UC Berkeley Alternative Breaks: San Francisco Trip

Greetings!

We are a group of nine dedicated UC Berkeley students participating in Alternative Breaks, a student-run program committed to service, education, and social justice. This spring, we have the incredible opportunity to travel to San Francisco’s Tenderloin district to engage with community organizations working tirelessly to support unhoused individuals.

Throughout the semester, we are taking a DeCal course that provides an in-depth exploration of houselessness and economic justice. We are learning about the structural causes of the housing crisis, the criminalization of homelessness, and the role of policy and media in shaping public perception. The course also highlights the cultural and historical significance of the Tenderloin, including its vibrant LGBTQ+ community and the impact of gentrification and displacement. By engaging with academic literature, guest speakers, and critical discussions, we are preparing to approach this experience with knowledge, reflection, and a commitment to meaningful engagement.

During our trip, we will work directly with local advocacy groups and service organizations, participating in hands-on service projects, community listening, and reflection activities. We are eager to challenge misconceptions, uplift the voices of those most affected, and return with actionable insights to continue advocating for long-term change.

We are reaching out to our community for support in making this experience as impactful as possible. Your generosity will directly contribute to transportation, meals, and essential resources for our trip. Every donation—large or small—will help us fully immerse ourselves in this transformative service-learning opportunity.

We are deeply passionate about this work and grateful for any support you can provide. Even sharing this campaign with your network makes a meaningful difference.

Thank you for believing in our mission and joining us in the fight for housing justice!