Urban Compassion Project (UCP) is an Oakland based nonprofit working alongside housed and homeless communities across the Bay Area to combat illegal dumping, restore neglected public spaces, and support our most economically vulnerable neighbors.

Through volunteer-led cleanups, weekly distributions of essential supplies, and our free clothing initiative, Compassion Threads, we address immediate community needs while advocating for systemic change, stronger public services, and long-term solutions to illegal dumping and homelessness.

Cleanups

Through trusted relationships built with homeless communities, UCP has mobilized more than 5,000 volunteers to clean streets, highways, parks, encampments, and waterways across the Bay Area.

These efforts are part of a broader, long-term strategy to advocate for systemic change, influence public policy, and address the root causes of illegal dumping to create cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable communities.

Beautification Efforts

While policy reform and advocacy are essential to addressing the illegal dumping crisis, beautification efforts play a critical role in deterring future dumping and creating lasting community change.

UCP aims to expand partnerships with leaders and experts in urban farming, community gardening, and tree planting to transform neglected space and create immediate, visible improvements that contribute to healthier, more vibrant neighborhoods.

Resource Distribution

Homeless encampments and individuals are most impacted by illegal dumping. They are used as scapegoats.

While our work benefits the homeless populations residing in encampments and the community at-large, we go a step further by providing those on the fringes with essential aid and human connection.

We conduct weekly distributions of clothing, hygiene supplies, and food to those residing within encampments. This helps them meet some of their immediate needs.

Make A Donation

Every dollar you donate helps us remove more waste, house more individuals, and extend our reach to those in need. Join us in creating a safer, cleaner, and more compassionate world.

Become A Volunteer

Volunteering with us means sharing compassion and building bridges. We have remote and in-person volunteer opportunities and are actively growing our team.

Support Our Weekly Distributions

Our Amazon wishlist has super essential items that directly support our daily operations and those we serve. This is a great way to contribute and we appreciate the help.

Sponsor a Cleanup or Support Beautification Efforts

You or your company can sponsor a cleanup! Your funding would cover all equipment and supplies needed for one of our weekly cleanups. Click to contact us for details.

People Given Assistance

Pounds of Trash Removed

Volunteer Participants

Frequently Asked Questions:

How will my donation be used?

Donations are crucial for funding our cleanups, resource distributions, and free clothing store. Your support helps us provide essentials like food, clothing, and hygiene products, and contributes to our efforts in rehousing.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Urban Compassion Project is a registered 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Contributions are tax deductible.

EIN: 86-2807260

Can I volunteer my time instead of donating money?

Absolutely! We value the time and skills of our volunteers. There are many ways to get involved, from participating in cleanups to assisting in our administrative tasks.