Foundation of Michael Moritz, VC billionaire, gives 3.4M to S.F. immigrant defense

The Crankstart Foundation, founded by billionaire venture capitalist Michael Moritz, has announced a $3. 4 million donation to the San Francisco public defender’s office to bolster its immigrant defense unit. This funding will facilitate the hiring of three attorneys and a paralegal over the next four years, allowing the office to represent an additional 80 clients facing deportation. The immigrant defense unit, established in 2017, currently employs six attorneys and provides crucial legal representation to immigrants who do not have a right to counsel during deportation proceedings. Jennifer Friedman, the unit's acting manager, highlighted the significant increase in requests for legal assistance, resulting in a 50-person waiting list.

The public defender's office sought additional city funding for this unit but was denied, underscoring the growing need for support. Since 2021, Crankstart has donated nearly $36 million to San Francisco city departments, primarily for immigrant defense and criminal justice reform initiatives. This includes a $6 million restorative justice grant that was halted midway. Moritz's philanthropic efforts reflect his commitment to ensuring access to legal representation for vulnerable populations in San Francisco.