BRAVE Bay Area, historically significant as the first rape crisis center in the U.S., will close permanently due to funding cuts and staffing issues. Founded in Oakland and with a San Leandro service center, the organization began facing financial difficulties in 2015, worsening over the past decade. The reliance on federal funds, which constitute 92% of its operating budget, led to operational challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Although it attempted to partner with local groups for support, the organization confirmed the need for a significant workforce increase was not met due to reduced funding, prompting the shutdown.
"The recent significant shifts in federal government priorities and funding approaches in 2025 represent the final hardship, not the first," they wrote, noting that 92% of BRAVE's operating budget relies on federal funding.
To meet minimum standards of care, BRAVE would need to double its workforce, but they're operating with 30% less funding than last year.
"We want to address this directly: Our decision is not surrender - it is a strategic realignment of resources in service of the broader movement."
In recent years, BRAVE partnered with other local groups to reengage funders and keep services running. But "the challenges have continued to mount."
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