Amid Trump cuts, can foundations fill the hole? Never, funders say.

San Francisco has experienced extensive federal funding cuts, leading to the shutdown of crucial programs like a family reunification initiative and health services for the homeless. Nonprofits are scrambling to find financial support, with leaders like Adriana Sanchez highlighting the inability of private foundations to fill the void left by government funding. Arts organizations, historically underfunded by large philanthropies, face particularly dire circumstances as many National Endowment for the Arts grants get canceled. The California Arts Council's funding may also be impacted due to the state's budget deficit. The San Francisco Arts Commission is grappling with its own budget shortfall, which stands at $781.

5 million. Philanthropy experts assert that the public sector has a responsibility to support communities, and they warn against relying solely on private funding. Foundations are being urged to adopt a culture of giving rather than focusing on asset growth. The San Francisco Foundation has pledged an additional $15 million over two years to support its grantees, but many believe more action is needed.