Defining Homelessness: Real Stories and Hard Truths from Colorado Springs
Individuals have difficulty having the patience to work through the system. Yes, definitely, I think a lot of it comes down to the shame aspect, and it's interesting that shame also perpetuates the substance use and those defense mechanisms I mentioned that just cause people to reel back.
What does 'home' mean to you? In this eye-opening episode of 'A Place for Everyone', Executive Director Beth Roalstad sits down with Housing Specialist Nina Miller and Street Outreach Worker Jansen Howard to untangle the complex web of homelessness in Colorado Springs. Did you know that someone earning minimum wage would need to work 73 hours a week just to afford a one-bedroom apartment in this city? That’s just one of the startling facts you'll learn.
This conversation dives deep into who the homeless really are, how they ended up in this situation, and what they need to find stability. Dispelling myths and confronting harsh realities, Beth, Nina, and Jansen paint a vivid picture of the daily struggles faced by those without a home. They explore the impact of homelessness on mental health, the stigma that surrounds it, and the specific challenges faced by homeless children in schools.
The episode also highlights the importance of community partnerships and collective efforts in providing permanent supportive housing and essential wraparound services. By the end, you'll be left pondering what 'home' truly means and how you can be part of the solution.