As we navigate significant policy shifts and challenges, our collective advocacy efforts remain more crucial than ever. This edition of our Policy & Advocacy Newsletter highlights the pressing issues affecting our communities—from proposed federal budget cuts threatening essential programs like CalFresh and Medicaid to the ripple effects that local food banks and service providers already feel. We also examine how communities organize in response, from county-level oversight wins to statewide coalitions defending vital resources.
Many bills at the state level demand your attention, and organizations are doing extensive advocacy on this front. Join the fight by signing letters and reaching out to your representative.
We know so much is shifting—and in the midst of it all, we hope you'll join us in continuing to build community power. You're warmly invited to OnBoard 2025 on Wednesday, April 23, 3:30–6:30 pm and our Voter Engagement & Outreach Advisory Committee (VEOAC) meeting on Wednesday, April 30, 10–11:30 am. Both are timely opportunities to connect, learn, and take action.
We also invite you to explore our new Community Safety Resources webpage—a space we've created to highlight the incredible organizing and mutual support efforts across our nonprofit and partner networks. Now more than ever, it's essential to recognize and share the tools that help us safeguard our communities with care and collective strength.
We must continue to unite our voices and actions. We encourage you to engage with the resources and stories shared in this newsletter, participate in upcoming events, and collaborate with fellow advocates to drive meaningful change. Together, we can sustain the momentum needed to ensure that our policies and systems reflect the values and needs of all community members.
In Solidarity,
Yajaira Ortega, Senior Manager, Policy and Equity
Skye Hathaway, Policy and Equity Intern
To view Thrive and community events or to submit an event, visit Thrive's Event page.
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President Trump’s new executive order on election integrity directs the federal government to collect and cross-check state voter rolls, raising serious concerns about voter suppression and federal overreach. The ACLU has responded forcefully, warning that the order could lead to inaccurate purges of eligible voters and violate fundamental constitutional rights. Common Cause is calling on us to act—click here to tell your state lawmakers to push back against this dangerous power grab and protect fair elections in your state.
The Alien Enemies Act
The Supreme Court just upheld the use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport alleged Venezuelan gang members, marking the first time it’s been used in peacetime. Civil liberties groups are fighting back — the ACLU and others filed lawsuitsto block these removals, arguing the law violates due process and is being misused for political gain. Courts have temporarily halted some deportations as the legal battle unfolds.
"Administration for Healthy America"
The Department of Health and Human Services is slashing 20,000 jobs and collapsing 28 agencies into just 15, a move critics say will gut public health infrastructure. Vital programs across the CDC, NIH, and FDA are being folded into a new mega-agency, the Administration for a Healthy America — raising alarms about lost expertise, disrupted services, and political overreach.
Federal Budget Cuts Effecting Californians
Republican proposals to cut Medicaid would deeply impact California, where over 15 million people rely on Medi-Cal. The state already faces a $6.2 billion shortfall tied to expanded coverage, and federal cuts could force California to reduce services, restrict eligibility, or lower provider payments — putting care for children, seniors, and low-income families at risk. Read The California Budget and Policy Center's analysis here and a Q&A from the California Budget and Policy Center here.
Low-income residents in California's red districts feel betrayed by these budget cuts. Read their story from CalMatters here.
Kevin Mullin Hosts Town Hall, Constituents Speak Out
Nearly 400 people attended Congressman Kevin Mullin's recent Town Hall, where constituents shared emotional stories about how Trump administration policies affect their lives. A parent spoke about fears over Medicaid cuts impacting care for his disabled son, while a former federal employee described being unjustly fired under the new DOGE restructuring. Many expressed outrage over plans to eliminate the Department of Education. Mullin highlighted legislative actions Democrats are taking in response and emphasized the importance of continued civic engagement to push back against these harmful policies. Watch the full town hall here.
CalNonprofits is sponsoring a slate of 2025 bills to strengthen California's nonprofit sector. Their priorities include improving contract payments (AB 880, AB 1039), expanding service flexibility during emergencies (AB 944), supporting community-based health providers (AB 324), and protecting immigrant-serving nonprofits from federal overreach (AB 1318). These efforts aim to ensure nonprofits can better serve their communities. Complete the sign-on formby April 25th to be included in letters supporting the bills mentioned above. Read more here.
Second Harvest of Silicon Valley's 2025 Policy Agenda calls for stronger food assistance programs, universal school meals, expanded aid for immigrants, and policies addressing hunger's root causes. Read their agenda here.
Transform calls on California to prioritize equity in its 2025–26 budget by investing in affordable housing, public transit, and active transportation. Their proposal includes $2.9 billion for housing and homelessness programs, $2 billion for transit operations, and $400 million to restore walking and biking infrastructure. Read the full budget report here.
SB 79: Transit-Oriented Development
SB79 is a California bill that would expand transit-oriented development by allowing more housing to be built near public transit. It's a climate and equity solution that would help reduce emissions, address the housing crisis, and make communities more accessible. Sign California YIMBY's petition here to urge lawmakers to pass SB79.
New BAHFA Programs
BAHFA is now accepting applications for two new housing preservation programs starting April 21. The Housing Preservation Loan Pilot offers up to $250,000 per unit for acquisition and rehab projects. The new Technical Assistance Grant Program provides up to $50,000 for early-stage consulting costs. Applications are rolling and will be prioritized based on set criteria. Learn more: Loan Program | Grant Program
County Updates
San Mateo County Annual Report on Sales Tax, Investment in Early Childhood Education
San Mateo County's Measure K Annual Report details how voter-approved sales tax funds support public safety, health, and housing. The report, presented to the Board of Supervisors, ensures transparency in local investments. Read a more detailed summary here. Of note, $4.5 million will go towards supporting early childhood educators.
Measure A, Sheriff, and ICAC updates
The results of the March 4 Special Election were certified on April 3. Measure A passed with 84% yes votes, at a 24.4% voter turnout. Check out the results here.
The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors has been granted the power to remove the Sheriff from office without cause until 2028. Read the process or watch their discussion here.
At its April 2 meeting, San Mateo County's Independent Civilian Advisory Commission on the Sheriff's Office (ICAC) unanimously recommended creating a permanent Inspector General with subpoena power — a significant win for community advocates. The commission also raised concern over six in-custody deaths since January 2023, calling for more transparency and oversight from the Sheriff's Office—April 2nd ICAC agenda | Recording of meeting. Stay tuned for their May 7th meeting.
Funding Approved for New BART Gates
​The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors has approved over $10 million in funding to install new, more secure fare gates at BART stations within the county. This initiative aims to enhance station security and reduce fare evasion, aligning with broader efforts to improve public transit safety and reliability.​ Read more here.
Be Wildfire Safe & Ready
Saturday, April 26, 10:00 to 1:00 pm, San Mateo
San Mateo County will host a free wildfire preparedness event, Be Wildfire Safe & Ready. The event aims to equip residents with practical steps to reduce wildfire risks and protect their homes. Attendees can expect presentations, local agencies' resources, and firsthand accounts from wildfire survivors. Topics include creating defensible space, packing emergency "go bags," and understanding updated fire hazard severity zone maps.
San Mateo County Parks App
​San Mateo County Parks has launched a new self-guided tour app to help visitors explore local parks' rich history and natural features. The app offers curated tours with maps, photos, and audio narration, enhancing the experience of hiking, biking, or walking through the parks. It's available for free download on both iOS and Android devices. ​More info is available here.
Thrive Update
Translation Services Hub
Apply to Thrive Alliance's Translation Services Hub to access translation and interpretation support your organization may not be able to manage independently. Our vision is a nonprofit sector where language is never a barrier to service—ensuring every community member can fully engage and be supported regardless of language.
Through the Translation Services Hub, nonprofits can access free translation and interpretation services in Spanish, Chinese, and Filipino.
Join us at the CZI Community Space for an evening of workshops, networking, and connecting with remarkable nonprofits. As part of the Thriving Nonprofit Workforce Initiative, this event is designed for everyone—from seasoned board members to those just beginning their journey in the nonprofit world. Check out our OnBoard 2024 video, created by The Pixelmakers, showcasing highlights from last year's record-breaking event, which featured 50 local nonprofits and drew more than 250 attendees.This is a unique opportunity to expand your network and discover how you can help drive meaningful change. We can't wait to see you there!
Featured Speakers
Mauricio Palma
Director, Community Partnership, Silicon Valley Community Foundation
4:30 - 5:00 pm
Listening First: Embracing the Unknown in Board Leadership
Matt Nash
Director, Center for Social Innovation Stanford University
5:30 - 6:00 pm
Cultivating a More Dynamic Approach to Nonprofit Governance in a Time of Uncertainty
Join us for a post-election debrief, where we’ll reflect on the recent election results and identify key takeaways. We’ll review voter turnout data, especially in low-turnout precincts.
This session will also feature a special presentation on Civics 101. We’ll dive into a short course designed to help us better understand the differences between county and city responsibilities. It’s a great opportunity for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of how local government structures work and where there are opportunities to get involved.
This meeting is proudly co-chaired by San Francisco Peninsula People Power, the County Elections Office, and Thrive Alliance. We look forward to your active involvement!
Staying Inside the 501(c)(3) Lines: Keeping Nonpartisan in Messy Partisan Times
Wednesday, April 23, 11am, Virtual
Nonprofit VOTE will host a free webinar by attorney Stephanie Robbins from Harmon, Curran, Spielberg & Eisenberg, LLP. The session will guide nonprofits in engaging voters and advocating effectively while maintaining their 501(c)(3) status. The webinar will cover IRS regulations, permissible activities, and strategies for nonpartisan engagement. Registration is open here.
Why is it so Difficult to Get a Home in 2025?
Thursday, April 24, 5:30 - 7:00 pm, Virtual
The Housing Leadership Council of San Mateo County is hosting a free online session to explore the root causes of the housing crisis, current policies, and real solutions to improve affordability. It’s open to all — whether you’re just learning or already engaged in the fight for housing justice. Register here.
SAMDECA Annual Meeting feat. THRED Talks
Tuesday, June 17, 3:30 - 6:30 pm, In-person
​The San Mateo County Economic Development Association (SAMCEDA) will host its 72nd Annual Meeting at Skyline College. The event will feature “THRED Talks,” a series of presentations focusing on transportation, housing, healthcare, resilience, economy, equity, and environment. This gathering aims to bring together community leaders and stakeholders to discuss and address regional challenges and opportunities. More information and registration details are here. ​
Mental Health Crisis Response Survey
The Peninsula Anti-Racism Coalition (PARC) is gathering community input on mobile mental health crisis response services in San Mateo County. They want to hear from residents about their awareness, expectations, and experiences with these services. The brief six-question survey takes just a minute to complete. Take the survey.
Community briefings from the California Office of Community Awareness, Response, and Engagement (CARE) are available here.
Everyone Belongs Here is a new resource for healthcare providers seeking to support immigrant and refugee communities better.
If you witness ICE activity or immigration enforcement in your community, call the San Mateo County Rapid Response Hotline at 203-666-4472 (203-NO-MIGRA). You can also find more information and printable resources here.
Public Counsel has hosted a "Know your rights" information session that can be read here or watched here.
Check out this case study, "Bringing Sergio Home," from Participatory Defense, which discusses how they helped secure one man's release from immigration detention.
Legal Essentials for Nonprofits Webinar
Catchafire and Paladin hosted a webinar on how nonprofits can stay legally protected amid threats to federal funding. The session covered 501(c)(3) rights, staying current on filings, safeguarding operations, and legal tips for budgeting during uncertainty. Watch the full video here.
Trump Litigation Tracker
Just Security's Litigation Tracker provides a comprehensive overview of legal challenges to actions taken by the Trump administration during its second term. The tracker documents numerous lawsuits filed against the administration's policies, including those related to immigration, public health, and executive authority. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding the legal landscape and the judiciary's role in addressing executive actions. Check it out here.
SVCN Resilience Resources Hub
​The Silicon Valley Council of Nonprofits (SVCN) offers a comprehensive Resilience Resources hub to help nonprofits navigate federal policy shifts and operational uncertainties. This resource page includes tools and expert guidance on legal and HR compliance, scenario planning, financial resilience, and immigration support. It also features updates on federal actions affecting the nonprofit sector, such as executive orders and litigation trackers. SVCN regularly updates this hub to provide nonprofits with the latest information to strengthen their organizational resilience.​
Know Your Rights: Police Interactions
Everyone has rights when interacting with law enforcement. In California, that includes the right to know why you're being stopped — and, if arrested, the right to make three phone calls. Watch the ACLU's video and explore their full Know Your Rights guide here.
Of Interest
Which Californians Turned Out to Vote in 2024?
The Public Policy Institute of California’s latest analysis shows that California’s 2024 voter turnout skewed older, whiter, wealthier, and more educated than the general population — trends that continue to highlight representation gaps in who votes. Read the full report here.
Cost Pressures and Affordability for Californians
​In a recent testimony, the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) highlighted that 69% of Californians anticipate economic hardship in the coming year, driven by persistent inflation and stagnant wages. Despite a tight labor market, many residents struggle with affordability, particularly housing and essential goods. PPIC emphasizes the need for targeted policies to alleviate cost pressures and promote economic stability. ​Read the full testimony here.
Record High Homelessness in California
​California's homeless population reached a record high in 2024, with over 180,000 individuals experiencing homelessness. This increase reflects the state's ongoing housing affordability crisis, where high rents and a shortage of affordable housing units continue to displace residents. Read PPIC's full report here.
SB4: Yes In God's Back Yard
California's SB4, enacted in 2023, empowers religious institutions and nonprofit colleges to build 100% affordable housing on their land by right, bypassing local zoning restrictions and streamlining approvals. This legislation unlocks over 170,000 acres statewide for affordable housing development. SB 4 aims to address the state's housing crisis by facilitating affordable housing development on underutilized land owned by faith-based organizations and educational institutions.
California Children's Well-Being Scorecard
Children Now's 2025 County Scorecard tracks 40 key indicators of child well-being across California's 58 counties, including education, health, and child welfare. The data reveals deep racial and economic disparities—only 32% of 8th graders met math standards statewide, with much lower rates for Black and Latino students. Explore the scorecard here.
Reimagining Public Health Advocacy
Human Impact Partners’ 2024 report calls for a bold, justice-centered public health movement that partners deeply with community power-building organizations. The report identifies disconnects between public health NGOs and grassroots groups through a national scan. It offers strategies to bridge these gaps, including forming the Public Health for Community Power Coalition. Read the full report here.
How California Lawmakers are Trying to Shield Themselves from Public View
​California lawmakers have introduced a series of bills that critics argue would reduce government transparency. These proposals include measures to limit public access to officials at meetings, shield financial disclosures, and allow more remote participation by officials without revealing their locations. Such efforts have raised concerns among transparency advocates, who fear these changes could hinder public accountability and oversight. ​Read CalMatter's analysis here.
2025 AAPI Data/AP-NORC Survey
The survey highlights key generational and political divides among AAPI adults on issues like immigration, the economy, and education. Older AAPI adults are more likely to support stricter immigration policies and identify as conservative, while younger generations lean progressive and prioritize education affordability. The findings reflect the growing political diversity and influence of the AAPI community. Read more here.
Record High Covered California Enrollment
​Covered California has reached nearly 2 million enrollees for 2025, marking a record high for the state's health insurance marketplace. This growth is bolstered by enhanced federal subsidies and state-level cost-sharing reductions, making coverage more affordable for many residents. Notably, for the first time, some Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients, also known as Dreamers, are now eligible to enroll in health plans through Covered California, expanding access to healthcare for this group. Read more from the PPIC here.
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