Day laborer support program slashed under new Oakland budget deal

The Oakland City Council's recent budget approval has resulted in the loss of $220,000 for the Street Level Health Project's day laborer program, which provides vital resources to immigrant workers. This decision, made during the approval of a $4. 3 billion budget, surprised many advocates, including Executive Director Gabriela Galicia, who emphasized the critical nature of the program amid federal immigration crackdowns. The funding has historically supported essential services such as food distribution, job matching, and legal assistance for day laborers. Councilmember Carroll Fife, who did not vote on the budget, is collaborating with other officials to seek reinstatement of the funding.

The council's early budget approval, three weeks ahead of the deadline, left advocates scrambling for clarity on funding outcomes. Council President Kevin Jenkins explained that tough decisions were necessary to address a significant $265 million city budget shortfall. Despite the funding cut, advocates argue that Oakland must uphold its commitment to immigrant communities. The situation highlights ongoing tensions surrounding local support for vulnerable populations amid changing federal policies.