What East Oakland’s ‘Rise East’ Investment Could Mean for Unhoused Neighbors

East Oakland is changing. With the city’s “Rise East” investment initiative, millions of dollars are being directed toward improving infrastructure, safety, and community spaces. But what does this mean for the thousands of neighbors experiencing homelessness in the area?

This article breaks down the plan, its potential impact, and what advocates are calling for to ensure unhoused residents benefit—not get left behind.

TL;DR

• Rise East is a city-led initiative to invest in East Oakland’s neighborhoods, businesses, and safety.

• The investment could improve housing, services, and economic opportunities.

• Advocates worry about displacement and gentrification if homeless residents aren’t included.

• Community voices are calling for housing, jobs, and health resources as part of the plan.

👉 Want updates on services in East Oakland? Sign up via our In-Take Form.

What Is the Rise East Plan?

Rise East is a multi-year investment aimed at revitalizing East Oakland. While final funding priorities are still evolving, early goals include:

• Improving streets, parks, and community centers

• Expanding small business opportunities

• Increasing safety and community programs

• Supporting housing development

The goal is to uplift long-neglected neighborhoods and bring new opportunities.

Why It Matters for Unhoused Neighbors

East Oakland has some of the highest rates of homelessness in Alameda County. Any major community investment will directly affect them.

The big question: Will the plan create housing and support for the unhoused—or push them further out?

For unhoused neighbors, Rise East could mean:

• New housing developments with affordable units

• Expanded resource centers offering showers, food, and healthcare

• Job opportunities tied to community projects

• Safer streets and parks with outreach services instead of enforcement

But without careful planning, it could also mean sweeps, displacement, or rising costs.

Risks of Displacement

Historically, large development projects in urban areas have sometimes led to gentrification.

• Rents rise, making it harder for low-income families to stay.

• Unhoused residents face more policing and fewer safe spaces.

• Services get relocated without clear alternatives.

Advocates are pushing the city to embed protections for current residents—including those without housing.

What Community Voices Are Saying

Local advocates and service providers emphasize:

• Housing must come first. Investment should include affordable and permanent supportive housing.

• Jobs should be local. Construction and service roles should hire East Oakland residents, including people transitioning out of homelessness.

• Services need funding. Showers, food distribution, harm reduction, and mental health care must be part of the plan.

• No criminalization. Investment must not increase sweeps or arrests of people living outdoors.

Opportunities Ahead

If done right, Rise East could:

• Expand transitional housing programs for families and veterans

• Fund resource fairs and outreach sites where services are bundled together

• Bring healthcare vans and mobile services deeper into the community

• Create pathways to employment for unhoused neighbors through city projects

This could transform East Oakland from a place of survival into a place of opportunity.

A Neighbor’s Perspective

At a recent outreach event, Anthony, who has been unhoused in East Oakland for two years, said: “I just want a chance to be part of the change. Don’t build without us. We’re East Oakland too.”

His words reflect a truth: true investment includes everyone.

FAQs

Will Rise East provide direct housing?
Not yet confirmed. Advocates are pushing for affordable housing in the plan.

How can unhoused residents share input?
Attend community meetings or connect through local service organizations.

Does the plan risk displacing homeless encampments?
Yes, unless protections are built in. Advocacy is key.

How You Can Help

Community voices matter. Here’s how you can support:

• Stay informed: Sign up for updates through local nonprofits.

• Advocate: Call for affordable housing and homeless services in the Rise East budget.

• Donate: Support outreach programs serving East Oakland now.

• Volunteer: Join events that provide food, showers, and connection.

→ Donate to Support East Oakland Services
→ Volunteer With NMPP

Final Word

Rise East has the potential to uplift East Oakland. But true progress means including the unhoused in the vision—not leaving them behind.

With housing, jobs, and health services built into the plan, this investment could be a turning point. Without them, it risks becoming another wave of displacement.

👉 Request updates via the In-Take Form
👉 Donate or Volunteer to strengthen services today

Because East Oakland’s future must include all of its neighbors.