To: Tom Bates, Mayor, Linda Maio, District 1, Darryl Moore, District 2, Max Anderson, District 3, Jesse Arreguin, District 4, Laurie Capitelli, District 5, Susan Wengraf, District 6, Kriss Worthington, District 7, and Lori Droste, District 8

Berkeley City Council: No Cuts to South Berkeley Non-profits

For decades the City of Berkeley has disinvested in South Berkeley and this year’s budget reinforces this trend: South Berkeley-based organizations face over $250,000 in cuts -- three times greater than any other neighborhood. We oppose the proposed cuts in City funding to South Berkeley nonprofits.*

Why is this important?

Recently, the City began a planning process to “revitalize” the Adeline Corridor in South Berkeley. A group of neighbors have organized in order to demand that justice and equity be part of the conversation. As part of that effort we are demanding this revitalization begin today with NO cuts to any South Berkeley organization. Instead, we urge you to work with us to identify new long-term funding for these essential services as a part of the Adeline Corridor Plan.

* including: Organizations located in and serving South Berkeley: The Drop-In Center, Youth Spirit Artworks, Ephesians Children’s Center, McGee Avenue Baptist Church and the South Berkeley Community Church. Organizations located in South Berkeley and serving the broader community: LifeLong Medical Care, East Bay Community Law Center, Through the Looking Glass, A Better Way, Bay Area Outreach and Recreation Program