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In 1976, a group of AAPI activists and advocates began to meet regularly as the “Asian Lunch Bunch,” becoming the nucleus of an organization with the mission of maximizing access to government services and resources for the Los Angeles AAPI community. They launched what would begin as the Asian Pacific Planning Council (APPCON), evolving five decades later to its present identity AAPI Equity Alliance (formerly A3PCON). The initial group numbered between 30-40 individuals and has grown presently to 50 member organizations. Its historic accomplishments included advocacy for increased funding addressing mental health needs for AAPI communities, amplifying AAPI participation in legislative processes, and the formation of APIAVote!, the Human Trafficking Task Force, and Stop AAPI Hate. On Thursday, May 21, 2026, AAPI Equity celebrated these and many other achievements at its 50th Anniversary Gala held at California Science Center, Los Angeles. A major highlight was recognition of founders and early community pioneers, including SSG Executive Director Dr. Herb Hatanaka and APAIT Director Jury Candelario, who served as AAPI Equity’s board president in 2004.

A division of Special Service for Groups, Inc., the Benefits Assistance Clients’ Urban Project (BACUP) celebrated 40 years of promoting and practicing person-centered, recovery-oriented approach to mental health wellness. Held at the Tropico De Nopal Gallery Art-Space in Los Angeles on Saturday, May 9, 2026, “Recovery in Motion” was the title of the 4th Annual Art on Canvas Client Art Exhibit hosted by BACUP and SSG Division Access to Prevention Advocacy, Intervention & Treatment (APAIT) in celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month in May. L.A. County’s LAvsHATE showcased its art-centric information in posters, yard signs, stickers and buttons in the gallery space with walls adorned by powerful original artwork created by individuals with lived experiences to highlight stories of resilience, growth, and self-expression.

On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, leaders of the City of Compton welcomed Hub City Heights, a new permanent supportive housing community, providing 40 units to the community of East Compton (also known as East Rancho Dominguez). Funded through California’s Project Homekey state program, the complex is operated by the Homeless Outreach Program Integrated Care System (HOPICS), a division of SSG. Residents will have access to critical supportive services, including case management, behavioral health support, wellness activities, and direct connections to essential resources that promote stability and independence.
View images of the facility’s grand opening

SSG is aware of allegations involving the misuse of funds by Abundant Blessings, a former contracted homeless services provider. Any misuse of funding is deeply concerning as it undermines public trust and the essential work being done to serve individuals experiencing homelessness. 

While SSG does not manage or oversee the internal financial operations of contracted providers, we take our role as a steward of public and private funds seriously and are cooperating fully with appropriate oversight authorities. 

SSG maintains strong fiscal protocols, compliance standards, and monitoring requirements for the funds we administer to serve individuals and families in need each and every day, and we remain committed to safeguarding those dollars, upholding accountability, and ensuring resources reach the people and communities they are intended to serve.

Press Contact:

Scott Mann

(323) 333-4850