"Our philosophy is simple: without rest, there is no healing. We open our doors so that people can have a safe space to rest, restoring a basic dignity often lost on the streets.”- Lydia Bransten

In Finding Home, host George Koster speaks with leaders from San Francisco-based organizations committed to supporting unhoused residents. This insightful conversation highlights the unique challenges and solutions surrounding homelessness, especially in a post-pandemic environment.

Featured Guests: Mary Carl – Executive Director, Miracle Messages, Sammie Rayner – Co-Chief Executive, Community Forward SF, Erica Kisch – CEO, Compass Family Services, Meghan Freebeck – Director, Simply the Basics, Lydia Bransten – Executive Director, The Gubbio Project .

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Innovative Programs - How these organizations are working on programs for family reunification, safe spaces for vulnerable populations, and essential resources like hygiene products.

2. Post-Pandemic Challenges - The panel discusses increased demand, funding struggles, and legal changes impacting support for the unhoused.

3. Successful Solutions - Efforts like "miracle friends" that connect housed and unhoused individuals, universal basic income (UBI) pilots, and the importance of basic income as a support tool for stability.

Listener Actions:

- Volunteer in peer-support programs.

- Advocate for policies supporting UBI and housing.

- Support and expand safe spaces and shelters.

Highlights and Takeaways:

- Programs that restore dignity, offer stability, and strengthen community.

- Community involvement is crucial for sustainable solutions.

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This episode emphasizes how local organizations and community members can work together to address homelessness and create lasting change.

Delve deeper into Voices of the Community Series on Arts & Culture, Making the Invisible-Visible, Covid-19's impact on nonprofits, small businesses and local government, City of Stockton's rise from the ashes of bankruptcy and our archives: You can explore episodes, speakers, organizations, and resources through each series web page. Watch and learn from all five series now!