FOOD NOT BOMBS Special Event Protest @ City Hall!

Food Not Bombs Special Event: Protest Serving at City Hall
5:45pm August 20th

Over the past weeks our servings have dramatically increased in size as our city continues to cut necessary programs for the homeless and low income workers.

One way the gross removal of homeless assistance programs has taken place is by not giving nonprofit workers livable wages.

We are worried that the city's current approach on homelessness is inadequate and instead of providing concrete or effective solutions there are a growing number of programs that are only for show, or that unfairly criminalize, punish and drive people out of town.

The budget deficit has lead to cuts and strain on shelters, non-profits and other social services in the city.

A beautiful 'victory garden' was built in front of city hall, but like a number of initiatives (especially those championed by our mayor) it is more for press than meaningful community benefit. In this case the garden is temporary and at a cost of $180,000 (albeit sponsored by a private group)

Community Justice Center is moving forward and many fear it will only further criminalize homeless folks in the civic center, tenderloin and SOMA area. Evictions and heavier police presence continue in Golden Gate Park

SF rents continue to rise and more and more folks are having a harder time making it in the city as the economy is weaker and work is more difficult to come by.

We are bringing these issues to the attention of the politicians and our community by bringing Food Not Bombs out to City Hall. We welcome everyone to come take part in this protest and invite people to bring food and messages of their own experience in solidarity!

Sources:
http://www. sfbg. com/blogs/politics/2008/06/interfaith_demonstration_chall. html
http://www. sfbg. com/blogs/politics/2008/07/a_hollow_victory_for_urban_gar. html
http://www. examiner. com/a-859407~Dozens_evicted_from_Golden_Gate_Park. html
http://www.beyondchron.org/articles/San_Francisco_Budget_Ignores_Nonprofit_Workers_5801.html