborhoods.

Earlier this week, we kicked off the daylighting project in District 5! Due to funds I authorized at the San Francisco County Transportation Authority, over the course of the next 4-6 weeks, SFMTA will be working across District 5 to make us the first district in the city to be fully daylighted, ensuring progress towards our Vision Zero goals for pedestrian safety.

Why this matters:
Daylighting removes parking within 20 feet of a traffic intersection, increasing visibility of pedestrians and improving safety for all users. In cities with daylighting, statistics show a significant reduction in pedestrian injuries.


 

Last month, I introduced a letter of inquiry asking how bad data is impacting our street conditions. 

This came on the heels of an SF Chronicle report noting that while tent encampments are down in the city, reports of encampments were increasing in the 311 data.

Our letter asked departments specifically how we can improve categorization to improve data accuracy and improve city response.

Following my inquiry, I'm excited to share that the 311 app now features a subcategory under Homeless Concerns" to differentiate between "encampments" and "unhoused person(s) (not in encampment).

Why this matters: 
With improved categorization, city departments receiving the request can better identify the right resources to deploy.

As an example, now the Department of Public Works can be deployed to assist with encampments blocking sidewalks rather than law enforcement agencies. And if there is no encampment, the city will know to deploy the Department of Public Health instead of Public Works - reducing inefficiencies in operations. 

 

Last week, I had the honor of recognizing Muhammad Yasir with a commendation on behalf of the Board for his unwavering service to our city as a public servant, union leader, and community organizer. From his work through the Department of Public Works to championing worker protections as the first South Asian chapter president for IFPTE Local 21, his leadership bridges infrastructure, advocacy, and inclusion. His work across labor, the Muslim and South Asian communities, and for residents throughout the city reflects the intersectional and diverse heart of San Francisco. Thank you, Yasir, for all you do!

 

Haight-Ashbury Cleanup

Last week, I joined neighbors bright and early to help keep our streets clean in Haight-Ashbury. 

It takes a team effort to roll up our sleeves and do the work - but our neighborhoods are better off for it. And what better way to build community and meet new people than this? I encourage you all to sign up for a clean up with organizer Civic Joy Fund here.
 

Hayes Valley Carnival

It was an incredible turnout to celebrate the 114th anniversary of the Hayes Valley Carnival!  Originally launched in 1911 as a symbol of resilience and renewal after the 1906 earthquake, the Carnival came back to San Francisco in 2022 to mark a fresh beginning after the pandemic.

Thank you Hayes Valley Neighborhood Association, Hayes Valley Merchants and ProxySF for organizing this event and to performers from Circus Bella for bringing free, family-fun to our neighborhood.

 

🌟 Apply Now: Community Challenge Grants — Deadline October 9, 2025! 🌿 

Do you have an idea to beautify your block, energize a public space, or bring neighbors together? The City’s Community Challenge Grants (CCG) program offers up to $150,000 for community-led projects that enhance safety, belonging, and resilience in San Francisco neighborhoods. 

Projects must take place in San Francisco and start after January 1, 2026. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits or groups with a fiscal sponsor. 

🛠️ From murals and gardens to block parties and greening—CCG can help make your vision real. 

📅 Apply by October 9, 2025 
 🔗Details + Free Grant Workshops

Let’s build a more vibrant San Francisco—together. 

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Avenue Greenlight just announced their 2025 grant program! 

Applications open July 24th and close on September 4th. 

Grants of up to $20,000 to benefit commercial corridors with Community Events, Murals, and Beautification Projects. 

Check out the Official Guidelines Avenue Greenlight Grant 2025!

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Electrify Your Home: Better, Healthier, and Climate-Friendly! 

Did you know gas appliances pollute your indoor air, and the Bay Area is phasing them out starting in 2027? Switch to modern electric appliances for a cleaner, more comfortable, and climate-friendly home. Find resources and incentives at BetterElectric.org. 

Want to bring this vital information to your community? SF Environment offers engaging presentations for your neighborhood. Request one today at BetterElectric@sfgov.org! 

 

 
Our D5 Scout Squad hit Fillmore this week and spotted graffiti on a fence and flagpole. Instead of leaving the cleanup burden solely on residents, they took action—filing 311 reports to get things moving.

Big thanks to DPW for their rapid response and cleanup magic! This is what community-powered, proactive care looks like—getting youth and neighbors involved to keep our streets shining.

Stay tuned for the Scout Squad’s next mission!

Want to help? Download the SF 311 app and join the effort!

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Need help? Don’t hesitate to reach out at MahmoodStaff@sfgov.org. We’re here to serve!

Let’s work together to make District 5 a better place for all.