Sophie Bearman

Lani Chan

On September 9, 2020, San Francisco woke up to a blood-orange sky as a result of a <a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/politics/articles/2020-10-04/record-breaking-california-wildfires-surpass-4-million-acres" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">record-setting wildfire season</a> in the western United States. An unprecedented <a href="https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2020/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">4.2 million acres burned</a> across California in 2020, almost double the acreage scorched in the 2019 season.&nbsp;

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On September 9, 2020, San Francisco woke up to a blood-orange sky as a result of a <a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/politics/articles/2020-10-04/record-breaking-california-wildfires-surpass-4-million-acres" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">record-setting wildfire season</a> in the western United States. An unprecedented <a href="https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2020/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">4.2 million acres burned</a> across California in 2020, almost double the acreage scorched in the 2019 season.&nbsp;

San Francisco was spared structural damages. But air pollution from fires meant that the city’s air quality quickly became <a href="https://abc7news.com/bay-area-air-quality-monday-california-worst-in-the-world-when-will-improve-oregon/6422415/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">among the worst in the world</a>, kindling a record number of <a href="https://www.sparetheair.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spare the Air</a> alerts in a single year. Residents were <a href="https://www.sfdph.org/dph/files/ig/FAQ-Wildfire-Smoke.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advised</a> to remain indoors with windows closed and air purifiers running.&nbsp;

San Francisco was spared structural damages. But air pollution from fires meant that the city’s air quality quickly became <a href="https://abc7news.com/bay-area-air-quality-monday-california-worst-in-the-world-when-will-improve-oregon/6422415/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">among the worst in the world</a>, kindling a record number of <a href="https://www.sparetheair.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spare the Air</a> alerts in a single year. Residents were <a href="https://www.sfdph.org/dph/files/ig/FAQ-Wildfire-Smoke.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">advised</a> to remain indoors with windows closed and air purifiers running.&nbsp;

Wildfire risk is <a href="https://www.vox.com/22527757/wildfires-heat-wave-drought-california-arizona-utah-colorado-climate" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expected to be severe</a> again this season due to an unusually dry winter.

Wildfire risk is <a href="https://www.vox.com/22527757/wildfires-heat-wave-drought-california-arizona-utah-colorado-climate" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expected to be severe</a> again this season due to an unusually dry winter.

For some San Francisco residents, wildfire smoke creates disproportionate challenges due to pre-existing conditions such as asthma or other barriers like poverty or lack of housing.

For some San Francisco residents, wildfire smoke creates disproportionate challenges due to pre-existing conditions such as asthma or other barriers like poverty or lack of housing.

Bayview resident Tiffany Williams, a volunteer with environmental justice group Greenaction, believes the city could be doing more to protect its most vulnerable populations from air pollution caused by fires. Williams says she doesn’t have an air purifier, though she is hoping a friend will loan her one soon.

Bayview resident Tiffany Williams, a volunteer with environmental justice group Greenaction, believes the city could be doing more to protect its most vulnerable populations from air pollution caused by fires. Williams says she doesn’t have an air purifier, though she is hoping a friend will loan her one soon.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/15.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-7445"/><figcaption>Bayview resident and Greenaction volunteer Tiffany Williams. | Photo by Lani Chan</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/15.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-7445"/><figcaption>Bayview resident and Greenaction volunteer Tiffany Williams. | Photo by Lani Chan</figcaption></figure>

In the meantime, “it’s just like—we just live. There’s nothing we can do. If you can afford one, it’d be great to go and get one. But it’s not a necessity that everyone has that they can afford in the household,” she said.&nbsp;

In the meantime, “it’s just like—we just live. There’s nothing we can do. If you can afford one, it’d be great to go and get one. But it’s not a necessity that everyone has that they can afford in the household,” she said.&nbsp;

“Maybe there should be something to help the people that can’t afford it,” Williams added.

“Maybe there should be something to help the people that can’t afford it,” Williams added.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dangers-of-wildfire-smoke">The dangers of wildfire smoke</h2>

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<h2 id="h-the-dangers-of-wildfire-smoke">The dangers of wildfire smoke</h2>

Though the effects of wildfire smoke are still being studied, a growing body of research suggests that smoke from blazes <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/wildfire-smoke-blowing-across-country-more-toxic-than-we-thought" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sickens and can even kill</a>.

Though the effects of wildfire smoke are still being studied, a growing body of research suggests that smoke from blazes <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/wildfire-smoke-blowing-across-country-more-toxic-than-we-thought" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sickens and can even kill</a>.

Exposure to smoke is associated with health issues including <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/jul/21/wildfire-smoke-air-hazardous-toxic-metals-study-california" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lead poisoning</a>, severe asthma flare-ups and increased <a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-health-fires-environment-and-nature-coronavirus-pandemic-891670696ad87c9854ddb2c19861818a" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vulnerability to COVID-19</a>, as well as long-term effects such as heart disease and cancer.

Exposure to smoke is associated with health issues including <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/jul/21/wildfire-smoke-air-hazardous-toxic-metals-study-california" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lead poisoning</a>, severe asthma flare-ups and increased <a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-health-fires-environment-and-nature-coronavirus-pandemic-891670696ad87c9854ddb2c19861818a" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vulnerability to COVID-19</a>, as well as long-term effects such as heart disease and cancer.

The component of wildfire smoke that experts worry most about is <a href="https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution/particulate-matter-pm-basics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microscopic particulate matter</a> known as PM2.5. These tiny particles can lodge deep in the lungs or pass into the bloodstream, causing toxic effects and inflammation leading to worsening disease symptoms.&nbsp;

The component of wildfire smoke that experts worry most about is <a href="https://www.epa.gov/pm-pollution/particulate-matter-pm-basics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">microscopic particulate matter</a> known as PM2.5. These tiny particles can lodge deep in the lungs or pass into the bloodstream, causing toxic effects and inflammation leading to worsening disease symptoms.&nbsp;

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/9.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-7370"/><figcaption>A view of downtown San Francisco from Bayview-Hunters Point. | Photo by Lani Chan</figcaption></figure>

Elderly people, children, individuals with pre-existing conditions, pregnant women and the homeless are all particularly vulnerable to harm from poor air quality, according to Dr. Naveena Bobba, San Francisco’s deputy director of health.

Elderly people, children, individuals with pre-existing conditions, pregnant women and the homeless are all particularly vulnerable to harm from poor air quality, according to Dr. Naveena Bobba, San Francisco’s deputy director of health.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-deal-with-smoky-air">How to deal with smoky air</h2>

<h2 id="h-how-to-deal-with-smoky-air">How to deal with smoky air</h2>

Health experts advise staying indoors with windows and doors closed if the <a href="https://www.airnow.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Air Quality Index</a> is greater than 150 for the general public or 100 for sensitive groups, and running air purifiers.

Health experts advise staying indoors with windows and doors closed if the <a href="https://www.airnow.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Air Quality Index</a> is greater than 150 for the general public or 100 for sensitive groups, and running air purifiers.

Bobba also emphasized preparedness.

“We know a wildfire event is generally more than one day. So making sure people are prepared—that they have food and water at home. All those kinds of planning efforts will make a difference,” she said.

“We know a wildfire event is generally more than one day. So making sure people are prepared—that they have food and water at home. All those kinds of planning efforts will make a difference,” she said.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-7421"/><figcaption>Smoke from nearby wildfires can blow into San Francisco, carried by the Diablo winds. | Photo by Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

In 2018, following the deadly Camp Fire, San Francisco’s Air Quality Index was over 150 for 12 consecutive days, peaking at 228.

In 2018, following the deadly Camp Fire, San Francisco’s Air Quality Index was over 150 for 12 consecutive days, peaking at 228.

At a <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/psn072221_agenda.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Board of Supervisors hearing</a> on July 22, a handful of city agencies including the Department of Public Health, Department of Emergency Management and Department of Homelessness detailed their plans for the 2021 wildfire season.

At a <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/psn072221_agenda.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Board of Supervisors hearing</a> on July 22, a handful of city agencies including the Department of Public Health, Department of Emergency Management and Department of Homelessness detailed their plans for the 2021 wildfire season.

Their efforts include a mixture of emergency communication methods, city-operated weather relief centers and partnerships with community-based organizations.

Their efforts include a mixture of emergency communication methods, city-operated weather relief centers and partnerships with community-based organizations.

On bad air quality days, San Francisco also makes N95 masks available for its vulnerable unsheltered homeless population, as well as for others “that potentially don’t have access to them,” according to Dr. Bobba. In 2020, more than 700 masks were distributed for this purpose.

On bad air quality days, San Francisco also makes N95 masks available for its vulnerable unsheltered homeless population, as well as for others “that potentially don’t have access to them,” according to Dr. Bobba. In 2020, more than 700 masks were distributed for this purpose.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/5.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-7382"/><figcaption>The Bayview-Hunters Point neighborhood is highly exposed to heat and air pollution, according to a 2014 San Francisco report. | Photo by Lani Chan</figcaption></figure>

But broadly speaking, the onus is on individuals to follow health recommendations to the best of their abilities.

But broadly speaking, the onus is on individuals to follow health recommendations to the best of their abilities.

“The more that we can do as a society to stem the tide of climate change—that will make a difference in the long term. In the shorter term, it is really preparing people for these episodes so that they can stay home during them,” said Bobba.

“The more that we can do as a society to stem the tide of climate change—that will make a difference in the long term. In the shorter term, it is really preparing people for these episodes so that they can stay home during them,” said Bobba.

Disproportionate impact on at-risk communities

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disproportionate-impact-on-at-risk-communities">Disproportionate impact on at-risk communities</h2>

<h2 id="h-disproportionate-impact-on-at-risk-communities">Disproportionate impact on at-risk communities</h2>

Some San Franciscans feel the city should do more to protect&nbsp;at-risk residents from wildfires.

Some San Franciscans feel the city should do more to protect&nbsp;at-risk residents from wildfires.

“At this point—fires—we have to expect them almost every year,” said Dalila Adofo, an organizer with Greenaction. “There should be no reason why there’s no preparation, especially for people who do not have access to expensive things that can help.”

“At this point—fires—we have to expect them almost every year,” said Dalila Adofo, an organizer with Greenaction. “There should be no reason why there’s no preparation, especially for people who do not have access to expensive things that can help.”

Smoke from blazes is especially threatening for San Francisco’s Black residents, who suffer from higher-than-average rates of respiratory diseases. According to a <a href="https://sfgov.org/sfc/sites/default/files/Asthma/2016%20CHNA%20Asthma%20%281%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a> by the San Francisco Health Improvement Partnership, asthma hospitalization rates are almost nine times higher among the city’s Black residents than white residents.

Smoke from blazes is especially threatening for San Francisco’s Black residents, who suffer from higher-than-average rates of respiratory diseases. According to a <a href="https://sfgov.org/sfc/sites/default/files/Asthma/2016%20CHNA%20Asthma%20%281%29.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a> by the San Francisco Health Improvement Partnership, asthma hospitalization rates are almost nine times higher among the city’s Black residents than white residents.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-7400"/><figcaption>An aerial shot of San Francisco on Sept. 9, 2020. | Photo by Jarami Bond</figcaption></figure>

Bayview-Hunters Point is also highly exposed to air pollution, according to a <a href="https://www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/Files/Planning%20and%20Research/CARE%20Program/Documents/CARE_Retrospective_April2014.ashx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2014 report</a> from the Planning Department, Department of Public Health and Bay Area Air Quality Management District. SOMA, Central Market/Tenderloin and the Financial District are similarly highly exposed.

Bayview-Hunters Point is also highly exposed to air pollution, according to a <a href="https://www.baaqmd.gov/~/media/Files/Planning%20and%20Research/CARE%20Program/Documents/CARE_Retrospective_April2014.ashx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2014 report</a> from the Planning Department, Department of Public Health and Bay Area Air Quality Management District. SOMA, Central Market/Tenderloin and the Financial District are similarly highly exposed.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unequal-access-to-air-purifiers">Unequal access to air purifiers</h2>

<h2 id="h-unequal-access-to-air-purifiers">Unequal access to air purifiers</h2>

In particular, Adofo wonders why the city isn’t offering at-need residents loans or vouchers for portable air purifiers, especially since those residents may not want to leave their homes and pets to travel to relief sites.

In particular, Adofo wonders why the city isn’t offering at-need residents loans or vouchers for portable air purifiers, especially since those residents may not want to leave their homes and pets to travel to relief sites.

In 2020, Ashland, Oregon used grant money to <a href="https://www.kdrv.com/content/news/City-of-Ashland-to-buy-air-purifiers-for-smoke-vulnerable-residents-569646891.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">purchase air purifiers</a> for “smoke-vulnerable” residents. Since 2017, the Missoula, Montana-based nonprofit Climate Smart has also <a href="https://khn.org/news/when-wildfire-smoke-pollutes-indoor-air-who-pays-for-air-filters-to-guard-public-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distributed air purifiers</a> to residents who can’t easily afford one.

In 2020, Ashland, Oregon used grant money to <a href="https://www.kdrv.com/content/news/City-of-Ashland-to-buy-air-purifiers-for-smoke-vulnerable-residents-569646891.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">purchase air purifiers</a> for “smoke-vulnerable” residents. Since 2017, the Missoula, Montana-based nonprofit Climate Smart has also <a href="https://khn.org/news/when-wildfire-smoke-pollutes-indoor-air-who-pays-for-air-filters-to-guard-public-health/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">distributed air purifiers</a> to residents who can’t easily afford one.

Francis Zamora, chief of staff at the Department of Emergency Management, told Here/Say that the city needs more solutions for portable air filters.

Francis Zamora, chief of staff at the Department of Emergency Management, told Here/Say that the city needs more solutions for portable air filters.

“What we’ve learned is that when governments set up weather relief centers, by and large people don’t go,” Zamora said. “Why would you leave your own shelter and go to a community center? So we’ve seen very low usage.”

“What we’ve learned is that when governments set up weather relief centers, by and large people don’t go,” Zamora said. “Why would you leave your own shelter and go to a community center? So we’ve seen very low usage.”

The city is looking at ways to make these sites more attractive to residents, including solutions like providing transportation to and from the sites or identifying certain sites that allow pets or more personal belongings, citing successes in Portland and Seattle where similar solutions were implemented.

The city is looking at ways to make these sites more attractive to residents, including solutions like providing transportation to and from the sites or identifying certain sites that allow pets or more personal belongings, citing successes in Portland and Seattle where similar solutions were implemented.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/7.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-7433"/><figcaption>During poor air quality days, the city opens respite sites at the Southeast Community Facility and Bayview YMCA, among other locations. | Photo by Lani Chan</figcaption></figure>

Meanwhile, Williams says air purifiers—which can run in the hundreds of dollars—are unaffordable for most of the Bayview-Hunters Point community where she lives.

Meanwhile, Williams says air purifiers—which can run in the hundreds of dollars—are unaffordable for most of the Bayview-Hunters Point community where she lives.

“It’s not something that we go and get. We go to Costco and get groceries. We go get the milk, we go get the cereal, whatever it is. We don’t just go in there and buy an air purifier,” she said.

“It’s not something that we go and get. We go to Costco and get groceries. We go get the milk, we go get the cereal, whatever it is. We don’t just go in there and buy an air purifier,” she said.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-covid-19">Lessons from COVID-19</h2>

<h2 id="h-lessons-from-covid-19">Lessons from COVID-19</h2>

The impact of wildfire smoke, like the impact of COVID, is disparate. Some of the communities most impacted by COVID-19 are likely to be vulnerable to wildfire smoke as well, said District 6 Supervisor Matt Haney, who called the wildfire hearing.

The impact of wildfire smoke, like the impact of COVID, is disparate. Some of the communities most impacted by COVID-19 are likely to be vulnerable to wildfire smoke as well, said District 6 Supervisor Matt Haney, who called the wildfire hearing.

“We need to leverage the lessons learned from our COVID-19 response to build into our wildfire preparation plans and ensure that there is a long-term plan for how we are taking care of the most vulnerable,” Haney said.

“We need to leverage the lessons learned from our COVID-19 response to build into our wildfire preparation plans and ensure that there is a long-term plan for how we are taking care of the most vulnerable,” Haney said.

Bobba said that the relationships and infrastructure built during last year’s emergency COVID-19 response will come in handy in the city’s response to wildfire smoke.&nbsp;

Bobba said that the relationships and infrastructure built during last year’s emergency COVID-19 response will come in handy in the city’s response to wildfire smoke.&nbsp;

“A lot of our learnings from the COVID pandemic will definitely inform our fire quality, climate change and heat responses as well,” said Bobba. “All of the relationships that we’ve developed through COVID with our community-based partners will really help strengthen their responses.”

“A lot of our learnings from the COVID pandemic will definitely inform our fire quality, climate change and heat responses as well,” said Bobba. “All of the relationships that we’ve developed through COVID with our community-based partners will really help strengthen their responses.”

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-steps">Next steps</h2>

In the meantime, however, some residents are taking matters into their own hands: As part of an initiative called the <a href="https://greenaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/AB-617-Air-Monitoring-Factsheet-Final.pdf">Bayview Hunters Point Community Air Monitoring Project</a>, Adofo and Williams are working to install ten air monitors throughout Bayview-Hunters Point to measure levels of particulate matter.

In the meantime, however, some residents are taking matters into their own hands: As part of an initiative called the <a href="https://greenaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/AB-617-Air-Monitoring-Factsheet-Final.pdf">Bayview Hunters Point Community Air Monitoring Project</a>, Adofo and Williams are working to install ten air monitors throughout Bayview-Hunters Point to measure levels of particulate matter.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/11.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-7391"/><figcaption>Dalila Adofo and Tiffany Williams install an air monitor in Bayview-Hunters Point. | Photo by Lani Chan</figcaption></figure>

In addition to monitoring air quality, the project will issue alerts to residents and educate the community on how to file pollution complaints. They hope the data from the project will influence future policymaking.&nbsp;

In addition to monitoring air quality, the project will issue alerts to residents and educate the community on how to file pollution complaints. They hope the data from the project will influence future policymaking.&nbsp;

“People can go and actually look at the statistics,” said Williams. “It’s hard and concrete. And sometimes that’s what you need to solidify it. I think the website and the air monitors really will help.”

“People can go and actually look at the statistics,” said Williams. “It’s hard and concrete. And sometimes that’s what you need to solidify it. I think the website and the air monitors really will help.”

“The goal is for nobody to have to be resilient,” added Adofo. “Hopefully we can get to a place where people just are happy and are thriving and don’t have to survive or overcome. Hopefully, this data will just make our argument that much stronger.”

“The goal is for nobody to have to be resilient,” added Adofo. “Hopefully we can get to a place where people just are happy and are thriving and don’t have to survive or overcome. Hopefully, this data will just make our argument that much stronger.”

Video by <a href="http://www.lanijessicachan.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lani Chan</a>.

Video by <a href="http://www.lanijessicachan.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lani Chan</a>.

As fire season looms, some SF residents call for more assistance

Christina Leimer

With Governor Gavin Newsom pledging <a href="https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/california/calmatters/newsoms-spending-proposal/103-4b7c3418-2873-43f2-a465-bb044984e377">$5.2 billion</a> in rent relief, and Mayor London Breed announcing <a href="https://sfmayor.org/article/mayor-london-breed-announces-san-francisco-distribute-90-million-rent-relief">$90 million in San Francisco’s own relief program</a>, it would seem that San Francisco’s tenants and landlords should be in good shape. Yet, less than one month before the eviction moratorium ends, little federal, state or city rent relief has landed in tenants’ and landlords’ pockets. And whether the relief will ultimately be enough to help everyone who needs it is far from certain.&nbsp;

With Governor Gavin Newsom pledging <a href="https://www.abc10.com/article/news/local/california/calmatters/newsoms-spending-proposal/103-4b7c3418-2873-43f2-a465-bb044984e377">$5.2 billion</a> in rent relief, and Mayor London Breed announcing <a href="https://sfmayor.org/article/mayor-london-breed-announces-san-francisco-distribute-90-million-rent-relief">$90 million in San Francisco’s own relief program</a>, it would seem that San Francisco’s tenants and landlords should be in good shape. Yet, less than one month before the eviction moratorium ends, little federal, state or city rent relief has landed in tenants’ and landlords’ pockets. And whether the relief will ultimately be enough to help everyone who needs it is far from certain.&nbsp;

Between state and local programs, San Francisco tenants and landlords may be eligible for between $111 million and $121 million in relief. But varying estimates of demand, a complicated patchwork of programs, and “shadow debt”—debt accrued by those who paid rent or other basic expenses using credit or savings—are raising concerns that some individuals may wind up falling through the cracks unless the state extends its eviction moratorium and broadens eligibility for aid.

Between state and local programs, San Francisco tenants and landlords may be eligible for between $111 million and $121 million in relief. But varying estimates of demand, a complicated patchwork of programs, and “shadow debt”—debt accrued by those who paid rent or other basic expenses using credit or savings—are raising concerns that some individuals may wind up falling through the cracks unless the state extends its eviction moratorium and broadens eligibility for aid.

A graffiti asking for "No Rent" is seen on a wall on La Brea Ave on National May Day amid the Covid-19 pandemic,  May 1, 2020, in Los Angeles, California. - Several cities and states, including California, have passed executive orders prohibiting eviction of tenants affected by the coronavirus crisis.
But when the lockdown lifts, the moratorium will end. And tenants will have to pay their back-rent or move out. (Photo by VALERIE MACON / AFP) (Photo by VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1684" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1211479713-2500x1684.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4393"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Graffiti asking for &#8220;No Rent&#8221; in Los Angeles. California lawmakers are weighing another extension of eviction moratoriums as tenants and landlords wait for state and local financial aid to arrive. | Photo by Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1211479713-2500x1684.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4393"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Graffiti asking for "No Rent" in Los Angeles. California lawmakers are weighing another extension of eviction moratoriums as tenants and landlords wait for state and local financial aid to arrive. | Photo by Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/GettyImages-1211479713-2500x1684.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4393"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Graffiti asking for &#8220;No Rent&#8221; in Los Angeles. California lawmakers are weighing another extension of eviction moratoriums as tenants and landlords wait for state and local financial aid to arrive. | Photo by Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

How Much Relief Is Needed?&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-much-relief-is-needed">How Much Relief Is Needed?&nbsp;</h2>

Whether there’s enough money to meet the need won’t be clear until both the State and City programs are up and running, according to public officials. The <a href="https://sf.gov/renthelp">City’s program</a> opened on May 28, while the State’s has been accepting applications since March 15.

Whether there’s enough money to meet the need won’t be clear until both the State and City programs are up and running, according to public officials. The <a href="https://sf.gov/renthelp">City’s program</a> opened on May 28, while the State’s has been accepting applications since March 15.

In order to avoid duplication, the City’s program will only pay for rent debt accrued since April 2021, while the state’s program is intended for debt accrued between April 2020 and March 2021. That creates complications in estimating the total debt burden, along with a possible misalignment of state and local funds.&nbsp;

In order to avoid duplication, the City’s program will only pay for rent debt accrued since April 2021, while the state’s program is intended for debt accrued between April 2020 and March 2021. That creates complications in estimating the total debt burden, along with a possible misalignment of state and local funds.&nbsp;

According to Russ Heimerich, a spokesperson for California’s rent relief program, 2,690 San Francisco residents have requested about $38 million in state aid so far. Another 1,420 tenants and landlords are in the process of applying. Assuming the latter are carrying roughly the same rent debt, those applications would total another $20.5 million in relief. That’s a total of 4,110 San Francisco tenants and landlords requesting $58.5 million as of last week, already exceeding the amount the state is currently expected to allocate to San Francisco.&nbsp;

According to Russ Heimerich, a spokesperson for California’s rent relief program, 2,690 San Francisco residents have requested about $38 million in state aid so far. Another 1,420 tenants and landlords are in the process of applying. Assuming the latter are carrying roughly the same rent debt, those applications would total another $20.5 million in relief. That’s a total of 4,110 San Francisco tenants and landlords requesting $58.5 million as of last week, already exceeding the amount the state is currently expected to allocate to San Francisco.&nbsp;

It’s also far fewer applicants than might be expected. Last October, San Francisco’s <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/BLA.Unpaid%20Rent.COVID_.102720.pdf">legislative analyst estimated</a> that between 13,765 and 33,200 renter households have unpaid rent due to the pandemic. Estimates by the Bay Area Equity Atlas (BAEA), a research firm, are close to the high end of the City’s estimates: It estimates that more than 37,000 San Francisco households owe a total of <a href="https://nationalequityatlas.org/rent-debt">$178 million in rent debt</a>.

It’s also far fewer applicants than might be expected. Last October, San Francisco’s <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/BLA.Unpaid%20Rent.COVID_.102720.pdf">legislative analyst estimated</a> that between 13,765 and 33,200 renter households have unpaid rent due to the pandemic. Estimates by the Bay Area Equity Atlas (BAEA), a research firm, are close to the high end of the City’s estimates: It estimates that more than 37,000 San Francisco households owe a total of <a href="https://nationalequityatlas.org/rent-debt">$178 million in rent debt</a>.

Because the City’s program covers fewer months, and only those months since economic recovery began, it’s possible that there will be insufficient funds in the state’s program and excess in the local program. Policymakers may have more work to do to figure out how to resolve that funding imbalance.

Because the City’s program covers fewer months, and only those months since economic recovery began, it’s possible that there will be insufficient funds in the state’s program and excess in the local program. Policymakers may have more work to do to figure out how to resolve that funding imbalance.

”The federal legislation that allocated this rent relief funding determined how much the state received and how much individual cities received. So, there isn&#8217;t much flexibility in terms of adjusting that funding if there is an imbalance,” said Kwart.&nbsp;

”The federal legislation that allocated this rent relief funding determined how much the state received and how much individual cities received. So, there isn't much flexibility in terms of adjusting that funding if there is an imbalance,” said Kwart.&nbsp;

”The federal legislation that allocated this rent relief funding determined how much the state received and how much individual cities received. So, there isn&#8217;t much flexibility in terms of adjusting that funding if there is an imbalance,” said Kwart.&nbsp;

Heimerich added that if an imbalance exists, the state will work with San Francisco to figure out a solution.&nbsp;

Heimerich added that if an imbalance exists, the state will work with San Francisco to figure out a solution.&nbsp;

Complex Program Requirements

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-complex-program-requirements">Complex Program Requirements</h2>

Meanwhile, some tenants and landlords are growing frustrated with the application process.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, some tenants and landlords are growing frustrated with the application process.&nbsp;

“The various agencies have badly mishandled rent relief,” said Noni Richen, president of the Small Property Owners of San Francisco (SPOSF), whose members typically own six units or fewer and often live on the property. “Each level of government has created a different set of hoops for owners and renters, each setting limits and demands, such as forgiveness of partial rents and limiting access to the courts for unpaid rents.”

“The various agencies have badly mishandled rent relief,” said Noni Richen, president of the Small Property Owners of San Francisco (SPOSF), whose members typically own six units or fewer and often live on the property. “Each level of government has created a different set of hoops for owners and renters, each setting limits and demands, such as forgiveness of partial rents and limiting access to the courts for unpaid rents.”

core/quote

<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“The various agencies have badly mishandled rent relief,” said Noni Richen, president of the Small Property Owners of San Francisco (SPOSF), whose members typically own six units or fewer and often live on the property. “Each level of government has created a different set of hoops for owners and renters, each setting limits and demands, such as forgiveness of partial rents and limiting access to the courts for unpaid rents.”</blockquote>

Many tenants, too, have found the application process cumbersome, citing technological and language barriers <a href="https://33ca17a8-78c9-4350-a719-06b2fad1b8ac.usrfiles.com/ugd/33ca17_aca4d7c49f4841c18ef9c97abe79d300.pdf">in surveys</a>. Enough San Francisco residents <a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11869250/a-discriminatory-barrier-californias-rent-relief-website-lacks-translations-advocates-say">complained about the State’s process</a> that the Board of Supervisors passed a <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=4960285&amp;GUID=D9BDC8DA-6F38-4599-80A1-4A50BBE3C38F">resolution</a> calling on the Governor and the State Department of Housing and Community Development, which administers the State’s rent relief program, to address language barriers, expand accessibility for those without internet access, and improve outreach.

Many tenants, too, have found the application process cumbersome, citing technological and language barriers <a href="https://33ca17a8-78c9-4350-a719-06b2fad1b8ac.usrfiles.com/ugd/33ca17_aca4d7c49f4841c18ef9c97abe79d300.pdf">in surveys</a>. Enough San Francisco residents <a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11869250/a-discriminatory-barrier-californias-rent-relief-website-lacks-translations-advocates-say">complained about the State’s process</a> that the Board of Supervisors passed a <a href="https://sfgov.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=4960285&amp;GUID=D9BDC8DA-6F38-4599-80A1-4A50BBE3C38F">resolution</a> calling on the Governor and the State Department of Housing and Community Development, which administers the State’s rent relief program, to address language barriers, expand accessibility for those without internet access, and improve outreach.

The State is simplifying the application process to make it flow more smoothly: “We’re hoping to take a 90-minute (average) process and get it down to about half that time,” said Heimerich. Tenants will need less documentation, making it easier to report pandemic-related income loss and find expanded language options on application websites.&nbsp;

The State is simplifying the application process to make it flow more smoothly: “We’re hoping to take a 90-minute (average) process and get it down to about half that time,” said Heimerich. Tenants will need less documentation, making it easier to report pandemic-related income loss and find expanded language options on application websites.&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-gaps-in-outreach">Gaps in Outreach</h2>

Tenants with pandemic-related unpaid rent or utilities whose household income is 80% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI) are eligible to apply to both the State and City programs. However, both the state and local programs are prioritizing low-income residents—those whose household income is at or below 50% AMI—for financial assistance. For San Franciscans, that’s a threshold of $46,650 for an individual or $66,650 for a family of four.

Tenants with pandemic-related unpaid rent or utilities whose household income is 80% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI) are eligible to apply to both the State and City programs. However, both the state and local programs are prioritizing low-income residents—those whose household income is at or below 50% AMI—for financial assistance. For San Franciscans, that’s a threshold of $46,650 for an individual or $66,650 for a family of four.

“Our outreach efforts are reaching the targeted populations,” Heimerich said, noting that about 93% of current applicants to the state’s program from San Francisco are low-income tenants.

“Our outreach efforts are reaching the targeted populations,” Heimerich said, noting that about 93% of current applicants to the state’s program from San Francisco are low-income tenants.

Could it be that higher-income tenants don’t need the financial help? It appears that they might: As of March, <a href="https://bayareaequityatlas.org/sites/default/files/California_Eviction_Fact_Sheet_FINAL_20210126_0.pdf">BAEA estimates</a> that one-third of San Francisco households with rent debt earned above $50,000 per year. Yet households above the 50% AMI threshold make up only 7% of current applicants to the State’s program, pointing to potential gaps in outreach.

Could it be that higher-income tenants don’t need the financial help? It appears that they might: As of March, <a href="https://bayareaequityatlas.org/sites/default/files/California_Eviction_Fact_Sheet_FINAL_20210126_0.pdf">BAEA estimates</a> that one-third of San Francisco households with rent debt earned above $50,000 per year. Yet households above the 50% AMI threshold make up only 7% of current applicants to the State’s program, pointing to potential gaps in outreach.

“San Francisco is just getting their program off the ground and without the program in full operation, it is difficult to determine the depth of need,” said Heimerich.

“San Francisco is just getting their program off the ground and without the program in full operation, it is difficult to determine the depth of need,” said Heimerich.

The slow rollout of state of rent relief programs is raising concerns that people will fall through the cracks unless California extends its eviction moratorium and expands assistance.

<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/kHp90Fjtod73kClVjp34x0awgD-Juh-JpJwzpNFyiofX3YuhYfZ6apm1Ipgp0ItwuwpUveHDpAqIK9qM5PGYmXoLxTja44zT1VoH8Rz9HdSS7EwQQAAZuDo26DivJi2wB2ti2u9O" alt=""/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An apartment building managed by Veritas, the largest landlord in San Francisco. Veritas tenants may negotiate directly with the company for partial rent forgiveness in lieu of tapping government relief. | Photo by Veritas</figcaption></figure>

‘Corporate’ Tenants May Opt Out&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-corporate-tenants-may-opt-out">‘Corporate’ Tenants May Opt Out&nbsp;</h2>

In addition to these complications, tenants of the City’s corporate landlords may opt not to apply to the rent relief programs at all.&nbsp;

In addition to these complications, tenants of the City’s corporate landlords may opt not to apply to the rent relief programs at all.&nbsp;

The pandemic exacerbated <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/Facing-protests-San-Francisco-s-largest-14462596.php">existing issues</a> between those landlords and their tenants. When the pandemic hit, the tenants’ associations of Veritas, Mosser and Ballast—three of the largest landlords in San Francisco—pressured their landlords for rent forgiveness. Following outrage over these large companies <a href="https://www.kqed.org/coronavirusliveupdates/news/11818895/pelosi-calls-on-sfs-largest-landlord-veritas-to-return-3-6-million-covid-19-small-business-loan">receiving PPP loans</a>, <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/Facing-protests-San-Francisco-s-largest-14462596.php">Veritas offered</a> a 50% rent reduction for four months. The Veritas Tenants Association declined, saying the deal would leave them drowning in debt.

The pandemic exacerbated <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/Facing-protests-San-Francisco-s-largest-14462596.php">existing issues</a> between those landlords and their tenants. When the pandemic hit, the tenants’ associations of Veritas, Mosser and Ballast—three of the largest landlords in San Francisco—pressured their landlords for rent forgiveness. Following outrage over these large companies <a href="https://www.kqed.org/coronavirusliveupdates/news/11818895/pelosi-calls-on-sfs-largest-landlord-veritas-to-return-3-6-million-covid-19-small-business-loan">receiving PPP loans</a>, <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/Facing-protests-San-Francisco-s-largest-14462596.php">Veritas offered</a> a 50% rent reduction for four months. The Veritas Tenants Association declined, saying the deal would leave them drowning in debt.

In March, City Supervisors passed a <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/r0144-21.pdf">resolution</a> encouraging corporate landlords to forgo applying for limited public funds and to instead negotiate with tenants’ associations to cover rent debt using their own resources. To monitor whether these landlords comply, the City’s rent relief program plans to collect and track who the landlord is when tenants apply.

In March, City Supervisors passed a <a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/r0144-21.pdf">resolution</a> encouraging corporate landlords to forgo applying for limited public funds and to instead negotiate with tenants’ associations to cover rent debt using their own resources. To monitor whether these landlords comply, the City’s rent relief program plans to collect and track who the landlord is when tenants apply.

Risky as it may be, these tenant associations are encouraging members not to apply for public funds, and to prohibit their landlords from applying on their behalf, in the hopes that they can persuade their landlords to cover back rent.

Risky as it may be, these tenant associations are encouraging members not to apply for public funds, and to prohibit their landlords from applying on their behalf, in the hopes that they can persuade their landlords to cover back rent.

“The tenants associations are trying to negotiate a rent relief agreement,” said Brad Hirn of Housing Rights of San Francisco, in an email. “Mosser, Ballast and Veritas tenants’ associations are all trying to get their landlords to comply with the resolution.”

“The tenants associations are trying to negotiate a rent relief agreement,” said Brad Hirn of Housing Rights of San Francisco, in an email. “Mosser, Ballast and Veritas tenants’ associations are all trying to get their landlords to comply with the resolution.”

“We are still holding out for Veritas to come to the table. As it stands now, we will opt out of the city program as well,&#8221; said Libby Staub of the Veritas Tenants Association, &#8220;and I&#8217;m biting my fingernails off.”

“We are still holding out for Veritas to come to the table. As it stands now, we will opt out of the city program as well," said Libby Staub of the Veritas Tenants Association, "and I'm biting my fingernails off.”

“We are still holding out for Veritas to come to the table. As it stands now, we will opt out of the city program as well,&#8221; said Libby Staub of the Veritas Tenants Association, &#8220;and I&#8217;m biting my fingernails off.”

<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“We are still holding out for Veritas to come to the table. As it stands now, we will opt out of the city program as well,&#8221; said Libby Staub of the Veritas Tenants Association, &#8220;and I&#8217;m biting my fingernails off.”</blockquote>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shadow-debt-looms">Shadow Debt Looms&nbsp;</h2>

Relief programs currently in place apply only to those who haven’t paid full rent. That leaves out tenants accumulating “shadow debt,” or debt accumulated by those who prioritized paying rent over other expenses. Other renters may have moved to a cheaper home rather than accumulate debt. But moves cost, and those costs don’t qualify for reimbursement.&nbsp;

Relief programs currently in place apply only to those who haven’t paid full rent. That leaves out tenants accumulating “shadow debt,” or debt accumulated by those who prioritized paying rent over other expenses. Other renters may have moved to a cheaper home rather than accumulate debt. But moves cost, and those costs don’t qualify for reimbursement.&nbsp;

“I am very concerned about tenants who sacrificed everything to pay the rent but went into extreme debt,” Assemblymember David Chiu told <a href="https://calmatters.org/housing/2021/04/california-rent-relief-tenants">Cal-Matters </a>in April. “How we assist those individuals is something that (the new law) did not contemplate.”&nbsp;

“I am very concerned about tenants who sacrificed everything to pay the rent but went into extreme debt,” Assemblymember David Chiu told <a href="https://calmatters.org/housing/2021/04/california-rent-relief-tenants">Cal-Matters </a>in April. “How we assist those individuals is something that (the new law) did not contemplate.”&nbsp;

Some help might be available from the City’s program: Because it pays for future rent, tenants who used loans to pay rent can recoup some costs. However, they won’t necessarily be prioritized, according to the City’s <a href="https://sf.gov/renthelp">rent relief website</a>. Heimerich added that the state’s program may reimburse shadow debt in the future, depending on the flexibility in upcoming federal guidance.

Some help might be available from the City’s program: Because it pays for future rent, tenants who used loans to pay rent can recoup some costs. However, they won’t necessarily be prioritized, according to the City’s <a href="https://sf.gov/renthelp">rent relief website</a>. Heimerich added that the state’s program may reimburse shadow debt in the future, depending on the flexibility in upcoming federal guidance.

Shadow debt may be affecting some landlords, too, if they had to make up for lost revenue.

Shadow debt may be affecting some landlords, too, if they had to make up for lost revenue.

“When my tenants chose to move out, I was unable to re-rent the apartment although I showed it at least once a month at 20% less than the previous tenants paid,” wrote one landlord in an April survey of SPOSF members. Another reported that a tenant in their in-law apartment didn’t pay rent for eight months, while another apartment they manage rented for $500 less after sitting vacant for two months.&nbsp;

“When my tenants chose to move out, I was unable to re-rent the apartment although I showed it at least once a month at 20% less than the previous tenants paid,” wrote one landlord in an April survey of SPOSF members. Another reported that a tenant in their in-law apartment didn’t pay rent for eight months, while another apartment they manage rented for $500 less after sitting vacant for two months.&nbsp;

Bryant Phuong, who owns an eight-unit apartment building in the Tenderloin, is experiencing a similar situation: “One tenant skipped after 5 months of missed rent and disappeared, she owed us around $8500 in missed rent from April through September 2020,” he said. Because the programs require information from both the tenant and landlord, Phuong cannot apply for debt relief.

Bryant Phuong, who owns an eight-unit apartment building in the Tenderloin, is experiencing a similar situation: “One tenant skipped after 5 months of missed rent and disappeared, she owed us around $8500 in missed rent from April through September 2020,” he said. Because the programs require information from both the tenant and landlord, Phuong cannot apply for debt relief.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-still-waiting">Still Waiting</h2>

Phuong and one of his tenants applied to the State’s program on the first day it opened. The tenant owes $22,000 in missed rent from April 2020 through May 2021, and another month is due now.&nbsp;

Phuong and one of his tenants applied to the State’s program on the first day it opened. The tenant owes $22,000 in missed rent from April 2020 through May 2021, and another month is due now.&nbsp;

“I applied for the CA Rent Relief Program on March 15, 2021&#8230;almost more than 65 days later, I still have not gotten any payment from the program. To be honest, this is taking too long!” said Phuong.&nbsp;

“I applied for the CA Rent Relief Program on March 15, 2021...almost more than 65 days later, I still have not gotten any payment from the program. To be honest, this is taking too long!” said Phuong.&nbsp;

“I applied for the CA Rent Relief Program on March 15, 2021&#8230;almost more than 65 days later, I still have not gotten any payment from the program. To be honest, this is taking too long!” said Phuong.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“I applied for the CA Rent Relief Program on March 15, 2021&#8230;almost more than 65 days later, I still have not gotten any payment from the program. To be honest, this is taking too long!” said Phuong.&nbsp;</blockquote>

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