Our communities have always known how to survive and build.
For generations, we’ve weathered systemic neglect and carried one another through struggle — rebuilding again and again. But survival has never been the whole story.
We’ve also learned how to thrive. How to care for each other. How to create life-saving interventions when no one else shows up.
At MISSSEY, we’ve built a space where girls and gender-expansive youth who’ve experienced exploitation can receive the support and care they deserve. Not because anyone gave us permission, but because we knew what was needed and because the need for healing, safety, and joy is urgent.
The truth is, we cannot rely on conditional funding or inconsistent state support to sustain this work.
The New York Times has reported that RAINN — the operator of the National Sexual Assault Hotline — no longer provides referrals specific to LGBTQ or immigrant survivors, among other marginalized groups. That means survivors who already face systemic barriers are met with silence when they seek help.
This is why grassroots, community-rooted work matters. It’s effective, survivor-informed, and visionary — and it depends on all of us.
In 2024, Friends of MISSSEY acquired a property in East Oakland; a space that will become a sanctuary for our community. Because of you, this vision is coming to life.
The new site will serve as a hub for young people and includes:
A three-bedroom residence for temporary housing
An event and gathering space
A future two-story community hub featuring health clinics, staff offices, and a commercial kitchen
This is what community care looks like in action. Together, we’re creating spaces not only for survival — but for thriving.
