To us, it’s always good to hear about people who are working to solve some of our world’s most pressing social challenges. This month we found some great stories from organizations and people shining a light on the problem of homelessness. We like these stories because they take advantage of multiple storytelling devices to grab our attention while demonstrating creative ways to find sustainable solutions to the problem. We think they are worth sharing.
“Marlo and her children,” – invisiblepeople.tv, November 2, 2011
The video bloggers behind invisiblepeople.tv bring us the voice of a woman living in a motel with her five children. Without a permanent home, receiving only on welfare assistance and money from panhandling, this video presents a face of homelessness that not many see—those living in motels, couches or otherwise “sheltered” but without a permanent, safe home for their families. Indeed, the National Alliance to End Homelessness estimates that 60 percent of homeless persons are not living on the streets.
Why this story is worth sharing: Out of sight, too often means out of mind. Watching this story, we begin to see get the full picture of homelessness and understand how even the smallest things, like buying diapers, constitute a luxury for homeless families living in motels.
“Group helps homeless find permanent homes,” by Bill Whitaker – CBS News, August 15, 2011
CBS News reporter Bill Whitaker brings us a story about the nonprofit organization 100,000 Homes, “a national movement of communities working together to find permanent homes for 100,000 of the country’s most vulnerable homeless people and families by July of 2013.” The organizers of 100,000 Homes are mobilizing volunteers and local municipalities across the country to help find and match homeless individuals with available housing resources.
Why this story is worth sharing: 100,000 Homes brings a grassroots, action-oriented perspective to housing the homeless that is refreshing. The model involves not just service providers, but puts volunteers, businesses, clergy, and other community stakeholders in the driver’s seat together to find housing for the most vulnerable persons living on the streets. The targeted goal of 100,000 homes by 2013 also provides a helpful measuring stick by which to watch he campaign’s progress.
“Homeless Veterans No More; Nonprofit – Soldier On – Provides Affordable Housing, Support and Job Training,” by Sally Abrahms – AARP Bulletin, July 1, 2011
Writer Sally Abrahms writes about Soldier On, a nonprofit organization that created an affordable, supportive housing community for homeless veterans in Pittsfield, Mass. with a mix of private financing and public funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and Department of Veterans Affairs. Veterans living in the community pay subsidized rent and enjoy state-of-the art facilities, job training and supportive services. They also buy into the development to gain limited-equity ownership.
Why this story is worth sharing: This story shines a light on the positive outcomes that come along with permanent, supportive housing—homes that are subsidized for affordability and coupled with on-site services to help people stay on their feet. And we like the fact that this development provides a homeownership opportunity, helping to create a better economic outlook for those living there. The video that accompanies this story is also a must-watch!
Do you have a story worth sharing on ending homelessness? Tell us about it in the comment section!
Posted on December 14, 2011
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