Nonprofits Rally to Restore Safety-Net Funding in Miami-Dade Budget

The Advocacy Collective and community members keep pressure on County leaders to protect vital services

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Miami, FL — September 10, 2025 – On Wednesday morning, more than 100 nonprofit leaders, clients, volunteers, and supporters gathered in front of the Stephen P. Clark Government Center to call on Miami-Dade County officials to fully restore funding for the county’s longstanding safety-net services in the FY2025–26 budget. The event, led by The Advocacy Collective, featured speakers from across the nonprofit sector and powerful firsthand accounts from clients whose lives are directly impacted by proposed funding cuts.

The Advocacy Collective, which now includes 63 community-based organizations (CBOs), organized the press conference to maintain momentum and keep the needs of vulnerable residents’ front and center in ongoing budget negotiations. Attendees came together to demonstrate unity and urgency as the County finalizes its record-breaking $12.9 billion budget.

“We’ve made real progress as a Collective, but we are not at the finish line yet,” said Miriam Singer, President & CEO of Jewish Community Services of South Florida and member of The Advocacy Collective. “Until full restoration of funding is secured, we will continue to stand together and raise our voices.”

Among those present were over 10 clients, community members who rely on the essential services provided by these legacy CBOs, including food assistance, emergency shelter, home care, mental health support, child and senior care, and more. Their testimonies illustrated the real-life consequences of the proposed cuts, painting a sobering picture of what’s at stake if safety-net funding is not fully reinstated.

“These are not just numbers on a budget line,” said Thema Campbell, President & CEO of Girl Power Rocks. “These are people’s lives, seniors who won’t have homecare, children who may go without food, families on the verge of homelessness.”

The press conference showcased the strength and solidarity of The Advocacy Collective, with representation from the vast majority of its 63 member organizations. Dozens of nonprofit leaders stood shoulder to shoulder to send a clear message: the fight for full funding is not over.

“This is about values. It’s about choosing to protect those who cannot always speak for themselves,” said Gepsie Metellus, Executive Director of Sant La Haitian Neighborhood Center. “We will not stop until every dollar is restored, and every resident has the care and dignity they deserve.”

The Collective will continue its advocacy efforts in the next week, up until the final vote by the Board of County Commissioners at the budget hearing slated for September 18. The goal remains clear: full restoration of funding for Miami-Dade’s legacy safety-net CBOs, organizations that have supported the community for decades and remain a lifeline for thousands of residents.

The Advocacy Collective calls on the Mayor and County Commissioners to do what is right: Protect the people. Restore the funding.

Photos, video footage, and client interview requests available upon request.

Media Contact: Alicia Vigil Blanco
305.332.5674

avigilblanco@jcsfl.org

About Jewish Community Services of South Florida

Since 1920, Jewish Community Services of South Florida, based on Jewish values, has remained true to its mission in providing a resilient safety-net of health and social services through a broad array of programs that promote, health, safety, and self-sufficiency. By collaborating with community partners, funders, hundreds of volunteers, sister organizations and local leaders, our team continuously strengthens its engagement and impact. Our professional team continues to provide healing and hope in serving the many layered needs of residents in our diverse and vibrant community. JCS is here for you.