UCP is taking action. We’re not just cleaning up — we’re transforming a 2.4-mile stretch into a symbol of what’s possible when a community refuses to accept decay.

For years, East 12th Street in Oakland has been buried beneath the weight of illegal dumping, city neglect, and systemic failure. But we’re changing that.

The Problem:
Illegal dumping thrives where the system fails. With Oakland’s exorbitant dump fees, businesses and individuals avoid the cost — instead, dumping directly onto homeless encampments. This isn’t just environmental negligence. It’s exploitation. It’s injustice.

A Vicious Cycle:
Homeless individuals, local businesses, and sheltered residents all suffer. Crime festers. Prostitution persists. The cycle of poverty, neglect, and pollution deepens.

Our Solution: Sustainable and Human-Centered
We’ve launched the Homeless Ambassador Program, a first-of-its-kind initiative that employs and empowers the very individuals most affected. Ambassadors receive stipends, tools, and training to help maintain the cleaned areas and report illegal dumping.

This is more than cleanup. It’s purpose. It’s dignity. It’s COMPASSION.

Our Impact So Far:
47.96 tons of trash removed from East 12th & 16th
3 homeless ambassadors hired and trained
60 volunteers mobilized to take back the streets
$7,000+ invested in equipment, supplies, and direct community support

Support Needed:
We receive ZERO support from the City of Oakland. We've had to fund our own cleanups - spending over $7,000 in the last few weeks. If we had the following equipment, we'd be able to maximize our impact: Skid Steer, Bobcat, Dump trailer rental each week, Over 500 bags of Heavy Duty Bags, Additional PPE for our growing group of volunteers.
At the rate we are going, we're going to clear all of East 12th Street and keep it that way. But we need your help supporting us. Please consider donating today!