A shocking betrayal has unfolded in San Francisco, revealing allegations that a woman entrusted with millions in public funds intended for the city’s homeless population instead used the money to fuel a lavish lifestyle. Gwendolyn Westbrook, 71, former head of the United Council of Human Services (UCHS), now faces nine felony charges, including grand theft and misappropriation of public funds.
Prosecutors claim that over four years, from 2019 to 2023, Westbrook systematically diverted over $1.2 million from the nonprofit’s accounts, exercising almost complete financial control over the organization. The alleged scheme involved a deliberate funneling of public and grant money into personal expenses, leaving a critical need unmet.
Investigators uncovered evidence suggesting the misappropriated funds were spent on high-end purchases from luxury retailers like Louis Vuitton and Neiman Marcus, including expensive goods and vehicles. The details paint a stark contrast to the intended purpose of the money – providing vital services to those struggling with homelessness.
District Attorney Brooke Jenkins expressed outrage, emphasizing the devastating impact of the alleged theft. “You’re talking about millions of dollars being lost to that effort – our taxpayer dollars – while every day we deal with people who are still struggling on our streets,” she stated.
While over $1.2 million has been directly traced to Westbrook, a significant amount of withdrawn funds remains unaccounted for, deepening the mystery and raising concerns about the full extent of the alleged fraud. Attempts to reach Westbrook for comment have been unsuccessful.
UCHS has long been a recipient of substantial city contracts, tasked with serving San Francisco’s homeless and low-income residents. During the pandemic, the organization operated a large shelter site at Pier 94, a project Westbrook previously defended as offering a “fighting chance at a better life.”
This case isn’t an isolated incident. It emerges amidst growing scrutiny of homelessness spending in California, following similar allegations in Los Angeles where another nonprofit leader was charged with misusing $23 million in taxpayer funds for personal gain.
The current charges against Westbrook also follow a history of past accusations. Reports indicate she was previously accused of theft in 1997 and that unsanctioned gambling operations were discovered at a charity bingo hall run by the nonprofit in 2015, raising questions about long-term oversight.
The Public Integrity Task Force initiated the investigation, highlighting a commitment to holding those who abuse public trust accountable. The unfolding case promises to shed light on the vulnerabilities within the system and the urgent need for greater transparency in the allocation of funds meant to address one of the city’s most pressing challenges.
