Letter from the Executive Director – Ghostship Fire

We are deeply saddened by the astonishing loss of life this past weekend in the Ghostship fire. To say we are reeling from this horrible turn of events is an understatement, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and communities of those who passed away.

As an affordable housing organization, this tragedy has been a devastating reminder of why the housing crisis requires new thinking and new solutions. Though this particular disaster fills our hearts and minds, we know that the lack of safe and healthy housing options has taken countless victims over the years. This is not to minimize the magnitude of this recent catastrophe, but, rather, to reaffirm that this work requires awareness and attentiveness unceasingly – from all of us.

EBALDC will continue to work for a safer and healthier tomorrow for all of Oakland and the East Bay today and every day. We hope our collective sentiment will be one of generosity and compassion, but also of action for our region that has great work to do. Our community is resilient, and capable of amazing things when we work together.

In unity,

Joshua Simon
Executive Director