Advocating Against the Increased Criminalization of Homelessness in Silicon Valley

Every day we work to ensure that our neighbors can access safe, stable housing. Yet, the City of San José’s latest budget shifts focus away from long-term solutions, favoring encampment sweeps, fines, and vehicle impoundments over investments in deeply affordable housing and supportive services.

Decades of evidence show that punitive responses do not reduce homelessness; they make it harder for individuals to rebuild their lives. Instead, we must prioritize strategies that are effective, humane, and economically sound: permanent housing, rental assistance, and services that address the root causes of housing instability.

The Law Foundation of Silicon Valley joins our nonprofit partners in urging the cities across our region to prioritize policies grounded in dignity, equity, and proven outcomes. The path forward isn’t punishment, it’s housing.

Welcoming New Leaders to Our Board of Directors

We are honored to welcome the newest members of the Law Foundation of Silicon Valley Board of Directors!

The Law Foundation extends a warm welcome to Alessandra Murata, Partner at Cooley LLP, and Andrew Ong, Partner at King & Spalding LLP.

These distinguished leaders bring deep legal expertise and a shared commitment to justice that will strengthen our mission to serve children, adults, and families facing crisis and living with limited financial resources. We're excited to have their partnership and contributions to our Board.

Impacts On Our Immigrant Community

Recent executive orders increase immigration enforcement and deportations for undocumented people and those with various levels of legal status. Children are left especially vulnerable as the Trump administration has terminated funding for legal services provided to unaccompanied migrant children. While the federal court temporarily halted this, 26,000 minors remain at risk of losing their legal representation as they navigate complex immigration proceedings. 

Last month, the Law Foundation’s Pro Bono and Children & Youth Program (LACY) teamed up volunteers to provide a free immigration clinic for those potentially affected by new changes in federal immigration law. Families learned about their rights when confronted by law enforcement and prepared safety plans alongside attorneys and trained community members in case of deportation.  

If you or someone you know are affected by any of these executive orders, it’s important to understand your constitutional rights, create an emergency plan with your family, and consult with an immigration attorney to assess your situation and eligibility for relief. 

For more information, check out: 

• Your rights if detained by immigration: What to Do if You Are Arrested or Detained by Immigration 

• Creating a family preparedness plan: Step-by-Step Family Preparedness Plan