Former San Francisco Homeless Charity CEO Charged with $1.2M Theft

Prosecutors allege Gwendolyn Westbrook used public funds for personal luxury purchases.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The former CEO of a San Francisco homeless services charity, Gwendolyn Westbrook, has been charged with nine felonies after prosecutors said she stole more than $1.2 million in public funds meant to help the homeless. Westbrook is accused of unauthorized self-payments, improper cash withdrawals, and fraudulent reimbursement practices to divert the money for personal use, including buying luxury vehicles and making purchases at high-end retailers.

Why it matters

The charges against Westbrook highlight the importance of accountability and transparency in the management of public funds designated for critical social services. This case raises concerns about potential misuse of taxpayer money intended to address homelessness, a major issue in San Francisco.

The details

Prosecutors allege that between 2019 and 2023, Westbrook, who had 'near-exclusive financial control' over the United Council for Human Services nonprofit, engaged in unauthorized self-payments, improper cash withdrawals, and fraudulent reimbursement practices to divert public funds for personal use. She faces charges including misappropriation of public funds, grand theft, and filing false California tax returns.

  • Westbrook led the United Council for Human Services for nearly two decades before her dismissal in 2023.
  • Westbrook was previously accused in 1997 of stealing thousands of dollars from a cash box at a parking lot owned by the San Francisco Port, her employer at the time.
  • In 2015, regulators found unsanctioned blackjack tables in the back of a charity bingo hall that the nonprofit operated.

The players

Gwendolyn Westbrook

The 71-year-old former CEO of the United Council for Human Services, a San Francisco homeless services charity, who is accused of stealing more than $1.2 million in public funds.

United Council for Human Services

A San Francisco nonprofit that served homeless and low-income people, which Westbrook led for nearly two decades before her dismissal in 2023.

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What’s next

Westbrook's arraignment is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon, where she will face the nine felony charges.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of robust financial oversight and accountability measures for nonprofit organizations that receive public funding to serve vulnerable populations. It underscores the need for stronger safeguards to prevent the misuse of taxpayer money intended for critical social services.