California's Homeless Crisis: Uncovering the Truth

Invisible People

California’s homeless crisis is reaching unprecedented levels, but what’s really driving it? In this episode, Dr. Margot Kushel, Professor of Medicine at UCSF, Division Chief of the Division of Health Equity and Society, and Director of the UCSF Center for Vulnerable Populations and the UCSF Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative, breaks down the findings of the California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness (CASPEH). With powerful data and firsthand accounts, Dr. Kushel reveals that “75% of people in our study lost their housing within the same county where they were previously living,” debunking the myth that most people experiencing homelessness in California are from out of state. She also highlights the alarming reality that “46% of participants had their belongings thrown out during an organized sweep, including essential items like IDs and medications.” Dr. Kushel emphasizes the urgency of addressing these issues, stating, "We need to have a maniacal focus on creating more housing." This episode offers a deep dive into the data behind the homelessness crisis and provides actionable steps toward creating lasting solutions.

California Statewide Study of People Experiencing Homelessness [LINK] Executive producer: Mark Horvath Producer/editor/cinematographer: Alex Gasaway Associate producer: Erin McGinnis Created by: Alex Gasaway and Erin McGinnis

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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 and homelessness.