What's Going On: June 2025

Hot Spotlight: The Lightway App is in Development

We’re excited to share that the Lightway Advocacy App is officially in development!

Prototype :::>>

This web and mobile-friendly app will help advocates like you:

• Choose your pillar of focus: Homelessness, Community Beautification, or Human Trafficking Awareness

• Log and track your advocacy actions in real time

• Advance through the Streetlight → Daylight → Sunshield model

• Share your stories and inspire others through a built-in community feed

• Discover nearby events and volunteer opportunities

Expect early previews and a call for beta testers later this summer. Stay tuned—your advocacy journey is about to get easier, more visible, and more connected.

1. Homelessness & Housing Policy Updates

California Cities Increase Enforcement on the Unhoused
Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s Grants Pass decision, several California cities have ramped up enforcement actions targeting unhoused individuals. Sacramento reported 844 citations and arrests related to homelessness so far in 2025—more than double the same time last year. Advocates warn that enforcement without alternatives deepens vulnerability.
Learn More . . . – https://calmatters.org/housing/homelessness/2025/06/homelessness-enforcement-data/

San Bernardino County Breaks Ground on New Housing Campus
On June 26, San Bernardino launched the second phase of a long-term housing campus designed to offer wraparound services for people experiencing homelessness. Officials emphasize it as part of a shift toward permanent solutions.
Learn More . . . – https://main.sbcounty.gov/2025/06/26/county-breaks-ground-on-second-phase-of-housing-campus-for-homeless-community/

2. Community Cleanup Events

Lake Merritt Weekly Cleanup Continues in Oakland
Oakland residents are invited to ongoing community cleanup days at the Lake Merritt Sailboat House every Saturday through the end of the year. Volunteers help beautify the shoreline and public gathering spaces.
Learn More . . . – https://www.oaklandca.gov/Events-directory/Community-Cleanup-at-the-Lake-Merritt-Sail-Boat-House

Ventura Junk Drop-Off Day
Ventura’s seasonal junk and e-waste drop-off event is back this June. Residents are encouraged to dispose of large items responsibly to reduce illegal dumping and improve neighborhood cleanliness.
Learn More . . . – https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/1790/Junk-Drop-Off-Day

3. Human Trafficking Awareness & Response

Operation Dragon Eye Rescues 60 Missing Children in Florida
In a multi-agency operation, Florida authorities located and rescued 60 critically missing children at risk of human trafficking. The sweep led to eight arrests and increased funding for survivor support.
Learn More . . . – https://nypost.com/2025/06/25/us-news/floridas-operation-dragon-eye-rescues-dozens-of-critically-missing-children-in-massive-sting/

Florida–Alabama Human Trafficking Network Dismantled
On June 20, U.S. law enforcement dismantled a trafficking conspiracy that spanned from Florida’s panhandle into Alabama. Multiple individuals have been indicted in connection with labor and sex trafficking offenses.
Learn More . . . – https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl/pr/human-trafficking-conspiracy-spanning-florida-panhandle-and-southern-alabama

Quick Action Tip

Show Up for a Local Cleanup
Help your community shine—literally. Community cleanups, like those in Oakland and Ventura, offer easy, meaningful ways to connect with neighbors while creating safer, cleaner public spaces.

Local Resource Spotlight

Los Angeles – Tenant Support and Eviction Help
Increased enforcement against homeless encampments has also led to a renewed focus on eviction prevention. Los Angeles continues to offer legal assistance and housing aid through the We Are LA initiative.
Learn More . . . – https://www.mayorsfundla.org/2025/04/mayor-bass-highlights-mayors-funds-homelessness-prevention/