A Message from the CEO

Dear Safe Passages Partners and Friends,

We are urgently reminded just how critical the mission of Safe Passages remains: to disrupt cycles of poverty in the communities we serve. The social determinants of health, including the ongoing inequitable impacts of COVID on our families and neighborhoods are powerful drivers of our community-based work. Evidence surrounds us. Disparities in the health and wellbeing of Oakland’s youth. Learning loss across all grade levels. Growing levels of homelessness and poverty for families of color and other marginalized community members. A political divide that seems to ignore and even blame the most vulnerable members of society for the difficulties they face.

Amid these and many other challenges, Safe Passages has remained steadfast in its commitment to working with and celebrating our amazing families and youth. Now we are asking for your financial assistance to help us further our mission in two ways, one short term and immediate, the other a transformative long-term opportunity to expand our crucial work.

Annual Toy Drive: Each year, Safe Passages hosts a holiday gathering and toy drive. In partnership with Coliseum College Preparatory Academy, the day features games and activities for kids while families can pick up toys and receive food and other essentials for their own holiday celebrations. This event does not happen by chance. Through donations such as yours, we will be able to provide a safe and warm holiday celebration for hundreds of our community members.

Community Health and Wellness Center: Safe Passages has long had the dream of becoming a Community Health and Wellness Center where various direct services can be offered to youth, families, and partner organizations. That dream is now much closer with the purchase of a building in Downtown Oakland at 1017 Clay St. However, a building is just the beginning. To fully achieve our vision, we need your help to fund the creation of a space where we can deliver our many services in a central location. From rooms for parenting groups and youth counseling to art studios for our Get Active urban arts program, our new home will offer a wealth of resources and support for Oakland families and youth to thrive during these challenging times. In the meantime, will you join us in making our bold vision a reality?

Josefina Alvarado Mena, J.D.
Chief Executive Officer, Safe Passages

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