The Urban Compassion Project (UCP) works to combat illegal dumping and restore dignity to communities in Oakland and the Bay Area through direct action, beautification, advocacy, and compassionate outreach. We clear millions of pounds of illegally dumped waste, transform neglected spaces into cleaner and more usable environments, and work behind the scenes to advance long-term systemic solutions and policy change.

Cleanups

In 2025 alone, UCP and 2000+ volunteers, in collaboration with our unhoused neighbors, have removed over 1.3 million pounds of trash from our streets, highways, parks and waterways. The goal is to maintain and keep these areas clean in the long-term. We do this through beautification efforts and pushing for policy and action to address the main drivers behind illegal dumping.

UCP is the only organization in the Bay Areas that clears tons of illegal dumping in and near encampments due to the bridges we’ve built with the homeless community.

Beautifcation Efforts

While policy change and advocacy are needed to address the illegal dumping crisis, beautification efforts are the key deterrents to illegal dumping activity.

Through collaboration with leaders and experts in the urban faming, community garden, and tree planting spaces, we are catalyzing immediate and impactful change.

Resource Distribution to the Homeless

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

While our work benefits the homeless ppulations residing in encampments and the community at-large, we go a step further by providign 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

Tons of Trash Removed

Volunteer Participants

Frequently Asked Questions:

How will my donation be used?

Donations are crucial for funding our cleanups, resource distributions, and case management services. 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.