Social
Elizabeth sure does not look like what we all imagine a homeless person looks like. But then again, most people, when they are new to the streets, don't look 'homeless'. After years of survival, the human spirit just gets beat down to not caring anymore.
Listen to Elizabeth talk about socks then imagine you were homeless and didn't have clean clothes.
Very special thanks to Hanes [http://www.socialmixhub.com] for helping me give the gift of fresh, clean socks to so many people.
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, they’re on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and can’t ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nation’s most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath – its founder – and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of America’s homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
Cheech relocated to Austin to try and jumpstart his career as a chef. Because he was homeless with mental and physical disabilities, he wasn't able to maintain employment. Cheech has homeless in Austin, Texas now for four years.
I honestly could sit and listen to Cheech all day long. He is brilliant and very knowledgeable about homelessness and the social services system. Because of his disability, Cheech is getting Social Security; however, that is not enough to pay for rent. When I asked him about qualifying for housing, he responded that a lot of people are getting housing, but there are still a lot of people that have been homeless for years not getting housed.
During my stay in Austin, I met one man who was outside for 34 years and several others homeless for 20 years and 10 years. In many cities, homeless services are doing better than they ever have but because of the affordable housing crisis, more people are entering into homelessness than they are able to get out of homelessness.
Cheech shared something that is so profound that it blew me away. He went on to forecast how a rich man, a cop, and a minimum wage worker would be treated by other homeless people when they ended up on the streets. Cheech's prophesy I believe is spot on. What do you think? Let us know in the comments.
Cheech is very knowledgable on homelessness in Austin. He shares about attending city council meetings and the growing criminalization of homelessness.
Your voice can help end homelessness. If we do not fix the affordable housing crisis, homelessness will continue to get worse. Click here [https://invisiblepeople.tv/getinvolved] to tweet, email, call, or Facebook your federal and state legislators to tell them ending homelessness and creating more affordable housing is a priority to you.
==================================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People's website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People's Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath's Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, a living wage or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
This isn't just talk. Each year, our groundbreaking educational content reaches more than a billion people across the globe. Our real and unfiltered stories of homelessness shatter stereotypes, demand attention and deliver a call-to-action that is being answered by governments, major brands, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens just like you.
However, there is more work to be done on the road ahead. Homelessness is undoubtedly one of our biggest societal issues today and will only continue to grow if we don't take action now.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
#homeless #homelessman #austin
I almost didn't see laura sitting there in Times Square. Even with the coronavirus, New York City has many people around, although not as much as before the pandemic. I almost missed her in the crowd. Laura didn't look homeless, but most homeless people don't look like they live on the streets.
Laura has been homeless in New York City, sleeping near Times Square for two years. She was in a domestic violence relationship where she received four head injuries. Laura says she experienced brain damage and lost the ability to think clearly and concentrate on making decisions. The abuse got so bad that one day she just walked out and left, leaving all of her belongings at the time.
As a rule, we will never feature a domestic violence story unless they are safe from being abused. When I asked Laura if she is safe, she responded: "I'm outside, so I am not really safe," referring to the dangers of homelessness for women, but she is safe from her abuser.
Because of COVID-19, many bathrooms are closed. The nearest public bathroom for Laura to use is Penn Station, which is almost a mile away. Imagine having to walk a mile each way to use a washroom. It's extremely challenging for Laura to travel that distance by foot with all of her stuff, so Laura has to wait until a homeless friend she trusts will watch her cart and her dog. In this interview, Laura said Penn Station is four blocks away. I just looked on a map, and it's ten New York City blocks from where she was sitting - each way!
Laura shares how she feels New York City is not making it a priority to help homeless people during the pandemic. I've been told there are 130,000 vacant hotel rooms that are not being used. There must be case management and support services to place homeless people into hotels, so it's not as easy as it may sound, but it can be done and should be done. Sadly, in NYC, NIMBY (not in my back yard) residents in. the Upper West Side continue to protest homeless people being placed into hotels.
Near the end of this video, Laura starts to coughing, saying she is sick. We were socially distancing, and I always wear a mask, but me wearing a mask only protects her. I now hear in her voice that she is sick, but I didn't at the time. If I did, I might not have interviewed her. When she started to cough, I asked Laura if she has been COVID tested. She responded no, and our exchange after opened my eyes to the challenges of properly testing homeless people for coronavirus.
COVID testing sites are hospitals, medical clinics, and sometimes drive-thru facilities. As Laura shared, she would have to leave all of her belongings to go get tested. Going to a hospital is a longer trip than walking to a bathroom and back, and Laura may lose her stuff, and she is not going to leave her dog. Service providers are doing the best they can to respond to testing challenges homeless people face, but resources are still lacking.
Laura's story is an important story. I hope you watch all the way to the end. She says far too many powerful statements that I have room to list here. The one that got to me was when I started, she looks clean, she responded, "I am not clean."
If her story moves you to take action, there are tens of thousands of homeless women out on the streets, and we must end homelessness for everyone.
Your voice can help end homelessness. If we do not fix the affordable housing crisis, homelessness will continue to get worse. Click here https://invisiblepeople.tv/getinvolved to tweet, email, call, or Facebook your federal and state legislators to tell them ending homelessness and creating more affordable housing is a priority to you.
More NYC stories:
Disabled Homeless Woman Sleeps on the Streets of New York City https://youtu.be/zs1MlOjUWWs
Young Homeless Girl Living on the Streets of New York City. https://youtu.be/xRxt8u-iaGE
Homeless Vietnam veteran in NYC uses his military training to survive homelessness https://youtu.be/smlxozQp888
#homeless #newyorkcity #coronavirus
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
There's a big difference between living in an RV homeless and van life. Actual homelessness is the absence of choice. Lux is 19 years old. She has been homeless since the age of 16. Lux doesn't live in an RV because it's cool or to save money. She doesn't have money to rent an apartment, so for the millions of vehicle residents and mobile homeless, they don't have a choice. This is the difference between homelessness and a nomadic lifestyle.
I cannot imagine the abuse and fear a young girl at 16 experiences from life on the streets. You must read between words when listening to a person's story. There are years of trauma buried deep down inside.
A large majority of homeless youth are never even reported missing. They are throwaways, not runaways. Lux shares that her family situation was unhealthy.
As a minor, Lux first lived homeless in a tent but eventually got an RV. I am not sure the RV runs, but it's much better than a tent. Sadly, the area where Lux and other vehicle residents live is scheduled for a homeless sweep. The criminalization of homelessness continues to grow in cities all over America.
Lux shares that she was assigned a housing counselor, who told Lux she was on a housing waiting list, but the person left the service provider, and it turns out Lux was never placed on a housing waiting list. This kind of runaround happens often. Homeless services are filled with layers of bureaucracy that often hurt efforts to help people.
The lack of affordable housing is the leading cause of homelessness. As rents skyrocket, remember: a $100 increase in median rent is associated with a 9% increase in homelessness. We must prevent homelessness, and in situations like Lux's, we must get people off the streets as quickly as possible. Sadly, there is insufficient support to fix the affordable housing crisis or get homeless people the help they need, but you can change that. Please educate yourself and those around you, and PLEASE get politically active.
Special thanks to the Vehicle Resident Outreach http://www.itfhomeless.org
WATCH the Horrible Reality of LA's Homeless Sweeps https://youtu.be/4ysLhmL_UYk
Living under a Bridge Doesn't Stop This Seattle Homeless Woman from Staying Positive https://youtu.be/xYShiXMGULE
#homeless #seattle #homelessyouth
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
This isn’t just talk. Our groundbreaking educational content reaches millions of people every month. Our real and unfiltered stories of homelessness shatter stereotypes, demand attention and deliver a call-to-action that is being answered by governments, major brands, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens just like you.
However, there is more work to be done on the road ahead. Homelessness is undoubtedly one of our biggest societal issues today and will only continue to grow if we don’t take action now.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
I first met Connie while producing a VR180 video on an Oakland Tent City Homeless Encampment you can watch here https://youtu.be/ftMifFpUWCQ.
Late 2015, a nonprofit that was housing Connie and her kids as them to vacate the apartment there were living in. The owner wanted possession of the property. Because the nonprofit didn't have alternative housing solutions for her family, Connie and her children ended up in a motel at the cost of $100 a day, which they could not afford. The family downgraded to a sleazy motel and then eventually ended up living in Connie's van.
Connie asked one of her brothers to take care of her youngest while her older two children went on their own. Connie then bounced from couch to couch. Connie says she met a guy and eventually landed at a tent city in Oakland, California.
Connie has applied for subsidized housing just to be turned down so much that depression set in, and she eventually gave up looking. The social services sector does not make it easy for people to get the help they need. Homeless services are probably the only industry that exists even after repeatedly turning people away. For homeless people, seeking help just to be turned away time and time creates learned helplessness. No one wants to be homeless. They just give up.
Connie receives $900 a month yet the cheapest studios in Alameda County start at $1,200, and landlords require income to be three times the amount of the rent. Renters have to have good credit. Connie also has a felony, which makes it nearly impossible for her to find employment or a place to live.
Connie's children offer to help but Connie doesn't want to put her burden of homelessness onto one of her children. Connie says they worked hard to get where they are and she believes it would not be fair for them to have to help her.
I adore Connie, and I ao so very grateful she shared so openly and honestly about the reality of homelessness and what it's like living in a tent encampment. I spent a good amount of time with her over the week. I had no idea she was using drugs.
Connie had 13 years sober before relapsing. Connie says she knows better but the real truth about addiction is people abuse drugs to escape pain. People need to understand that homelessness is hard to do sober. Addiction takes away people's willpower.
UPDATE from Derrick: Connie was “Crashing” from medical and mental fatigue so she decided to take up an offer of housing from her daughter. Shortly after settling in, Connie’s daughter gave birth to a baby girl. Connie has become a Live-In Grandmother and spends many an hour Crocheting baby clothing and blankets. She still has her medical issues, but being indoors with ACCESS to heat and a real bed, makes things much less stressful these days. Connie is sober because she now has a REASON to stay sober.
Your voice can help end homelessness. If we do not fix the affordable housing crisis, homelessness will continue to get worse. Click here https://invisiblepeople.tv/getinvolved to tweet, email, call, or Facebook your federal and state legislators to tell them ending homelessness and creating more affordable housing is a priority to you.
#homeless #oakland #tentcity
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
I first met Rule in Washington DC a few months back [https://youtu.be/Eod_SNaPRZw]. He was invited by a homeless youth organization to speak to legislators. Rule is actually homeless in Venice, California. After the first interview, we stayed in touch. Since I was visiting Los Angeles, I asked him for an update.
Rule has been homeless since the age of 13. He is now 22. Rule has slept outside, in abandoned buildings, on couches, on trains, on buses, and hotel rooms. He says he has experienced every type of homelessness.
Rule starts off by sharing he is looking for an apartment. Like many people facing the crisis of homelessness, Rule likes to dream big and to focus on the possibilities. There are a few organizations that may be able to help subsidize the cost of a place to stay, but the lack of affordable housing and the unwillingness of landlords to work with nonprofits and homeless people continue to be a roadblock to housing.
Many people commented on Rule's first interview that he just needs to get a job. Please listen to Rule's response when I asked him about this.
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, they’re on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and can’t ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nation’s most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath – its founder – and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of America’s homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
Robert simply wishes for friends. To be around people. You can, of course, watch people pass him by again and again in the video. Even on a day as windy as this, the streets of Chicago are full of people. But, like most, they just keep walking, acting as if Robert were invisible.
He tried to find employment with the White Sox or Cubs. But, he'll take any job: a handyman, cutting grass--he says, "anything that will help people."
He sleeps in an alley behind Dunkin Donuts. His biggest worry? All the mice that share his sleeping space. Yet he still prefers his alley to sleeping on the floor of an overcrowding shelter.
Robert's smile is powerful. But if that can't hook you, wait until you hear what his last wish is.
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, they’re on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and can’t ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nation’s most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath – its founder – and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of America’s homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
Jeneen and her two children live in a tent community in Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada. The cause of their homelessness is high cost of living in Northern Canada, not wanting to burden relatives, and needing to be close to community services.
Often people ask "why don't their relatives help?", which I normally ask "how was your last Thanksgiving - drama free?". The point is more often than not living with a family member is rather uncomfortable. Imagine an "extra" family living with you indefinitely and without their own income! Rather quickly it becomes a burden, and most people these days just don't have the space and income to take care of another family.
Jeneen seems to be making the best of it, for now! This is not camping - it is homeless! And winter is fast approaching.
I do love her last wish.
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, they’re on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and can’t ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nation’s most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath – its founder – and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of America’s homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
Dirk lives in a tent homeless in Venice Beach, California. This is his first time being homeless. Dirk is 64 years-old. He lived and worked as an independent contractor in Montana for 14 years. In his own words, Dirk says he is tired. It's time to retire. As most American's do, Dirk has been paying into Social Security all of his life. He figured Social Security would provide his retirement funds. When Dirk filed at 62, they told him he didn't have enough credits. Dirk has now filed again at 64. he says that he is wondering if they will ever pay him after 40 years of working and paying into Social Security.
At the beginning of this interview, Dirk shares about how lucky he is to be living in a tent one block from the beach. Truth is, Dirk is disabled. Dirk told me after this interview, he is losing his sight and is partially blind. He can no longer work. Montana winters are cold. Dirk was looking for a warmer climate. Dirk didn't plan on ending up homeless on a sidewalk in Venice Beach. He was passing through, and the coronavirus hit. The pandemic made travel almost impossible, so Dirk is making the best of it.
Dirk says he has a case manager helping him get into housing and file for Social Security. At the time of this interview, Los Angeles police allowed homeless people to keep their tents up all day. CDC guidelines changed how police dealt with homeless encampments.
Elderly homelessness was a growing crisis even before the pandemic. Boomers are reaching 65 years-old at 10,000 people a day. Like me, many lost everything in the 08 crash. They don't have retirement funds. Now with the pandemic, all demographics of homelessness will skyrocket.
Dirk's point of US vs THEM may be true. He's right that there is plenty of money in this great country of ours. We the good people need to do something about them the bad people Dirk says. If we all just learned to love each other.
Your voice can help end homelessness. If we do not fix the affordable housing crisis, homelessness will continue to get worse. Click here https://invisiblepeople.tv/getinvolved to tweet, email, call, or Facebook your federal and state legislators to tell them ending homelessness and creating more affordable housing is a priority to you.
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, a living wage or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
This isn’t just talk. Each year, our groundbreaking educational content reaches more than a billion people across the globe. Our real and unfiltered stories of homelessness shatter stereotypes, demand attention and deliver a call-to-action that is being answered by governments, major brands, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens just like you.
However, there is more work to be done on the road ahead. Homelessness is undoubtedly one of our biggest societal issues today and will only continue to grow if we don’t take action now.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
If you'd like to donate directly to Callie, click here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/hel....p-for-homeless-women If you'd like to buy some of Callie's art, click here: https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/callie-austin
I first met Callie as she was rummaging through food donations kind local citizens leave on the ground. There is no refrigeration. Homeless people who live in this Harbor City homeless encampment have to grab what they need to survive quickly, or the food spoils.
This is no way for anyone to live, but Callie has been homeless in Los Angeles for eight years since her husband died. After 25 years of marriage, Callie's husband suddenly passed away from cancer. With her savings wiped out, Callie ended up on the streets with nowhere to go.
Callie says the resources to get out of homelessness are little to none. She adds that it is difficult to find a job. Because of the ongoing police sweeps and constant moving, Callie now has problems with her legs.
On Mother's Day, Callie wrote to her district councilman Joe Buscaino. She first started to thank him for what he has done and then went on to ask if they could have a sanctioned homeless encampment creating a safe space with bathrooms for them to live. At the time, the community was located across the street. Because the homeless camp was in a flood zone, the city moved them.
And the city keeps moving them. Callie says Harbor City police and sanitation did a homeless sweep the day after Christmas and after Thanksgiving. Imagine you're trying to make the best of a horrible situation living in a tent when the police come and make you pack up to sweep the area, and that's your holiday!
Callie doesn't drink or use drugs. She doesn't have a mental illness yet. The longer she stays outside, the more at risk Callie is. Callie says she's never gotten used to living in a tent. She's been a homeowner. She's been to college. Homelessness is not her way of life, but she has nowhere else to go.
Your voice can help end homelessness. Please click here https://invisiblepeople.tv/get-involved/ to tweet, call, or email your state and federal legislators to tell them ending homelessness is a priority to you.
More homeless stories:
Homeless Man Talks Rats, Police Sweeps and Shelters https://youtu.be/9Iv3x4Gx8Jg
Homeless Woman Has a Masters in Mathematics and Engineering https://youtu.be/nT3VGI0V5Rs
Los Angeles Homeless Woman Being Evicted from Her Tent with Nowhere to Go https://youtu.be/9iksYQMfqmw
#homeless #losangeles #homelesssweeps
==================================
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Support Invisible People:
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https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
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About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
This isn’t just talk. Each year, our groundbreaking educational content reaches more than a billion people across the globe. Our real and unfiltered stories of homelessness shatter stereotypes, demand attention and deliver a call-to-action that is being answered by governments, major brands, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens just like you.
However, there is more work to be done on the road ahead. Homelessness is undoubtedly one of our biggest societal issues today and will only continue to grow if we don’t take action now.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
UPDATE: Sharron Maasz died sleeping rough homeless in the UK. Why did Sharron Maasz, a much-loved outreach worker, end up dying homeless herself? https://www.theguardian.com/ci....ties/2019/nov/26/why
Sharron has been sleeping rough in Oxford, England for a couple of years now. But what makes her story a little different is that she used to work as they say here "in the network", helping rough sleepers as a social services worker.
I was actually first introduced to Sharron via Youtube. Some time ago a documentary crew had produced a short video about her, which you can watch here [http://youtu.be/xxWHD-ttUu8] Sharron is a victim of domestic violence that started a downward spiral and her homelessness.
A few nights a week Sharron is lucky enough to sleep on the floor of someone's house. But most nights she sleeps outside calling a children's park home.
Not sure if Sharron knows this or not, but she stated the case for housing first. When a person has been so beat down from life and then spends a good amount of time on the streets, providing dignity is the most important first step. It's nearly impossible to stay sober while homeless, and females on the streets are constantly being abused.
Sharron says as the years have gone by she has less hope for a better life. She wants to get sober and to start volunteering again. She just needs to get off the streets first!
Please watch Shannon's three wishes and then please share her story with your network. No matter where you live, if we all start getting outraged about the rough sleepers in our neighborhood, and let the decision makes know our homeless neighbors need housing and support, we will end homelessness!
________________________________________________
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Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
San Diego has been grappling with a significant homelessness crisis, a problem that has been exacerbated by the city's approach to criminalizing homelessness. This strategy involves arresting and penalizing individuals for engaging in life-sustaining activities in public spaces, such as sleeping, sitting, or eating, when they have no other place to do so. While the city's intent may be to deter individuals from living on the streets, criminalizing homelessness has not only failed to address the root causes of the issue, but it has also made the problem worse. This punitive approach has resulted in a vicious cycle of arrests, fines, and incarceration, pushing homeless individuals further into poverty and making it even more difficult for them to secure stable housing.
San Diego's criminalization of homelessness has put a significant burden on already strained public resources, as law enforcement, courts, and jails become overburdened with the task of dealing with homeless-related infractions. The cost of incarcerating individuals for minor offenses often exceeds the cost of providing them with adequate social services, such as temporary housing, mental health care, and substance abuse treatment. By focusing on punishment rather than addressing the underlying issues that contribute to homelessness, San Diego's strategy has perpetuated a cycle of hardship and despair for its most vulnerable residents. It is evident that a more compassionate and effective approach is needed, one that prioritizes housing, mental health care, and social support services to help individuals escape the cycle of homelessness and reintegrate into society.
Michael McConnell is a prominent advocate for the homeless community in San Diego. With unwavering dedication and passion, he has been at the forefront of efforts to bring attention to the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness in the city. McConnell tirelessly works to shed light on the detrimental effects of San Diego's approach to criminalizing homelessness and has been a vocal critic of this strategy. Through his advocacy work, he strives to raise awareness about the root causes of homelessness, the need for compassionate solutions, and the importance of providing adequate social services to help individuals escape the cycle of poverty.
More stories:
Arrested Over 20 Times for Being Homeless in San Diego https://youtu.be/wApYPyH7shM
San Diego Homeless Woman Arrested for Being Unhoused https://youtu.be/3kYldbvqHZk
Where Do They Go? The Painful Reality of Seattle's RV Homeless Sweeps https://youtu.be/1-mins3KNFk
==================================
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Support Invisible People:
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Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
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About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
This isn’t just talk. Our groundbreaking educational content reaches millions of people every month. Our real and unfiltered stories of homelessness shatter stereotypes, demand attention and deliver a call-to-action that is being answered by governments, major brands, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens just like you.
However, there is more work to be done on the road ahead. Homelessness is undoubtedly one of our biggest societal issues today and will only continue to grow if we don’t take action now.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
I am not sure even where to start describing this interview. The story of this homeless couple is both wonderful and troubling. My hope is you'll see two homeless people who's lives from a young age were filled with surviving disabilities, abuse, and uncertainty. If we are ever going to end homelessness, we must fix families and how children are raised.
Matt and Sam are homeless in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Both are originally from Texas. After Matt aged out of foster care, he was sleeping in the woods on an abandoned couch. Matt enrolled himself in high school, which is amazing for any kid to put themselves through school while experiencing homelessness.
In his senior year, Matt went into a youth program he says helped him a lot, but then he started using drugs and get into trouble. Matt was kicked out back to the streets, which is where he met Sam. Matt then dropped out of school to get a job to help take care of Sam, who is autistic.
Sam left home to be with Matt. They say it was a high school love. When I asked for more details, Sam wasn't living with family, and the situation wasn't healthy. Sam says her mom loved drugs more than. her children and that her step-dad physically and sexually abused her.
SAM'S MOM SOLD HER TO HER BEST FRIEND WHEN SAM WAS FOUR! I put this in all caps because childhood abuse and childhood trauma play a significant role in how a person functions as an adult. It's easy to point a finger at a homeless person judging them that their homelessness is their choice, but when you learn more about a person's story, you'll often find layers of childhood abuse and neglect.
Sam graduated from high school even while surviving homelessness and autism. I cannot stress enough how amazing this is. At fifteen, Sam was diagnosed with Asperger syndrome, which is a condition on the autism spectrum, with generally higher functioning.
The couple has been in and out of homeless shelters. At one point, they were kicked out of a Salvation Army shelter for not being able to pay the $7 a night, which is a homeless services model that is whacked. Some shelters now charge per night per bed. The only way people with no income can raise $7 a night is by panhandling or doing crimes.
Matt has been in and out of trouble. Last year Sam spent the winter outside alone while Matt was in jail. The couple also gave birth to children while homeless, who were put up for adoption.
The good news is that at the time of this interview, Sam was approved for Section 8 housing and Matt had positive feedback from an employer about a possible job.
CAUTION! Some content may be offensive. Our hope is you'll get mad enough to do something...has been a disclaimer on our website since we started in 2008. Parts of Matt's and Sam's story may upset you, and it should. Well, then take action to fix families and help end homelessness
Your voice can help end homelessness. If we do not fix the affordable housing crisis, homelessness will continue to get worse. Click here https://invisiblepeople.tv/getinvolved to tweet, email, call, or Facebook your federal and state legislators to tell them ending homelessness and creating more affordable housing is a priority to you.
#homeless #fostercare #autisim
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
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http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
I spent the day with a homeless family here in Seattle, yet it felt like spending the day with a normal family. The big difference was at the end of the day Carey and her daughter Maggie drove their van to a park to sleep for the night.
I first met Carey Fuller through I post she wrote on change.org "What It's Like To Be A Homeless Mother" [http://bit.ly/lloSgo]. She blogged anonymously so I had to beg the editor to connect us. From that point on I have been so very impressed by Carey. I have done everything I can to help her and will continue to do so.
Yesterday, I met Carey and her daughter at a yard sale they were holding. On weekends she tries to make a little money by selling either old stuff she had in storage or new stuff she finds. Carey is very resourceful. When she needed money to repair the van they live in she published a Kindle version of a book she wrote on Amazon.com [Writings From The Driver's Side http://amzn.to/m4F5Wh].
Carey wants to start chronicling homeless life on video. I was bringing her cameras, but they were stolen at my first stop when the car was broken into. I am all about empowering homeless people so that did not stop me. I just took Carey to Best Buy and let her pick out a camera that would fit her needs.
In the afternoon Maggie, Carey's youngest daughter (oldest daughter was at camp) wanted to go swimming. We drove to a local park and Maggy jumped right in to playing in the sand with other kids. No one would ever notice this family lived in a van, unless we told them.
This is the first time I have spent the day with a homeless family. As a case manager in Los Angeles, I spend lots of hours with families experiencing homelessness, but never like this. I had mixed emotions all day. Part of me was overjoyed seeing Carey and her daughter as a normal family, and part of me was dreading what I know was going to happen next.
read post here http://invisiblepeople.tv/blog..../2011/07/carey-fulle
________________________________________________
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Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
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https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, they’re on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and can’t ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nation’s most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath – its founder – and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of America’s homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
America’s homeless crisis seems insurmountable and people are overwhelmed. As homelessness continues to grow in Los Angeles, regular everyday people - who have no professional experience in social work or outreach - are stepping up to help their homeless neighbors. Ktown for All is a model for those who want to take action. This volunteer-led community action group provides direct support to homeless people in Koreatown. They also work to affect policy change to stop the criminalization of homelessness.
We featured Ktown for All before [https://youtu.be/t7Ew-RC-n78]. It's encouraging to see community action groups across the United States providing tangible support for homeless people in their own communities. Each group forms out of compassion for their homeless neighbors and a growing frustration that local municipalities are not doing enough to help end homelessness.
For more information on Ktown for All visit: http://ktownforall.org
Invisible Stories is a mini-doc series that goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages understand, and can’t ignore.
Watch more Invisible Stories mini-documentaries on homelessness https://invisiblepeople.tv/invisiblestories
Your voice can help end homelessness. If we do not fix the affordable housing crisis, homelessness will continue to get worse. Click here https://invisiblepeople.tv/getinvolved to tweet, email, call, or Facebook your federal and state legislators to tell them ending homelessness and creating more affordable housing is a priority to you.
Executive producer: Mark Horvath
Producer/editor/cinematographer: Alex Gasaway https://www.youtube.com/alexgasaway
#homeless #losangeles #documentary
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, a living wage or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
This isn’t just talk. Each year, our groundbreaking educational content reaches more than a billion people across the globe. Our real and unfiltered stories of homelessness shatter stereotypes, demand attention and deliver a call-to-action that is being answered by governments, major brands, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens just like you.
However, there is more work to be done on the road ahead. Homelessness is undoubtedly one of our biggest societal issues today and will only continue to grow if we don’t take action now.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
Sage is 23. She has been homeless in the Tenderloin for 2 1/2 years. Before homelessness, Sage only smoked a little weed. Since she's lived on the streets, Sage has been to rehab three times. She wants to go back to college, and she hopes to get into housing soon.
When I asked Sage about homelessness, she responded it's not that bad. I then asked Sage if she's putting up a front covering the pain of homelessness, or is it really not the bad. She said, "Kind of. I am a young attractive female. People take care of me."
I cannot imagine what this girl has experienced living on the streets. Sage told me that she tries to focus on animals to keep her mind off things. Sage likes butterflies. One of her wishes was for the butterflies to come back.
One might think this young hippie chick is making bad decisions, so she gets what she deserves, but the truth is, we are our brother's keeper. Sage has tried to get out of homelessness a few times, but there is no easy path out. It's up to all of us to change that!
We must prevent homelessness from happening in the first place, but if someone young or old ends up on the streets, we need to get them out of homelessness as quickly as possible.
Your voice can help end homelessness. If we do not fix the affordable housing crisis, homelessness will continue to get worse. Click here https://invisiblepeople.tv/getinvolved to tweet, email, call, or Facebook your federal and state legislators to tell them ending homelessness and creating more affordable housing is a priority to you.
More homeless youth stories:
Young Homeless Girl Living on the Streets of New York City. https://youtu.be/xRxt8u-iaGE
EJ is 18. He told me he has been homeless for 11 years. https://youtu.be/3N2z5O2xYKw
Young homeless girl is a college student 'flying a sign' in Pasadena https://youtu.be/VbkhD-srDQ8
#homeless #coronavirus #sanfrancisco
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, a living wage or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
This isn’t just talk. Each year, our groundbreaking educational content reaches more than a billion people across the globe. Our real and unfiltered stories of homelessness shatter stereotypes, demand attention and deliver a call-to-action that is being answered by governments, major brands, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens just like you.
However, there is more work to be done on the road ahead. Homelessness is undoubtedly one of our biggest societal issues today and will only continue to grow if we don’t take action now.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
I met Hype in Portland, Oregon. She is 19 and has lived on the streets for 5 years. She was 13 when her foster mom kicked her out. Although this may shock you it is very common. 40% of homeless youth are never ever even reported missing.
The night before Hype slept under a bridge.
I cannot help but feel her sadness.
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, they’re on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and can’t ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nation’s most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath – its founder – and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of America’s homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
.
*** It's wonderful so many of you are reaching out with job offers for Mona. Your compassion is commendable. Mona needs some time inside with support services, otherwise, she would not be able to maintain employment. It's extremely rare that a person can go from homelessness to a job without support to heal, and that support must include housing. Mona is a great example of why we all need to advocate for more affordable housing and mental health services. This compassion that's driving you to offer Mona a job, please use it to help all of the homeless women like her sleeping outside. I cannot stress enough how important housing and support services are to help people with the trauma of homelessness.
Mona lives homeless in a tent near Los Angeles's International Airport. Before the pandemic, police made homeless people tear down their tents every morning. When COVID hit, the CDC recommended that homeless people be allowed to keep their tents up all day. Mona has lived in this park for four months, which she says is safe.
Mona's house burned down in the Thomas Fire, and when she lost her house, she also lost her work from home job. Mona has a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. She is two classes away from her Master in Mathematics because she left to go to another college where she received a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering.
Prior to the fire, it had been a while since Mona worked in her field doing electricity research. She ended up working from home, and then that all crashed after her house burned down.
When I asked Mona if anyone is helping her, she says service providers come around providing meals, but there is no path to housing being offered. Mono continued sharing it's nearly impossible to maintain a job while living homeless in a park. Mona talks about service providers are overwhelmed, which is why it's hard to navigate the system.
Homelessness is a growing, national crisis. It should be addressed in Washington. Bottom line: Housing is the solution. We need more resources to get folks into housing. Demand action. With your help, we can end homelessness. Click here https://invisiblepeople.tv/get-involved/ to tweet, email, call, or Facebook your federal and state legislators to tell them ending homelessness and creating more affordable housing is a priority to you.
More stories:
Noah Is Homeless Because His Parents Are Addicts https://youtu.be/nQt1T8xO1jw
Living under a Bridge Doesn't Stop This Seattle Homeless Woman from Staying Positive.
https://youtu.be/xYShiXMGULE
Disabled Homeless Woman Sleeps on the Streets of NYC
https://youtu.be/zs1MlOjUWWs
#homeless #losangeles #homelessness
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
Kevin is a homeless youth living in a Chicago youth shelter. Kevin's mother kicked him out when he was 15 years-old, and he spent the next few years couch surfing. At 17, Kevin went and moved in with his dad, where he says they both put a lot of their feelings in a bottle. When that relationship exploded, Kevin found himself back out in the streets.
Kevin shares a candid story of sleeping outside and the realities of being a homeless youth.
When I asked Kevin what his future was like, he responded that he had been in so many places the last 3 years - that he didn't know, but at 18 Kevin is a young man with a world of experience. You only have to listen to him for a short time to know he's on a good path now, and if he stays the course, Kevin will do just fine.
Special thanks to the Night Ministry http://www.thenightministry.org
________________________________________________
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Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, they’re on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and can’t ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nation’s most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath – its founder – and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of America’s homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
Delilah is young and homeless. She says that previously she worked in a Beverly Hills hair salon and that homelessness is much better than cutting hair for angry, mean rich ladies!
Delilah says she is enjoying her freedom while she is young enough and healthy enough to have it. She wants to live a minimalistic and nomadic lifestyle.
Delilah relocated to Los Angeles three years ago and has been on the streets for six months. She had various living arrangments. Delilah's last roommate throughout all her stuff and now she is just trying to make the best of it.
Delilah's boyfriend has been homeless for many years and she started to live with him on the streets. She was already spending weekends with him in his tent, so homelessness did not come as much of a shock.
Delilah plans on traveling and then if she wants to change her lifestyle she says she will.
One of the foundations of Invisible People's work is to present stories of people experiencing homelessness raw and unedited. Delilah's story is a little different than most because from the outside it looks like she is choosing to be homeless.
The last few years I have seen more people deciding to live a minimalistic and nomadic lifestyle. Van dwelling is now a thing and becoming more popular. I think part of the reason is the high cost of housing and the lack of good paying jobs.
I used to think no one wants to be homeless, and that is the truth for the vast majority of people sleeping outside. Even the ones who tell you that want to be homeless, at one time they tried to get out of homelessness, but after hitting so many barriers, they just give up. It’s called “learned helplessness.”
I think Delilah's story is important because so often homeless youth choose this lifestyle and then it's nearly impossible to get out of it. The streets in any city are very dangerous, especially for young women. Although Delilah says she wants to be homeless there is a sadness about her. I do believe she is making the best of it and that love probably played the biggest role in her current situation. I just pray she gets off the streets while she still can.
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, they’re on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and can’t ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nation’s most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath – its founder – and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of America’s homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
Debbie is a mother of three and has been homeless off and on for 16 years. She lives in a camping trailer with five other people off a side street in Hollywood.
In most cases, the mobile homeless (those living in vehicles) are new to the streets. Many have just lost their job and apartment and are doing everything they can to keep their car. Usually, these newly homeless need basic outreach services to get back on their feet and become financially independent.
Sadly, the mobile homeless are becoming more common in our weak economy, yet in some areas of the country, such as LA County, it is illegal to live in a vehicle. Advocates are trying to change the law in LA but face fierce resistance from potential abutters in areas pegged for rezoning. Seems the mobile homeless are unwanted throughout the city.
Since the holiday was just two days away, I asked Debbie if she had any plans. But to Debbie, and other homeless people across the country, Christmas is just another day to survive.
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible Peopleís website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible Peopleís Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvathís Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, theyíre on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and canít ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nationís most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath ñ its founder ñ and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of Americaís homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
Carissa and Jon have been in and out foster homes all of their life. They have been living on the streets homeless for 6 months. 2 months ago Carissa found out she is pregnant. Because she does not have proper ID most government agencies cannot help her. It is very common for the homeless population to have legal issues that actually prevent any outside assistance. Homeless and pregnant! I just cannot imagine. While talking to them I felt powerless. I was so shocked by their situation I really did not know what questions to ask. This like all the stories on this vlog are real, unedited and uncensored.
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible Peopleís website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible Peopleís Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvathís Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, theyíre on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and canít ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nationís most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath ñ its founder ñ and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of Americaís homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
UPDATED update video: UPDATE VIDEO: Hanes Takes Formerly Homeless Woman Shopping for Her New Apartment. https://youtu.be/ICdi6W7TUhw
UPDATE: New vlog Manda shows us her camp and why it feels good to give https://youtu.be/mQ2RBLLy54w
A few months back I logged onto Facebook and was greeted by a smiling homeless woman's selfie in front of a tent holding up a cup of coffee. It was captioned "good morning." Today, I met Manda at her homeless encampment where she made me a cup of coffee!
Most of the time I meet homeless people in person on the streets or in a homeless shelter. Then we often connect online and become friends. Manda and I became friends online first. I got to know her a little before seeing how she survives homelessness. I am having a hard time processing it all. Lots of emotions both good and bad right now!
Manda is an amazing woman. She is disabled from severe brain trauma, yet because she is high functioning, she falls through the gaps in the safety net. I have been working with her trying to help find a path out of homelessness, but the walls bureaucracy are impossible to break through.
For all the people that believe homeless people are lazy, I wish they could just spend an hour in Manda's shoes! She works hard to keep her tent camp clean. She works hard getting to treatment and therapy. She works hard every single day trying to survive. And she works extremely hard to stay positive while facing the madness of homelessness each and every day!
We must get Manda out from under that bridge into housing. Because of her health and being a woman out on the streets, she is extremely vulnerable living outside. If you are connected to social services in Seattle or know anyone that is, please reach out to them and forward Manda's story. I have talked to her social worker. Her health issues are severe, and we need to get this woman inside!
Manda vlogs on her Facebook page you can find here https://www.facebook.com/mandycampmom/
You can also find Manda on Twitter https://twitter.com/RicherAmanda
More interviews from homeless people:
Los Angeles Homeless Man Shares the Harsh Reality of Skid Row https://youtu.be/T_c5ff0EEcA
Homeless Man Lost Millions Now Lives in a Oakland Tent City https://youtu.be/XZComkkxeEI
Homeless man talks openly about being addicted to heroin. We have an opioid crisis in America. https://youtu.be/H6ZFzEW7_Q4
#homeless #seattle #homelessencampments
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
This isn’t just talk. Each year, our groundbreaking educational content reaches more than a billion people across the globe. Our real and unfiltered stories of homelessness shatter stereotypes, demand attention and deliver a call-to-action that is being answered by governments, major brands, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens just like you.
However, there is more work to be done on the road ahead. Homelessness is undoubtedly one of our biggest societal issues today and will only continue to grow if we don’t take action now.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
While walking with James to Best Buy on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, my heart broke seeing Leeza sitting on the sidewalk "flying a sign". Leeza is 22 years-old and has been homeless in New York City for two months.
Leeza panhandles to survive. She is trying to save up her money to get back to the West Coast.
The night before she slept outside in the front of a church.
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, they’re on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and can’t ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nation’s most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath – its founder – and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of America’s homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
#homeless #homelessyouth #newyorkcity
I met Terra in Toronto, Canada. An outreach nurse who had been helping her connected us. Terra is a wonderful, gorgeous 25 year-old woman who has lived on the streets for 5 months.
Terra tells a very real story about life on the streets. She doesn't like shelters because she was beat up in one, so she sleeps on the streets or in parks.
I hope Terra's story will stay in your heart and mind as it has with me. After this interview we took her to get some food. She is intelligent and funny, she just needs some extra love and compassion to change her life. The good news is the outreach nurse I was with is filled with that extra love and compassion and will do everything she can to find Terra some help.
Please support all health and medical outreach services in your community.
***Terra Gardner was hit by a train and killed while still homeless http://aptnnews.ca/2013/05/15/....first-nations-woman-
Special thanks to Anne Marie Batten [http://twitter.com/#!/AnneMarieBatten]
#homeless #canada #indigenous
________________________________________________
subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, they’re on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and can’t ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nation’s most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath – its founder – and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of America’s homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
While driving around the west side of Los Angeles, we came across a homeless woman moving all of her belongings to the sidewalk. We thought that maybe they were cleaning the area, but to our shock, LA Sanitation pulled up and started to load everything that this woman owned into a garbage truck. In the last three months, Holly has had all of her belongings taken eight times.
Holly once had a great job, but after going through a divorce, her life snowballed into homelessness. Holly keeps applying for jobs, but no one wants to hire a homeless person.
We all want clean streets. We all want homeless encampments gone. But homeless sweeps and the ongoing criminalization of homelessness only make homelessness worse. With homeless numbers growing, we need to get people off the streets into housing with the help they need. We cannot arrest our way out of homelessness. In each area, a homeless sweep displaces homeless people without providing them a place to go; in a day or two, tents and shacks return to that spot.
Taxpayers pay over $70 million each year for the Los Angeles Police Department and LA Sanitation to displace homeless people under the guise of street cleaning. We all want clean streets, yet homeless sweeps only make homelessness worse! The only way to keep streets clean is to solve homelessness; however, LA's politicians continue to invest more in pushing homeless people out of sight than helping them. Homeless sweeps do nothing to help people, and they make homelessness worse.
If you live in Los Angeles, here is a link for the City Council contact information broken down by district. Please reach out to your legislators to demand they stop the sweeps. https://lacity.gov/directory
Nationally, please support Housing Not Handcuffs https://housingnothandcuffs.org
We all must advocate for more housing and support services and stop homeless sweeps at the local level. At the same time, we must continue to pressure state and federal legislators. Your voice can help end homelessness. If we do not fix the affordable housing crisis, homelessness will worsen.
Click here https://invisiblepeople.tv/getinvolved to tweet, email, call, or Facebook your federal and state legislators to tell them ending homelessness and creating more affordable housing is a priority to you.
More anti-sweep videos:
WATCH the Horrible Reality of LA's Homeless Sweeps https://youtu.be/4ysLhmL_UYk
Homeless Man Can’t See. Los Angeles Sweeps Don’t Care https://youtu.be/1FmxUC4R6KI
Playlist of our anti-sweep videos https://invisiblepeople.tv/stopsweeps
#losangeles #homeless #servicesnotsweeps
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
Kensington Ave., Philadelphia, is often portrayed as hopeless—a place defined by addiction and homelessness. But stories like Kali’s prove that transformation is possible with the right support.
Kali, who once lived as a homeless drug addict on Kensington Boulevard, shares her incredible journey: “I’ve been sober for almost a year now, and I just bought a house. I never thought this would be my life, but Prevention Point helped me believe it could be.”
Prevention Point, a nonprofit in Kensington, plays a vital role in turning lives around. They provide harm reduction services, a low-barrier shelter, and ongoing support to people struggling with addiction and homelessness. Their compassionate approach offers clean needles, mental health care, housing assistance, and most importantly, hope.
Kali’s story is a testament to the fact that addiction isn’t the end of someone’s journey. Kensington doesn’t have to remain a symbol of despair. With harm reduction, we can give people the tools they need to rebuild their lives.
Support harm reduction today—because everyone deserves a chance at a better future. Together, we can change the story of Kensington Ave. forever.
For more on Prevention Point, click here https://ppponline.org
00:00 Kensington intro: open-air drug market, “zombieland” myth
00:24 The missing backstory—hope, humans & real solutions
00:41 Voices from the block: goals, “not to get high—just not sick”
00:55 From homeless to homeowner: what this film will show
01:02 Success teaser: “I just bought a house”
01:10 Recovery reality: 11 months sober & talking relapse
01:30 Prevention Point enters: consistent support before/after homelessness
01:47 Harm reduction 101: syringe services hub, clean supplies
02:34 “Harm reduction saves lives (and money)”—why it’s under attack
03:01 Beacon House low-barrier shelter: 24/7, no curfew, no sobriety rule
03:45 Adjusting to shelter life; use drops from bundle → 3 bags
04:58 Rest, safety & dignity: sleep, showers, mail, laundry
05:18 Whole-person clinic: case management, housing, mental health
06:06 Street outreach at encampments; slow path to housing
06:56 “Not to get high—so we’re not sick”: couple’s story, COVID losses
07:40 Xylazine dangers: wounds, infections, amputations
08:26 Jail churn & no discharge planning → relapse cycle
09:30 Why forced treatment fails without housing & mental health care
10:00 Suicide risk, getting MH support through Prevention Point
10:41 Indoors builds momentum: jobs, goals, recovery
10:56 From streets to keys: buying a home & new career
11:32 Closing call: dignity + harm reduction prevent homelessness
More stories:
They’re Not Zombies—They’re Humans Fighting to Survive Kensington, Philadelphia https://youtu.be/3WhK8sTT43s?si=CmtJLZyUwv4uhucR
From a Tent to a Home: No Longer Homeless https://youtu.be/0hkkGH_QADA?si=nKWfMvtuCA2ltl4w
America Can End Homelessness: Hennepin County Shows How https://youtu.be/yq1C8l4uSZc?si=m3cCfBE8soqUy-CL
==================================
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Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
Ken is a homeless veteran in San Diego. He had bought a fishing boat and just started to make some money fishing. The boat also provided Ken with a place to live, so he ended up on the streets when he lost the boat.
Ken thought that he would be able to survive homelessness, thinking to himself it can't be that hard to work your way up. Ken quickly learned that it's "not easy to overcome all the obstacles to get a home again."
Ken says being a veteran, it's one more organization to turn to for help, but that doesn't mean people can get past the bureaucracy to get the support they need. At the time of this interview, Ken was approved for housing. Sometimes it can take months or more after getting approved to when you are in housing. I hope the rest of his path out of homelessness is easy.
In San Diego, homeless people are given three hours to move their stuff. If, by chance, the person is at a doctor's appointment or a job interview or out trying to find food and water, the city takes all their belongings.
Ken shares how, while he was filling out forms to get into a shelter, the city came and took all of his stuff, including his ID, DD214., social security card, and birth certificate, so without identification, Ken was not able to get into the shelter and remained on the street homeless. To make it worse, Ken's friends tried to save his tent from San Diego Sanitation throwing it away, but the police would not allow it.
Cities across America continue to invest more in pushing homeless people out of sight than helping to solve homelessness through evidence-based programs like housing. San Diego is one of the worst. We made this short documentary about how they criminalize homelessness.
Criminalization of Homelessness: San Diego's Failed Response to a Homeless Crisis https://youtu.be/Uhb_cgwFrFQ
Here's our mini-doc about Seattle doing the same thing
Where Do They Go? The Painful Reality of Seattle's RV Homeless Sweeps https://youtu.be/1-mins3KNFk
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
https://www.tiktok.com/@invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
This isn’t just talk. Our groundbreaking educational content reaches millions of people every month. Our real and unfiltered stories of homelessness shatter stereotypes, demand attention and deliver a call-to-action that is being answered by governments, major brands, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens just like you.
However, there is more work to be done on the road ahead. Homelessness is undoubtedly one of our biggest societal issues today and will only continue to grow if we don’t take action now.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
Sean seems like a kind man. He remembers the day he became homeless. For nineteen months, Sean has been sleeping rough homeless in Center London. Sean's first day homeless was shortly after his wife and child died.
Trauma like Sean's experience can be devastating, resulting in a person losing everything and ending up homeless. Once on the streets, the trauma of homelessness and having to fight to survive creates a vicious cycle, making it even harder for a person to get out of homelessness. Added to that, available services, especially housing, are lacking.
Sean shares that a day sleeping rough is mostly walking. He says the public often thinks all they do is beg for money, but it's not like that. Sean continues how people spit on him and kick him.
London is now mostly cashless, which makes it harder for rough sleepers we are panhandling. We do not support begging for money, but as we share in this short animation about giving money to homeless people, often they don't have a choice but to beg for change https://youtu.be/BuRPdmVzMAM?si=iNORR6LI0f0lD6j-
Sean ends this interview by saying: "I don't want the world. I just want to be happy."
In the United Kingdom, as it is in America, it's up to all of us to change policies to solve homelessness. Please contact your legislators today.
More UK stories:
Homeless Youth Sleeping Rough in London after Mother Died https://youtu.be/24To8SF46jU?
Natasha is 22 years-old and has been homeless, sleeping rough in London for 4 years https://youtu.be/6TLVgwoqhoc?si=RyVmhuaRvEoCB9re
Truth About Giving Money to Homeless People https://youtu.be/BuRPdmVzMAM?si=uWor4uJI2GSN8zgC
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
https://www.tiktok.com/@invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
This isn’t just talk. Our groundbreaking educational content reaches millions of people every month. Our real and unfiltered stories of homelessness shatter stereotypes, demand attention and deliver a call-to-action that is being answered by governments, major brands, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens just like you.
However, there is more work to be done on the road ahead. Homelessness is undoubtedly one of our biggest societal issues today and will only continue to grow if we don’t take action now.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
Since this interview, Reset (not her real name) has been removed from the faith-based shelter and is now back living in her car. If you'd like to help her, here is a link to her GoFundMe https://www.gofundme.com/f/wan....t-my-life-back-homel
Reset is a physically disabled homeless woman in Oceanside, California, who faced discrimination when staying in a 30-day faith-based shelter. After the 30-day period, she was removed from the shelter because she is not a Christian. This exclusion goes against the teachings of Jesus, who commanded his followers to show unconditional love to everyone, including the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and those in need.
While some ministries genuinely help homeless people, many others use an outdated discipleship model that prioritizes religious programming over providing services and support. Withholding basic needs from hurting people is not what Jesus would do. It’s coercion, not Christianity.
Reset became disabled after a freak accident. She was a nomad living in a skoolie bus, working remotely, when she flew out of the windshield, causing her disability. She lost 95% of everything she owned and now has to use a walker to get around. True homelessness is the absence of choice. Many people intentionally live in vehicles, but any time they want to go rent an apartment, they can. Homeless people that live in vehicles have no other choice. This is the big difference between a nomadic lifestyle and homelessness.
Reset's story highlights the larger issue of discrimination, as people with physical disabilities face significant barriers to finding adequate shelter and services. Reset shared that she called over 70 service providers to find help and learned that many don't have a bed or don't support people with physical disabilities. Unfortunately, many service providers lack the resources and accommodations to support people with disabilities, leaving them without access to basic needs like shelter, food, and medical care. It's unacceptable that homeless individuals with physical disabilities are being left behind, and more needs to be done to ensure they receive the support they need.
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
This isn’t just talk. Our groundbreaking educational content reaches millions of people every month. Our real and unfiltered stories of homelessness shatter stereotypes, demand attention and deliver a call-to-action that is being answered by governments, major brands, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens just like you.
However, there is more work to be done on the road ahead. Homelessness is undoubtedly one of our biggest societal issues today and will only continue to grow if we don’t take action now.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
Why has veteran homelessness dropped while Latino homelessness keeps increasing? In this episode, I talk with Melissa Chinchilla, PhD, a homelessness researcher and policy advocate, about what these opposite trends reveal. We explore how the VA’s integrated approach and Housing First model helped reduce veteran homelessness, and why Latino communities in Los Angeles face rising rates, language barriers, cultural stigma, and gaps in services. Melissa also shares insights from her time on the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority Commission and her research connecting housing, health, and community.
This conversation shows what’s possible when resources align — and what happens when entire communities are left out of the conversation.
00:00 Mark Introduces Melissa Chinchilla and Her Impressive Career
02:28 Melissa's Journey into Homelessness Work and Supporting the Show
07:07 The VA's Integrated Approach and Housing First Model's Impact
13:05 Unpacking the Unique Challenges Faced by Latino Communities
19:11 How Changing Demographics and Community Decline Impact Homelessness
23:48 Melissa's Work on Latinx Homelessness and Policy Advocacy
29:38 The Critical Role of Messaging and Melissa's Continued Impact
More:
Can We End Homelessness? Hennepin County Shows How https://youtu.be/yq1C8l4uSZc?si=XXZX7Hz2b1ibQMzc
From a Tent to a Home: No Longer Homeless https://youtu.be/0hkkGH_QADA?si=vLXNtgK72hkphWXC
Housing First Didn’t Fail. We Did. https://youtu.be/Xrpi8_mbt0I?si=W16eazRf86JOrz_H
Executive producer: Mark Horvath
Producer/editor/cinematographer: Alex Gasaway https://www.youtube.com/alexgasaway
Associate producer: Erin McGinnis
Created by: Alex Gasaway and Erin McGinnis
YouTube Podcast https://shorturl.at/XciIu
Apple Podcast https://apple.co/4cckQ86
Spotify https://spoti.fi/3XyM98c
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website: http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People: https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
Sign up for our newsletter: https://invisiblepeople.tv/email
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
https://www.tiktok.com/@invisiblepeopletv
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
This isn’t just talk. Our groundbreaking educational content reaches millions of people every month. Our real and unfiltered stories of homelessness shatter stereotypes, demand attention and deliver a call-to-action that is being answered by governments, major brands, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens just like you.
However, there is more work to be done on the road ahead. Homelessness is undoubtedly one of our biggest societal issues today and will only continue to grow if we don’t take action now.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
The Safer Kentucky Act Is Making Homelessness Worse. Across America, new laws are punishing homeless people simply for existing. In Kentucky, the Safer Kentucky Act makes it illegal to sit, lie down, or carry something as basic as a blanket in public. Homeless people are being fined, arrested, and jailed, even when they have nowhere else to live.
We went to Louisville to see the impact firsthand. We spoke with people who’ve been cited for sleeping, threatened with jail, and forced to move from place to place every few days, losing their belongings again and again. One elderly woman told us how a police officer dragged her down a set of stairs. We also highlight the story of a pregnant woman who was given a citation while she was in labor.
This isn’t just happening in Kentucky. Since the Grants Pass Supreme Court ruling, over 260 cities have passed similar laws. These policies don’t reduce homelessness; they make it worse.
But we’ve also seen what works: housing-first programs, low-barrier shelters, and supportive services that restore dignity, save lives, and save taxpayer money.
We’re wasting lives and taxpayer dollars on failed policies. The only real way forward is housing and support, not handcuffs.
More arrests won’t end homelessness. Housing will.
✊ Take action to support the Housing Not Handcuffs Act: https://housingnothandcuffs.org/hnhact
Support VOCAL Kentucky here: https://vocal-ky.org
This documentary is a collaboration between Invisible People and the National Homelessness Law Center.
Executive producer: Mark Horvath
Producer/editor/cinematographer: Alex Gasaway | https://youtube.com/alexgasaway
00:00 – Voices from the street: harassment, forced moves (Louisville, KY)
01:16 – After Grants Pass: Safer Kentucky Act & criminalization overview
02:18 – Police sweeps: constant displacement under HB5
03:34 – “Five minutes” to move: tents trashed, property loss
04:33 – Catch-22 IDs & Section 8 wait; a couple’s voucher hope
05:31 – HB5 scatters encampments: outreach & services set back
06:26 – Survival basics: safety, restrooms, jobs—no options
11:56 – Calling for shelter: “no men’s beds available” (system test)
13:14 – Confiscations & citations: fines people can’t pay
15:37 – The math: jail costs vs unlawful camping fines (wasteful spend)
17:03 – Profit motives & a $300–$400M jail plan
18:19 – Court churn: warrants from tickets; VA link but no housing keys
20:07 – Housing changes lives: recovery & reentry success stories
21:51 – Pregnant woman cited while in labor
24:13 – “Offered services” ≠ housing: paternalism & no units
25:20 – Families pushed out: eviction, “treatment only,” still homeless
26:14 – Criminalization pushes camps into neighborhoods
28:06 – Solution spotlight: Arthur Street Hotel (low-barrier navigation)
30:42 – Vouchers need support: navigation, dignity, harm reduction
32:20 – Sheehan Landing: Housing First + onsite services (PSH model)
33:08 – Dolly’s journey: from street & glaucoma to a home
35:28 – Closing: choose housing over criminalization—build safety & community
MORE:
Illegal to Sleep: Grants Pass’ Cruel War on Homelessness https://youtu.be/qYzx4ZGQnc8?si=iinwSHy787VA4mn5
From a Tent to a Home: No Longer Homeless https://youtu.be/0hkkGH_QADA?si=3PIjFv_8z7els9kC
Can We End Homelessness? Hennepin County Shows How https://youtu.be/yq1C8l4uSZc?
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
Sign up for our newsletter: https://invisiblepeople.tv/email
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
https://www.tiktok.com/@invisiblepeopletv
About Invisible People:
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
Eddie has been homeless in Miami for over 30 years, far too long. You can hear it in his voice and see it in his eyes — the trauma, the repetition, the mental illness that comes from surviving decades on the streets. He sometimes rambles. He repeats himself. But everything he says is true.
Being ignored hurts the most.
Eddie grew up in the system — foster care, group homes, orphanages — and aged out with nowhere to go. He’s struggled with addiction, but he’s been clean and sober for years. He has a hernia, untreated. He panhandles to survive. He’s been stabbed. He can’t sleep. And he’s stuck.
Without ID, there’s no way out. No housing, no job, no bus ticket home. He tried to get help, but shelters were unsafe, overcrowded, and often filled with drugs. Outreach workers made promises, but never followed through.
Eddie says he would go into a Housing First program if one were available. He doesn’t need treatment, just a safe place to stabilize. But Miami, like so many cities, is out of options.
Eddie is a reminder that people don’t stay homeless because they’re broken, they become broken because they stay homeless. We need to get people like Eddie off the streets, and we need to act faster to prevent others from ending up like him.
More:
From a Tent to a Home: No Longer Homeless https://youtu.be/0hkkGH_QADA?si=ko0eCYxw8aQqzuIR
Can We End Homelessness? Hennepin County Shows How https://youtu.be/yq1C8l4uSZc?si=ZH6NHfO-gp0JHlTx
Finland Solved Homelessness: Here's How https://youtu.be/0jt_6PBnCJE?si=nNFhfIe5fqlwbPNx
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website: http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People: https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
Sign up for our newsletter: https://invisiblepeople.tv/email
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https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
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https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
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https://www.tiktok.com/@invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
Invisible People works to change public perceptions of homelessness and influence policy change. Many people mistakenly blame homelessness on individuals rather than systemic issues like affordable housing shortages, unemployment, childhood trauma, and insufficient wages. This misunderstanding hampers efforts to address homelessness effectively.
Our vision is a world where everyone has a home. We aim to fight homelessness by humanizing it and educating people about the systemic issues behind it. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are shifting the narrative on homelessness.
Our impactful educational content reaches millions monthly, breaking stereotypes and prompting action from governments, brands, nonprofits, and individuals. Yet, the fight continues as homelessness remains a major societal issue that requires immediate action.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since 2008, we’ve been a pioneering and trusted resource in North America and the UK, inspiring action and dialogue around poverty.
This podcast episode is sponsored by Pulse For Good—an automated feedback system that helps shelters, clinics, and community programs listen to the people they serve. Learn more at https://pulseforgood.com/invisiblepeople
In Los Angeles, more than 3,000 young people experience homelessness on any given night. Many come out of foster care or the juvenile justice system, and too often LGBTQ youth and youth of color are hit hardest. But there are proven solutions.
In this episode, I talk with Erika Hartman, CEO of Safe Place for Youth (SPY), about what actually works. From Host Homes to Housing First, SPY has grown from one Venice site to nine locations across LA County. Erika explains how trust, prevention, and youth-specific services can stop the pipeline into chronic adult homelessness—and why community opposition and funding cuts put this progress at risk.
Learn more or get involved: https://safeplaceforyouth.org
More:
Thrown Out, Left Behind: The Hidden Crisis Facing 2SLGBTQ+ Homeless Youth https://youtu.be/X8C_SgA0fPQ?si=kYVYQNMv_18D9jf_
This Woman's Final Day of Homelessness Will Move You https://youtu.be/sZQLMnF_y8k?si=D089Me5mn600lwxD
Homeless Hunger Games: Shelters, Soundbites, and a Sector at Breaking Point https://youtu.be/W3CJ8odlh8g?si=B1nLIJXMXefF8Fqf
Executive producer: Mark Horvath
Producer/editor/cinematographer: Alex Gasaway https://www.youtube.com/alexgasaway
Associate producer: Erin McGinnis
Created by: Alex Gasaway and Erin McGinnis
YouTube Podcast https://shorturl.at/XciIu
Apple Podcast https://apple.co/4cckQ86
Spotify https://spoti.fi/3XyM98c
00:00 — Youth Homelessness: The Alarming Stats
01:16 — Introducing Erica Hartman & SPY’s Mission
03:19 — From Therapy to Homeless Services: Erica’s Journey
05:21 — Why So Many Youth Become Homeless in L.A.
07:03 — Housing First for Youth: Stability Before Success
09:18 — Human Trafficking Dangers for Homeless Youth
10:28 — Venice Flagship Rebuilt: Housing + Drop-In Center
11:25 — Inside SPY Drop-Ins: Arts, Health, Jobs, Basic Needs
12:32 — Traveler Youth & Early Intervention Opportunities
14:00 — Emergency Shelter & Privately Funded Beds
14:37 — Racial Disparities & Building Trust with Youth
15:06 — Youth vs. Adult Services: Why Specialized Care Matters
16:12 — Foster Care Placements & Broken Attachments
18:35 — Success Story: From Host Homes to Advocacy
19:38 — Pregnant & Parenting Youth: Breaking the Cycle
21:39 — Venice Opposition: Myths vs. Reality
23:17 — Closing the West L.A. Youth Shelter & Its Fallout
26:18 — The Housing Bottleneck: Streets → Shelter → Homes
27:16 — Why Youth-Specific Funding Is Crucial
29:20 — SPY’s Future: Prevention, Advocacy, and Growth
31:22 — Youth Voices: Why They Trust SPY
31:56 — How You Can Help: Volunteer, Donate, Advocate
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website: http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People: https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
Sign up for our newsletter: https://invisiblepeople.tv/email
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
https://www.tiktok.com/@invisiblepeopletv
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
On the streets of Chicago, drug addiction is taking limbs — and sometimes lives. Xylazine, a powerful animal tranquilizer now mixed into street drugs, is causing horrifying wounds and amputations among homeless people already struggling to survive.
But there is hope.
Patrick never thought a sports injury would lead to life on the streets.
After breaking his ankle, he was prescribed pain pills — but when those ran out, he turned to heroin. That decision, born from pain and dependency, became the start of two decades of addiction, homelessness, and now xylazine — a dangerous animal tranquilizer that’s destroying lives across Chicago.
“You don’t just walk through the doors and you’re sober,” Patrick says. “If there was a magic button, please — show me. It doesn’t work like that.”
Patrick has been through treatment more times than he can count. So have many others in this film. But addiction takes over your body, your mind, and your hope. Recovery isn’t just about willpower or rehab — it takes harm reduction, housing, and treatment working together to give people a real chance at healing.
This film follows The Night Ministry’s Street Medicine Team, doctors and outreach workers who bring medical care, harm reduction supplies, and compassion to people living on Chicago’s streets. Without their help, many wouldn’t survive the wounds, infections, and amputations caused by xylazine and life outside.
This is the reality of homelessness, addiction, and survival in Chicago — and the people who still show up to save lives.
Support The Night Ministry here https://www.thenightministry.org
MORE:
Fined. Arrested. Still Nowhere to Live. https://youtu.be/yZg14Ln3hGw?si=ZlAqkIFhDCHcvein
This Woman's Final Day of Homelessness Will Move You https://youtu.be/sZQLMnF_y8k?si=G1Akxwm1Q_OSXBxN
Can Supervised Drug Use Save Lives? Inside OnPoint NYC’s Radical Approach https://youtu.be/Qhvw1Imatr4?si=WNn8CHaQiERXPc4w
Can We End Homelessness? Hennepin County Shows How https://youtu.be/yq1C8l4uSZc?
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
Sign up for our newsletter: https://invisiblepeople.tv/email
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
https://www.tiktok.com/@invisiblepeopletv
About Invisible People:
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
PLEASE WATCH AND SHARE THIS VIDEO! Today is our 17-year anniversary. Invisible People is, by far, the best investment in narrative change for the homeless sector — but our future is uncertain. https://secure.qgiv.com/for/17yearanniversary/
Seventeen years ago today, on November 26, 2008, I uploaded the very first Invisible People video. Since then, millions now have a new understanding of homelessness. Housing programs have been created. Feeding programs have been created. Laws have changed. Schools, universities, hospitals, and even entire cities now use our content for training.
I would love to celebrate all that impact — but I need to ask for your help.
We are primarily funded by individual donations, and donations continue to disappear at the very moment our work is needed most.
Misinformation and well-funded propaganda pushing for the criminalization of homelessness are spreading faster than ever. Support for housing — the only permanent solution to encampments — is under attack like never before.
Invisible People is uniquely qualified to make the truth louder and push back against the negative noise shaping policy. We’ve been doing this work since 2008, and today we reach 20 to 30 million people every month — more than all homeless-service nonprofits combined — on a tiny budget. Imagine the impact if we had the resources to scale.
Every story needs a hero. And that hero is you. Your support fuels quality journalism, powerful documentaries, and the most authentic and most popular podcast on homelessness. Individual donors protect our editorial freedom and keep our storytelling uncensored, independent, and real — the kind of storytelling that drives real change.
For our 17-year anniversary, please consider giving a monthly gift of $17. If you can give more, it’s urgently needed. If a one-time gift is what you can do, every amount counts. And if you can’t give right now, sharing this video truly helps more than you know.
Thank you. This impact — these 17 years — would not have been possible without generous people just like you.
At first, Mark didn't want to talk on camera. We chatted for a bit and as I started to walk away he asked for a business card. He wanted to know what the video would be used for, how it would be used, and what organizations I was connected to. I assured him this project was completely independent and my only agenda was to tell the homeless story with real people telling real stories unedited and uncensored. Mark is extremely intelligent and articulate. His story really wrecked me because I could identify with so much of it. This is a great story. I hope Marks story and the other stories on this vlog inspires you to continue the homeless conversation.
________________________________________________
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Invisible Peopleís website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
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Invisible Peopleís Social Media:
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Mark Horvathís Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, theyíre on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and canít ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nationís most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath ñ its founder ñ and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of Americaís homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
Lanette is a homeless veteran living in her car in Inglewood. When she got out of the military, Lanette returned to Compton to reconnect with her family. The structure that Lanette learned in the military made it hard for her to adjust to civilian life.
Lanette has PTSD serving in two tours in Iraq. She was a hospital corpsman and believed that Marines couldn't die. Lanette says witnessing the death of Marines does something to a soldier's soul.
She started to smoke Spice to help deal with the PTSD, but eventually, her family asked her to leave because she was using the drug. Her only choice was to live in her car.
Lanette is full of life yet because of PTSD and a drug addiction, she is vulnerable out on the streets. The back window of her car was missing she says as a result of a gang shooting.
Somewhere along the way we failed Lanette. We must be able to provide veterans with the support they need before they end up living in a car or worse.
Angelenos can help end homelessness this March 7th. Vote YES on Measure H to help end homelessness for 45,000 families and individuals across Los Angeles County within the next five years. It will also prevent homelessness for 30,000 families and individuals over the same time period, including women and children, veterans, seniors, foster youth, and survivors of domestic violence. More more information, please visit http://voteyesonh.com
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
Ever since I met Katie, I cannot stop thinking about what a beautiful mature young woman she is and how cruel our world is that she is sleeping outside homeless!
It was down to 42°f last night in Winnipeg. With the wind, I am sure it felt much colder. Katie said she didn't sleep much. She mostly walked around to stay warm.
As a result of a few bad situations and flawed relationships, Katie has been living on the streets since last March. I can't even imagine what life is like for this young homeless woman. Yet Katie looks at life through a positive lens.
The good news is Katie was in the right place at the right time. She was walking by the convention center where this year's Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness Conference is being set up. Someone who works with local homeless people in Winnipeg saw Katie outside in the cold and invited her in for a cup of coffee and a sandwich. Katie was being introduced to people that can help get her the support she needs.
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, they’re on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and can’t ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nation’s most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath – its founder – and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of America’s homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness. canada
Cody met a girl. They fell in love. He relocated to live with her. Everything was going fine until Cody left for a three day trip for work. When he returned, Cody says he walked in on his girlfriend cheating on him with his boss's son. Cody reacted out of anger and passion with the end result of him ending up on the streets of Chicago homeless.
Cody tries to sell his artwork to get enough money to get a room for a night or two. When he can get a room he can clean up enough to look for work, but he keeps getting denied employment because he is homeless.
Cody says that on weekends, a lot of people come around and give out food but there is no help to get off the streets and out of homelessness.
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People's website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People's Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath's Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, they're on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and can't ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nation's most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath – its founder – and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of America's homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
Trouble never planned on ending up homeless. She says no one ever plans on being homeless.
Trouble has been traveling and hopping trains for 5 years. Both Trouble and her boyfriend, now her husband, started traveling to political protests around the country. Trouble says that the two of them kicked drugs while protesting police violence in different cities. "Fighting cops" as she calls it, gave them purpose and motivate to "kick dope."
They took a break from traveling and to get married in New Orleans. They got involved with an art and political advocacy organization, but when the drama started they both starting drinking again and it all fell apart!
Trouble says they became functioning addicts. They had their own apartment and held down jobs, but the drinking and drugs continued. They decided to leave their apartment and go back to squatting, which is basically sleeping in any space they can find. It all went downhill from there!
Trouble says the world of partying homeless youth travelers was like a magnet keeping them in New Orleans. She says the NOLA street kid scene is like a theme park ride on steroids.
Trouble goes on rambling about their journeys and then around 7 minutes 7:00 into this video she admits that it's no way to live.
Not all, but most travelers are homeless youth that finds security, community, and purpose with other travelers. Many come from abusive families! A large percentage of traveling homeless young people are throwaways and never reported missing by their parents.
Helping traveling homeless youth is a unique challenge for homeless youth service providers. Just by the nature of always being transient makes it hard to provide case management and other support services. I knew a few homeless youth organizations that are set up to allow young travelers just to show up to grab a shower and a meal. The theory is just to love on them while they are there with the hope that compassion has a lasting affect.
The general public views traveling youth as lawbreakers, drug addicts and rebels going around causing mayhem. If people would just stop for a moment to hear some of the stories. The trauma most of this kids have gone through is heartbreaking! Many have been raised by other traveling youth and are simply trying to survive the best they can.
I am not sure what you see, but when I look at Trouble and hear her talk, I see an intelligent young woman that has had a very hard life growing up. I can literally feel the pain she is holding back!
I also see an intelligent young woman just needs someone to believe in her and give her a chance.
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, they’re on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and can’t ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nation’s most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath – its founder – and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of America’s homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
Shaun is 19 years-old sleeping rough on the streets of London. After his father died, his mother got depressed. She started to drink more and take sleeping pills. Her depression got worse until she was hospitalized.
Four weeks before this interview, Shaun's mother died. Two weeks later, the landlord kicked him out because he couldn't pay the rent.
Shaun's first night of homelessness, he woke up with his shoes stolen. Shaun said he didn't know the rules for sleeping rough. He learned to use his shoes as a pillow.
The London Assembly housing committee report estimates that there are 13 times more hidden homeless people in London than those who are sleeping rough. Almost a quarter of a million under-25s homeless youth in London have stayed in an unsafe place because they have nowhere to call home.
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, a living wage or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
This isn’t just talk. Each year, our groundbreaking educational content reaches more than a billion people across the globe. Our real and unfiltered stories of homelessness shatter stereotypes, demand attention and deliver a call-to-action that is being answered by governments, major brands, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens just like you.
However, there is more work to be done on the road ahead. Homelessness is undoubtedly one of our biggest societal issues today and will only continue to grow if we don’t take action now.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
UPDATE: Help Others Struggling with Addiction in Loving Memory of Sabrina Tate https://youtu.be/VnkS8MAo2MA
PLEASE WATCH THE VIDEO AND READ THIS POST: ‘Shame on Seattle’: Parents of homeless woman who died in RV speak out https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/homeless/shame-on-seattle-parents-of-homeless-woman-who-died-in-rv-speak-out/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=article_left_1.1
Sabrina died in an RV. She was 27. This is the news story that talks about it. This has me messed up because I know she was trying really hard but without housing, it's nearly impossible to stay sober. https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/homeless/seattle-still-has-no-strategy-for-thousands-of-people-living-in-vehicles/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=article_left_1.1
Sabrina is 23 and living under a bridge in Seattle. Sabrina and an old boyfriend hitchhiked to Seattle to spend a few weeks. Those weeks have now turned into four years of homelessness.
Sabrina says she has been on her own since she was 16. She left her home town to explore the world, yet like so many other kids these days, she fell into the addiction of heroin.
If you've been following me for a bit, you've probably heard me talk about heroin being the perfect drug to forget the pain of homelessness. Cheap, easy to get, and the effects help you forget all the pain! Trouble is, heroin is extremely addictive, and in a very short time a person goes from getting high to needing a fix to 'maintain'. Without the fix a heroin addict gets violently sick. For reference, Cameron gave a very honest and candid interview about addictions that you can watch here http://bit.ly/HnVpjs .
There is a lot more research about homelessness and it's causes these days, and that's a good thing. For years, I have been asking people far smarter than I am to start researching how many homeless youth end up chronically homeless as adults. I would gather because of socioeconomic and physiological reasons a lot of homeless kids stay homeless, which to me, is a very serious crisis.
Last week I was in Portland and I met a few young kids all addicted to heroin. Many of them still had their youthful appearance, but you could tell the drugs and the street life where quickly taking a toll.
At 23 Sabrina still has a long and fruitful life in front of her, but being very real, our socially would rather lock up a drug addict them help them get back to a normal life. We really need to work on helping homeless youth get the support they need before they end up using hard drugs for any length of time. Sabrina's story breaks my heart, and knowing there are thousands upon thousands of other youth out there in the same situation wrecks me!
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
Michael is a homeless man in Traverse City, Michigan. After Michael's five-year-old son had died, he lost everything and crashed into homelessness.
Michael has been sleeping outside for over ten years now. He says he finds work when he can, but finding a place to stay is hard.
Listening to Michael share his story is heartbreaking. You can feel his pain! Relationships play a significant role in the cause homelessness. When someone goes through trauma, we need to be there to provide support.
Special thanks to Ryan Hannon and Goodwill Northern Michigan's Street Outreach http://www.goodwillnmi.org/hom....eless-housing/street
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People's website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People's Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath's Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, they're on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and can't ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nation's most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath – its founder – and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of America's homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
When I walked up on Larry he had all his clothes out drying in the sun. He was extremely nice and wanted to make sure I was comfortable. He rearranged a few items on the grass so I could sit. When everything you own can fit into a medium-sized suitcase that bag becomes your life. Looking at life through the eyes of a homeless person everything changes. In Larry's mind, he eats like a millionaire although he is surviving of off food that has been thrown away. Larry has kind of a neat idea. He suggests that the city put little racks next to the trash cans where food, beverages, clothes, or anything valuable could be left for the homeless. A few times Larry talked about his drug use. Living on the streets is horrible and anyone would want to escape reality. I found it interesting that Larry was the second homeless accountant I spoke to that day. Larry speaks a few times about the homeless supporting each other, yet when I lived on the streets I found it to be the exact opposite.
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible Peopleís website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible Peopleís Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvathís Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People:
Since its launch in November 2008, Invisible People has leveraged the power of video and the massive reach of social media to share the compelling, gritty, and unfiltered stories of homeless people from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The vlog (video blog) gets up close and personal with veterans, mothers, children, layoff victims and others who have been forced onto the streets by a variety of circumstances. Each week, theyíre on InvisiblePeople.tv, and high traffic sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, proving to a global audience that while they may often be ignored, they are far from invisible.
Invisible People goes beyond the rhetoric, statistics, political debates, and limitations of social services to examine poverty in America via a medium that audiences of all ages can understand, and canít ignore. The vlog puts into context one of our nationís most troubling and prevalent issues through personal stories captured by the lens of Mark Horvath ñ its founder ñ and brings into focus the pain, hardship and hopelessness that millions face each day. One story at a time, videos posted on InvisiblePeople.tv shatter the stereotypes of Americaís homeless, force shifts in perception and deliver a call to action that is being answered by national brands, nonprofit organizations and everyday citizens now committed to opening their eyes and their hearts to those too often forgotten.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
This one hits close to home for me. I was Keith's age when I was homeless in Hollywood and I was addicted to drugs with no end in sight.
Keith is open about being addicted to heroin. When the market crashed Keith lost his job in the housing industry. He was addicted to painkillers and started to use heroin because it was cheaper.
Before you judge Keith you should know drugs like heroin and crack cocaine will completely take your life away. Alcohol can too, but drug addiction is much worse. Keith talks very candid about the grip of heroin on a life. It takes your life away.
Keith may sound like he enjoys street life, but really listen to what he is saying. He is not happy and wants to get out. Listen to his first wish. He just does not know how to stop heroin.
For interviews from homeless people:
Los Angeles Homeless Man Shares the Harsh Reality of Skid Row https://youtu.be/T_c5ff0EEcA
Homeless Heroin Addict Shares the Truth on Opioid Epidemic and Drug Addiction https://youtu.be/xj_by-u0N8o
Homeless at 9. Abused at 11. Is this Venice Beach Man's homelessness by choice? https://youtu.be/Ho4AU4yo-jU
#homeless #losangeles #addiction
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
This isn’t just talk. Each year, our groundbreaking educational content reaches more than a billion people across the globe. Our real and unfiltered stories of homelessness shatter stereotypes, demand attention and deliver a call-to-action that is being answered by governments, major brands, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens just like you.
However, there is more work to be done on the road ahead. Homelessness is undoubtedly one of our biggest societal issues today and will only continue to grow if we don’t take action now.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
Natasha is 22 years old and has been homeless in London for four years. Only moments before meeting her on a dark rainy night I met two other homeless women. One woman had been on the streets for 33 years.
Natasha says because she is not using drugs or alcohol or pregnant there is no help.
It's hard to imagine what a young girl like Natasha's life is like on the streets. It's nothing but a miracle that she still is positive and can smile.
More interviews from homeless people:
Today is Sergei's 18th birthday. It is also his first day homeless! https://youtu.be/276RZVt-SDk
Young Homeless Girl Living on the Streets of New York City. https://youtu.be/xRxt8u-iaGE
Homeless at 9. Abused at 11. Is this Venice Beach Man's homelessness by choice? https://youtu.be/Ho4AU4yo-jU
#homeless #roughsleeper #london
==================================
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
About Invisible People
There is a direct correlation between what the general public perceives about homelessness and how it affects policy change. Most people blame homelessness on the person experiencing it instead of the increasing shortage of affordable housing, lack of employment, childhood trauma, lack of a living wage, or the countless reasons that put a person at risk. This lack of understanding creates a dangerous cycle of misperception that leads to the inability to effectively address the root causes of homelessness.
We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Each day, we work to fight homelessness by giving it a face while educating individuals about the systemic issues that contribute to its existence. Through storytelling, education, news, and activism, we are changing the narrative on homelessness.
This isn’t just talk. Each year, our groundbreaking educational content reaches more than a billion people across the globe. Our real and unfiltered stories of homelessness shatter stereotypes, demand attention and deliver a call-to-action that is being answered by governments, major brands, nonprofit organizations, and everyday citizens just like you.
However, there is more work to be done on the road ahead. Homelessness is undoubtedly one of our biggest societal issues today and will only continue to grow if we don’t take action now.
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about homelessness through innovative storytelling, news, and advocacy. Since our launch in 2008, Invisible People has become a pioneer and trusted resource for inspiring action and raising awareness in support of advocacy, policy change and thoughtful dialogue around poverty in North America and the United Kingdom.
***Your #1 Request! EJ's UPDATE! No Longer HOMELESS! https://youtu.be/ntWJhzj2d6A
"On the streets, you don't wish for things. You just wait for them to happen. Because you cannot control really anything", EJ responded trying to think of a second and third wish.
EJ is homeless in Hollywood. He is 18, and when he told me he has been homeless for 11 years, I could not even comprehend to do the math. (I'm a drummer and drummers can't count past 4 anyway)
I cannot even imagine being on the streets at such a young age. I once interviewed a kid in Wichita homeless at 5 years old http://bit.ly/H2uOWq. I know how horrible my first day homeless was as an adult, so my heart breaks thinking about what these kids must have done through. But to them, the streets were better than the abuse they were going through.
We will never end homelessness until we can fix families!
More interviews from homeless people:
Today is Sergei's 18th birthday. It is also his first day homeless! https://youtu.be/276RZVt-SDk
Young Homeless Girl Living on the Streets of New York City. https://youtu.be/xRxt8u-iaGE
Homeless at 9. Abused at 11. Is this Venice Beach Man's homelessness by choice? https://youtu.be/Ho4AU4yo-jU
#homeless #losangeles #homelessyouth
________________________________________________
Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/c/invi....siblepeople?sub_conf
Invisible People’s website:
http://invisiblepeople.tv
Support Invisible People:
https://invisiblepeople.tv/donate
On Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/invisiblepeople
Invisible People’s Social Media:
https://www.youtube.com/invisiblepeople
https://twitter.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.instagram.com/invisiblepeople
https://www.facebook.com/invisiblepeopletv
Mark Horvath’s Twitter:
https://twitter.com/hardlynormal
Invisible People is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way we think about people experiencing homelessness.
#homeless #hollywood #homelessyouth
