Oakland day-laborer allies urge city to reinstate Street Level Health Project funding

Advocates for day laborers in Oakland gathered at City Hall this week, pressing city officials to restore $440,000 cut from the Street Level Health Project's budget. The project estimates serving 300 to 400 day laborers at informal hiring sites, providing critical services that could be impacted by these cuts. Executive Director Gabriela Galicia highlighted the disappointment in the decision, noting that the funding loss represents over 50% of the project's budget. Councilmember Noel Gallo, a long-time supporter, attended the rally and vowed to continue advocating for funding while his office will donate to support the organization. The cuts threaten navigation services and food distribution programs, heightening food insecurity among immigrant populations.

Galicia pointed to heightened fears due to recent ICE raids, particularly those targeting Latino communities in Los Angeles. She stressed that the Street Level Health Project offers essential support and dignity to vulnerable workers. The situation underscores the urgent need for local government support amidst rising national scrutiny of immigrant laborers.