very young, and then I grew up playing them in their chores, or help them by pro- sports. So, I think both of those left a pas- viding them childcare. Now my projects sion for caring in a sense of having value are more bigger picture, longer-term hous- in the world in a way. So yeah, obviously ing models and strategies. losing my dad was a big deal. He was very AD: So you mentioned a lot of projects caring and compassionate, so I think I got in your presentation. Out of those proj- that from him. ects, such as the RCCC, VASH, Section 8., AD: So growing up, is this what you envi- which one strikes you the most? sioned you’d be doing? MO: I think VASH. Like in the video MO: I did. I definitely did. I definitely [showed during her presentation to the thought I’d be in a helping type field, and I class], it provides the veterans a housing feel very fortunate that that’s what I do, and sub-city with case management services. I do truly feel that I make an impact, and They’ve also reduced requirements that the that’s a big deal. traditional requirements Section 8 vouch- AD: So in your presentation, you talked ers have. It’s very specialized, and well Megan O’Dowd: We Are All about how you grew up in New York, how thought out, and brings together a lot of is the homelessness different over there public and private organizations to impact Impacted than over here [San Diego]? veteran homelessness. By: Andrew Defante MO: Yeah, I feel like San Diego surprising- AD: Yeah, these projects seem well thought ly has a worse homeless population. I think out, so what goes through the process of Megan O’Dowd is currently the San Diego’s [population] is much more in developing these projects? Housing Program Analyst for the County your face than it is back east, although you MO: Yeah, it’s a big deal. A lot of it is a gap of San Diego and a chair member for the wouldn’t think that. I feel that it is a much analysis, so looking at what the gap is, even community service group, the San Diego more vulnerable group here in my per- looking at what strengths, weaknesses, Uptown Rosary. She works with a team spective. opportunities, and resources are available. to develop numerous programs to aid the AD: Why do you think they’re so vulnera- And then you have to align it with the homeless throughout the county. I got into ble? In your presentation, you talked about skills and capacity that an organization contact with Ms. O’Dowd by my teacher, the different types of homeless people, and has, and then what your mission is, what Ms. Angie Guerrero. O’Dowd came to our how the chronic type embodies the image you want to accomplish. class at High Tech High Chula Vista on of the homeless people. Why do you think AD: So was it a big jump going from the Wednesday, November 13, 2013 to speak that is? city to the county [position]? to us about the various projects her group MO: I think it’s because you see them. You MO: I did different things with the city. I at the County of SD is working on, and to definitely see them. You may see the same worked more with those who had Section give us more insight about the homeless person on a regular basis. And usually, 8 vouchers, to help them become self-suf- population in San Diego. After she spoke they’re there a lot longer. They seem a lot ficient. So it was different, because I was to the entire class, I sat down with her in more disconnected and threatening. working with people who had that first the teacher’s office, with the goal of digging AD: Threatening in what way? layer of foundation of housing. Now it’s deeper into her knowledge and experienc- MO: I think that they… It’s kind of that really working with the population that has es with the homeless. She had vast knowl- thought of “I wonder how that happened no housing, no support. So, in my old job, edge of the issue and how it all affects us in to that person” and many people conclude I could really talk about impacting youth different ways. that obviously something negative hap- and going to college, long term employ- O’Dowd stressed the importance pened. ment, improving people’s credit, and those of knowledge in order to create change AD: I understand that you work for the type of pieces. Now its on the street, chron- toward the issue. She is very optimistic County of San Diego, how is that different ic, getting them into housing, getting them about putting an end to this problem in than volunteering at a non-profit organiza- these basic needs versus being actually able San Diego, partly due to the fact that we tion? to develop layers on top of that housing. are working on the homelessness project. MO: That’s another good question. AD: About the housing, can you tell me O’Dowd was impressed by the fact that we Non-profit, I feel like I did a lot more di- about the difference between the tradition- all were working together and had such a rect service, like day-to-day helping with al and permanent housing programs? firm foundation of knowledge of the topic, homeless. But in my job now, I do much MO: To make it basic, transitional housing and said that our project has the potential more bigger picture help. This meaning, is two years. That is the most you can stay to touch people and raise public awareness. legislation, local policy, strategic planning, in that type of housing. It can be commu- AD: I just wanted to start this off by asking much bigger picture impact. Both feel very nal housing and shared housing. Perma- you if there is a specific defining moment impactful, but this feels more sustaining. nent housing means they have their own that really defines who you are, and what AD: So you feel that working with the unit that has no end date. So it’s true hous- you stand for today, like any specific expe- county is more sustaining, versus doing a ing. Two years can sound like a long time, rience? day-to-day thing? but it really isn’t. MO: That’s a great question. I think two MO: Yeah, day to day help and assistance. things. My father passed away when I was It was like helping somebody, supporting AD: So how do you determine who gets and couldn’t function. He was out on the you guys have on this issue of homeless- what type of housing? streets and had mental health issues, but ness? MO: Unfortunately, we have way too much was a fantastic and great person but ended MO: You know, I feel the strength in the transitional housing. So a lot of times, the up passing away. He didn’t deserve any of fact that we have a lot of data, and that I wrong people are getting put into transi- that. can see the return. We house 300 veterans tional housing. But transitional housing AD: That’s pretty cool. So you helped him through this VASH program, and provide is usually for people that have short-term out and what not? 1700 vouchers for low-income people. We issues that they can bounce back from. MO: He was great; yeah he actually came have some really specific programs for AD: What are some of these issues? to my college graduation. He was awe- veterans and foster youth. I feel that we MO: So for example, someone that is in an some. make very strategic and well thought out alcohol treatment program. Or somebody AD: And he just passed? decisions at the country on behalf of the that is fleeing a domestic violence situa- MO: Yeah. Actually what happened was programs that we do, and we’re not going tion. So they just need a little bit of time he had Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. He had to do something non-impactful and not to really be safe, get their lives together, cancer, which was from the war. He fi- efficient or cost effective. and then be able to move back into a more nally ended up getting a payout from the AD: So you are working with a team, not permanent situation. Permanent housing is VA [Veterans Affairs], it was years, and individually? really appropriate for everybody. Section 8 he hadn’t been compensated at all or got MO: Yeah, overall, in my day-to-day work, is considered permanent. It’s having afford- any benefits for his service. When he did, I work very much in the community but able housing, having housing that you can he bought a trailer. He always said that he with a few others in my own department. afford. couldn’t wait to have TV and sit in a reclin- AD: Oh ok, so can you take me through a AD: You talked about the transitional er, which is what he ended up getting. But normal day for you? housing being something for someone go- he ended up passing, and it was more of MO: Ok, so for example today, I had a ing through a temporary situation, how do the end of the road for him at that point. couple hour community meetings with you deal with that? Like you said, domestic AD: Yeah, so I understand that there are a the Continuum of Care, I had a one on violence, how does that process work? lot of veterans, homeless people in general, one meeting with whom I report to about MO: It will be varied on the program. Usu- do you ever feel overwhelmed? What goes longer term planning for the longer term ally, if you are a domestic violence-housing through your mind when you see these housing for the Continuum of Care and provider, you often cannot house anybody people? staffing, and then after this, I will go back that has the conviction of a domestic vio- MO: That’s a really good question. I would to the office and monitor some contracts lence. So a lot of times, there is a mandato- imagine that I would be kind of over it. But for some of our housing programs. Then ry arrest in San Diego. So if it’s a man and a to tell you the truth, I’m not. When I see it, tomorrow, I have a few inter-departmen- woman fighting, and the man has a scratch it definitely touches me. It’s sad actually, es- tal meetings related to some of our rental on his face, and the woman doesn’t, they pecially those that are chronic. Even in my assistance programs. I do some contract may arrest her (woman) as perpetrator. own community, I live in Normal Heights, monitoring, and soon I will be applying for But this doesn’t mean that that is exactly there is a sub city of homeless in my com- the NOFA, the 15 million dollars that we what happened. But if it does, and she gets munity, and I talk to them. I definitely apply for through the Continuum of Care. arrested, she is not ineligible for domestic don’t feel disconnected from them. I defi- So I’m still working on some of that. It violence programs. nitely feel compassionate. A lot of times, really varies. AD: Oh I see. So I understand that you even during my thesis, they said people AD: Do you do a lot of school visits too? work for the county, and know that there don’t even look at us; they look through us MO: No, actually I do not. were probably a lot of people that you’ve and don’t talk to us. I purposefully make AD: So this is kind of a unique experience met and worked with, are there any really eye contact and say hi. If they have some for you then huh? influential people that really changed you? interest, I will give them resources, com- MO: Yeah it really is. I enjoy this a lot. I MO: At the county specifically? munity resources. do a few visits here and there, but not too AD: Well, on your path to where you are AD: You said that you’re sad when you see many. today. In general. them, but how do you feel when you are AD: I think you are pretty familiar with the MO: Hmm… That’s a great question. Defi- helping them and developing these pro- project we are doing in class, so what kind nitely my dad. That influenced who I am. grams? of impact do you think we have? I would probably say some of my clients MO: Yeah, I definitely feel a sort of return. MO: I think you guys have major influ- that I had when I worked in drug service. I feel that the programs are impactful, and ence. Even if one student takes this issue When I was in a graduate program, I did needed, and key. I grew up with limited re- and shares, it’s big. It’s multifold. To be my thesis on how homeless creates social sources, so I know and believe that we are honest, that’s why my rotary supported this networks on the streets. There was a gen- making a long-term impact on the fami- project. Its something that’s really key and tleman that I interviewed whose name was lies. If not on the parents, then on the kids. critical. Its getting people really engaged in Lonnie. He was a homeless veteran. He AD: That’s good. So, working where you issues that are important and relevant in came back from Vietnam work, what kind of impact do you think the community. If you’re angry at an issue. Fix it, go af- BA: Yeah, I’m really glad I had the oppor- ter it. There really is impact that happens tunity to join you guys. It was such a life through this avenue. Its not like this is changing experience. Since you do this a fight that will never be won. There are more often, what do you enjoy most about really important and key pieces that if you this job? get one person of the street, or you get one EL: My favorite part of my job... I feel like sense of uncomfortableness in somebody I’m making a difference, that has to be and they pass it on by donating or giving probably the biggest thing. I mean every- their time or helping somebody. thing about my job is great and everything AD: The rotary you talked about, is that a involved in it, so there’s not just one specif- non-profit? ic thing I do. MO: Yeah, we are a community service BA: Yeah. I’m sure just like any job, there group. We meet every Thursday and we do are some challenges. What are some of the a whole variety of service projects through challenges you face in working with home- the community. I was just rotary president less people? so every one of my projects was home- Eric Lovett: A Listening Ear for EL: Oh absolutely, there are a lot of peo- less projects. We did Dreams for Change, Young Street Angels ple who don’t want to be helped and until which was a homeless parking lot. We somebody’s ready to be helped, you really went and did food and gift bags for fami- By: Brittney Aceron can’t help them. We measure our success lies who lived in their vehicles. We’ve done not on our failures, not on the ones we I was fortunate enough to sched- a whole variety of projects like that. ule a phone interview with Eric Lovett, a can’t help but on the ones we do. AD: That must have been where you felt member of a local homeless organization BA: What are one of your most memora- the more direct relation with them then. called Urban Street Angels. We started our ble moments working with Urban Street MO: Yes, for sure. interview with warm salutations. The tone Angels? AD: So to close this out, what suggestions of his voice gave me the sense that he was EL: It has to be one of my most recent do you have for us as a class? What direc- definitely enthused about discussing the memories because, when we see someone tion should we be going in? issue of homelessness in America and how who’s gone all the way through the pro- MO: That’s a good question. Well what I to end it, which made me even more eager gram, so we’ve actually found them on the remember from last year, which I was re- to begin the interview. street, we actually helped them get clothes, ally impressed by and I learned a lot from Although I didn’t have the oppor- food, we actually got them a place to live, the discussion being had at the reception. I tunity to interview Mr. Lovett in person, and we got them a job, and then they thought it was great that you started from my advisory recently joined their organi- got their own place to live. Just this past the general history to one on one-service zations in feeding the homeless in OB for month we completed helping a young lady providers and working directly with them Community Service Day. There, we were who is 22 years old. So whenever that hap- and understanding the issue. I think that’s introduced to Mr. Lovett. He is the Exec- pens and you can see what you’re doing key. And then having reflection on expe- utive Director of Urban Street Angels, a is really making a difference that’s when I riences and talking about them as well. nonprofit that works with homeless young most proud. Thinking about how this impacts you and people. His passion for helping and selfless BA: You said you help them get jobs, what how it feels. I think that’s important too. attitude is what influenced him to work are the types of jobs you help them find? All of these issues impact you one way with homeless people. EL: We have certain organizations that are or another. Even if you’re not homeless, willing to help us take on individuals and it pulls on your tax dollars, it takes away BA: So I recently came with your orga- bring them up through our organization from your quality of life, there are a whole nization to help feed the homeless in OB and give them a chance. So this one girls variety of reasons this issue impacts you. I and we briefly talked about what you do, job was like a bar or restaurant so she’s a think that’s a way for any issue to resonate. can you recap and tell me a little bit more server. It’s really all what they want. We AD: So you’re saying that learning about about what your organization does and help people get into construction and the history and using that to lead us in the what you do specifically? things like that or internships. It really right direction is the key? EL: Well, our demographic organization just depends on the person and what their MO: Yeah for sure. reaches out to homeless people, 18-29 passions are. We don’t just get somebody a AD: Absolutely, well thank you for your years old and we basically provide help job to get them a job. We try to put them time. I appreciate you taking the time out with no strings attach. We provide food with their passion so they will be able to of your day to come down and speak to and certain items of clothing. We are a succeed in it, you know? our class. volunteer based outreach and we hit the BA: Yeah definitely. So it seems like you’ve MO: Thank you, it was great. streets 4-6 times a month. There are an had a lot of experience with many different estimated of 6,000 homeless young people young homeless people, how long has your on the streets here in San Diego and in organization been running and do you addition to meals and clothes, we provide think it’s possible to end homelessness? resources on shelter, services, medical care, and job opportunities. EL: 6 years and I don’t- I think- I mean, to people like Chance, it’s happening to a my first reaction is yes. Homelessness lot more people and I don’t want this to for some people is a choice, it’s some- happen so that’s kinda what started it all. thing they don’t have to be but it is an BA: Oh wow, so from meeting so many element of our society. If we would stop young people and focusing on getting thinking about ourselves and more about them back on their feet, do you feel like others around us, I think our mentality you build a relationship with them? will change, all of us. I think you will see EL: Absolutely. You have to. Especially people in need. I think that mentality you young people, they don’t trust a lot of peo- create an environment that’s not selfish ple so you have to build that relationship, but selfless. Therefore people don’t run- it makes a big difference. away. When you’re selfless you don’t abuse BA: So this will be my last question. people, you don’t try to take advantage of EL: Oh good that wasn’t that bad haha. them and I think we see a lot of people on BA: Haha, yes you’ve helped me a lot so the streets who are running away from a thank you! Okay, so I know you’ve gained situation where they were abused because a lot of knowledge by now about home- April Balge: Striving For A Better they have been taken advantage of. They lessness, I was wondering if you had any fi- Tomorrow have become a victim of drugs or alcohol. nals things you’d like people to know about By: Mikko Osorio Therefore they’ve gotten to that place. I either your organization or homelessness do think that it can be cured, I really do. in general. On November 13, 2013 after a I think homelessness itself can’t be cured EL: I think we’ve covered most of it. But presentation with Megan O’Dowd, I got without our selfishness being cured first. you know, I think it’s important to know the pleasure of interviewing April Balge. BA: Mhm, I agree with that. How can peo- that 70 percent of American’s are three April works with Megan to help research ple like myself help end homelessness? paychecks away from being homeless. I and discuss solutions to homelessness, EL: I think the first way is to be aware of think that is something people should speaking with managers of different shel- what’s happening. You know, be aware of know because once people bring it down ters, and working on the overall picture what’s out there. Secondly, to do your part. to where they are as a person you know, of homelessness in our community. We Do your part in making a difference and they will realize that, “Hey that could be walked into a teacher’s office and I tried that is like what you did, going out and me.” So I think that that’s a good thing to to act naturally, though I was nervous and giving a meal or a sandwich to somebody put out there. unsure of myself. Ms. Balge put me at ease else and thinking about what it did to you. BA: Wow that’s is a big percentage of our with her warm smile. If we all start getting that mentality of country, what do you think is the main As a fellow with the county of San Diego, helping those who need help, I think it will cause of people becoming homeless? Ms. Balge is fulfilling her life-long dream help us all. Actually, I think that brings up EL: The number one contributor to home- and commitment to helping others. what I said in your last question, it’ll help lessness in our demographic is abuse. get people off the streets. They’ve been abused by somebody and BA: Yeah. So what inspired you to be apart they’re running from them. And some- of this movement in helping people get off times you find them going back because I asked April about what she did to get the streets? they get into place where they can’t and a where she is today. She told me about how EL: Probably, just being tired of just fo- lot of them are being abused by the foster she has a bachelors degree in psychology cusing on myself. I wanted to do some- care so they end up going back. The good and a masters in Public Administration thing that focused on other people and thing about what has just happened in this from San Diego State University. April that’s what got me into what I was doing state is about four weeks ago they passed has also worked as a public administrator, and also seeing the needs of young people that if you are under 18 and you’re home- detox counselor, social services, mental out there that needed hope. You know, less or you’re running and you go to a health, addiction recovery, community so many young people out there on the shelter they don’t have to report you be- outreach, and much more. Now she is streets, they don’t have hope and I think cause usually they get reported to the state working with Ms. O’Dowd in the County someone loving them right where they are and they will return you to your situation. of San Diego to work with different parts with no strings attached and not wanting So that could be foster care or something of the government and organizations with anything in return with the hope that they that was very unhealthy for them. Now we the Homeless Initiatives Support project. needed and the trust that they needed, that don’t have to report them or return them April always had a calling to do among anything basically the story goes, and its been a huge, huge difference be- something for the community. “I always there was this man named Chance who cause they would get returned to the place try to strive to do more and greater things, was actually murdered in the back seat of they were abused at because they were I followed my gut and I am now here.” a car in Portland, Oregon. . He didn’t have reported. So now people have a chance to Some of the many organizations that April the money to make it. The guy that picked actually come to us and get the help they works on a daily bases are Veterans Vil- him up actually killed him and the guy need without getting returned or having lage, San Diego Rescue Mission, Section 8, who was the initial start of this organiza- that fear of being returned, you know? St. Vincent De Paul and many more. “We tion knew chance and was his friend and work with many different people to help he said if this is happening with the overall picture.” With all these organizations I asked about how one could help be a part in helping the homeless population. She replied saying, heart for the homeless people, but didn’t “There are many opportunities to help the really know that that was what I wanted to homeless in San Diego. Many non-profits do until she offered me an internship. So in the area are always looking for volun- yes, and no. teers. My best recommendation would be RK: Who inspired you to work at the Nue- to research an organization you feel com- va Vida Haven? passionate about and explore their website MD: My boss. Her name is Sherry. She for volunteer contact information.” is the Vice President here, and she looks Some of the different things April over all of our programs here. So, we have works with daily are attending meetings, a men’s center, women’s center, children’s housing supporting care and help commu- center, the Nueva Vida Haven, which is nity members brainstorm ideas for pos- our overnight shelter. She’s the one that sible solutions. “It’s a 8 to 5 job with a lot brought me in and taught me everything, of research, meetings, and speaking with so she would definitely be that person. managers.” I asked her about some things RK: We [the team at High Tech High] that she’s learned about homelessness Molly Downs: Making the actually visited the Nueva Vida Haven a while on the job. “The biggest lesson I have few days ago, and it was really interesting learned is seeing that there is no ‘one’ sim- Difference to see some of the people, and meet the ple solution for ending homelessness. In By: Remi Kim person who gave us a tour of the place. light of the diverse needs of the homeless MD: Oh good, that’s great. Cool! I had the opportunity to speak to community, there are many hardworking, RK: So Juliette [the tour guide] was telling Molly Downs, who is the director of the dedicated people spending countless hours us some stories about people who lived Nueva Vida Haven Emergency Center brainstorming ways to effectively serve there. Is there a specific person that you in San Diego. Due to her busy working and outreach to the homeless.” remember? schedule, the interview was conducted A question thats hard to answer MD: Gosh, there’s been a lot of them. I over the phone. As I sat in an empty of- about homelessness is “How do we end know that there’s a family that came in. fice waiting for Ms. Downs to pick up the it?” “What could we do to help?” April has I think there were two kids, and they’ve phone, I was nervous. But as soon as we many ideas that contribute to this question been sleeping in their car. When they began to speak to each other, I instantly and is very inspirational to hear. “Ulti- walked in, the kids had slept in their car loosened up. Her voice was very warm and mately I would like to believe if everyone for so long that they just could not be- inviting, and I felt completely comfortable did one thing to support a homeless per- lieve that they had a mattress that they with speaking to her. son, together the community could solve could sleep on, and actually spread out, Molly Downs has been working homelessness. Ending homelessness is a lay down, and go to sleep. So it’s neat that with the homeless population for 13 years, community wide collaborative effort and we are able to provide something like that and plans on continuing her work with the the more people who understand what especially if they’ve been sleeping in their Nueva Vida Haven in the future. She is an causes homelessness and where resources car, and don’t have a bed, or a shower. Also extremely inspirational woman who has can be found, the more people available my staff that works here right now. She ac- helped countless families by organizing a to assist the homeless population. There tually came through the Nueva Vida, and place for them to stay. Toward the end of are so many caring and dedicated people that’s how I met her. Her and her son were the interview, I knew what her perspective working towards this common goal for it staying at the Nueva Vida Haven and they on homelessness in San Diego is, and felt not to be successful. One thing to remem- went into the long term program and she inspired to make a change. ber is that with any large change, progress came back and now she works for me. So I is slow and always evolving. It takes time have two staff that used to be in the Nueva to see how the building blocks of today RK: What college did you go to, and what Vida, and they got through the program will come together in the future.” did you major in to get started into the and now they work here. They help the homeless scene? ladies a lot more because they have been MD: I went to Point Loma Nazarene, and I in their shoes. It’s helpful for me because majored in social work because they have there’s proof that this program does work, a social work program. Part of this is that there is hope. Sometimes you see a lot of you have to have an internship, and so I the same people that aren’t able to get out did my internship with the Rescue Mis- of homelessness, but it’s helpful to remem- sion. That’s how I kind of got started to ber them [former members of the Nueva working with them. Vida] and know they did it. RK: And did you know that you wanted RK: I know that you’re really busy working to go into helping the homeless when you at the Nueva Vida, so what does an average were in college? day look like for you? MD: Not really. I knew I wanted to do some kind of social work. I actually met my boss somewhere not work related, and she said she needed an intern. I’ve always been interested in, should I say had a MD: For me, I don’t have a lot of contact MD: I think it’s the kids, and watching the stuff that our clients need while they’re with the clients right now. I do a lot of ad- kids have to live in a shelter. You know, live here. ministrative stuff. For example, I do statis- on the streets. They are from good moms, RK: And, do you think it’s possible to end tics, and I work off of a lot of other agen- sometimes they will make it work. But, it’s homelessness? cies to try to get our clients somewhere just sad to see kids in that situation. MD: I don’t know, I would hope so. I think more permanent to stay. Also, agencies RK: Yes, I completely agree. I don’t know that some people choose to stay on the who have people that need to come into what I would do if I saw so many people streets, and like it there. They don’t nec- our program, or need shelter. So, I see if on the streets like that. essarily want to get off the streets. So, in we can get people into the Nueva Vida MD: Yeah, you know, we are doing what that case, I don’t know if we could because shelter. If someone comes in and is in we can, but it’s hard to send them out at there are some people who want to be need of emergency help, I go and help the end of the day. homeless and that’s a problem. But, I do them, but that doesn’t happen everyday. RK: I know for the overnight stay, they’re think we need a lot more shelter in order I don’t do a ton that’s really exciting. It’s supposed to leave at a certain time, so do to make that happen. I think we need more more my night staff that does dinner, you know what they do during the time long term housing. I would hope so, but breakfast, showers, put the rooms in place, before they are allowed back in? there seems to be a lot [of obstacles]. and that’s a little more exciting. I do a lot MD: Well for single women, people who of the administrative work. don’t have kids, there is a day center called RK: I was interested in how clients go Rachel’s. And they can go to Rachel’s all from the overnight stay to the year long day and stay there to get lunch. If any of program. How do you choose the families, the kids are school aged, all of those kids or the people who get into the year long if they’re in kindergarten or if they can program? get into preschool, have to be in school. MD: They have to submit an application, The hard part are moms who have babies and then they are put on a waiting list. So, and toddlers aged four and under because it’s only if they’re interested in going into there’s no place really for them to go. So, the program. Then, they’ll wait and stay a lot of times they just end up walking at the Nueva Haven, we call it NVH, until around or going to Balboa Park. We’re there is a bed open for them upstairs. But, trying to actually start a preschool here so one thing is that the year long program those kids can stay here during the day and only takes children up to age 12, and some we’re working on that right now. But, un- of our overnight shelter family members fortunately if they have babies or toddlers, have children up to 16, and so some of there’s no where for them to go. Mikko Osorio: The Virtue of our families don’t qualify for the upstairs RK: Yeah, Juliette was telling us how you Volunteering program. Then, we have to send them to guys are trying to get a school started for other shelters for permanent housing. kids under four. By: Luis Cacho RK: And do you know how many people, MD: Yeah, we’re hoping this will be open approximately, that you have to turn away by March, if everything goes right. So I I remember interviewing Mikko each night? think that will be huge. The moms can also Osorio as if it were yesterday. The inter- MD: For the most part, we don’t have to go to school and get a job and not have to view took place on November 19th, 2013 at turn people away. Recently, we’ve had so worry about their kids that they have to High Tech High Chula Vista. I asked Mik- many families, I’ve never seen this many take everywhere around with them, so they ko Osorio, a junior at High Tech High, if I kids and families needing overnight shel- can be more successful. could interview him that day, and without ter, that last week we had to turn away RK: Our project goal is to continually ask a doubt, he said yes. I was really fortunate 3 people. But, for the most part, we get ourselves if we think it’s possible to end to have someone say yes so quickly and I everyone in. homelessness and what we can do. Do you told him to please wait in the classroom so RK: And also, going back to your field, have any suggestions on what we, as high that I could find a place to conduct the in- how many years have you worked at the schoolers, can do to end homelessness? terview. I was desperate to find a room that Nueva Vida Haven? MD: I think you have to be 16 to volunteer would fit the accommodations of profes- MD: I’ve been there for 10 years. I’ve been here. So, I think volunteering is always sional interview. I realized that the class- working with homeless families since a good idea. But, if you can’t volunteer, room across the hall from my English class 2000, so 13 years. I worked at the Rescue there’s some things we always need like would be the perfect place to have an inter- Mission, and then I went to another shel- hygiene products: shampoo, conditioner. view because the room was empty. Luckily, ter, and then I came back to the Rescue We always need socks, underwear, and there was already a table and two chairs set Mission. But, it’s always been with home- blankets. Sometimes we have people do up right in the middle of the classroom. At less families. drives, and ask people to do a drive and see first, it was a bit strange to see an empty RK: What is the most challenging thing to if people will donate that kind of stuff. It classroom -- a classroom that would usual- you as a person who is trying to combat helps provide the ly be filled with life and energetic students. homelessness? The room was engulfed by silence as we MO: I plan on volunteering in the future LC: I totally agree with you. I think more found our ways to our seats. I noticed that whether it would be with St. Vincent De schools should emphasize the importance Mikko was a little uneasy. However, once Paul or the San Diego Rescue Mission, of volunteering and provide opportunities I explained the purpose of the interview whatever it may be. I feel like volunteer- for students to volunteer so they can get -- hearing his opinion of volunteering and ing is a great way to help others and in a inspired and hopefully, that experience homelessness in America -- he began to non-selfish way, it helps you think about would lead them to volunteer more often. relax and the interview went just as swiftly all the things that you can be grateful for. as I had anticipated. Mikko Osorio gave me And you can make a difference in people’s very detailed answers of his experience at lives. Saint Vincent de Paul with his High Tech LC: Mikko, you mentioned earlier that un- High class and other volunteering events fortunately, you weren’t able to work with he had participated in. the homeless or interact with the homeless people at the shelter. Is there any specific LC: So Mikko, what was your first impres- volunteering event that you’re interested in sion of the St. Vincent de Paul shelter? and if so why? MO: It’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen in MO: Around the holiday seasons, I usually the past while volunteering. I hadn’t really like to volunteer at different organizations volunteered in shelters that often, so going to give meals to people. There’s some that to St. Vincent De Paul was kind of a new I’ve done in the past; it’s like a toy drive experience and it kind of broke my ex- for Christmas and those aren’t necessarily pectation of homelessness. The stereotype working with people for the toy drive or of seeing homeless people on the streets getting to see the people who are involved everyday isn’t really what it’s like at St. with the toy drive, but it’s still making a Vincent De Paul. One of the rooms that we big difference and usually it’s around the walked through was the family room and holiday season where a lot of volunteering Phil Landis: Rescuing Heroes it’s really eye-opening to see the people or is needed. By: Jack Hawley families that have to be resilient in these LC: I know this is kind of off topic of times and have to battle through home- volunteering, but what do you think is the The San Diego Veteran Village is lessness. It makes a difference on the lives main cause for homelessness in America? a non-profit dedicated to helping veter- of them and their kids and it’s something MO: I think right now it could be the ans receive services upon return to civil- that they have to grow up with. economy; there aren’t many jobs for every- ian life. I reached out to Mr. Phil Landis LC: What exactly did you do at this volun- one and you know, with less jobs it means and learned a lot about what an amazing teering event? that people get laid off and being laid off person he is and the amazing programs MO: At St. Vincent De Paul, we were split means that they don’t have money to tend offered at the Veteran’s Village. He was up into two different groups and from to their families or tend to a house and enlisted in the United States Army in 1965. there it was decided. I mean, they told us food. So it’s just a struggle right now be- After attending various military schools, where we would go and what we’re going cause of the economy. he served in Vietnam from 1967 - 1968 as to do that day. So I was working in the LC: You mentioned preparing meals for a Platoon Leader and Headquarters Com- back and we didn’t really get to interact homeless people at the St. Vincent De pany Commander with the First Battalion with the people that were at the shelters. Paul, how did that make you feel? Thirty-Fifth Infantry. He was honorably We were just there to prepare food. It kind MO: While volunteering, I usually get discharged from active duty in 1969 with of sucked that we didn’t get to interact a nice, warm feeling inside and it really the rank of Captain. He is a native Cal- with people and hear about the different makes me happy. That morning, I knew ifornian and was formerly employed as stories they have gone through, but at that I was going to be making a difference a real estate agent. Mr. Landis became a the same time I knew that we were also in peoples’ lives. I may or may not know Board member of Veterans Village of San making a difference; maybe not in this them, but it’s still a great feeling, and it’s Diego in 1996, a Vice-Chairman in 1997, immediate time, but in the future we have just another reason to wake up in the a Chairman in 2001 and the Chief Exec- helped prepare meal. morning. utive Officer in 2007. He currently serves LC: Inspiring. How did the employees at LC: Do you think that more schools on the national 12-member Department of the St. Vincent De Paul treat you? should take days off like this and go volun- Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee on MO: They were kind of in a rush mood, teer? Homeless Veterans. they really wanted to get the food prepared MO: I definitely think that more schools Despite the impressive background, so everyone would have a meal. I realize should have volunteer days. I’m really glad Mr Landis is a very down to earth man. that it’s a demanding job and it takes a lot that we have our yearly volunteer day but When I was buzzed into his office, I must of like patience and finesse. It’s crazy. I feel like it’s not enough. We can always admit that I was a little nervous. After all, LC: Do you plan on volunteering in the push to make more of a difference in our I was going to meet the CEO of the Vet- future? community. erans Village and his biography was quite impressive. After meeting the humble Phil Landis, I was put at ease. He was very easy going person, and did everything he could to make me feel comfortable. Then, he taught me important life lessons in just the 45 minutes I had to J.H. What is your greatest moment while J.H. Can you give me a quick history of interview him. I think we should all be a serving? how Veterans Village got started? bit more like Mr. Landis -- he is a great P.L. I think my greatest moment was when P.H. I’ll take you back to 1981. There example of selflessness and kindness. I graduated officer candidate school. That was a small group of my generation of was very a meaningful event that reshaped warriors who were struggling with their the rest of my life. It was a very exciting own trauma and drug addiction issues. I and meaningful event. believe there were five, and they were in J.H. What got you interested in helping J.H. Did attending military schools prepare a counseling session called a rapp group, the homeless? you for tasks you do now? and this group was facilitated by this chap- P.L. First off, I am a military veteran my- P.L. I think they help you with anything lain, by the name of Bill Muheaty, and my self. I served in combat during the Viet- you do beyond that. One beautiful thing generation was not well received... they nam War, which was long before you were about the military that is lost by 99.6% were ostracized. A friend of mine said that born. I was a platoon leader of an infantry of the population is that serving in the he didn’t realize that the enemy was here platoon and later, company commander of military does more than build character. and not in Vietnam... and there is truth the head quarters. Think of it as the admin Serving in the military can provide enor- in that. So these five men wanted to do unit for the same platoon I was associat- mous skills, in which many are translatable. something publicly to demonstrate the ed with; that’s really the foundation of it. Take the word ‘leader’ and Claudia is an lack of concern and lack of medical care I got involved with this organization at example of a leader. Claudia is a leader of that they were receiving. Nobody wanted one of our annual events, which is called people and her experience has enabled her to deal with them, and they wanted to do a Stand Down, and this was in July of 1996. to learn those skills, because there are very combat assault, So Bill said, “Take all this This was 17 years ago. I volunteered at a few leaders born with that skill. Like skate- negative energy and do something posi- clothing tent which was one of the services boarding -- no one is really born knowing tive. Why don’t you go out to the bridges we provided at Stand Down. It was on a how to be a great skateboarder. It is learned and parks and find your brothers who Friday and it was initially four hours, and in the school that you go to, like I said I served with you? Do something to help I like to think that I never left. This gives went to candidate officers school, and went them.” That was the original mission and me an opportunity to work with Veterans to school in Monterey and learned a lan- that hasn’t changed; we just expanded our and give back. In 2007, I was faced with an guage, which I still don’t remember, but the service. opportunity to be CEO and lept into this military has a remarkable way of allowing J.H. Do you associate with other veteran position. people to be the very best they can be. You villages throughout the country? J.H. Did something happen while you were heard slogans like that, it’s really true. So P.L. We are not too involved with national serving that made you want to go into this the education I had helped. Also the on the organizations. We are on a couple of na- field? job training helped, just being in leadership tional communities, so we get a national P.L. Not while I was in service. Tt didn’t position, I enlisted in time with the mili- influence that way. We get to do some trav- really dawn on me too much until I started tary and I will always be an enlisted soldier, eling. I am going to Chicago tomorrow. to volunteer here. There was something and then I went to officer school. So I know Would you want to go instead of me? But in me that was searching for this outlet a little of the enlisted side and most of my we have an opportunity for a lot of travel- in a way to heal myself and others and so time was spent being an officer. But the im- ing on a national basis. I believe we have a there is a grava toss that takes place and portant part is that you are working togeth- lot of friends in the community along with when you are confronted with it, some- er with others to achieve a common goal. politicians. times you can be self aware enough to say, J.H. Do you feel being a Veteran makes you J.H. Would you say that you get a lot more “Oh my gosh, I need more of this.” I think connected to other veterans you help? support now than back then? this lady here also agrees. She is a retired P.L. I think there are some truths to that. P.L. We get an enormous amount of sup- 1st Sergeant, and served a tour of combat We make a conscience effort to find people port. I truly believe that the historians are in Iraq, and there are many others among to fill our positions, and in the last four writing about the Vietnam generation, us, fewer of my generation because we are years we have made a huge effort to reach and they are determining that our lasting older. However there are more and more out into the community and find veter- legacy was moving forward the resources of Claudia’s generation. We are currently ans with the potential to fill our open staff for this generation for the men and wom- preparing Claudia’s generation to be the position. There is something in it. That it is en who fought in the Middle East because leaders of this organization in the next a common experience. You are with men we truly forced the nation to pay attention ten or fifteen years. What drove me to and women going through the same expe- and force them to provide health care and do this comes from personal experience, rience as veterans. It doesn’t have to be the counseling. Before that, there wasn’t much and the kind of experience I am referring same timeline, but our experiences are very out there. So this generation benefits with to is traumatic experience, which comes similar. You know in a greater context. The it. from warfare itself in which the face of it is day Claudia and I met, there was a connec- J.H. How does Veterans Village help veter- obscene. We are fortunate; there are few of tivity. You do not have to create or reach to ans? us that have an opportunity to spend half find, just because we have the same experi- P.L. We house 500 veterans every night. of our lives at Veterans Village. It’s a way to ence in being in the military. On the west side is a long term residen- give back and give meaning and purpose tial program dealing with drug addiction, and to give balance to our lives, and this alcoholism, and trauma. These folks are all gives us an opportunity to do that. homeless. Eighty percent of this population are felons. Two-thirds have a S.F: Where did you go to volunteer? S.F: How often do you volunteer? mental illness. If you are female, one hun- G.F: I went to St. Vincent De Paul’s. G.F: Not that much really. I used to volun- dred percent have sexual trauma issues. S.F: Did you go with an organization or by teer at church with the kids. I volunteered A lot of people still have embers and we yourself? sometimes at my mom’s work when they like to blow on the embers and try to start G.F: I went with my school. We went to St. go on outings. My mom works with people a fire. Now on the east side, we have 140 Vincent de Paul and Rescue Mission. with cerebral palsy. transitional beds that is a structured envi- S.F: Why did you volunteer? S.F: Will you continue to volunteer? ronment but not a treatment facility. G.F: I volunteered because I thought it G.F: Probably. I’m trying to see if I can vol- would be a good experience and I really unteer more at my mom’s work for volun- wanted to contribute something to some- teer hours and working experience. one else, because people are always help- S.F: Do you believe helping homeless peo- ing me out and I wanted to do the same. I ple is a good thing? Why? wanted to give back to others and just help G.F: Yes, I think helping homeless people out. It makes me feel so much better when is a good thing because they don’t have I am done volunteering. everything we have and we need to make S.F: Would you go back? sure they have everything they need so G.F: I think I would rather make care they won’t get sick or die. packages and give them out myself to S.F: Would you raise awareness of home- homeless people I see just because I would lessness? feel like I’m taking more of my time to do G.F: Yes, I would. something to help, and I wouldn’t feel like S.F: How would you raise awareness? I’m getting in the way. G.F: I would tell my friends and family S.F: Did you like volunteering there? about the events I’m doing so that they can G.F: I liked it. I thought it was very fun come and help. and interesting to see all the people look S.F: If you could do anything to change happy and grateful for us being there to homelessness today, what would you do? help. I liked being useful to other people G.F: I don’t know, I just know that I would Searching for a Change: Grace and not just wasting my time at home donate more and help out at facilities Fregoso watching tv all the time. more. Try to be there more for homeless By: Seara Fernandez S.F: How did you contribute to volunteer- people and consider them as people unlike ing at St. Vincent De Paul’s? what other people think of them. G.F: I picked up people’s empty plates and It was a sunny autumn day at High trash. I walked around and asked anyone Tech High Chula Vista. There was a cool if they needed anything. I picked up any breeze and I sat down with Grace Fregoso trash they handed to me so I can throw at the lunch tables. High Tech High Chu- them away for them so they won’t have la Vista is a project based school and the to get up. I also took all the empty plates school is full of projects that the students to the washroom. At the end I helped get have done. This project is about investigat- lunch ready by boxing bags of buns and ing homelessness and trying to see if there loading soda. is a way to help end it. We as a class went S.F: Was there a moment that struck you? to serve breakfast at Father Joe’s, went on What was it? tours of The San Diego Rescue Mission, G.F: A moment that struck me is when I and have had many guest speakers to help went to help this elderly lady by getting us better understand homelessness in our her plates and she said “thank you, sweet- community. Since Grace and I both volun- heart”. That stood out to me because she teered at a homeless shelter as part of the acted like a grandma and was so kind and project, we realized that we were also part nice to me. of the solution in ending homelessness. It S.F: Have you volunteered anywhere else? Imelda McClendon: Not Just was for this reason that I decided to inter- Where else have you volunteered? view Grace. Behind a Desk G.F: No I have not, yet. I plan on volun- There was no one around at the Interview By: Jessica Castro teering during Christmas break with my lunch tables; it was just Grace and I sit- church or family. Painting by: Paola Guerrero ting and it was a really good time for an S.F: Do you like to volunteer? interview. She is a petite girl with average I rushed over to the front office on G.F: Yes, especially when it’s with people. length brown hair, she has braces and is November 22, 2013. My interviewee was I like to be able to talk to people and find very sweet. She has nine siblings and was here at my school, High Tech High Chula out their backstory or just talking to them homeschooled before coming to High Vista, waiting for me. Ms. Michelle pointed to make them feel better. Tech High Chula Vista. Grace came to our and told me she was right over there. school because she wanted to try a new learning experience. She wanted to be able to learn not only academics but also knowledge she will need in the real world, and that is exactly what High Tech High is about. Around the corner was Ms. Imelda Mc- HMIS. It’s just a particular software we Things that they can report on that’s going Clendon, the HMIS (Homeless Manage- use, and since we manage that, we want to to go and help them get more funding, ment Information System) Project Ana- make sure our customers, or the homeless because as non-profits, they need to be lyst / Agency Liaison from the Regional service providers, how they are reacting, able to prove their outcomes and the good Task Force on the Homeless of San Diego. basically doing site visits. So I started with work that they’re doing. This day and age, I shook her hand, then took her on a that and then I kind of came up with rec- it’s no longer word of mouth, it’s no longer short campus tour. She had short, red- ommendations of what needed to happen, a beautifully written essay; they want sta- dish-blonde hair; her white shirt made her of how to deal with technical systems, tistics and they want to see outcomes. So pink blazer pop, and her simple necklace whether it was very simple to very com- by tracking that information in the system, brought it all together. I brought her into plex technical systems, and so I basically they can prove the work that they’re doing. the junior wing, leading her to Ms. Ang- created my own position and luckily they So those are two things, and then I work a ie’s glass office. We both entered the wide hired me and I am working there now. lot in the community, getting to know the room, picked what black, intricate chairs JC: So what does your everyday look like? line staff, getting to know a lot of the other we wanted to sit on, I placed my phone IM: It is very interesting everyday. Like organizational staff, working in the com- on wood table attached to the wall, and I I said, I basically saw what was not hap- munity. So we have what’s called a continu- began our interview. I wanted to interview pening at my organization and created um of care, or a COC, and that term comes Ms. Imelda McClendon because I knew my own job description and anytime from HUD (or the US Department of that a lot of people were going to interview anything wasn’t getting done, I’d say put Housing and Urban Development) which a lot of people who worked at homeless it on my plate, so I actually juggle many is where the main funding comes for shelters or directly with the homeless. Of plates. If you look at a week I could do, homelessness, there are many other fund- course I’m not saying that those people I do service point trainings, so again ing streams, but they’ve named this term were not a good interviewee because they basically system trainings for new users to basically, how you categorize, it’s a geo- definitely are. But I wanted to interview coming on, teaching them how to use the logical area. And so the San Diego County someone who had more of an influence software; so they would track their clients is the COC, city and the county. It’s basi- in the data part of homelessness; I feel in the systems, whether it’s a very simple cally the geographical area, and how you like people don’t really look into that part workflow, doing what’s called an entry become a member of the COC is through because they don’t believe that their stories and an exit of just what are their demo- your interests in homelessness. You attend are very meaningful. But I wanted to prove graphics when they enter a program, what the meetings and you contribute to the them wrong and show them that data anal- happens during their program, and basi- cause of ending it, and collaborate and all ysis have just as meaningful experiences as cally what’s the status of them when they that. So what I do is I sit on several differ- people in constant direct contact with the leave. That’s one part, the other parts are ent committees. One would be, the rating homeless population. new programs that come on. I basically and review: it’s a committee that comes up I started the interview off with some basic analyze what programs do and how, what with the process of how do we score differ- questions to break the ice. I learned she has the easiest, most efficient way for case ent projects, and rank them in order to re- been working at the Regional Task Force workers is… I track that information on ceive this federal funding. There are many for almost 2 years now. She graduated from the system because line staff, they’re there funding streams to recieve funding for the University of San Diego with a Bache- to help the client. That’s their number one homelessness, but the main one that the lor’s in Business Administration (BBA) & goal, and they don’t really go to school to COC comes together for and basically col- Sociology. There was apparently no traffic learn about systems. I didn’t either, but for laborate, comes together as a collaboration on the way over here, which she men- them having to use a computer to track together to apply is called COC Funding, tioned was pretty far out here. Trust me, things with their clients is either not first which is pretty easy. So there is about fifty Ms. McClendon: all High Tech students nature or just something they don’t really to sixty projects a year, that come together realize that our school is in the middle of want to think about. that create this application together to send nowhere. Then I started asking the real I try to make it the easiest process for to HUD and compete with, I want to say questions that would give the Homeless- them so they can go on and quickly put in we have 600 something other COC’s across ness project a real body. the information that they need. Some ser- the nation, and we are competing nation- vice providers will use the system for very wide to basically bring in this money. And basic stuff… just tracking, like I said. Ba- to just give you an estimate of the amount IM: I started right out of college. I actual- sically snapshots of their clients, of their we are talking about, it is about $15 million ly started at the [Regional Task Force] as entry and their exit to get basic outcomes. that comes into the region. So I sit on this a temporary doing a research project -- Others will do more intense case notes, go committee to come up with the most sub- they wanted someone to come on to basi- by case plans and work with many other junctive, basically scoring tool for what are cally interview the different agencies and modules that you can use. It’s just trying know as renewal projects so projects that kind of understand more of their work to find what’s the easiest for them, what have been continually getting money, so flow, how they deal with clients, under- their end goal is, what they need to report like how do we continue to rank them or stand more of their programs like what to their funders, what they need to know score them, and then we also come up with their programs do, as well as get feedback for their internal reports to their organi- what’s called a new scoring, new project from them on how they use service point, zational board. scoring tools so you are either a and service point is our brand new organization, or you are part organization. And they are mainly about Otherwise you can try and implement a of an organization, and you are coming up addiction recovery, kind of detox beds, policy or anything and if you aren’t pleas- with a new program and you’re like hey and there are homeless individuals that go ing the business, who could potentially I want to play in this pool, I want to play there from time to time, but that bed is not help fund it, then they’re not going to buy in this sandbox, how can I come in and necessarily dedicated for a homeless per- in, they’re never going to fund you, they’re get funding and you have to go through son so I don’t get to include them on our going to be your worst enemy, they’re are the scoring tool. Then I’m also on anoth- count. And then I do the sheltered point always going to be at your meetings and er committee called Plan and Planning, and time count. So the same night that we causing havoc. As well, you have to think and currently what we are doing, one of do the point and time count, I work with about the person, every human face, the the new regulations that have come down the agencies to say how many people were dignity of the human needing clothing, from the Hearth Act, which basically re- sleeping in your shelter that night, and shelter and food, so the sociology side and placed the Mckinney Vento Act, says every then getting all those demographics, and basically coming up with that. So whenev- COC needs to come up with a coordinated making sure all the data quality is clean. er I was graduating, this job opportunity assessment intake process. So meaning, Those are the main projects that I do, and came up as basically doing a research proj- if any homeless person would basically then I’m the main contact for all of them ect, and I was like alright I’m going to stay receive a standardized assessment of ques- to come into the RTFH, The Regional Task in San Diego, work with the contacts that tions and would be referred to the best Force, of getting any information, if any I have here and see what happens, other- project type and it’s all coordinated, and new regulations come down or anything wise I was going to go back, I was from it can be done several ways like, if you’re comes out, I kind of spread that to the Texas originally, otherwise I was going a city we would say, we are going to do agencies. So yeah. to go back, volunteer and join the peace centralized so everybody has to, if you’re JC: So when you went into college, did you core. And then eventually go back to grad homeless you know you have to go to this know you wanted to work with the home- school, but I ended up staying here and one place to basically do this intake and less? kind of slowly, I’ve taken on more respon- you’re going to be referred to a project. IM: I ended up going to school and I did sibility from RTFH and how I am dealing Other things, you know do a call, sorry, a double major; I was a business adminis- with the different agencies and things like other COC’s do a call in. Other COC’s do tration major and sociology, and I knew I that, so yeah. what are called multi cites, depending on wanted to do something where I felt like I JC: You were talking about the seminar, is what region you are in you do different was making a difference, but I wanted to the the specific moment where you decid- sites. Some do a collaboration, a combi- do that but make sure it was something I ed you wanted to go into Regional Task nation of the three. So that’s what we are am interested in. When I went into college, Force? looking into because San Diego is so large. my senior year, well my sophomore year, IM: No, so one of my, I had two advisor So that’s the other thing. I also work on I had a class called contemporary social when I was in college. I took his class, policies and procedures for our HMIS, issues and I was like, alright I want to be because he was the professor who also did as well as for the COC, basically policies an urban planner but dealing with pub- my contemporary social issues class, and on how data will continue to be private, lic policies. Like I want to be the one that I just loved him; he was amazing, And I secure, shared, [and] how agencies have helps change zoning and that helps bring took this homeless seminar class with him to keep up with data quality. Coming up in policies that says you know a building because it was like an invite class, he was with those procedures, and then I will, in needs to be build this way, like affordable like, I really think you should take it, so I the next couple months coming up, I will housing and things like that. And then by did. And I just really enjoyed the class, so be coming up with how to operationalize my senior year, I did a homeless seminar I just talked to him and then he actually those procedures and then creating even class and it still had to do with the housing knew who would be my boss at the time, more around that. I also do what’s called element. I’m like okay I’m still on the right she’s actually no longer at the organization, the housing inventory chart or count, and track but I want to make sure I understand but he knew that she needed somebody. then with that is the point and time count, both sides of the story basically, or the is- He actually tried to to put me in to do a but I do the sheltered point and time count sue. Looking at the sociology side, which is data analyst position, which is working on because I work with all the agencies. Basi- you know, looking at the social impact and the I.T. back in, which I had no experience cally those are two different reports, but I it’s more, kind of like your case manager, in. And just got me the interview, and I combine them together at the same time. it’s more like, from the heart type thing, guess I did something right because even So the Housing and Inventory count is and looking at those issues. And then you though I wasn’t obviously fit for the job if you were a program that is homeless have your business administration side she liked me enough that she created this dedicated, I basically get your list of beds. which is all about the bottom line, and I tip position that eventually turned into a How many beds, how many units, is it for wanted to be able to effectively come up full-time, but yeah. So I knew I wanted singles, is it for families, things like that. with a really good policy or plan or solu- to do something with social services, you And the reason I say homeless dedicated is tion [and] you have to understand both know housing, affordable housing, basi- because we have to exclude that, you might sides, so you appease both so that way cally how to make it so everyone can have serve homeless individuals, but that’s now everyone buys in. fair housing, to have adequate housing what that bed in mainly for. For example, and this was kind of my way to get in that there are some projects called, like Brother niche, to get my foot in the door. Binows is an Eventually down the road I want to, I’m But I think people are finally realizing that are not going to continue to get funding. a very big proponent on, I believe it takes there are a lot of people doing their own Or if we do, it is going to only be a small a community to create the change and thing, kind of duplication of work, and percent of those programs that really have have sustainable change, so an organi- realizing we need to just come together and amazing outcomes that continue to get zation that you might find interesting is make a system. Because the only way, in my funding. called LISC, and they are about, they are opinion, to effectively end homelessness is JC: Are there systems, like the system you consultants and they are very big about to have a working system. Now I’m not a are talking about, is there anything similar going into like, like downton communities believer, it would be a dream, yes, that there to that or is it kind of just the organiza- that need to be rejuvenated or be revital- is no longer one homeless person out there. tions? ized is a better word. And they’ll go and I really think that is a dream and it can IM: So there are small pilots working they’ll work with, they basically have all happen, however I don’t think it can hap- in San Diego, an example would, be the these community meetings and the com- pen unless there is that system and to me county has what are called, county vouch- munities are like, they pose the question, the system to end homeless means, more ers, or the cold weather shelter vouchers, what are problems here? What are you so, not that there won’t ever be a homeless so a voucher used by a family so they can facing? What are things that are mean- person because you know you always have go live in a hotel for an x amount of days. ingful to you? And how do you think we that, you do have the small percentage of And one system there is they, in order to should change them? And then they get people that say I just want to be left alone get a voucher you have to call 211 and the community to commit to how to fix on the street, but it is very small and very get referred, so then you are referred to and the community does it, whether it’s few so that is a stereotype that isn’t true and whatever agency is closest to you, or if working with the schools, creating bet- needs to go away. However, to me, ending there are kids they refer them to whatever ter parks, creating initiatives for creating homelessness, at least in this point and agencies are in their school district. And local business, small local business, safety, time, means having a system that, if some- then from there, in order to be eligible for things like that, because what happens one were to lose a job, kicked out of a house the voucher you have to have a vouching eventually is this consulting firm is going whatever, and they become homeless, they plan, and then so what happens is you get to leave. And if they leave and this com- are rapidly rehoused, and there are ways to a voucher for 7 days to stay in this hotel, munity hasn’t taken hold of these changes either keep them from being homeless, or and then once the voucher is almost over then all the work that has been put into it they will only experience a short time in an or you are done you have to come back to is going to fall flat. So I am very big about, emergency shelter or a hotel voucher. But the case manager to review your housing basically applied social action, so that was that they are back in some apartment with case to make sure you are getting back another class I had with my other advisor some job and that there are these nets that into the apartments, because maybe you who was, it’s all about working with com- catch them so they don’t have to end up on just needed a month of saving up enough munity, having them commit to the cause, the streets. That, to me, is ending home- money, saving up your paycheck to make and having them come up with the ideas lessness, that these systems are working, a deposit, or things like that. So there are because if they come up with the ideas because when you introduce the human small things here and there kind of like then it is more meaningful to them, and aspect of it, you can have great systems, but that, or there are different groups or col- they are more I don’t want to say, loyal is if I’m the homeless person and I don’t want laborations that are coming together to not the right word but they are more com- to do anything, that’s on me. But you need come up with different events or different mitted to just making sure that the change to have, you need to say the system, the ways to address the problem. But I don’t is sustainable and continues. structure is working. At least in my home- think San Diego, we haven’t locked down JC: So from your job, from like that stand- less seminar class, we always talk about the on what our system is, it’s like a patched point, how do you see homelessness in San agent versus the structure, or a different quilt, it hasn’t all come together yet. Diego? Is it a really big issue? word for it, agency versus the system is one JC: When you are talking about the sys- IM: I think it is a huge issue, I mean we way but there was a different word. But tem, let’s say I wanted to help but I didn’t have the third highest homeless rate in anyways it’s basically, you know, talking know what to do, what would you tell me the nation, right behind New York and about you have all these systems, like gov- to do? LA, and in that comparison we aren’t the ernment regulations and things like that M: Like as a you as a high school student? third most populated city, so it is kind of, and how that can affect someone becom- JC: As me or anyone, like just a person, very sad to know that especially when we ing homeless, but then you also have the just a normal person. are supposed to be America’s finest city agency person making their own personal IM: Well it kind of depends on what level that we have such a high rate, so there is decisions in that is two different things. It of help you want to do. Agencies always ya know, the COC is just one body, one is kind of like that argument, nature versus need volunteers, agencies always need group of people coming together to work nurture and stuff like that, you know. So I help with something, because they are on it. What I think it is really, going to don’t know, I feel like San Diego is slowly non-profit, they are always strapped with take, a HUD with the Hearth Act, is saying coming around to, but they are hopefully money. So anytime you would want to you need to do more grassroot stuff, and turning in the right direction of creating help, depending on, volunteering is always you need to come together and collaborate these systems. And like I said, we kind of a great way to definitely do that, and that more otherwise you won’t get funding so have to, we are at the point where we have would be a great way to see the impact you there is that string pulling people to do to or we make shortly, just depending on what you this. want to do. You can always go up and say, how can So my job does require me to be on the and any person would when you are in I help? Whether it’s serving food in the computer or on the phone, so I get very any society, but I don’t know, just telling morning, whether it is helping with data very excited when I get to do site vis- your story and saying, how are you feeling entry, whether it’s maybe doing an art class its or go to any meetings because I am today? I’ve gotten more feedback from that and you get to interact with. Maybe you out talking to them, giving my opinion, saying thank you for asking. And basically have some talent or skill that you want to transfer of ideas happens. So when I get it puts a face, it gives them their dignity teach people, you could do that. Maybe to do site visits and I actually get tours, back because a lot of times people just pass you’re a masseuse and so you come and sometimes I get tours of their program- them on the street, and they feel like they you do physical therapy or massages for mer project, love it. Love it, love it. I might have no dignity, like they are invisible, that the clients that are in the shelter. There are not personally interact with a homeless they have no face, that they’ve lost the hu- many different ways, and those are small individual that is staying there, and this man dignity and I think that is the worst tangible ones, that would be the easiest is if I don’t sit down and talk with them, thing anyone can feel, you know. thing to do. As RTFH, we always say vol- but I see the work flow, what I refer to as JC: Is there a specific moment that you unteer for the point time count because the work flow. I see how the case manag- remember and you’ll never forget with the more volunteers we get every year, er interacts with that client as they walk someone or anywhere in your job? the more accurate of a count we can get, through the door, and what happens when IM: I think the last time I really had a, ya know. We are supposed to count every they stay in the program and when they well, two weeks ago, no last friday, there almost square inch of our region, and as leave, and I find that very interesting. As was a what’s called a Project Homeless you know we have many different terrains much as I love to talk to people, I also Connect and it is a one day event where from the desert to the mountains to the like to observe. If you ever learn sociolo- a lot of service providers connect and beach to the canyons. So trying to count gy you’ll also learn in that part, you’ll do basically create kind of a one stop shop everyone that we can so we can get an many observation projects. So it’s inter- for homeless individuals in that region to actual accurate number of homeless in San esting to see the dynamics, of how people come and whether get a shower, clothes, a Diego, or serving the homeless and un- interact. You know if one person interacts hot meal, get connected to mental health derstanding their demographics and what this way, how is the other person going to services, housing services, employment, they are dealing with on the streets, seeing interact to that, I don’t know it’s very inter- education. Sometimes they’ll be able to how vulnerable they are. You’ll hear this esting. But I love doing site visits because, bring in the DMV and they can get Cali- term vulnerability or the VI, the vulner- like I said, it’s refreshing for me because fornia ID cards because if you don’t have ability index, and that’s a set of questions it puts a face to these names that I see or an ID card, it’s hard to get help anywhere. that you ask a person on the street, and ba- these numbers, they’re client I.D’s in the They can also get hooked up with public sically sees how vulnerable are they; if they system because you are supposed to iden- benefits. So it’s helping them, basically continue to live on the street, how soon tify the information so no one can tell. Af- having it all in one place, so I did that, will they die on the street. So you know, if ter a while you just kind of lose the human I did the North County one, the North they have these certain diseases or certain side of it and it’s great to go and see that. County inland one last Friday, and there illnesses, then they have, it raises their vul- Or like I do, a deployment center for the was a women in line to get the registra- nerability score. And that information is point and time count and sometimes I’ll tion, and she was like, I just need to get used to try and get them into housing first go on survey after, or there will be a cou- to dental work here.. I was like, I’m sor- and get them housed off the street, and ple homeless individuals around at the site ry but unfortunately you do have to go then services come to them. Yeah there I have. Like this past year they were there, through registration because we have to [are] different things like that, just some- and I just went out and talked to them. see everyone, register everyone who comes one that’s on the outside that’s not really in They didn’t ask for anything, I didn’t offer in, but when you’re done. Dental is right it, that’s a great way to always get involved. them anything. I take that back I had some over there. And when you’re done, I’ll be JC: With your job, how often do you go breakfast items that I had earlier that I was happy to walk you over there, and she’s out and see homeless people? Is that a usu- going to throw away so I was like hey do like, thank you so much. A kind smile was al thing or is that once in a while? you want them, and they were like yeah all she needed. And I noticed, whenever IM: Mine is once in a while, and I’m, it that’d be great, and I just sat and heard you’re walking down the street and you see helps put a face to all the, because I do see their story. And half the time, the major- a homeless individual, instead of turning data even though I am not IT or do a lot of ity of the time, all they want to do is have your head down to not make eye contact data analysis, I work with all the agencies someone to talk to and tell their story to. with them, just look at them and smile and on the system so I help them do data qual- It’s just like you talking to your best friend say good morning, good day, and I would ity fixes and things like that and so I love, every day and saying you won’t’ believe say 8 times out of 10 they will smile back I am a very people person, you know that’s what happened today in class, or what and say thanks, or good morning or hello, the sociology side and business coming happened with this other guy that I like… you know that too. And that’s all they want together, I like to interact. anything like that. They just want to talk, because when you turn your head down they want to, unfortunately some stories and don’t make eye contact with them, are a little bit more sad than others. But it’s giving them that feeling like they don’t what I’ve noticed, they might make friends have any dignity, they’re invisible, they are, on the street, but it’s still not, they make you are basically lowering their, chopping their community because you’ll notice that at their self they do that, esteem every time you do that. Anybody reached that end of the line. In the string want to give them something right then else on the street when you’re out run- of things he’s just like nope everybody and there, give them a piece of food. Like ning who would be, in other words “look just wants to live, they just want to live on instead of giving them that money they say normal” or look like they’re not homeless, the streets so I’m not going to help them. they are going to use for food, go by the you’d smile to. But the stereotypical person I’m like I don’t, I disagree and I was like, I food and give it to them. And I know some that we always think of being homeless personally do not believe that any person people have different opinions in that, but is the guys in rags on the street, or dirty, in a right sane mind would say I want to I come from a personal story of knowing beard, that’s one face of homelessness. live on the street. Now granted there are what it’s like to enable somebody and so, if There are families in cars, there is someone people who are what we call modern day you really want to try and help somebody who lives on the street who is able to get to gypsies, there are people who just like to you can’t enable them. So I just feel that the Neil Good Day Center to take a show- travel, who maybe like to live in a tent for they shouldn’t be on the street trying to get er and make it to their job on time, but a while, but I do not feel that any person money, they should be trying to get help. they’re homeless and the people at work truly wants to live in the conditions that But yeah, my friend would never do that, probably have no idea because they don’t people live in when they live on the street. he would never look them in the eye. He look that way. It’s crazy. Another incident, People are put in those situations for many would never say hey buddy, he wouldn’t oh and so later that day after, sorry I’m different circumstances, and if nothing can stop to talk to him because he has that kind of all over the place, but then later ever happen, they might have tried and stereotype. And I know a lot of people like that day, so that happened and I helped tried and tried again, and nothing happens, that; some of my best friends are like that, and I showed her where to go and helped I think eventually you just kind of give up. and like I said , we just tend not to talk her a little later. And later that day she Or maybe you just had that one bad day, about [it]. I’m the crazy one because I’m came up to me and she’s like, thank you so like you’ve been trying for months to get a trying to help, you know. much. This event is so amazing, everyone job and you are living on the streets but you here is so nice, but thank you for taking can’t find anything because you don’t have JC: Have you ever talked to someone who the time to talk to me today. And I was a cell phone, you don’t have an address, has told you that they did want to stay on like, you’re welcome, I mean something you don’t have a shower, like what are you the street and they didn’t want to get help? to me that I’m just like, oh yeah no prob- supposed to do and you have a little bit of IM: I had that response in like a survey, lem, super nice, not a big deal, she is just money, and you’re like you know what, I’m and I’m like okay why? And they’re like, so thankful for and it makes you look at just going to go take a drink because that’s because the shelters aren’t safe, or I’ve been your life and think of things you take for the only way I can get away from the hor- here long enough there’s nothing else I can granted and the interactions you have with rible world I’m living in. And that unfor- do, I don’t want to go anywhere else, it’s other people. And those are my favorite tunately, that might be the trigger for long safer here then it is out there type of [stuff], moments because again it helps, take the term homelessness right. But I was trying is what they say. I’ve never had someone data and all the stuff that you see and put a to tell him, you have no idea what put them that has said to me, that there are no other face to it. there, so how can you say that that person circumstances or barriers, like they feel like JC: Do you feel like stereotypes are a big wants to live there. I was like, if you talk it’s safer on the street type thing. Anything issue that’s keeping people from helping to the person that says, I choose to live on like that that they say as to why they want the homeless? the street, I’d say ask them how long have to continue to live there. Like I’ve talked IM: I would say yes because those stereo- they’ve been homeless and ask them what to, during several surveys, some of the, the types, I have really good friends and we happened before that. Like there are things term is called chronic homeless and you’re will get into very heated conversations that lead them down there. Anyway, so my either, the majority are unaccompanied about individuals and as to why they won’t point being [that] his stereotype that they adults, but there can be minors that are by help them. And you know one of them, want to be there, that they’re all dirty crazy, themselves, or you can have an adult head one of my friends used to work in Down- and so he doesn’t want to do anything to of households, like chronic homeless fami- town, more in East Village, and after they help them. Now I agree that you shouldn’t lies. But you have to have a disabling condi- did the whole, they made Petco park and necessarily give a homeless person money tions, so that means something they’re go- basically moved the homeless out of the on the street because I do think that it is ing to have a long term indefinite from, like Gaslamp District into East Village, and an enabling thing. Instead if you want to mental health to physical to alcohol abuse, residents and businesses were upset about give money, give money to programs that things like that and you have to either have that. And so this guy says, I’m never help- have really good outcomes that know what been on the street for a year or more, or ing a homeless person again and I’m like they’re doing, or if you want to give them had four different episodes of homeless- why? He’s like, they are all crazy, they’re something right then and there, give them ness in the past three years. And when you all dirty, they’re all and you know a lot of a piece of food. Like instead of giving them talk to those individuals, like I remember I other bad words, and I’m just like, you that money they say they are going to use gave a survey, I surveyed someone who had don’t know their story. Yeah they probably for food, go by the food and give it to them. been on the streets for 15 years, and I al- have a mental illness but that’s probably And I know some people have different most want to say he’s a super super chronic why, they might have a mental illness and opinions in that, but I come from a person- homeless person. But I’m like, why? He said that’s why they’re doing the things that al story of knowing what it’s like to enable he didn’t want to be off the street and his they’re doing, and the only way they can somebody and so, if you reasoning was it’s cope with living on the street is by drink- ing because they have safer here, I have my community, I have AG: So Andrew, what comes to your mind Obviously they’ve figured out a system that Earl up there who’s going to watch, like I when you hear the words homeless and works for them, if they make enough mon- said they create their community, who’s homelessness? ey to go out there everyday. going to help protect them. And he’s like, AD: Hmm… to be honest, before we start- AG: I see. So what made you want to work have you been in that shelter? It’s crazy. ed this project, I just thought of the home- with the homeless, other than the fact that There are crazier people in there then less as people standing on the side of the it was for class? there are out here and I’m not going to street. But once we passed by in our car, I’d AD: Just to see what they were like: how deal with that. I’ve never, It’s never been, forget about them. Now I know that they they live, what they go through. It’s inter- I started living on the streets because I are really people -- not just an image. To esting to see life through the eyes of some- wanted to live on the streets. Never heard answer your question, I think about what one different. that. they could have gone through, and what AG: Did you learn something about some- patch of bad luck they went through in one during our trip that we had to St. order to be in the situation they’re in. Vincent’s? AG: Interesting. Why do you think we for- AD: Yeah, that guy we were working with... get that they are people sometimes? Jerry. Even though he wasn’t homeless, we AD: Just because we don’t know about the still got to find out a little about his life and issue… there’s a lack of understanding what he did. These people are genuinely why they are there. We get caught up in good people, and not lazy or menacing. our own lives and we forget to think about AG: Great answer! I couldn’t have said it others. better. What is something that keeps you or AG: What you said is true; we are so caught kept you motivated to help the homeless? up in our own lives with the internet and AD: The more knowledge we get by doing television that we forget that some people stuff in class. You know, it’s bringing a new don’t have the same items and opportuni- perspective on things. It’s making me think ties we do. What was your first experience in different ways and making me feel like with the homeless? something has to be done. Andrew Defante: An Unassum- AD: Well, I remember in eighth grade, I AG: I see. What are your thoughts on the ing Hero volunteered at St. Vincent DePaul’s, where stereotypes of the homeless? we went as a class and served juice. It was AD: It’s unfair, really. I mean, it might fit By: Alexis Guerrero my first real encounter with the people some people, but it’s [overall] wrong. Just themselves; hearing them talk and seeing like any other prejudice. But you know, that Going into this project, Andrew how they acted apart from being on side of stuff happens. People just have to get edu- was not the person I planned to interview. the street. cated on the topic. We were tasked with finding someone in AG: Did you talk to any [homeless people] AG: It’s true that some people judge oth- the community who works with homeless on your trip? If so, what was your conver- ers on appearances and automatically see people, and I hadn’t thought to interview sation like? someone who is lazy, dirty, etcetera. You someone from class. But, Andrew-- like the AD: Not as much as we did when we went said people just have to get educated on rest of us-- had visited a homeless shelter recently. But I do remember one elderly the topic, so how can we, as a community, to serve breakfast, so as a volunteer for the guy who really liked the grape juice and educate those types of people? homeless, he met the criteria of, “working said that I was doing a good job. AD: Community outreach. These with the homeless.” It wasn’t until after the AG: You were able to change someone’s day non-profits getting the word out there, and interview that I realized just how much of just by giving him juice. Other than volun- then our project is raising awareness. It’s a community hero and advocate for the teering at a homeless shelter, have you done like every other issue out there. homeless Andrew really is. anything else to give help to the homeless? AG: There hasn’t been a story you’ve heard Andrew may not seem like a hero, AD: To be honest, not really. What I was of over the news or online that got you in because when we think of heroes, we think taught before was that some of the people any way? of superheroes with these special powers, on the side of the street weren’t actually AD: Well, I mean I’ve really just been intro- flying and saving people from burning homeless, so my family in general didn’t duced to this issue by this project. buildings. The heroes like Andrew give help them out or anything. AG: How did you feel before going in to something even more important--their AG: What would be your perspective on help those at St. Vincent’s? How did you time to people who need it. Whether it’s those people, who pretend to be homeless, feel after? What were your thoughts com- serving breakfast to the homeless or build- and why do you think they do something ing in? ing a house for someone in need, these as horrible as that? AD: Well, since I had already helped be- are the real heroes -- even if they don’t get AD: Because they’re desperate for money. fore, I knew what to expect. It still struck stories published about them in the news- They might not be right in the mind. They me in a way because I once again got to see paper or recognized in a comic book. And might go under the category of being lazy, the people living there. It was different and Andrew Defante is definitely an everyday but have potential. unique in a way. hero. You really feel like you’re helping them, GC: What I remember vividly, has to be and in return you really feel like they ap- this man that I spoke to, this old gentle- preciate what you’re doing. It was nice. man... he reminded me of my grandpa, AG: I completely agree. It felt like we were really. able to change their day just by doing That’s why I remember him. I remember something so small, such as pouring syrup he looked at me, he grabbed me. We were or pouring cream of wheat. So, you said talking somehow about divorce and he said, you already knew what to expect because “Don’t you ever get divorced. It’s not like you had already done something similar Hollywood makes it. It’s not... how people to this, but how did you feel going into the make it seem. It hurts and it messes with first time you had ever gone to help? you mentally, both you and your spouse. If AD: I was younger and didn’t know so you really love your spouse, you will never much. All I knew was that my friend’s dad get divorced. No matter what goes through was taking us to the shelter and all we had you, you will do your hardest to do your to do was follow directions. I didn’t know best, to keep that relationship alive. Because about the impact I had or how much peo- The Lessons People Carry: An the alternative will leave you broken for the ple appreciated what we were doing. interview with Gerry Carrillo on rest of your life.” He told me this because AG: Interesting… alright, do you think now he has grandkids and he is homeless America is doing all they can do to end Homelessness and he is not living with his ex-wife. It was homelessness and why? By: Jess Harris really sad because he reminded me of my AD: Well, based upon what we’ve been grandpa. [The same thing happened to my reading and doing in class, there is prog- I did not expect to be interviewing grandpa]... stuff happened, life happened. ress. People are beginning to realize what’s my peer, Gerry Carrillo, on a Friday af- But it was his decisions that made life hap- going on. However, I do think that there ternoon. I initially emailed someone from pen like that. is still a long way to go. It really is tough the out-of-school-community, but with a JH: That must have been very powerful for to balance the legal and political side of looming deadline, I was pushed to move you to hear. What will you carry with you things with the civil and personal and on and interview someone at school. I’m from that experience? humane things. glad I did, though, because Gerry is a GC: It has to be the fact that the man took AG: I see what you’re saying. It’s going to committed and compassionate young man his time… he took time out of his breakfast take a while, but it’s not impossible. Our who cares very much about helping the and out of his day just to tell me. [He gave final question.... If you had the power to homeless. me] some advice, to help me hopefully get change or fix homelessness, what would In the interview, we focused main- my stuff together, as my life goes on. My you do? How would you do it? ly on the class volunteer effort that Miss greatest takeaway is one, don’t get divorced, AD: Well first, I think you’ve got to get a Guerrero took us on. Gerry hit mainly two, be careful with drinking and really grasp of the mass of the people, then cate- on the gems of the people that are in the just appreciate life a day at a time. Each and gorize them and then proceed into doing homeless shelters. He recounted stories of every day at a time. projects based upon those groups. If you an elderly gentleman as an example. Ger- JH: Would you recommend to anyone to try to help everyone at once, some people ry brings an energy and understanding volunteer in the future? aren’t going to need the things others need of the volunteering and compassion that GC: Oh, man, I would recommend anyone and whatnot. greatly exceeds his years. As Gerry spoke, to volunteer, really. I mean, it’s humbling to AD: I think you have to approach it with I was reminded that we can all be heroes-- volunteer; its humbling to experience what a sense of cost efficiency and an efficient JH: What is your most recent volunteer it means to serve. I think [you cannot forget way to house these people. Like Jerry said, effort? to serve]. The biggest impact you can make you don’t necessarily have to give out free GC: My most recent volunteer effort was is to help others; that’s the biggest impact houses and stuff. A good strategy would actually with the class. We volunteered at you can make on other people’s lives. I was be to influence a few small groups and St. Vincent De Paul’s where they provide humbled by going and I really recommend teach them how to get their lives back on homes and serve food to families and it to anyone who wants to experience some- track, and hopefully that carries over to homeless people. And it was pretty cool, thing new. You don’t have to go to Disne- others. I mean we got to meet all these people. yland, you don’t have to go to Florida, you I worked in the part where you kind of don’t have to go on some cruise ship. Go to meet and greet. We served as waiters for your local homeless shelter, go to your local all the homeless that showed up. anywhere and just volunteer, help out, give JH: What is something you remember a little. vividly from the experience? JH: Can you tell me about the homelessness project we are doing? GC: My goodness, I think I forgot to even mention that. Well, we went [to St. Vincent’s] because we Sierra G.: So, I spent the majority of the are doing a homelessness project in our morning working out in the dining area class. It’s pretty much to raise awareness where the people were eating their break- about homelessness. People don’t think the fast and for most of that I tidied up a little homeless are people. It’s just to open hori- bit, but I primarily transported their dirty zons and help brothers out. dishes to the kitchen area so-where they JH: Who or what are you trying to impact? could be washed. Although, towards the GC: We are trying to impact our commu- end of the morning I also helped a little nity, but we can go above and beyond and bit in the kitchen with the preparation for maybe get on the internet and help out later meals. anyone who wants to be helped out. We Nick H.: Awesome. Now, how did you feel need to raise awareness; we want to impact when doing your job? Like, did you feel as many people as possible. that you were doing a good job and you JH: Do you have a solution for homeless- felt proud to be there? What kind of things ness right now? were you thinking? GC: Not one in my pocket, no. I guess Sierra G.: Well, I definitely enjoyed myself something I ponder on is what if, since we Sierra Green’s Making a Scene and I could see that not only what I was have so many people, all these people just By: Nick Hernandez doing specifically, but what our pod was gave an hour of their day. [It would help] doing as a whole was making a difference if we just get rid of the stigma of homeless For the homelessness project I de- because if we weren’t there to help them people not being people. We can get rid cided to interview Sierra Green because I eat breakfast then who would be, but I also of that idea; we clean up everyone’s opin- wanted to see how other youth, like my- was struck later on that day and even if it- ions the best we can by raising awareness. self, viewed the homeless. I wondered if while I was serving or helping serve break- People will be more open to hearing and everyone started with these stereotypical fast, by the level of what we were doing. I listening about who and what homeless views of homelessness, and also wanted kind of- I saw that it was important, what people are and what they stand for. I think to see how other students’ opinions were we were doing, but I was also inspired that, by itself, can help solve at least the changing throughout our work. Sierra also to maybe take it a step further and think bullying part of homelessness where they went with my class and over to St. Vincent big and try to find a way to make a large feel excluded from society. de Paul’s and The San Diego Rescue to impact on the homeless community. So, I JH: How has your perspective changed volunteer and help the homeless. think the experience was good because I since the project started? Sierra is a junior at High Tech High made a difference then, but it inspired me GC: I’ve been humbled and my eyes have Chula Vista, and she is very involved in to make an even bigger difference later. been opened. There is need and life isn’t the community. She competes in chal- Nick H.: So, what did you think about the just some pretty bubble that we live in. lenge math competitions, is a Girl Scout, homeless people at the shelter? There is more to life than just you and I a documentary film- maker and an avid Sierra G.: I was struck by their happiness and school and living the life we are bless- foodie. She was very calm and relaxed at several times that morning. Some of ed to live in… there are people who need which made the interview much easier. We them would come up to me with great big help. There are people who have a voice started without further delay and I com- smiles and look at me in the eye and say, that isn’t being heard because they are menced in asking her a couple of questions “Thank you so much for being here!” and being counted off as not a full citizen. They about the specific jobs that she did over they all seemed so genuine and that really don’t really have a large voice; they are not at St. Vincent de Pauls and the San Diego brightened up my morning. a contributor to our society. Rescue Mission. I learned that Sierra is not Nick H.: So, how was that whole experi- only a super active member of her com- ence for you? Just, like, being there and munity, but she is also a real voice of hope seeing all those homeless people. All of and compassion for homeless people. them saying, “Thank You!” with big smiles on their faces? Sierra G.: I thought it was a really great ex- Nick H.: So, Sierra, what did you expect to perience. It kind of not only made me feel find over at St. Vincent de Paul’s? good because I knew I was helping them, Sierra G.: I don’t think that I had a very but I learned and saw what they were like solid and clear expectation before going to in person. We had done a lot of research in St. Vincent de Paul’s, but I expected it to be class before hand, but getting to actually be a little bit more unhappy or just generally there and do community service and help unhappy because I didn’t anticipate the give them breakfast really showed me just positivity that the people would bring into how they can be. their lives. Nick H.: Okay. How did this experience Nick H.: Okay. Once you got over to St. change the way you look or think about Vincent de Paul’s, what did they have you homeless people? Like, any way? do, like you job over there? Sierra G.: Well, I had known before go- I really don’t think that they should be do- Our homelessness project aims to teach ing to the homeless shelter that homeless ing anything differently, although, I think students and the community here at High people aren’t what they used to be ste- maybe, as I’ve seen at my school, people Tech High Chula Vista about the issue of reotyped to be, which was just lazy bums really do want to help and so I wonder homelessness in our country and in our and I knew that there are a lot of different if maybe there was a way that the rescue city. Through the project, we were able to reasons people become homeless and that mission could communicate to different volunteer at local shelters and also got the often times it’s not their fault and I really areas or different groups, what they need chance to interview people who do some- enjoyed seeing that these people are very whether its toothbrushes or socks or thing to make a difference in the lives of positive and are-really seem to be trying different things like that and I feel like if homeless people-- hence the title: Hidden to enjoy their life and live their life the way they told the right people that they would Heroes. that they want to. really get what they needed to help the I interviewed Erica Ortiz who is a junior Nick H.: Did you have any conversations homeless people even more than they at High Tech High Chula Vista and I got with the homeless people over at the shel- already are. to ask her how she is involved in helping ter? Nick H.: Okay. Do you think, other than the homeless. She is a quiet young woman, Sierra G.: You know, I was disappointed what you said right now, they should with a penchant for service and compas- because I didn’t have a very in depth con- change anything else either at the San sion. She was homeschooled from kinder- versation with anyone while I was there Diego Rescue Mission or at St. Vincent de garten to eighth grade and then decided because I was working the entire time, but Paul’s? come to a public school for a different type I really enjoyed seeing them and watching Sierra G.: No, I mean I was-I like the of learning. Erica pushes herself to be the them and having them come up to me and way that they’re approaching helping best that she can be, and tries always to be so welcoming and kind and, although, the homeless and I really think that the be selfless. It is her selflessness, coupled I do remember at one point I did meet community atmosphere and the sense of with her compassion for the homeless, that one lady and she was a little bit frustrated happiness in both places is great. makes her a perfect candidate to be con- because her plate had accidentally fallen Nick H.: Do you ever plan to volunteer sidered a, “hero”. into a trash can, which is something I defi- at either St. Vincent de Pauls or the San nitely really do-I feel like that’s something Diego Rescue Mission in your own spare A.I: So first of all, what’s the value of doing I would probably do and I really enjoyed time? community service to you? getting to talk to her for a minute and help Sierra G.: I would love to return to both E.O: The value would be learning to get her kind of work out the situation. and I’d like to take my friends and family out of my comfort zone so I can do a kind Nick H.: What was going through your with me because I think that pretty much act for someone or something other than head when you saw her? Like, just having a anybody who went to either the St Vin- myself because people are always helping big fit. cent de Pauls Society or the Rescue Mis- me out. Sierra G.: Well, I wouldn’t say it was a big sion would really enjoy volunteering there A.I: Nice, so what motivates you to do fit, but I kind of felt the way that I always and be touched by the difference that is volunteering? do when I see someone who’s unhappy and being made. E.O: My motivation would be knowing it just made me want to help her. I mean, I that I’m making a positive difference or didn’t really have to do anything I could’ve impact in the life of one person at a time. just let her try to get the plate out of the A.I: Thats great! What places or organiza- trash can or do whatever she wanted, but tions have you volunteered at? I really wanted to help her because I didn’t E.O: So I’ve volunteered at the San Diego like seeing her unhappy. Rescue Mission a few times since I was a Nick H.: What do you think about the lot younger. It’s usually been with a group way they ran things over at the San Diego from my church or at my church itself. Rescue Mission, moving on to that subject, When I volunteer, it gives me so much to and do you think that it’s effective that- think about, you know? It’s like, it makes what they do over there? me put in perspective how much I really Sierra G.: Yea. I loved visiting the Rescue have; that’s definitely something I don’t Mission. I thought it was really interest- think about everyday. ing and I learned a lot. I really liked their A.I: Oh so your church volunteers at the approach too because I think it’s very well San Diego Rescue Mission? thought out, what their plan is for helping E.O: Well it’s the church I went to when I the homeless people, and I like how they was younger. do a lot of different things. It’s not just, A.I: When your church went there, what “Here, here’s a place to sleep,” but they do you guys do? How many times a year did your church go? really care about the homeless people and Erica Ortiz: Helping Out Others want to help them succeed. E.O: Um, we usually served food which for a Change was during Thanksgiving and Christmas By: Alyssa Isaaks time. So in total we probably went around five times a year if I remember right. In the middle of November on a cloudy and cold day, I got the chance to interview one of my classmates about our homeless- ness project. A.I: Wow, thats incredible. So umm, how E.O: Well, I would first start with shar- perfect example to follow when you look do you feel once you start volunteering? ing with the people closest to me the life into volunteering and giving up time to E.O: Well, I get this feeling where I start changing experiences I’ve taken part in. help the less fortunate. This is only one of telling myself, “I’m no more of a human Then, I would give them the chance to the many reasons students at HTHCV love or better person than they are.” It’s really come volunteer with me so they can ex- him so much. this humbling feeling that kind of brings perience it first hand... ‘cause you know, me back down to earth. Humility is a good something impacts you way more when JL: What does the word volunteer mean to word to describe the feeling I get. you get to see or do it for yourself. Then you? A.I: How do you feel after completing from taking my close friends, I think that DH: Volunteer to me just means, you are community service? it would just be a domino impact depend- giving up your time for free to support E.O: Hmm, that’s a hard question be- ing on how much passion each person has a cause that usually means something to cause it’s just like this onslaught of mixed to volunteer and give back to the commu- you. emotions. Usually I don’t feel as great of a nity. JL: What does the word Homelessness person than I saw myself before. It’s like, I mean to you? don’t know, it makes me think a lot! About DH: Homelessness to me means pretty what I have, what they have, how I could much exactly what it says; someone who be in their same state. doesn’t have a home: whether it be a home A.I: Do you have a most inspiring mo- they can go to physically like a typical ment while you were volunteering? If so, home that most of us are used to with what organization and when was it? different rooms and what not. That would E.O: If I can remember right, one Sunday constitute homelessness for me. morning about 3 years ago, I was volun- JL: Have you volunteered with the home- teering at my church in a small room with less population in the past? If so what did clothes, toiletries, etc., called God’s Closet you do? which we let homeless people come in DH: I have, a couple of times. Mostly in and take an outfits amount of clothes. A soup kitchens. I’ve done with our advi- homeless mother came in with her young sory we did the St. Vincent de Paul soup son, probably about 3 years old. And she kitchen, so that was one instance when I asked something like, “Do you guys have worked with the homeless. One year in any socks my son could use?” We only had high school we went and we gave packaged men’s socks, but when we told her that, goods, so we made Thanksgiving dinner she said that was perfect and smiled. Then, Dave Hua and a New Perspective kits, and after we would prepare them she handed them to her son and I’m not we would deliver them to different needy kidding, I’ve never seen a child so happy! on Homelessness families. He was smiling from ear to ear and sat on By: Joaquin Limon JL: Either to the most recent one or the the ground that second to put them on. one that was most emotional to you, what My mind couldn’t register how he could David Hua is a man with a humble motions exactly did the volunteering give be so elated over a pair of oversized socks. demeanor, but who has proven through you? Until I thought to myself, that’s probably hard work, devotion to students and his DH: I think the biggest emotion I had was the only pair of socks he’s had in a while. work, that he is a real hero in our learning compassion and understanding. There After he put his shoes back on with his community. David Hua is a technician at are people who are in need of food and new socks, I could see the socks bulging High Tech High Chula Vista, and also a shelter, and it just makes it a lot more real out of his shoes. But he was the happiest part time advisor to students. He recently seeing them face to face and connect with child so it didn’t faze him. That is probably helped organize a community service day them, and hear their stories of how tough the most inspiring... seeing something like for his eleventh grade advisory to visit St. it is and a lot of people are just looking for that affect a child. Vincent De Paul’s to serve dinner to the hope, and you just feel so much for their A.I: Wow, that is so inspiring. In continu- homeless. I decided to interview him in situation that you want to do as much as ation to that question, did it change your his hidden office (also known as the “Dave you can, and we are doing the smallest perspective of volunteering? Cave”) at the High Tech High Chula Vista thing for them like delivering the meal E.O: Absolutely! I can say that almost campus. His office is filled with all sorts of but it just means the world to them, so its every time I have the opportunity to vol- projectors, laptops, desktops, and electrical definately a point where you just really feel unteer and I think about passing it up, that stuff, with a desk hunkered down in the for them, and you are glad to help them same memory with the boy pops up in my center. We huddled together to have a nice in their quest for finding a better life. Its head. It makes me feel a lot more guilty long talk about service, the homeless and a great feeling and its something that i’ll when I ever to pass up an opportunity to what really matters in life. always take with me. touch or affect someone’s life. He grew up volunteering. His par- JL: So you said you volunteered in the past. A.I: Lastly, if theres anything that you ents gave him a great example of giving his What exactly inspired you or what events could do to motivate more people to do time to the less fortunate. He learned to you saw inspired you to start volunteering? community service, what would you do? always make time to help people out even, if it was just by donating a toy or a can of food. David Hua is the DH:There’s a lot of different reasons, but clean the halls for them. That as definitely that part of homelessness was knowing the biggest one is mainly my parents they really cool. about that now, and it changed my per- always taught me, like growing up my par- JL: What was the thing that struck you the spective on how to look at homelessness as ents always helped a lot of people. So even most either about the shelter or a person, an issue, and homelessness as how it is in though they didn’t have the most money, or any other volunteering that you did? terms of helping people. they were always out volunteering, giving DH: I just think of all the opportunities JL: There have been various project here donations. People would always come to I’ve had working in different areas with in San Diego that have either give a house live at our house when they needed a place homeless people, for example i’ve been to a homeless or to give them a house with to stay. They were always helping people down in Mexico a couple of times to help treatment, but theres still that percentage out, and they taught me that there is al- build up communities there, its just this some of them are addicts and peoples still ways someone who has less than you no whole sense of gratitude, and community. don’t know if to support it or not. Are you matter how much it seems that you dont The coolest thing is just people coming with or against these projects? have alot. So they just engrained that in together, everybody this is just trying to DH:I think im for it, because I think the me growing up, we always gave our toys help each other, and they realize that we best way to help a person in becoming suc- away, any old clothes. We were constantly live in this world together and I just think cessful is access to equitable education, and making sure that if there was something that the sense that people really do want if you don’t have a place to stay, and to like. we werent using anymore, and someone to help others, and those that get help are For example its a family, and these kids else could use it we would give it away. So I really gracious about it. I just take that the don’t have a place to go back home that think my parents just kind of trenched that world seems to be filled with people that they can do their homework and focus on in my growing up. As I got older I realised are selfish, it gives me a lot of hope that things and have a stable life. Its really hard that there are different groups and organi- there are good folks out there that want to for them to succeed. So, there is a house zations so we could help out. help and want to do good. building thing down in Mexico that I have JL: You also said that you volunteered at St. JL:What was your perspective on home- volunteered for before, and they have a re- Vincent de Paul’s with your advisory (us). lessness prior to your first community ally extensive process where they interview Would you ever do that again? service event? families, and they have these requirement DH: Yeah, I would definitely do it again, DH: You always hear a lot of different to make sure everything checks out and we had a lot of fun there, and you guys opinions. Growing up I think Its changed this program won’t get abused basically. definitely took something from the event. like you’re younger and you’re innocent, People will help build homes for these fam- It really connects someone to somebody and you just help people, you just want to ilies that need homes so they can have a else when you can see them face to face, help people, then you grow up and you good environment for the family, the kids. and you guys all said you would do it learn there are bigger issues out there and So that the kids can have a safe place to go, again… it’s a more complex question of why peo- and have a place to do their homework, JL: Did any homeless that you talked to ple are homeless, theres side where people and get a better education, so they can leave and impact on you? believe that its their fault that they are better their lives. So I think if its done well DH:Yeah, definitely. Usually you would there. They dont want to work or some- in that way, where it won’t get abused and think people in that situation would be thing, and there is a small group of folks theres a good process where they can make really negative, or they feel like they’re out there that don’t care to work and just sure that if they provide this house they’ll down in the dump, so they might be angry want to rely on getting freebies, and then make sure they have a job, they’ll put their at the world or have a bad attitude about I think that there are a good number of kids in school, and devote themselves to things, but it was awesome hearing a cou- homeless folks that definitely want to get good causes, and become better members ple of different stories. Like this guys came off the streets, and they just with with an of the population. I think that definitely in and was very excited he had his license, unfortunate event that put them there, and is something that is worth supporting, no he passed his test, and he was happy about I don’t think for the most part anybody matter who might be a drug addict or not. that, and he was happy he had some job ever wants to be homeless, I think every- prospects out there. You just get a good one wants to have food, and a place to live, sense of hope from the people who are and then growing up I learned that there there, even though things are bad they’re is a good amount of the homeless popu- gracious that they St. Vincent de Paul’s to lation that have mental disabilities. Thats help get food ,and shelter, get them back something I didnt know growing up, and on their feet. So it was awesome to hear in ways it sort of makes sense, but at the the stories of people who are not on their same time its really sad too, because those feet get job interviews, and it was neat to are people who need most help. I feel like see that some people there actually had a most people who have mental disabilities job, and they were working to get back on look like adults, but theyre not, they dont their feet. o, I just love that there is good have the capacity to help themselves in energy vibe there, and its just cool to be a that way. I think when people with mental part of it to give them a little extra shine disabilities are young you are a little more on their day by serving them meals, and compassionate, because theyre kids, but help prepare, and growing up people arent as compassionate, and its kind of sad that, that don’t have homes, have no stabili- ty, and therefore they can’t be wealthy, healthy, or learn in schools, so we can’t have our children be homeless. We need to figure out how to get them into housing so that they can have a more stable home. CL: So your organization works on finding housing? MG: We work on collaborating with dif- ferent agencies to see who provides what services. So if we have a homeless family that comes in, we look to see who has what services available, depending on what the family needs. There isn’t a [lot of] housing for homeless people -- that’s why we have A Community Collaboration to homeless people. There is not enough shel- Haley Gorman: Helping Others End Homelessness: ter for the homeless population. One House at a Time CL: And what problems do you think By: Isaac Martinez Margarita Holguin’s Story homeless people -- especially the homeless By: Camila Lopez families -- face on a daily basis? As part of the project requirements, MG: Safety, security, having proper nutri- I needed to conduct an interview with Margarita Holguin is an energetic, tion and health issues. The family’s not able someone that does good things for others confident woman who can always keep to cook a meal. They obviously will stay out of the kindness of their hearts, and I a conversation going. She lives in a nice, homeless because they have no money, so was lucky enough to be able to interview Spanish-style house in Bonita with her they have no assets. A lot of the times they my classmate Haley Gorman. I remember husband and youngest son, Jesse. Margar- can’t even go to school because they can’t hearing about her going on a lot of mis- ita also has two older children who live in get there. They can’t go to a doctor because sions and I thought that she was a perfect their own homes with their own families. they don’t have any money, they don’t person to interview for this project. Ha- Margarita is the director of a Chu- know where they are, [nor do they have a] ley Gorman is a regular at Paseo Del Rey la Vista based organization that works to way to get there. Church. She has been going there since she gather resources and services to help those CL: I’m curious to know what your was a little girl. She participates in many in need. The Chula Vista Community Col- thoughts are on the public perception of activities at church and is an active mem- laborative was founded in 1993 with the the homeless. Do you think that the public ber in its community. Her church does a intentions of addressing the social and eco- is doing enough to help? lot of missions all over the world such as nomic issues of families in the community. MG: I think that the public will do as Belize and Ecuador to name a couple. She This responsibility of the organization is much as they can, as long as it doesn’t signed up to go down to Tijuana, Mexico extended to helping the homeless, particu- affect them. So they’ll say, “Well, we need and helped construct a house for a family larly the families. For this reason, I wanted to have a shelter, but nothing near my city that needed one. to interview Ms. Holguin. She is definitely or where I live because I don’t want to see When I went out to interview her, it a hero in the community! them.” They see the homeless around and was a sunny day and I conducted the inter- they see them as the problem and they view outside. She looked kind of nervous CL: What type of work regarding the think that everybody is homeless because because she was unaware of what I was homeless does your organization do? they’re lazy and they don’t want to have a going to ask her. But I assured her that she MG: We facilitate a coalition which means better situation, [and that’s] just not true. would do fine and to not worry and just [we are people who] serve the homeless, CL: So what do you think the average per- be honest. When I finally started to record coming together to talk about solutions. son could do to help the homeless popula- and ask her questions she was very con- CL: And how did the branch of your orga- tion? fident in herself and also in what she was nization come to be? MG: I think they should get involved with saying. She said a lot of things that touched MG: Well, we have been in existence for an organization that helps the shelters and me, and showed me that she really cared twenty years. We are a collaborative, so it voice that the homeless are people and they about other people. And she showed me was based on the need to have someone have rights and we have to figure out better that even doing little things for people can help collaborate different efforts and work ways to help them other than just criticize bring so much happiness and that you real- with the providers in Chula Vista. This them. ly do make an impact on peoples lives. It is October we celebrated twenty years. for that reason that I believe Haley, too, is a CL: Why do you personally think that Hidden Hero. homelessness is such a huge issue? MG: I’m more concerned with the home- less families, and I know that [there are] children who are being raised by families IM:Where did you volunteer and what did house and we had like said our goodbyes you do? and I went to go say my goodbye to her HG: So I volunteered in a few different and she was crying and said “please don’t places but the most impactful place I’ve leave come visit me please!” It was so sad volunteered was down in Tijuana, Mexico. but at the same time I was really happy what I did was, well I’ve actually done it 3 to see the connection and relationship I times we go for the weekend we go build had made with her. And so that kind of a house for a family who either doesn’t changed my perspective on volunteering. have have a home their homeless or they’re IM: So you would say you have gained that couch hoppers they just stay at their other you’ve kind of taken a piece of that. What family or friends houses. We build a house would you say that has done for you? Made from scratch we bring all the supplies and you feel like? through donations from my church we HG: Well it made me feel like I can actually pay for everything and build a house for a make a difference and that what i’m doing family who really needs it. is helping. IM: Wow thats really interesting. What IM: You feel like the little things you’re Robin Colberg: A Hero at a would you say motivates you the most to doing are actually really contributing to the Homeless Shelter do this and to want to help these people? big world and helping people. What is one By: Mariana West and Erica HG: Well I think that the biggest moti- thing people should know about volunteer vation is knowing that I have the essen- work? Ortiz tials like food and water and shelter, and HG: I think one thing that people should to think about people my age and even know was is that there is a lot more op- Robin Colberg is a project coordi- younger especially kids who don’t have portunities than you expect to have, I feel nator at the San Diego Rescue Mission. that, that kinda motivates me and that like as teenagers we feel like we’re limited During our interview, she was very kind pushes me to give those resources to peo- in our options just because a lot of us can’t and we could tell just how passionate she ple who need it, and also just as far as do- drive yet or we don’t have the means or was about her job at the mission. She was ing it through church is like I want to love resources to provide we can’t donate 5,000 offered a job by a friend, and considering on people and let people know that there is dollars to a charity we just dont, we arent that was interested in non-profit organi- more out there than just physical things. in that position. And so I think that people zations, this job was the perfect fit. Her IM: Alright wow, that’s very sweet of you. need to realize that there are a lot more experiences with homelessness have real- Alright so obviously you got this through opportunities than donating money just ly impacted her perspectives, and in her your church and your church does these by going and helping and by giving what eyes, changed her views on the common awesome volunteer opportunities. So talents and skills you have. Thats good stereotypes of the homeless population. when you were there building houses and enough and thats what people need and its Getting to have first hand experience doing your thing there. What would you helpful. with homelessness really does make an say stands out to you the most was there a IM: Why do you think that volunteer work impact-- which is why our work on this moment that just almost changed you, or is very important? project is important. was there someone? HG: Kind of like what I said before, it gives Walking down the narrow hall- HG: Yes there was someone, the last time you a perspective and thankfulness in your way of the San Diego Rescue Mission, I was there, there was a little girl named own life. But mostly because were all hu- a thought came through our minds: “Is Priscilla and her mom was paralyzed be- mans and thats part of life we all need to it possible to end homelessness? What cause of untreated diabetes so she was in help each other out we all need to become can we, the community members of San a wheelchair. So we had to build a house a community and I think it just comes Diego, do to make a difference?” By the that was wheelchair friendly so we had to down to if you were in that position what end of the interview, I was assured that a install a ramp and everything. The little would you want someone to do for you solution possible. Ms. Colberg deals with girl everyday that we woke up and came at and so it just goes with that. grants and direct mail that comes to the 7 in the morning she was all ready and she mission. The mission is kept afloat by the would run over and be like “Haley Haley!” hard work of heroes like Ms. Colberg as and the whole weekend I would hangout well as the generous support of the com- with her and talk to her in spanish and she munity that also believes homelessness is would always laugh at my “gringa” accent. possible to end. She would correct my conjugation, so she kind of made me see that she’s thankful for anything and that I should be thankful in E.O: So, what brought you to work here? any circumstance and a moment that kind R.C: Well, I was taking some time off of changed my perspective was when we from work, and I had always wanted to were getting ready to leave and we prayed work at a non-profit, especially at a faith- over the based non-profit. A friend of mine said, “I didn’t realize that you were looking for an opportunity, why don’t you come to the mission?” So, here I am. E.O: What specific things keep you moti- vated to keep working here? R.C: The people. The clients. And hearing looking at having less responsibilities, not I think the best way to prevent homeless- their stories. more, so I don’t care to climb the food ness, is to prevent child abuse and drug E.O: What is the most touching story chain either. use. you’ve ever heard? M.W: What is the importance of aware- M.W: Things that lead to homelessness... R.C: The one that Juliette told you about ness in San Diego? Some people are aware R.C: Exactly. Most of the people that end the lady who had been an alcoholic for of it but... up here, their parents were addicts, and nearly 50 years, that’s very touching. You R.C: They don’t know what to do. they were homeless. It’s just a vicious cycle know, when you hear that she finally re- M.W: Yeah, exactly. that perpetuates itself, because they don’t alized there was nothing more valuable in R.C: The best thing is to remember that know any other way to live. They don’t her life than a police officer’s business card, they are human, and to treat them that have the skills they need to get a job that thats kind of heartbreaking. way. Look them in the eye and say hel- pays well enough for them to be able to E.O: Yeah. lo. At the same time, realizing that 25% M.W: Definitely. of them are mentally ill and you want to R.C: It’s nice to know that were doing make sure that you’re safe. There’s also on something that’s going to help these people our website a video called five ways to help change their lives. a homeless person. There’s always things E.O: Absolutely, did you ever have person that you can provide for them, you know, to person contact with her? gift certificates to restaurants that don’t R.C: Yeah, just in passing, like today. serve alcohol, There was a young man here, who has E.O: With that, is there something that in the RCU unit when I first started. I you’ve ever done that you regret? Like, watched him go from being in a wheel- thinking of them in a certain way that chair, to walking again. He shattered most people stereotype them as. Have you several of the bones in his ankle. After ever been guilty of that yourself? being here for a year, I watched him just R.C: Yeah, definitely. But really before I walk away one day, rather than join the started working here. Since I started work- program. There is heartbreak as well as ing here, my husband always tells me he is Alyssa Isaaks, the Girl Who triumphs. a little worried because I will stop and talk M.W: So, What is the main focus of your to random people. And I never hesitate to Gives job, the most important aspect? ask them what their story is or why they By: Sophia Perez R.C: Direct mail. I handle the direct mail, are on the street. Because, thats going to and grants. I don’t usually write them, we tell you really quickly whether or not they Alyssa Isaaks is a student at High have a grant writer that we contract, but want to be there. Tech High Chula Vista who is a compet- I help pull the pieces together. The direct E.O: The project that were doing is about itive volleyball player and an excellent mail, we raised about three million dollars ending homelessness. Do you have any student. She has a gentle soul and a warm of our operating budget. I also work with input on ways that we can help end home- smile as she explains to me her experience the agency to make sure we like the pic- lessness to the fullest of our ability? as she volunteered at Saint Vincent de tures and the stories that they are telling. R.C: Well, there’s a couple different rea- Paul’s. Being a daughter to law enforce- M.W: Is there anything that you’ve had to sons behind homelessness. One, are you ment officers, she heard many cases deal- do on the job that was maybe out of your familiar with connections housing, the ing with the homeless. She always heard comfort zone, or something you haven’t renovation they did at the world trade about cases involving the homeless break- done before? center building on 6th Avenue? ing the laws, but she wanted to know what R.C: The first time I sat with a client and E.O: No. life was like for them. Needless to say, she listened to them tell their story. That was M.W: No. felt happy to help the homeless and even a little uncomfortable. That, and giving a R.C: It’s called a housing first model. And felt completely changed after our class trip tour. That and being the one on the other after the United Way looked at those to St. Vincent’s. side of the table and answering the ques- patients who have been using the E.R. the When I first asked her if I could tions. most, they targeted the next set of people. interview her, she was very willing to tell M.W: Is there any other positions within After there is top 25 that were most likely what she experienced. Like many people, the organization that seem interesting or to die on the streets, they went to the next the experience of actually meeting and something else you might want to try? level of people, those went to the connec- working with the people who suffer from R.C: No, fundraising is fun, because we homelessness changed her views, and gave get to see the clients and hear all the heart- her more compassion. warming stories. There is not to much negative to it, and we get to interact with fun people like yourselves. You know, to SP: So, why did you volunteer? actually be in program stuff and to interact AI: The reason I volunteered at the home- with those people and hear their issues I lessness shelter is because right now, we’re think would be very depressing. And I am working on a project in my class about also old enough that I am homelessness. SP: Okay. really did honor my service. AI: And I wanted to get a different per- volunteered they said that we did a really SP: That’s really nice. So last question: spective of homelessness and really like get good job and they were just very happy what’s one thing you learned while you to experience and see what they did and that we were there. They were grateful that volunteered, if there’s one thing you could looked like and how they acted because we would step up and do something that take away from the experience? they are less fortunate than all of us. we don’t usually do. AI: Um, one thing I could take away is SP: Okay. SP: Yeah, that’s really nice. So, when was that not all the homeless people are the AI: So they will probably have a different this that you volunteered? same. I-from just like-from my parents perspective of things. AI: I volunteered actually I think it was being police officers and them having SP: Alright. So, what struck you while you in October, beginning of October when calls with homeless people and all the bad volunteered? we went for community service day and I things, I’ve heard they’ve done like drugs AI: Um, one thing that struck me while went to the San Diego Rescue Mission with and all this bad stuff-but these people were I volunteered is that when they asked for my advisory because Miss Angie is my actually taking the time to get better and people to pray, there was this one guy that advisor, too. change. So I just didn’t think there was go- like jumped up and shouted that he want- SP: What did you enjoy most when you ing to be so many wanting to change their ed to and like it was surprising because, he volunteered? lives and like hit the restart button. That’s stepped up and like he was so excited to AI: I enjoyed seeing all the gentlemen’s what shocked me the most. like pray in front of like, seventy five peo- happy faces because they just seemed very SP: I think whenever I volunteered, that ple. So... pleased that there is people wanting to also would be my response because seeing SP: That’s crazy. help them because they’ve been through all these people, they’re all really nice and AI: Yeah. some times, and a lot of people do try to like they’re saying please and thank you. SP: I don’t remember ever seeing that, and help them but then some people don’t care It’s a great thing. I’ve been to like avenas and like did prayer about them. I just enjoyed like helping out AI: Yeah, it is. We’re just so lucky. groups. someone for a change instead of people AI: Yeah, he just seemed very excited and always helping me. like he was holding a Bible in his hand, SP: Yup. I think whenever I went to go and then when I was working behind the help, that was one of the best things I en- food station, when he came up to me, he joyed because seeing all of them happy and was like very polite and said, “God bless saying, “You know, Thank you so much.” you and your family. Have a good day and Was like just.. that hope the holidays are gonna be good.” AI: Yeah, it’s better to give than receive. SP: So what did you do while you volun- SP: So what were your first thoughts on teered? volunteering before you arrived? AI: I was working behind the like the food AI: Well I had to wake up really early counter and I was um putting hot dogs which I wasn’t really happy about and once on a tray and then I was putting stew and I got there, I was kinda like in a position then I handed it to the gentleman, and he that I wanted to help out but at the same would-most of them would say, “Thank time, I just didn’t feel like motivated to you,” and like they were very polite and cause it was my first time at a homeless that’s pretty much all I did. But then, also shelter so I didn’t know what to expect. So, the other half of my class was upstairs but then, as soon as like the lady, like the Roman Marko: A Voice From working on other things and there’s only head lady- she like talked to us and gave us Slovakia on four of us from class working in the a tour I kinda felt more comfortable but I kitchen. was still scared on how like the homeless By: Alan Verduzco SP: So it was kinda like, “here you’re going were going to react because I didn’t know. to do this and here you stay”. Each homeless person is different. I wanted to interview Roman Mar- AI: Yeah, we had stations. SP: Kinda like us. ko, an exchange student here at High Tech SP: What were some of the reactions the AI: Yeah, you just didn’t know what you’re High Chula Vista, because I wondered homeless had when you volunteered? going to get. what he was thinking about our project, AI: Um,so the guy in charge said like right SP: Yeah, so did your points of view change our current problem of homelessness in before they came to us to give us our-right afterwards? America and also about our school and before they came to us, they’re like, “Just AI: Yes it definitely did. The reason it did projects in general. I was really interested to let you know, please give a big thank is because I thought homeless people were on what kind of input he had for us. It is you to High tech High Chula Vista be- going to be like greedy and they’re going also very valuable information since it is cause they’re serving you today,” and then to want to take all the food they want and unique and doesn’t usually come around we all got a big round of applause which they weren’t going to say, “Please or thank very often. I have become relatively close was really cool and then um, the reactions you or have a good day” but then I thought friends with Roman and doing a serious I guess, like they just seemed very happy I was just going to be like there serving interview in the office was kind of awk- that we were volunteering for them. Even food, but instead, I felt like I was really ward and we would laugh every now and though a lot of people welcomed and that they really did honor then. my service. He often tells me a lot about his home RM: It was something special for me be- to worry, they don’t want to change like, country and how much different it is. In the cause it was the first time that I saw the they wanna live like right now. interview, I learned that Roman likes our homeless individuals like a big group, a big AV: But, here’s the thing; before you school, and our project. It seems he thinks family. I mean, they are people that are the helped homeless people, you had a differ- that this has been valuable to learn about same as us. They have life stories. I mean, it ent view on them like if they were people and help others and, in the interview, ariana was something special for me because every who were lazy and didn’t want to work. So shares his views on the differences between single one of these people has one different when it comes to gypsies, don’t you think the homeless in America and the homeless life story which is really interesting but it’s there might be some story behind them or in his home country of Slovakia. I learned also really sad I think. And it was really in- something like that? a lot about homelessness and people’s ideas teresting to talk to them about their stories RM: I don’t think so because they have about it in other countries, which sheds and why did they end up like this. been living like that for hundreds of years. light on our current problems and the ste- AV: So you are saying, according to what It’s not like a new trend there is. They reotypes we deal with here in America. you have said, homeless are nicer here than really don’t want to change. People always in Slovakia? offered them a lot of jobs, but they don’t AV: What were your first thoughts about RM: I mean it’s different. Here it’s just all want to work, they are lazy. homelessness? people who have just bad luck. They might RM: Like my opinion? Or my first impres- be educated, they might have worked be- sion when I got here? fore, everything. They are like regular peo- AV: Your opinion about homelessness. ple but, in Slovakia, they are different be- RM: I didn’t really.. I have never really cause, gypsies they don’t wanna study, they thought about this problem and I usually don’t wanna work. They just want to use just saw individuals, homeless individu- the social system to make money they just als in the streets asking for money and I have children and get money from the state thought everywhere it was common like because of their children they don’t want to there’s no way really to help them. I’ve never work. been thinking about it deeply. AV: So, when you were helping the home- AV: What were your thoughts in the begin- less people, what kind of people did you ning? encounter? Like, what were their stories? RM: I just thought maybe they were people RM: I don’t exactly remember but, for ex- with bad luck. I don’t know I’ve never been ample I think there was one man who had thinking about it. a family and wife and they got divorced and AV: Is there homelessness in Slovakia? she took all of his money, so that was his RM: Yes. story. He used to work really hard like, a AV: How different is homelessness different normal life. That was all that happened, and from here? it ended in a life like this. RM: I think it’s much more different be- AV: Would you think of this experience as a Nick Hernandez: A Young cause the most of the population over there valuable experience? Generous Student is gypsies and no one really cares about RM: Yeah, I think it’s really valuable be- them because they usually do the bad cause we can better understand the home- By: Emiliano Arce things like they are stealing a lot and no one less population and find solutions and it is really wants to help them because, if they I reached out to a very well known really important because everyone, like, no classmate which I know he had a really really wanted to change, they’d do it but one deserves this life. We should try to help they don’t wanna they just want money and good involvement and first time acquain- them because they are people just like us tance with homelessness which made me that’s all. but they just have bad luck. AV: What is the background of the gypsies? more eager to hear about his experience. AV: So, you think your opinion on home- I was really happy to interview my class- RM: The background of the gypsies are, lessness just changed dramatically? like, it’s too complicated, like, they’re using mate, Nick Hernandez, because he is Cath- RM: Yeah. Yeah! It really changed. It was olic and I am as well. I felt we could really the social system because, as many children my first time talking to homeless people they have, they are getting paid so it means relate and understand how it feels to help and I was surprised in a good way. I was the most needy people in our society. We like a lot of children they get a lot of money, happy that this happened to me. income from the state, from the govern- also know each other really well and I was AV: So if you were to talk to a gypsy in Slo- really happy to hear his story and experi- ment. So they’re using their children to get vakia, what do you think it would be like? money so no one wants to help them. ences of how he contributed to reach out RM: It would be like, uh, “is there money?” to the homeless community. AV: Um, when you went to the homeless “n o”. shelters how did you feel like? More in the background of Nick AV: So they’re just money people? That’s it? Hernandez he is a person that cares of the RM: Yeah because they are not good, they situation currently going on. Someone don’t want to worry, they don’t want who is aware of the community around him, and mostly is aware of the homeless people of San Diego. Through the inter- view, I learned that Nick not only loves helping others, but that after this project, he hopes to continue helping people at homeless shelters. I learned that Nick, like many other vol- work. He also mentioned that he was a struggling just for food. unteers in our community, is a hero. He literature teacher and that he was born in EA: Would you go back during your own doesn’t just go to the shelters to do the job; Bolivia. He said that he knows six languag- time? he actually goes and interacts with all the es which I found really interesting. This NH: I do think I will go back , wait no homeless people because he knows that makes you think how bad it is when a per- I know I will go back because it feels so each of one of them is suffering from a sit- son loses everything despite been educated good to just help out this people by just uation that is not fair and he wants to help but not due to thema doing something help them eat another day, helping them in any way he can. bad. have shelter another day and I really en- EA: What was the best experiences you joyed it even maybe in the future to be EA: What did you imagine before getting had? part of an organization similar to this. there? NH: It was when I was in the kitchen pre- NH: Well first of all I didn’t imagine the paring the food like the fish and putting homeless to be exactly happy or so excit- away the tortillas. Even something as sim- ed to be there. I thought the opposite. I ple as that made me feel really as a good thought they were going to be dull and person and that I was doing something boring. Angry people who want nothing to good for these people. do with anyone else, but that was not the EA: What did you think of the system of case. Everyone there was happy to be there the San Diego Rescue Mission? and they always said hi and smiled, said NH: San Diego Rescue Mission really thank you and had very good manners. helps a lot of people out I didn’t think I believed too much in stereotypes and there was a building this big that serves I learned never to trust any stereotypes homeless people. Not only did they pro- about anyone. Especially stereotypes about vide them with a place to sleep there but the homeless people. they help out the homeless by motivating EA: What was your job while you were them. there[St. Vincent de Paul] and did you EA: What was the story that made your enjoy it? day? NH: When we got there we all got different NH: I remember the lady that was giving Homelessness Interview: Jess jobs to work on and I actually liked the job the tour told us that every day she saw Evan Harris I worked on. My job was helping prepare this little energetic kid that when he would By: Gerry Carrillo the food, and oil the tray for the fish. It felt leave he would say see you tomorrow. She really good to help out. Doing something liked the little kid very much but she didn’t I had a great opportunity to sit and good for these people. I also saw how like when he said that because she wanted talk with my classmate Evan “Jess” Harris. much they appreciated us for being there him to leave and have a life of a normal Jess is your average teenager. He is a junior which felt pretty good. child. at High Tech High Chula Vista. He swims EA: What did you learn from this day by EA: How did you grow in your personal and runs competitively, works hard to get helping homeless people? value? good grades, and has his mind on college NH: I learned so many things it complete- NH: I realized that these homeless peo- and the SAT. But, what I learned through ly changed my perspective on how I used ple are not people just out there and don’t the interview, is that Jess is much more to think about them and how I think about matter. They actually matter and they do than that. He is also a caring person who them now. I’m also really aware now how make a difference. You might not see it but wants to find ways to learn about and help the homeless situation is in San Diego and they do, they’re out in the street every day homeless people. that we need to help out and make these risking their life just to get a little food. As we walked into the cold, semi-lit people feel good. I also learned that we EA: So this is something that was really room. I arranged a few chairs for us to sit need to be thankful for what we have. Even impacted your life right. in. We glanced over the questions nodded the smallest things just like your shoes and NH: Yes. I believe everyone should real- in acknowledgement of the task ahead. His clothes. ly be thankful for what they have; their feet tapped to a beat that was in his head EA: What type of system of work were you shoes, their clothes, their home, food, to hear, as we situated ourselves. Jess is a in; the individual or family? everything because the little things matter wonderful friend, college, and partner and NH I was in the individual system which I by a lot. There are many people wishing I am happy to be sharing this little snippet really liked. to have that for their families or for them- over the impact of the project. EA: Did you communicate with any home- selves. Appreciate the shoes on your feet, less people? your clothes in your bag, the food on the GC-What is the homelessness project you NH: Yes there was this one homeless table even if its just rice and beans. Appre- and your classmates are working on? man. When I was taking a break I started ciate everything because this people are JEH- So the homelessness project is the talking to this man and he started talking students being lead by Angie Guerrero about how he was trying to find where we are interviewing people who are trying to make a difference in our culture and in our society of how we perceive and how we treat homeless people. And we are trying to find a solution of that on the local level first, and possibly expanding their lives. They just need to try and a lot lower than that they are in a lower social that. To the county, or the city, or the of them are trying. I heard there is a two level than we are and or whatnot. You state. But we are going to start in our local month waiting list to get into St. Vin- know what I mean? corner in San Diego and we are going to cent de Paul’s. My perspective has mainly slowly spread out. changed because I actually got to sit down GC- Who and what are you trying to im- and talk to them, when society usually pact? permits me to separate myself from those JEH- My opinion differs from what a lot people. of people might think but, I think we are GC-What is something that you remember not trying to impact the homeless people vividly from this experience? directly. I think we are trying to impact the JEH- I remember sitting down and talking public. Later yes, the homeless people will to a man at the shelter. Now, this guy, he feel the effects of what we are going to. If has been in the shelter for about a week. we impact the public in the correct way, He seemed very nice. He had an inter- we can change their perspectives of the less esting background. He was into some fortunate people without homes. And if gambling and drug addiction in the past, we succeed in that, then we will effect the which is why he was in the shelter and why homeless. I think our first goal is to change he was there at that time. He said some- the perspective of the public. thing that I am probably going to remem- GC- Do you have a solution to homeless- ber for a while. He looked at me right in ness right now? the eye and he said, “I am truly thankful Deborah Krakauer: Changing JEH- I think that right now the best that for y’all. You guys are working so much One Life at a Time we can do is stuff that is going to be like St. harder than any volunteers I’ve seen here By: Alicia Randolph and Paola Vincent de Paul’s. We just need maybe a have and you are a God sent gift to us all.” lot more of that because I think what they That was all he said. I don’t know why, Guerrero had there was a good society. A good thing but I guess it was just pretty good to hear Painting: Alicia Randolph and Sierra going there. The people there were happy, that I was actually making a difference in Green were looking for jobs, they had food on someone’s life. Rather than it was just me their plate, clothes to wear, a bed to sleep talking to him or getting a plate for him. My humanities class at High Tech in, and that is exactly what we want to I mean things we take for granted by just High Chula Vista is doing a project on happen with the homeless population. To sitting there and waiting for someone to homelessness. Our goal is to educate the give them a chance to become part of our take our food at the restaurant or bring us community and our school about home- society. And I think that that is probably a drink without us asking. Yeah. lessness, learn more about the issue our- our best shot. Is slowly getting them back GC-What is the takeaway from that expe- selves, and what we can do to reduce it. to become contributors to this society. rience? One of the key parts of our project is find- GC- How has your perspective changed JEH- I guess I am going to become slightly ing a person to interview that has a role in since the project has started? more appreciative for and grateful I guess the community that works with or around JEH- My perspective has mainly changed for what I have. Just everything about it homeless people. I was very fortunate to about the actual people who are homeless. actually.. because something so small can interview the lovely Deborah Krakauer, Now, I never thought as them all as just impact someone so much who isn’t nor- who works as the volunteer coordinator lazy people. I knew that they were going mally used to this. It’s just stuff that we do and manager at the San Diego Rescue Mis- to have mental health problems or drug daily. That.. they are not fortunate enough sion. problems. But what I didn’t know was that to have. We think its always going to be Deborah has worked as a volunteer they had deep down in them the moti- there for us.. when it’s not. coordinator at various places, but started vation to change, to get better. That they GC-Would you recommend this kind of working at the Rescue Mission about two were just waiting for the opportunity to service and why? years ago. I chose to interview her because arise to do such a thing. JEH- I would recommend this because I I was very amazed at the presentation Let me use an example of someone I talk- believe that this experience for people who and tour she gave my class of the Rescue ed about earlier as an example. I talked to are there because they want to be there. Mission. Deborah is a very passionate and a guys at St. Vincent’s and I mean he was People who want to volunteer because not hard working woman, and that’s just the gambling the whole time and drinking for college hours, or not because they were drive it takes to tackle an issue as big as alcohol every day. Spending the money forced to be there. I recommend this for homelessness. Deborah and I were unable he had left over from gambling on alco- the people who are self motivated to go to meet in person for the interview- due hol. He didn’t eat, he didn’t have a place to because it will be a humbling experience to busy schedules- so we did it over the sleep because.. well, he was out of money. for them. They will come to meet gems phone. He saw that in himself. He saw where he of people who are hidden in our society. was going. He changed. He’s sober, he’s not That we walk by and we don’t necessarily gambling. I believe that homeless who are make eye contact with or talk to because in the right mind, can change we think they are PG: So what made you want to work here? your job? been working here for two years right? What inspired you? DK: (sigh) DK: Mhhm DK: No I... Probably not the... It was luck PG: Alot? PG: What do you think people in San that brought me here. I was here as tem- DK: Time, money, the having to say I don’t Diego should know about the rescue mis- porarily replacement for someone and she need you, that I don’t have a position for sion? was away on family leave and uhh they someone right now. That’s the hard part. DK: As the sign says in the ahh multi needed someone for a couple of months People calling in I think there is a lot of purpose room. The lives change here the and that was fine because I wanted to work people that want to work with children. differences we make. That there is a lot with volunteers and that’s what I wanted to PG: Yeah. of long term helps the people to become do. And uhh it sounded like a good cause DK: And to realize saying we only have productive members of society. In addition and I knew the person that had the job thirty children in the year long program to the shelter. before me. That does not sound and then not all of them need tutors. I don’t need PG: So everything is for good. it changed into just something that was two hundred tutors. (laughed). So that DK: Everything is for good and there are two years ago and I can’t even imagine not thing. I think its just peoples ideas of who many ways that you can support us. working here now. we are and how much help we need here PG: What is something people in San Di- PG: Because it was for only a couple of but its a good problem to have.(laughed) ego should know about homeless in gener- months and it turned into longer. PG: Its better to have more volunteers than al? DK: It turned into that and I sincerely the necessary. DK: The sheer numbers. The how many hope this is where I retire from when I de- DK: I..Than to be out. I work on commit- are on the streets because there is no place cide I don’t want to work anymore because tees with other people that literally always for them. The number of women and chil- I can’t imagine not being here. saying we need volunteers and are always dren that its not just men. Whatever that PG: What is the best part of your job? going.. Who do you recruit from? How stereotypical you know on the sidewalk DK: Amm the people that want to come do you find people? I am saying that’s not with a sign. That it’s families and its people and help. I take calls all day long from my problem people come to us. It’s a cause that didn’t intend to be in this position. people that want to volunteer, that want that means so much to people that just That are just fighting day by day to get out to give money, who want to see if they can want to make a difference. of it. run a drive you know bring them clothes PG: Is there any inspiring moment or like PG: Yeah because everyone just thinks its bring them whatever. That just want to story that you..? guys holding up a poster and no theres is help in any way shape or form. So or give DK: (interrupted my question and an- children. a tour to someone that wants to find out swered) Probably the success stories that DK: That’s it and there were three children about it. How can that not be wonderful I was talking about before. Just the gradu- that were born to moms who were in are thats what I do and thats the good part ates of the program that they’ve been thru. year long program last year. As earlier they of it. The frustrating part is not having Where they are now of you know coming were saying Dakota is either three or four enough to offer to people and the having out here as staff members. Just some won- months old now and two others before to say no I don’t need someone right now. derful stories that kind of show the.. that. And I think the year before that there Which is kind of the frustrating part like PG: The changes in their lives ? were four and how wonderful the blessing the holiday meal. Saying “I know you want DK: The changes the childhoods that peo- that we are here because I can’t imagine to help out but we are full thankyou can ple have had. The addictions they’ve over- giving birth and not knowing where you you help on another day.” come the violence the everything. And are are going to live with a child.(laughed) So PG: So you get a lot of calls everyday. now just are out there are working and are uhh fortunately we have an amazing staff DK: I do specially at this time of year supporters of the mission. Just wonderful an amazing group of supporters and an because there are people that..there are stories. amazing group of volunteers that help out either people that think of volunteering of PG: How do you prepare yourself mentally every day. giving back or making a difference every like to hear all the stories and to see all the PG: Mmm to sum everything up what is day or there are people that only think of people? something people can do to like help out it during the holidays. And I am blessed DK: I and I would say I do not see as many The Rescue Mission? to work with people that any time call as others. In some respects thats a frustra- DK: Ahh give money, bring in used items and say what can I do. But others that just tion for me. I I work on the administrative for our thrift stores all proceeds go to our say I only help one day a week or a year law and I tell stories and I meet clients and mission, talk about it. They say we are one and if you don’t need help in Thanksgiv- residents here but I don’t do it forty hours of the best kept secrets in town that peo- ing mmm. Thats the hard part cuz we are a week. So I think I probably have a little ple don’t know that we are here. There are kind of just talking to a lot of people that bit of a break from it that other people so many different programs Fathers Joes just want to do something just that one might not have. My heart goes out to uhh others working to solve this problem and day. But we are here and there’s homeless how someone can forty hours a week that’s that amm we are not here just for the hol- and homeless eat and homeless need help everything they are dealing with. I get a idays we are here year round. And that we every day of the year. break from it every now and then. will come out and talk to any group about PG: What is the most challenging part of PG: Amm. How long..ohh you said you’ve it.(laughed) PG: So they can do anything basically. DK: I have kids from the troops that call and say can I run a blanket drive and bring it in and do a tour can I bring AE: On a regular basis, I’m not sure. Two Vista, and our group is call “Gives hope” in toys for kids. I have church groups, key and a half years maybe. Maybe two years. I and then we rotated it with other groups clubs others that say can I come in and forget when we started. on supporting the weekends on Saturdays. volunteer. Or can I come in and do a sock RM: How do you feel when you are help- RM: Please can you tell us what do you drive. ing them, and serving to them? do, what is your job? How do you help the PG: Everything is welcome. AE:Depends on the weekend, sometimes homeless population? DK: Everything is just thinking of what you feel like you are making a difference; AE: There’s two things, one is just trying can be done to help. A lot of it is small some of the people, the regular homeless to meet some of the physical needs so stuff. Just think of if your feet are cold and guy, they’re making progress. Sometimes you’re there to volunteer to go bring water, you’re homeless during the winter you’re it gets frustrating because there’s this guys and food, and to help set up to the logis- cold socks. Everything is just thinking of who has made a lot of progress, and he’s tics to setting up some food for them. An- what can be done to help. been sober for weeks, but then he shows other thing apart of this administry is to up drunk, but he’s out there, he’s out there help spread the word of God, we have an wanting to listen to the word of God, awesome pastor basically from the streets, which is you know, we’re not going to so he can relate to experiences with the change him, he has addictions, and we just homeless so he is able to give the message pray that God will be able to touch him and my other role, or other roles for the and give him services and other help that volunteers is also to try and get to know will help him to get out of the streets. But the homeless rather than knowing them sometimes it’s not all good because frus- as someone you got to feed or give clothes tration is sometimes caring about some- to it’s to build relations to and to care for body and seeing them fail. That’s just the who they are and try to understand issues harsh life on the street. they had that brought them out to the RM: Okay, okay so for those two years streets and why they’re stuck there. Some doing this job, you know the people, you of these guys have a lot of addictions, and know the homeless people you are helping, you know you see some of them going so we can say you are close to them, right? into church and out in the park, they’re AE: I would say for my personality, I drunk or high on something so you gotta wouldn’t get close to all of them, but there love them even if they’re addicted or they would be a hand full of them that I would Adel Espineli- Church Without have issues and that’s what’s causing them understand who they are, you know, how to be there, so you got to pray for them Walls and Prejudice they got there, you know, how their par- and support them and not enable them to By: Roman Marko ent situation is, their home life, school. So keep going the way they’re going. yeah, I would know them and call them by RM: Why did you decide to help these Adel Espineli has been for two years their first name, and understand who they people? Just because you want to be a bet- volunteering for the organization Church are, yes. ter person or because you’re religious? Without Walls, which is helping the home- RM: They told us, they told you their story AE: Um, at first yeah, it was apart of our less population. One of the activities of to you, right? church’s organized small groups and this this organization is serving food during AE: Yes. couples group that we have been talking the lunch time after the church service is RM: Can you choose the one most inter- about ‘what would have been good” I done. The usual place for the services in esting or one that struck you most? think it was a few Thanksgivings and San Diego is the Balboa Park. AE: Um, probably the best ones was the Christmases that we’d be volunteering for Mr. Espineli is a hard working man, with a successful story of uh, his name was Joel feeding the homeless; we’ve done that be- big family and whom personal life is ev- Prythore, um, he’s from the south. He’s fore at a shelter, and we decided ‘lets go do erything but not boring. I chose Mr. Es- probably- what struck me was that he was something more’, so we decided “Church pineli for the interview, because I consider my age. Being on the streets for a little Without Walls”. I think it was somebody’s him a hero of this community, he decided bit; you look at him and then you look at son, I think Ed’s son volunteered first to spend his free time and energy to help me, he looks like ten to fifteen years old- and told us about it and was excited. So homeless population. He is not a selfish er cause no care, losing some teeth, the at first it was, you know, ‘hey try to feel person and his acts prove that. In this harshness of the sun, just you know, tans good about yourself during Christmas interview Mr. Espineli tells us more about and weathers your skin; it just looks rough. and Thanksgiving which is to help others’ his volunteering job. But he was out there, and we tried to help which is great, but it evolved to more than him, one of the things we tried to get for RM: Would you tell us something about that, not just for Christmas or Thanksgiv- him was a job. So a couple of weekends, we the organization, you are volunteering for? ing or just Easter, we’re trying to provide spent some time with him filling out appli- AE: Church Without Walls’ is part of a... support and love every weekend, I guess. cations online, and he was very good about the Rock Church, and it’s a outreach ad- RM: For how long have you been volun- sharing Christ and believing, and was truly ministration for the homeless and then it’s teering for this? a part of a church I go to, which is Eastlake making effort, even though his teeth got Church. Small room, small group of cou- him a job driving ples starting helping with Rock Church, and then we created our own group to service the people in Chula a truck delivering or selling meat. That was AD: I noticed that you are located at the okay, but he wasn’t making a whole bunch Chula Vista Police Department, but you of money, or some days he wouldn’t make work with South Bay Community Ser- any money, but at least he was out there vices. Why do you work here instead of trying, and the successful thing about that, over there with them? is that everybody has been out there pray- AS: Well, that’s a great question. So, I am ing for him, and one time he was praying employed by South Bay Community Ser- and he got a message from God saying you vices, but um, I oversee our family vio- know what, you gotta go back, and I think lence programs which includes, um a shel- he was from North Carolina or South ter for the domestic violence victims and Carolina, you gotta go back. It was kin- their children as well as homeless families. da strange because he hasn’t had contact And so, um, we are stationed here, we have with family in a while, and he was about some staff here and the Chula Vista Police to leave and go hitch-hiking back. But the Department, and we have other staff at the team and the family and organization, was National City Police Department because able to raise money, and they were able to we work really close with the officers if send him back on a bus or a plane, I think Amaris Sanchez: A Helping there’s a 911 call involving domestic vio- it was probably a bus, but they sent him Hand For Those In Need lence. back, and later on through contact and By: Ariana Delucchi AD: Do you ever go on scene with them if facebook and cell-phone calls, we found you receive the 911 call? out that even though he didn’t have con- When I was first told of Amaris San- AS: Yes, so we have advocates who will go tact, one of these things, because it’s only a chez, I didn’t quite know what to expect. out and meet the police officers. God’s thing, when he came back, nobody She was referred to me by Alison Ramsay. AD: So do you only work with South Bay knew he was coming back so shortly after When I pulled up to the Chula Vista Po- Community Services, or do you work with he came back, somebody was looking for lice Department, I was extremely nervous. other organizations as well? him, and no one knows that he left or had Police departments in general make me AS: Well, I am employed by South Bay, so I a job for him, so it’s one of those things quite nervous, but I reminded myself that only work with them. that who could have plan this, and he was I was simply there for an interview. I spent AD: What does your average day look like, starting to thrive here, and survive on the the first couple of minutes prepping for on a day to day basis? streets and having a prayer answered and the interview, scribbling down the final- AS: Umm, it really varies. Um, I try to split he’s out there following that prayer. You ized questions since I had arrived a few my days between my shelter and our team know, trusting God, and it comes into minutes early. Once the clock struck 12, I over here. At the shelter, we have about 17 fruition, and comes into reality, that it was called Amaris and notified her that I had families living there, on average between the right thing. So that’s probably the most arrived. She cheerily stated that she’d be 17-20 families. So we could be talking to obvious influence of, you know, what God right over in a couple minutes. I thanked families about how they’re doing at the does, that’s a thing I’ve been trying to help her and went inside to wait to conduct the program, different resources, anything these guys if he would have tried go and interview. Amaris glided into the office, they might need for healthcare or jobs, or he could have probably hitched-hiked, and welcomed me into the passageways other housing opportunities. We have a that’s how he got to San Diego. He was which eventually led to her office. hotline that people ring into our shelter so hitch-hiking in Texas and went up north Amaris Sanchez is a part of the ded- people can call to see if there is any avail- to Minnesota, and then he eventually icated staff at the South Bay Community ability in our shelter, so we have hotlines. migrated his was way out here. So he was Service programs for homeless victims AD: And how would you describe the able to do that, but it was nice to have him of domestic violence. She is usually seen people that you work with or that you see out here and then have him try to listen either in her office, or out in the shelter in those shelters? to what God tells him what to do. That’s working with the victims. She first became AS: We work exclusively with families, so what we have all been trying to do because interested in working with the homeless they would have to be a mom with kids, we started out with this administry, we when she was working with nonprofit or- or a dad with kids, or a mom and a dad never had any deals with the homeless, it ganizations in college. She now thanks her with kids. Every family has very different was us just helping out, we didn’t know family for instilling into her the belief that circumstances that bring them to us, really what we were doing, God was just calling to see a positive change in the world, you varied. I really don’t know if there is just us to be out there. In the first few weeks must first create change yourself. Although one way of describing families. I mean, we out there, we were just trying to share out she does not believe homelessness will had people who have never been homeless God’s word, no formal pastor, but within a officially end, she believes that if people before, and we have people people who month, it was probably two months, reg- take the time out of their day to just talk have been homeless for 4 years. ularly, a pastor came in, riding his motor- to the homeless, they will realize that the AD: So, how do you think those people cycle and said “Hey, I heard you guys were homeless, too, are people just like them. feel about being homeless since you stat- doing this thing,” and we said “Hey, do you Perhaps slightly down on their luck, but ed that there were some people who have want to preach today?” people should still search for the humanity been homeless more than once, but that of others and lend a helping hand. there are also people who have never been perpetrators? went to college where you realized that homeless? I would imagine that they are AS: So our program is only for victims and you wanted to work with nonprofits that scared out of their minds if they are home- their children. There is another program at dealt with the homeless? Did you parents less for the first time in their life! our agency that does provide counselling ever bring you to shelters, or tell you about AS: Yeah, I think that folks that are may- to people who have been identified by law them, or...? be first time homeless feel really over- enforcement officers or courts to be guilty AS: No, I started actually working in whelmed, they’re not sure what steps they of domestic violence. And so we do have college for an environmental agency, an need to take to get back on their feet. They a program where people are mandated environmental nonprofit. And then I was can be embarrassed, they can be depressed by the court to participate in the 52 week offered a position that was working with about the situation. group counselling program. youth who lived in public housing, and AD: And what about the people who are AD: Wow, 52 weeks, that’s a long time! when I was working that job I really felt homeless yet again? What do they do in the 52 week program, a strong connection to working with the AS: Um, they can have some of the same if you happen to know? kids and you could really see the effect on feelings, or not. There are some people AS: It is basically a support group, and it is them and how I made a difference in the who are very comfortable working with run by a therapist. And so they look at why community to the people there. the systems, they’re a little bit more use to people choose to treat others disrespect- AD: Why does homelessness matter to receiving public assistance, so they may be fully, why are they making choices like you, and why should it matter to anyone just used to agencies for relying on help. that to hurt other people. They talk a lot else then? AD: Why do you think that they rely on about accountability. Like, oh she makes AS: Homelessness I think is a very in- agencies for help? me angry, so I have to hit her. And kind teresting issue, there isn’t really an easy AS: Uh, I think that there are a lot of dif- of refocusing that to no one makes you answer to fixing it, and there is not one ferent reasons, I think that there are some feel anything you don’t have control over. easy answer to explain it. So I like trying people who come from families with So you have control over your choices, to figure that out. And I think that peo- intergenerational poverty, and so it may you have control over your language, you ple should care about it because it really seem that all that they know is to receive have control over your own body as far as comes down to how we as a society think public entitlements such as welfare and whether you hit someone or you don’t hit that others should be treated. food stamps, and they don’t have very high someone. So that’s one of the big focuses of AD: Why do you think that people have a expectations of themselves. And they may the program. They also talk about the ef- negative view towards the homeless? For not have a lot of motivation to make sig- fects of domestic violence on children. So example, we do some people just look at nificant changes to their situation. when children witness domestic violence, the homeless in disgust and tell them to AD: I think it’s kind of strange how some- abuse in their home, when they see one get a job or things of the sort? one could get use to living in that type of person being violent with another person, AS: I think that it’s scary for some people lifestyle, but I do know of some people there are physiological changes that hap- to see another person at the absolute rock who prefer it that way. For example, when pen in a childs brain when they grow up in bottom of society. And maybe it’s scary be- I visited St. Vincent De Paul’s, I spoke to that type of home. cause people think that that could maybe a man who preferred to be on the streets. AD: And what is the success rate of the that could happen to them, or maybe it’s What do you think of the people who people who change through that 52 week scary because it’s not something that they prefer to be on the streets? Whether it be program? could very easily understand. because they’re comfortable, or they can’t AS: I believe that they have a pretty good AD: Have you ever thought about what be housed, or...? success rate, people can always be dis- you would do if you suddenly became AS: Yeah, so I think some of our older charged from the program if they are not homeless? homeless folks are also some of the ones actively participating. AS: Sure, I think it is perfectly normal to who have significant mental health issues, AD: So did you always want to be what put yourself in other people’s shoes. It’s and are really difficult to house because you are? Or did you want to have anoth- important to remember that these people they don’t really want to follow the rules, er career, but then you decided that you had jobs, and they use to be in the service, and they really want to make their own wanted to do this? and they use to have family members that decisions about how they live their day- AS: I started with nonprofits in college, cared about them, and I think a majori- to-day life, which might be to for them to and I’ve always wanted to do something ty of the homeless are people that at one not be on medication if they’re suppose to that has a positive impact on the commu- point had things together. be on medication, or to abuse substances, nity. AD: Do you believe there will ever be an so yeah there are a lot of different reasons. AD: And why is that? end to homelessness? Or is there any way You usually see them as single homeless AS: It was just part of my upbringing. AD: that it could be reduced? folks, not so much families, because fam- And how would you explain your upbring- AS: Well, the president of our country has ilies usually want to have somewhere for ing, if you don’t mind me asking? been challenging a lot of federal agencies their kids to be stable. AS: I think there was always an expecta- to end homelessness by I believe 2015. So AD: So just to clarify, you work with the tion that we would contribute in a positive apparently, he thinks that that could hap- victims of domestic abuse, not the actual way. pen. I think that there are some things that AD: Were you always interested in the could be put into place that could help, but homeless, or did you just start when you I don’t believe there is sufficient funding to end this particular issue. AD: Do you believe that it could be solved AS: Yeah, I mean once you get to know AS: I think that anything that helps people by 2015? families, you want the best for them and to be able to identify and articulate what AS: No, there’s really not the money being you can see the potential in them. but in they deserve and what they need is a posi- put towards the issue to make it happen. the end, you really have to realize that ev- tive thing. Housing is very expensive. It is extremely ery family is going to make their own de- AD: What do you think of the people who expensive to house people for free. For our cisions, and that I can only make decisions argue that that bill would make them more shelter, just to run a 12 apartment shelter, for myself and my particular family. accustomed to the homeless lifestyle, and costs us about $2 million a year. AD: Do you ever follow up with families? those who are living in nicer neighbor- AD: Why is the cost so high? AS: Well, they usually stay with us for hoods but have homeless living near them, AS: You have to pay for the building to about 2-4 months, and they may move or outside their property in a car? keep people in, and we own our building on to the longer term programs so they’re AS: I think that the person who does live so we have to pay mortgage on the build- with us for a while. But once they leave, in the property with the homeless person ing. We have to carry a lot of insurance we don’t necessarily follow up. Sometimes, parked in front of it should go out and talk because we’re housing a lot of people. We they’ll call back and let us know that some- to them, so they can be able to connect have to pay for the utilities for all those thing really good is happening in their life their humanity. apartments, so water, trash, electric, gas. or they want to share something with us. AD: Why do you believe people don’t do We have to buy furniture to have in the AD: Why don’t you follow up with your that now? units, we have to buy food to provide for families? AS: Because it’s easy to not react out and people because they don’t have money to AS: It’s really not something that’s part of blame people for their circumstances. I buy food, we have to pay people to clean the program, it’s not something that’s built think we often forget what it means to be the facility, to repair the facility, we have into our contracts. a person, and that deep down we are the to buy the supplies in order to do that, we AD: You said some people like to call back, same person. All you have to do is look, or have to pay people to do case management what is one of your favorite success stories in this case, ask. and counselling with the residents, we from your program, if you have any? have to pay for internet, telephone, and all AS: We had a woman who was in our the things that go into supporting a regu- shelter and transitional housing programs, lar office. she had 2 boys and she did really well in AD: Where do you receive your funding our program and she moved out. A few from? months later, she called us to let us know AS: We have some funding from HUD, that she had moved to Georgia, since the which is a federal agency, we have some cost of living over there is slightly more funding from the county of San Diego, we reasonable, so that she had gotten herself have some funding from the city of Chula a really nice apartment, and that she was Vista, and we fundraise. going back to school and working in an AD: What do you guys do to fundraise? agency very similar to ours. She was doing AS: We do things during the year to en- some mentoring with other women, and gage businesses in sponsoring ours, and she really wanted to share with us that she once a year we have a large kind of gala wanted to be able to give back some of the event. things that she had received and that was a AD: What do you do at the gala? really great story. AS: Well, it’s like a big, fancy party, and AD: If you could do anything, with no Temukisa Letuligasenoa: Church people get really dressed up and we rent a constraints, would you/what would you do hotel in San Diego, and there’s a band, and to end homelessness in America, or change Without Walls food, and we have a silent auction and a your organization in any way? Why? By: Arik Espineli live auction of different items. AS: Well, I think that a lot of gener- AD: Do you ever get a negative response al homelessness happens due to mental I have known Ms. Tee for a few years to when you say you work with homeless health issues, so I would put more support now and she was one of the first people victims of domestic violence? in place for people who have mental health I thought of to interview for this project. AS: Generally people, when I tell them issues to have housing that is going to work Setting up the interview was fairly easy what I do, they either don’t have any ques- for them. That is going to ensure that they because I knew I would see her on most tions because they’re probably uncomfort- have somewhere safe to go. And that they Saturdays. I met Ms. Tee while volun- able with the issue, or they may have ques- have access to medication and psychiatric teering with my family at a homeless out- tions like “How can you do that?” or “Isn’t care. reach group called Church Without Walls. that hard?” People will a lot of times say AD: I’m sure you’ve heard of the Homeless Church Without Walls is an organization they can’t imagine what that’s like. Bill of Rights, and I wanted to know what started by the Rock Church in San Diego. AD: Isn’t it kind of depressing to read your opinions are on it. Every Saturday it holds a service at three through every case file for families? Or do different locations around San Diego. you ever become attached to them in any The service provides a place for homeless way? people to worship. After the service, the homeless are served lunch and occasional- ly there are clothes that they can take. Tee is the South Bay homelessness ministry Rock Church ministry leader, yes. service? leader for the rock church. She is in charge A.E: What made you want to start the T.L: It did, at the very beginning. Coming of the two south bay campuses: Chula Vis- Spring Valley campus? into the homeless ministry, I had no idea ta and Spring Valley. She has been working T.L: I started Spring Valley because being what to expect. I had only searched in- with this outreach program for a little over at Eucalyptus Park for about a year and a formation, but I didn’t know then what I five years. half, I had had sense passing Spring Val- know now. It has changed my outlook on When I arrived at her house for the in- ley Park. I would come home and I would people in general and that we are all creat- terview, she welcomed me in and led me pass Spring Valley Park and I was always ed in God’s image. They are so much more to her living room. Throughout the inter- led in my heart that there was something to me now. They are precious to me be- view, her passion for the organization and that needed to happen; our homeless cause I have the understanding of the love homelessness was clear. I could tell that neighbors in the Spring Valley needed to of God and how he loves. That’s not just she has had many great experiences while be reached. So with that being said, I put loving what someone can do for you or working with the homeless. Her face lit up that in prayer and then I prayed that God their outer appearance, but actually loving with joy when talking about all the people would put the volunteers in place, because people through the eyes of Christ. So yes, she works with and her favorite moments as you know, the harvest is plentiful but my opinion has changed from when I was that she has had while working with the the workers are few. However, God pro- first coming in. I was a little taken back, homeless. Also I saw that her religion had vided the volunteers and servants and we reserved, very cautious -- maybe more played a major role in her passion for the were able to start Church Without Walls in cautious than I am now and it’s because homeless and was her drive to continue Spring Valley. I was worried about the diseases that are working with them. A.E: Is it time consuming to lead both the out there, but now I have the understand- Spring Valley campus and now the South ing that God’s hands of protection has A.E: How did you get started with working Bay one? been over us. A lot of things could have with the homeless? T.L: All I can tell you is God’s timing is not happened, so my outlook on people T.L: I started through the church and got always perfect. When we are following has changed because I know that they are involved with the homeless ministry. God’s guidance and his direction and we more than just the homeless. God has giv- A.E: Was it with Church Without Walls or are seeking his will and not ours, he to- en me a passion, a new love for them. another organization? tally provides and supports. So is it hard? A.E: Where do you think the stereotypes T.E: It was actually with the Rock Church No, because the leaders of our group have of the homeless came from? and their homeless ministry. The pastors stepped up and now they have taken on T.L: I think it started from people not at the Rock Church emphasize getting Spring Valley totally without me being understanding that homelessness goes plugged into different ministries. After we there so that I can focus on Eucalyptus deeper than just addictions. There is so are saved, we want to be equipped with Park. much more to the story of a homeless God’s word, then we are sent out. So it A.E: Church Without Walls is part of Rock person than just being homeless. There was through the Rock Church and I didn’t Church, so does it receive funding from was an addiction, but beyond that ad- choose the homeless ministry -- I prayed the Rock Church or is it the volunteers diction there’s that person that God has and God brought me to the homeless min- who provide everything? created, that person that through strug- istry. T.L: Everything is through volunteers. gles, battles, everyday troubles that we go A.E: Was this the first homeless ministry Through volunteers, we get clothing, blan- through but I totally believe the situation you have worked with? kets, and other items that our homeless with everyone is different and how people T.L: That was my very first. Then I found neighbors need. That’s all available for handle situations are different. So I would out through the homeless ministry at us through the homeless ministry at the definitely have to say that there is a story church that there are different outreach- Rock, so we have that available if we need behind every homeless. To stereotype is to es. There is Evangelism which is held it. However, everything else is volunteers; not understand. Without understanding throughout the week and then there is the resources we put in as far as the money why someone is homeless and why they Church Without Walls that’s held on a Sat- to provide the food is all on donations or became homeless, it becomes easier to urday, so it was through attending Satur- out of our own pockets. stereotype them. day Church Without Walls. A.E: Why do you call homeless people A.E: What is the best thing people can do A.E: How long have you been with Church neighbors and not just simply homeless? to help the homeless? Without Walls? T.L: We call them our neighbors because T.L: How can we help homeless people, T.L: I would say now going on about five in the word of God, he ultimately refers of course. In our community, every little or a little more than four and a half years. to us as neighbors. I see them as homeless help in every capacity helps. So as a com- A.E: You are the head leader of the Spring -- they are but they are more. Not every- munity, each and every one of us doing Valley and South Bay campuses now, cor- body ends up homeless and not everybody something makes a big difference. Wheth- rect? begins their lives being homeless. So I re- er it’s providing food or clothing, I think T.L: Correct, and for the homeless min- fer to them as my neighbors because that’s more so that as a believer, as a Christian, istry through the Rock Church and now biblical. I see them as being much more as a daughter of the King is providing the South Bay for Church Without Walls. than homeless because they didn’t begin spiritual food. The spiritual food is what But there are so many leaderships within that way. they need so that they understand, because Church Without Walls, I believe that there A.E: Has your opinion of the homeless it’s the mindset. So by are so many more leaders, but as the changed through your five years of me being out there, it’s not just to serve important for him and I to be on the same my very first phone interview as though them food or clothing but to give them the page. As he is the leader of the household I’m some kind of reporter. I didn’t know word of God that I know changed my life and I a mother and a wife to my husband how this interview was going to go. I and will change theirs, too. Just continue and my children, it was very important for opened the computer, re-logged in and to provide and do the best you can in any us. It was his decision and he joined us lat- paced around the room, trying to calm capacity. With each of us in our communi- er with church without walls. As a family, my nerves. When I dialed the number, a ty, there is so much we can do. that is how it all started. I did go full speed cheery voice was on the other end, and A.E: I know that your family is also very and started making decisions, but in the suddenly, it wasn’t so intimidating. involved with the organization. Did you end today, I can tell you that as a family, we Lisa Bacon is a non-profit service have to make them to go to the ministry at love being out there. manager for the San Diego Food Bank. first or did they just choose to go? A.E: That’s great! What is the most poi- She also oversees two of the programs at T.L: It all started with me. It did start with gnant moment in your five years working the food bank. In the short conversation trying to find myself and how I can serve with the homeless? we had, I could tell that this was a woman God. At that time I had just started lead- T.L: The highlight is seeing our homeless with passion and conviction. She stated ing a small group. But the blessing of that neighbors and witnessing God’s work emphatically that helping the homeless was Jacob, our eldest son. Jacob became a through our homeless. Seeing their lives and impoverished in San Diego is the leader for our small group, for the youth changing, them transforming after ac- main reason she gets up every day and group. It was then that we had come to- cepting Christ, after being ministered and goes to work. The city of San Diego is gether and said, we are a small group and being planted the seed, them coming to lucky to have such a dedicated community we have been meeting for about a year accept Christ and now seeing our home- hero working to help the less fortunate. It now and we sit in our nice, cozy homes less neighbors off the street, being given was for precisely this reason that I wanted and we fellowship, which is awesome a second chance. Being given the chance to interview her for the project. and we have a good time but there is so to a life that we live now and the life that much more work that needs to be done. they had before. Whatever it was, from ZS: What exactly is it that you do for the As a group we can do this, so [my family addiction or the economy, people have lost Food Bank? getting involved started with me]. What their homes. Whatever reason, it is being LB: So basically I am the non- profit happened is a mother, I am responsible able to see God’s work and seeing home- service manager so I oversee two of our and accountable for my children: where lessness end. I love to see us surrender, and programs here called the food non profit they are at and what they are doing. That we say, “God, let your will be done”, how program as well as the emergency food being said, because the small group got we just place everybody in order and how assistance program and that is one of our started with Church Without Walls, auto- we come together as two different churches government programs we run. So um matically the children joined in with the but one body. That is one body of Christ to through these two programs we partner adults. It wasn’t until about 2011 when do the work of the Lord. with about 300 non-profit organizations our family decided that I had gone so far throughout the county and the receive ahead of my family, making the decisions food from us, food that is donated to the for them, making the decisions for us and food bank, food that is purchased food God totally stopped me where I was at. It from the government. came through my husband’s medical issues ZS: How long have you been involved in and put a stop to my going ahead without your position at the food bank? consulting with my family first. In 2012 I LB: I have been at the foodbank for 4-5 had spoken to the kids and said, as a fam- years and I just recently became the um ily I like to do Church Without Walls but profit services manager in July um but I see your love for music (my kids have I’ve worked in the department um for 4-5 always loved music they have always loved years instruments), I see that passion and that ZS: What made you want to get involved love and the gift and the talent that God with this organization? has given you guys, so why not use that LB: The Food bank has a really great mis- and do what you love to do at Church sion we um serve about 320,000 people Without Walls? [They said], “Oh, great, per month, and last school year we got yeah, we can do that, Mom.” Of course it’s about 20 million pounds of food so, there’s because that’s something they love to do. Lisa Bacon Food Bank: The In- a lot of need here in the county and the For my children, it started with worship. terview of a Lifetime food bank does a lot of really great work It started with being able to use what they By: Zuri Smith to make sure um food and secure people have access to nutritious food on a regular love to do and take it and do worship for Painting by: Zuri and Alicia Church Without Walls. Then from there it basis, so it’s a really great mission, a really great organization and um through the was just myself and my children; my hus- I opened the door to my teacher’s food bank I’ve been able to um meet um a band was quiet serving Church Without office feeling nervous and rushed. I had al- lot of really great organizations and those Walls yet. Mainly because he is the bread ready tried to contact Ms. Bacon before in partners that I mentioned of our family, so he works 16 hours, six or another office, but the signal was low. I ran seven days a week. I believe that it was my hands through my hair feeling stressed, scared about conducting before with a great network of people who sure that they’re referred to the place. bank does additionally we also provide are um out there and i’m working hard to ZS: Ok. Do you work with a lot of families the uh outreach for the CalFresh program, make sure that San Diegans have enough or is it people that are more coming in by so CalFresh is Californias name for um food to eat. themselves or do you get like a lot of fam- an organization for food stamps we have ZS: What do you think is the hardest and ilies? a team of three here who go out into the what do you think is the easiest aspect of LB: It’s really a mix,um we do serve a lot of community and pre-screens people for your job? families, there are actually a lot of children this program and if they qualify they LB: I think the hardest part of our job is who are food insecure um so we do serve help them go through the whole applica- um there are so many needs out there in quite a few of those children. We also serve tion process and when Calfresh program San Diego county and um at times, not seniors um we do have a uh government was a way to put more food on the table only do people need food but they also program where we serve only seniors and and an assistance program and folks who need help with medical bills, help with so that is a big percentage of the people we qualify get a certain amount of money on their rent, or help with their search to find serve, um we serve people who are single, an EBP card which works like an ATM a job and so it can be overwhelming when people who um, their whole lives are in card and basically they have the ability to you think about how many people um are transition so it really is a mix. We serve all purchase food for their family thanks to, really in need and that leads into the best different types of people. the CalFresh benefits so the food bank has part of our job which is that we are doing ZS: A lot of people who come to your or- great team of folks who goes out and pre- something to help these folks and we do ganization, are they, a lot of them homeless screens people for the programs and make um feed, like I said about 320,000 people or are a lot of them kind of on the brink of sure that those who are eligible are receiv- per month so these are folks that wouldn’t it? ing benefits. So those are some great ways otherwise have food and we’re helping LB: Um many many of the people that we that the food bank does make an impact them to make sure that they have enough serve are not homeless, they um you know rather just than the distribution of food food for themselves and for their families, are maybe tight or possibly on the brink of but also in the promotion of health. so it’s difficult to see the need and so many homelessness um so a huge percentage of ZS: Are you in direct contact with people people struggling and it’s great to be part them do have a place to stay at night, how- who are in need of your assistance or does of a solution for that, providing food for ever we do of course serve homeless folks the work with people happen in other de- them so that they you know can use the and um so there are certain communities partments? money as a limited fund that they have for that there’s a bigger issue that have more LB: So um a huge percentage of the food other resources. homeless people but um it really is a mix that we distribute actually, first goes to our ZS: So you mentioned that there’s a lot of of who we serve but the majority of those nonprofit partners and they distribute to other aspects of it, that people need help we serve are not homeless. the direct user to the client um, because with--like medical care and things like ZS: Who do you think the food bank is we are the food bank and we only have that-- is that also part of what you do? Or making a difference for the most? forty employees, we couldn’t possibly is it just the food or are you helping in all LB: So beyond just the food that we pro- serve everyone in need in the county so areas? vide the folks on a daily basis we do um we rely on partnerships which um other LB: So the food bank food is our main have some other efforts that we have here, non-profits like churches and social ser- goal, so we do work hard to connect our working to provide the most nutritious vices agencies who have food pantries at clients to other social services agencies in food packages that we can, because not their sites and we have non-profits who San Diego, so we have what is called the only are our clients struggling with food pick up food from us on a daily basis, and community terrace program, where we and security but often times umm a lot of then they then take that food back to their bring in social services agencies to some those people will also be struggling with site to then package it for distribution or of our distribution sites, so folks can get obesity, um and related diseases like dia- prepare it for a meal, so other agencies are information while they’re waiting in line betes and life protection. So the food bank interacting with clients on a daily basis. on you know medical services or dental has made some great efforts to provide um the food bank does have a couple of services, um how to get a discounted ener- more nutritious foods to our clients so that direct client service programs so that um gy bill, things of that sort. Um we do ask to we’re not contributing to the issues that the CalFresh outreach program that I connect our clients to resources all though they have with their weight, issues that mentioned is directly prescreening clients we don’t provide those things under our they have with their diabetes umm a lot of everyday and also we have our senior pro- roof um there are a lot of great non-prof- the foods that we provide is fresh produce gram that um is a direct distribution that its throughout the county that do provide which i so expensive in the stores and are the food bank employees that have um for those other resources so we do work hard often out of reach for the um folks who people that go out to about 45 distribu- to connect our clients to those resources, have very little to spend on food, so we tion sites and the county are are directly because like I said, we do know that often make some great efforts to distribute fresh distributed to the seniors um and like i times in many cases these folks need more produce so it’s not only healthy, it’s also said we do go through a network of those than food so, we work hard to make sure um you know gives them access to some- non profit partners and they do have some they know where to go and we try to bring thing that they wouldn’t otherwise have direct interactions with clients and we do folks also to the distribution site whenev- access to given their limited funds so um have several actually come up tour ware- er we can so that it’s a one-stop shop, but that’s a great thing that the food house and umm its not necessarily a con- in the event that we cannot bring a social venient place service agency we do make for people to go, since we are located LB: Yeah, I think that um the first distri- She also inspires her peers to want to be centrally towards the county but its a very bution that I worked in and really seeing more compassionate just like her. industrial area so we encourage people in how many people are really desperate need to go to one of our partner distribu- for food and wait in line for hours to IS- What inspired or motivated you to be a tion sites, however some folks to come up receive a food package um, those aren’t volunteer? here if they don’t know where to go, but we things that I necessarily grew up know- KS- I really wanted to help the people and do feed clients here and other warehouses ing about or understanding, so when I it was part of the class field trip so I was as well. was hired at the food bank I went out to excited for it that I was going to be help- ZS: Right. And how are your senior pro- my first distribution and it was definitely ing other than are in need of help and that gram and your programs for families an eye-opening experience for me to see don’t have much. different from one another? that here in this community in San Diego IS- That’s really nice that you were excited LB: So, the difference between our senior where so many people were associated to help others. What was one of your first program and our what program? with wealth and beaches and it’s not, not impressions when you volunteered? ZS: And like your programs for your fam- necessarily associated with people who KS- My first impression was when we were ilies and um other people, how are they are low income I’m going out and seeing like outside of Saint Vincent de Paul’s and I different programs or are they just or how the distribution and seeing how many saw homeless people outside of the build- is that different? people were affected by hunger um, it ing and they looked cold and I felt sad and LB: Yeah so we do have, it’s a government was definitely life changing. It definitely sorry for them, and then when we served program, our senior program, so there reminds us why we come to work every them breakfast they were so nice, you is a USCA, we receive an allocation of day and have a food bank. could automatically tell that they were very food and it’s distributed, we have about appreciative for us to be their serving them 8,000 seniors on the program and every breakfast. 3 months they receive a 35 pound box of IS- What is your definition of homeless- food and all these seniors are sixty and ness? And how do you view them? older in order to be eligible for that pro- KS- When I used to think of a homeless gram umm that program is not for anyone person I thought of a person who does who does not meet that age requirement drugs and they can’t find a home because and also has some income guidelines, but they’re on drugs and I thought of a person we do have a number of other programs with a shopping cart and stuff, but now I that don’t have age limits, there are no think of a family that their parents just lost guidelines, and anyone who is in need, so their home and now their on the streets there are different programs that we offer, because they don’t have enough money for but our senior programs are unique in the a house. sense that we only serve that age popula- IS- So your perspective changed because tion. of what you saw and experienced? ZS: Are a lot of the seniors that you serve KS- My perspective? Yes it changed be- veterans? Volunteering and Changing cause of the fieldtrip. IS- And how or what did you do to help LB: We do have a large military commu- Minds: An Interview with High nity that we serve, um we serve every the homeless when you volunteered? month about 48,000 military members School Student Karissa Schum- KS- When I volunteered we served them and their families, and some of those are mer breakfast and I gave the little kids milk veterans, um that’s definitely a big number by: Israel Sandoval and they were very thankful and they said of people we serve. It’s sometimes hard to thank you and please and they were so nice. capture how many of them are veterans I decided to ask my good friend IS- Have you tried to announce the impor- because many of our programs don’t ask Karissa Schummer if she wanted to be tance of the issue to other people? those questions, we don’t want to um be interviewed by me for the project explor- KS- Well I’ve talked about homelessness asking for too much information, thats a ing homelessness since we are both learn- with friends, but I don’t I think I’ve tried to lot of clients because it’s already difficult ing about this issue together, and we both talk to my peers about helping the home- for so many of them. So based on expe- went on a volunteer trip with the class. I less. rience and based on what we currently assumed she would have some interesting IS- What do you think is a solution to know from our partner agency, that there things to say about the topic from a stu- homelessness? are quite a few veterans that are out there, dent perspective. KS- I think that one solution could be to that we’re serving and there are a lot of Karissa Schummer is a very com- try and get people a home that are just military families as well. passionate young lady that has a lot to trying to get stable and on their feet again ZS: What would you say would be your offer to others. She is a current junior at and then to give them a home so they can most life changing experience that um High Tech High Chula Vista and is very find a job. you’ve had in your job, what was a mo- outgoing in all her classes. The work that IS- Ok, and from your volunteer service ment that you’ve had that really changed Karissa did while visiting a homeless what would you say was your greatest take for you? shelter as a volunteer changed the lives of away? many people. She was able to bring smiles KS- I took away that the feeling of to children faces simply by giving them milk and serving the homeless breakfast. compassion for these people and the I felt I also wanted to know what it meant for a less modern YMCA structure but I think very good after I volunteered because it him to be a volunteer. The expression on its pretty good for the homeless population made me happy that I helped them and I Luis’s face was bright and he was clearly there is no problems with weather. It was made their morning a little better by help- ready to begin answering some questions warm inside and um there was good food ing them. and eager to share all he had learned with for the people there. IS- And did you face any challenges or me. His eagerness to share is what makes K.S: So, would you say that is one moment somthing that questioned your service? him a perfect voice for getting future gen- that stood out to you? KS- Well one time this kid he was like he erations of people involved in solving the L.C: Yeah it really did stand out to me a was a little boy and he was trying to ask issue of homelessness, once and for all! lot. me for milk and he was really cute and it K.S: How did you feel about volunteering? just made me sad like it was a little two L.C: Hmm, I mean you never know what year old and it just made me really sad to K.S: So Luis, what do you think the pur- to expect really. If you’ll get a positive know that he is homeless and his family is pose of volunteering is in general? experience or a negative one, but I guess I homeless and he can’t really do anything L.C: I think the purpose of volunteering was kind of just worried because I wasn’t about that. is to realize how grateful we are and how really sure what we were going to do ex- IS- Ok and last question, if you were to fortunate we are to have the things that actly. Fortunately, with my group we were describe the homeless population in three we have and I feel that through volunteer- able to actually distribute food to the words what would they be? ing we are here to help others but we also homeless people and it was great to see KS- I would describe the homeless as.. um benefit ourselves because we get that sense their energy so early in the morning and poor, hungry people. of humility and it just feels good overall to how thankful and grateful they were for us IS- Poor, hungry people. help someone in need or someone who is to be volunteering there. KS- And I feel really bad and I wish they less fortunate. K.S: How were the other people there, the weren’t poor, hungry people. K.S: Why did you volunteer? ones they were working there, how were IS- And will you continue to volunteer? L.C: The reason why I volunteered is be- they like? KS- Yes I will because it makes me feel cause it was a class field trip to St. Vincent L.C: Hmmm, they were, they weren’t like happy and I will continue to volunteer de Paul’s and it was very important to go mean, but they were kinda strict. They some day. and help the people that came there. knew they have their responsibilities to do K.S: What did you learn? and that there’s a certain time and place for L.C: I learned that, you know, not only everything. They were kind of managing do young adults that are struggling go to us very responsibly. homeless shelters, but I also saw a lot of K.S: What was your first impression of the kids like my age or younger so I learned people? that homelessness really affects everyone. L.C: Hmm, at first I thought that there It’s closer than what you think, it hits you were going to be less appreciative and I right in the heart. It saddens me that peo- just thought that, well even with all of the ple my age are struggling to get a meal research on the homeless and stuff like that while I’m complaining about things I have I still had the idea that they just want to to do and chores i have to do. I learned to take cuz they can you know. Like they feel always be grateful and appreciative of what that the government should provide the i have. service so they wouldn’t be thankful. How- K.S: Will you continue to volunteer? ever, mostly everyone said thank you to us L.C: I believe so. You know, with my busy for volunteering. I remember one lady, and schedule with all honors classes and vol- she was telling us how good it was for us to Luis Cacho: The Student leyball management and games on the volunteer and she was thankful and grate- weekends and church, guitar [it’s hard]. ful. That really struck me. Experience I will try my best to volunteer, howev- K.S: What was something that surprised By: Karissa Schummer er, life is busy but there are other ways you when volunteering? to volunteer. You can donate money. You L.C: Like I mentioned before, the most On the afternoon of November don’t have to physically go. But definitely I surprising thing was seeing kids my age 18th, I interviewed Luis Cacho. The room plan to volunteer at a shelter maybe once you know having to go to shelters to get was quiet, the chairs comfortable, and the a month or something. Perhaps with my a meal before school like I saw a student, air was still, but refreshing and calm. There family. probably a senior at some high school. were papers and classroom materials in- K.S: What was your first impression of the He looked young but you know like those side the teacher office,and a general sense shelter? people are the stronger ones. I always try of productivity. L.C: Well it was really early in the morning to be a strong student and have determina- Luis is a student at High Tech High so I was kind of tired so I didn’t really see tion. What some kids have to do to survive Chula Vista and is also in my class. I the shelter like physically how it looked it’s just really astonishing and amazing, the wanted to get his perspective on all of but I mean inside it looked like a multi- efforts that they make and its unfortunate the things we had been experiencing and purpose lounging area with tables but like that that’s the case learning as a class about homelessness. you could tell how it was like for a basket- ball court. It looked kinda like but it shows just how strong and indepen- from the very start. “After I joined the anywhere or located anywhere in San Di- dent they are. Street Angels, I was able to do more than ego ? what I was able to do with past organiza- JL: Actually the head quarters is out of the tions” he says. Today, Mr. Lopez continues Mission Gathering Church. We operate his volunteer work , nurturing and pro- separate from the church even though it viding to those who have yet to feel the originated under the church. A lot of com- warmth from a helping hand. panies won’t donate if it’s a church organi- zation. However, while it is affiliated with AV: How long has the Urban Street Angels the church we do operate separate from of San Diego been up and running can you it . So we are able to receive support from give us some background on your organi- different organizations. zation ? AV:How long in total have you helped the JL: Urban Street Angels had been around homeless ? probably since Mission Gathering and has JL:Let me see probably about 11 years. I been around for numerous years.I came started after I finished high school. My into Urban Street Angels, about 4 year family went through some rough times ago. Before I began Urban Street Angels, when I was in my junior/senior year and a friend of mine, who has attended the that caused us to be homeless. In my ju- outings, told me about it and I had a pre- nior year of high school, we were couch vious background volunteering at food Joalby-Phoenix Lopez searching and homeless for a few months kitchens. My mom and I would cook and in my senior year .So it kind of hit me to (Advisory Board member of the hand out burritos to the homeless people get involved. I began volunteering in my Urban Street Angels) around our neighborhood .So it kind of early twenties, making food and driving By: Andrea Vazquez and Ja- seemed like something that I’ve wanted to around Chula Vista and National City; be involved in. It sort of came about by our handing out burritos to anyone that I saw haad Jaikaran pastor, Richard, who has more experience .Then a former church that I was involved with homeless youths. His experiences with and myself would go volunteer at Joalby Lopez is an advisory board member would soon lead (Richards) him to estab- food kitchens to feed the homeless. After and director of the Urban Street Angels. lish Urban Street Angels back when it was I joined the Street Angels, I was able to do Urban Street Angels is a non-profit organi- just Street Angels Ministry ;focusing on more than what I was able to do with past zation that aims to offer support and ser- the urban area of San Diego community. organizations.So I kind of lached on to it vices for young homeless people. They also Now we (Urban Street Angels) are trying to do as much as I could. strive to inspire change-- in the eyes of to focus on the youth community while AV:What is the most difficult part about non-homeless about homelessness, and in providing resources to whomever we can. helping the homeless? the homeless to see that they are cared for. AV: What is your role as an Advisory JL:The most difficult part about help- As soon as Mr. Lopez picked up the call in board member of the Urban Street Angels? ing the homeless is no matter how much for the interview, I knew we were talking JL: The advisory board holds monthly resources you accumulate it’s never going to someone special. For twenty minutes, meetings to plan on who is going to lead to be enough and thats something that we we talked, and within those twenty min- the outings, of which, I once lead for a struggle with. For example, if we were to utes Jahaad and I were convinced that an class from High Tech High Chula Vista. go out, especially in downtown, you can interview with anyone besides Mr.Lopez On some outings, my mother and I made take 50 meals, 100 meals, 200 meals but wouldn’t have been as insightful nor as the meals some time out of the month. it’s never going to be enough. For instance, honest. Over the phone, I was able to Also we plan out charity events with other there are times when we take out over a hear the true sincerity of his voice as he outreach organizations from time to time. hundred meals to the homeless in down- spoke about his passion for charity. It was I have also organized benefit concerts and town and we still run out . And it hurts. It clear that Mr.Lopez valued every aspect brought in musicians to perform at local hurts so bad to leave and not have some- about his work at Urban Street Angels, bars to raise money for the our cause. thing for those last few people. So we try including those he helped through his AV: What other organizations have you to figure out what we can give them in service. It turns out that Mr. Lopez’s pas- partnered with so far? that moment and start to put together sion may come from the fact that he had JL:Right now we have partnered with our resources to get them what they need. a few first hand experiences with being another organization called the Urban Any organization that helps the homeless homeless, too. At a young age, he and his Angels , but since Eric wanted to do a big will tell you that no amount of food, no family were homeless and were subject to Thanks Giving event, he was going to part- amount of clothing , no amount of any find shelter wherever it was available, with ner up with an organization in San Diego thing is really enough because there will friends, family and once in an abandoned to do a thanksgiving feast at an actual food always be a group of people who didn’t get building. It was when Mr. Lopez turned 20 kitchen with a couple of hundred people. the opportunity to receive the same re- that his interest in helping the homeless AV:Is the Urban Street Angels situated sources as the others did. At the end of the community was sparked ,thus, beginning day, the fact that someone is still left unfed his volunteer work at various organiza- lingers and leaves a heart wrenching feel- tions. When Mr. Lopez was recommend- ing. A feeling ed to the Urban Street Angels, it was as though he was meant to be there of wanting to help everybody and having but we have to follow appropriate routes to it work .So for about two months in my ju- to go home knowing that you only helped make sure that it works. nior year we were living in a an abandoned a bit of people; not everyone. AV: What are some things that San Die- building with no electricity , no running AV: You’re right that must be very heart gans don’t know about homelessness that water. It was my mother, my sisters and my breaking. Through your involvement was they should? self at the time. Then in my senior year, we their a certain moment that impacted you JL: I have had the experience of dealing were couch surfing a lot of the times stay- the most or surprised you the most ? with people who have the idea that the ing with friends and relatives for as long JP: Two years ago, on Thanksgiving day, homeless population doesn’t want the help, as we could . We really didn’t have a place we had an outing in obi , and on that day that they don’t want to get a job and thats to call our own, but we would do what staff form the Urban Street Angels got to- not necessarily true. There are homeless we could to find a place to lay our heads gether to make a thanksgiving feast along people in down town who do work. There at night . I know the experience of being with turkey and ham that my family made. was one woman who worked at target, her homeless first hand; waking up and not Then we carried on to serve the homeless check was not enough for rent she had knowing where you’re going to sleep for on the obi peer border wall. We actually to enlist herself to a homeless shelter to the night. My greatest happiness during served them there on the border wall and shower after work but she was still out on those times was school . I was homeless we sat there with them, talked to them and the street .Also without a mailing address, and I still had to go to school. My mom ate with them. Being able to share such a references nor experience many are not told me to get up every day and I liked it precious moment together instead of sit- able to get jobs because they’re unqualified because for me ,a lot of the times, it was ting there, is a lot more valuable because to work . Also, they don’t have the refer- the only place where I was go to receive you experience community with them .It’s ences, they don’t have the experience to a meal or two . I was on the free and re- just the same as when we hand out the work . Hopefully, they’re passion and drive duced lunch program and for me that was sleeping bags during Christmas. I don’t gets them a job ; giving them the start to exciting because that meant that I was think there is any other memory that has do amazing things and flourish. However, going to be full of food. impacted me the most. That has left me a lot of times the money isn’t enough to AV:I’m very sorry to hear that, can you say completely in tears. When they give you a support them. So the whole idea that their that your experience sparked your interest hug after opening their gift, is heart-warm- living on the street because they don’t want in working for the Urban Street Angels ? ing and painful all at once. It is heart to do any thing is a complete lie. Alot of JL: Absolutely it did . I am at a place right warming to see them moved to tear by the the people who are out there live on the now where I can give some of my time gesture but also saddening to see them streets because they don’t have the option. and my resources to help out the home- having to endure the long winter nights For Example, many people apart of the less community which I was apart of . So without shelter. Overall, to put time and homeless community are children who if I am able to go out on an outing and let effort into a gift and go out on Christmas are trying to escape abuse. These kids just somebody know that their loved while eve to hand them out is a great and amaz- want get away from a terrible experience listening to their story, I can’t find any ing experience that I will never forget. with their families and it’s not that their other purpose to my life than that. I want AV: What is the most challenging aspect bad kids, it’s not that they’re lazy, it’s just be there to listen to their story of which I of working at the Urban Street Angels , that they have to get out there as soon as never experienced for myself. So the fact maybe this question is a bit repetitive but possible. As a result, shelters are the only that I can be that person ,to listen to them if there is any thing else that strikes you as place where they feel safe enough to live , means the world to me. I’ll always try to challenging can you share a bit of it. I am peacefully because they’re surrounded in give them what I can and never had. . . very curious to know ? a community that’s going to look out for AV: I you could , how would you involve JL: You know the one thing I think is the them.One of the most tight knit homeless the community in ending homelessness? most challenging is that sometimes we families that I met were in the East Village JL: It seems like such a big question but want to do so much; we have these ideas area. One family, had two pretty little red it’s such a small answer. If everybody just that we want to fulfill, but regulations are head girls and the other was a lady that did something and made it a point to care in place that keep us from doing what we had a baby about a month old. The two about someone other than themselves ,by want to do . For instance, we have plans in families would look out for each other. If donating something to the homeless com- the future, to possibly organize a 5k mara- there was something wrong with some- munity, that would be great. I believe, that thon that we would like to put in place ,but body in the family they would say “here in todays society, the majority are worried there are so many legalities that we have to give me the baby and go do what you have about their homes and are preoccupied by take into consideration. While our hearts to do” ; they look out for one another.They the amount of stress in their own lives that are in the right place and we have these care for one another. It’s a community the thought of giving what little they can awesome ideas, there are so many things thing .So it’s not like everybody is in it for becomes to much of a hassle. If you can get that we need permission to do. So we can’t themselves . a pack of tortillas and a bag of beans you just go out there with grand expectations, AV: Have you ever experienced homeless- can easily make burritos that aren’t at all because it takes months and months of ness? expensive to make . That alone is enough cooperation , permission, contracts , initi- JL: I have. In my junior year of high school to feed more than two families and more if ations and partnerships with people to see we were living in an abandoned building. every donated something as small as that. our ideas come to life. We have the people Same thing, we hit hardships and we just If it were me, I would buy a homeless man that want to help out had no other way to make a meal rather than buying that starbucks in the mourning. That alone homelessness. If you are able to achieve learned throughout the experience. The can make someone’s day and possibly save that then why can’t you be successful in fact that these people are so happy and are them from starvation. A simple act like the future ? Similarly, overcoming addic- in a worse situation than any of us, really, that is just enough to show someone that tions is a difficult and daunting journey. made Jessica feel for them and appreciate you care. If you don’t want to give them However, with motivation and the right what she has in life. money don’t give them money . Instead help anything is possible. It can Happen . Jessica Castro is a student at High Tech you can stop somewhere and buy them Keep going and keep at it . It sounds kind High Chula Vista, and is currently in 11th food.So instead of them having to go of weird saying if you want it enough it grade. I have known her for a full year around and collect from 8 different, people could happen , which also sounds good on now, and she has proven to be an amazing i’ll gladly provide them a meal ; any thing paper. However, in all honesty, the most person and friend. She is an honors stu- that will fill their stomachs with food . determined people take a really long time dent who always tries her hardest to not Most of the times they just want a burger to recover from their situation. Therefore only achieve her goals, but exceed them or water. It’s not going to cost much for many lose sight of hope. So to whomever as well. This was Jessica’s first service with people to pay attention and take into con- it may be, keep persevering, keep being homeless people, but as we talked after sideration the people that their shrugging strong and if you want to get off the street the field trip I realized that she was inter- off on the side of the road. All in all, the , if you want to get a job, keep at it and ested and it was an experience that had simplest act of compassion can go a long never quite.Eventually, someone is going impacted her. I think that Jessica will be way. to acknowledge he or she for their efforts. doing more service from now on, and I AV: And if I wanted to donate food or get Lastly, use all of your resources and never also think that she will be sharing what she involved how would I go about doing that stop trying . I have seen so many people learns with other people, which is exactly ? burnt out because of their constant self what we need to do to help the homeless in JL:You can actually hit up Urban Street doubt. Never give up and always persevere. our community. Angels. org where you can find some more information about the organization and KW: Could you please explain to me what how you can help. Also we are willing to it is that you went to go do at St. Vincent accommodate to your needs where as we De Paul? will arrange schedules for you to come in JC: Ok so, us-- our class-- went to serve on certain days out of the week. breakfast to the homeless people that came AV: Wow I am definatly considering do- in to St. Vincent De Paul, and I was one of nateing food to the Urban Street Angels. the three people that was actually serving It seems like you do a lot for the homeless to them. We served muffins, this little bur- community and I would definitly like to rito thing and then like a pastry. help out in any way that I can as well.By KW: Thats awesome! So can you tell me the way would you happen to know the something you experienced there? Any mission of the Urban Street Angels ? specific stories or something you would JL:Our mission is along the lines of help- like to share? ing as many people as we can and doing JC: Well, there wasn’t a specific moment, what we can for the community.If that its just like when they were going through means providing one person with a full to get their food they would be like “Oh stomach before they can go to bed, clean Jessica Castro: A Student With A thank you”, or like, “goodmorning!” and water and at least something to keep them View I would just be like “Oh, hey guys! haha” warm at night .We want to help as many By: Karla Wade Like they were just so nice and they were, people as we can. you know, obviously not in the best sit- AV: Lastly, sadly our conversation is Happy and excited to interview my class- uation at the moment but they were just quickly coming to an end, if you can offer mate Jessica Castro, we sat down in an nice to everyone and they seemed happy a homeless person some piece of advice office and got the interview started. I was to have guest and new people to converse what would you tell him or her ? pretty nervous even though Jessica is a with. JL: Be strong, don’t give up and keep try- close friend to me because I didn’t want to KW: Wow. Could you tell me something ing. A lot of the times people are so down start laughing or say something irelevent you learned from going to do that service? and broken that they begin to believe that to the topic. Jessica kept fidgeting with her JC: I learned that all the people, well its it is impossible to get out of poverty .Un- hands and flipping her hair, but I didn’t more of a mixture of things because they fortunately,the people that I see give up blame her at all. We both took a deep were talking about like, those were the because they think that nobody cares. That breath and I started asking away. Jessica people that were in the homeless, not nobody is going to be there to help them shared about experience on a class field shelter, where they were giving them food. and they just stop trying . On the other trip to the St. Vincent De Paul’s and to the They were more of the people who wanted hand, if they can keep it in their heads that San Diego Rescue Mission. Throughout to change and not be homeless because I anything is possible great things can re- this interview Jessica shared stories and personally was scared of homeless, because ally happen . It takes a lot of courage and specific moments that stood out to her of drugs and all the stereotypes and things positivity to want that change , to pursue a about these homeless people she interacted like that; and from job and fight with and the lessons she being there I realized that not all of them with the cause then people would defi- are like that and most of the people that nitely change their perspectives. How was go to the shelters and like things where volunteering for you, were you excited or they are getting help, are the people who not even up for the trip ? do want to change, and the people who JC: Umm, well I’m not a morning person, want to better their lives. I also learned hahaha, so that definitely threw me off a that not all of them are the same, they are little bit. Waking up at 4:30 in the morn- all separate people, and they all have their ing so we could go be there at like 5:00. back stories and yeah. So when I got there, I was not happy, the KW: What was your impression on life in sun wasn’t even out. I was really tired and the shelter ? it was super cold! But as we were work- JC: Umm, well. It was like a cafeteria ing, I was definitely a little afraid when I like type of situation there, and even first walked in because I was in the non- though the people were like nice and they family side, so people were just alone. It seemed happy, I sure that if it was more kinda scared me a little bit because there like a happier place, then people would was security guard outside the door and want to go there more. Well not go there they were like “You guys should of gone Homelessness Is Not A Crime: more but like, more ok with being in through the back!” and I was like, Oh my An Interview with Sergeant that situation, and I feel like it would just gosh what’s going to happen to us, what brighten their morning or their day for does that mean, are we going to get at- Richard Schnell wherever they go. Or if it were less dreary tacked haha. but umm as we were serving By Christopher Wicking and more alive I guess you could say. them they were just being nice and simply KW: Right, right. happy that we were there. Sergeant Schnell has a way about JC: But yeah, thats my impression or per- KW: I guess I already kind of asked you him. He exudes warmth and friendliness. spective on the shelter. but once again was there a specific person Even when he was talking to a class of fifty KW: So do you think that the stereotypes or moment that stood out to you ? eleventh graders, he had a way about put- for homeless, like drug addicts sex-of- JC: Mmm, well, there was one point now ting people-- a whole crowd of people-- at fenders and what not, do you believe that that I think about it. This guy, we were just ease. I guess this makes him a perfect can- it’s society that has singled them out or waiting, Mahlia, Nadine, and I were the didate for working with one of the most classified them like that ? three people serving. So one of they guys sensitive and at-risk populations in the JC: I think that they don’t really want us was like, “Oh this is life on the other side.” city. He has been on the police force for to look at them that way but since that Like I sat there and thought to myself like, thirtyfive years and has dedicated thirteen is how society has practically classified do they think that we are like, eww home- of those years to helping the homeless. He them then, yes I do think that every other less people. But he was joking because he is currently part of the San Diego Police person is going to think of homeless in started laughing after. It was just a weird Departments Homeless Outreach Team, that negative way. If we believe that they experience to see how they think and look where he helps people get off the streets by are all drug addicts and crazy people we at us in a different way just like we look at talking to them, treating them with respect won’t ever want to help them, but if we them differently too, yet they are still nice and dignity and working with them as look more into it, we realize that most of to us and they will thank us for things, or citizens (or clients, as he calls them) who them all they need is help and are people for the food and great us goodmorning. deserve service and protection. who are struggling to do better. I don’t Basically they have a better attitude to- Throughout the interview I could know if that answered your question, wards us then what we would have to- tell that Sergeant Schnell really cared about haha. wards them if we stuck to the stereotypes. homeless people. He doesn’t see them KW: Yes, definitely did. To follow up with with a stereotypical lense, but instead, as that question though, do you think that normal people that have been knocked if people did more service, or people that down, and just need a hand to get back have never done service would have a up. Sergeant Schnell is so passionate about different look towards homeless people? his job, and his goal to help the homeless JC: I think most people, would definitely men and woman in San Diego. He is a true change their perspective but ofcourse example of the police motto “to serve and not everyone will. I’m sure that some p r o t e c t ”. people would just stay the same you CW: So what is your opinion on homeless- know like “ugh they are what they are” ness? but I feel like the more people that did it, RS: You know, I don’t really have an opin- the more they would think into it and be ion on it, I accept the fact that it exists, and like Wow. They are not just crazy home- I just try to work with in the communities less people, you know? to help people move out of homelessness, KW: Yes, exactly what I feel too. We and into an appropriate placement. know that there will always be greaty people who will not care about anyone but themselves, but if more people got involved CW: What does your outreach team do? RS:(he paused to think) You know I don’t RS: You know I saw success, I saw success RS: We try to umm.. facilitate movement like to talk about individual clients too in it, I didn’t see a lot of success in putting of the client from the street into existing much, but there was one that was a chron- people in jail, I also saw the patrol officers programs, programs that are already out ic alcoholic,and he was getting arrested struggling with this population, spending there working, we have open beds in a everyday, hed been on the streets for thirty to much time on them, and then this team certain place, we know the intake personal, years maybe, so he was like sixty years old, was developed and it really works. so we’ll talk one on one to people on the and he wouldn’t go into treatment, could- CW: Have you ever had to arrest a home- street, and move them from the street and nt get into treatment, did not want to go less person? into a program if they want to go, every- into treatment, he was getting arrested, RS: Oh yes all the time. Mostly drunks be- thing is voluntary. so we went to jail to talk to him, and we cause we have a program for that. So yeah CW: How long have you been with the convinced him that instead of staying in it happens once and a while, but not so outreach team? jail, why don’t we try some treatment pro- much now that i’m on the homeless out- RS: I have been doing the outreach team grams, so we got him out of jail, worked reach team.But you know they get arrested for like uhh... let me see, thirteen years, with the public defender, he went into for a variety of things. I’ve been on the police department for treatment, and relapsed, then we found CW: Like what? thirtyfive. him got him back into jail, then he got RS: Mostly sleeping on the sidewalk, and CW: Are there any benefits to being on back out, then arrested him again, then putting all there stuff out. this outreach team? back out of jail into treatment, and then he CW: That’s illegal? RS: Oh yeah its a huge bonus (he stuttered relapsed again, but not into a police car, he RS: It is, in certain locations, a lot of times a little) a huge help to the patrol officers,- called us up, me and my partner and said in the canyons, but my team doesn’t really because they get calls all hours of the day, “ hey you gotta come talk to me” and were arrest anybody anymore. But you know it all times of the week, with people that they like “ ok ok” so we came back down, we has happened. shouldn’t be dealing with, they are not got him back into treatment without going CW: If you could change the way the city committing crimes, they’re mentally ill, or to jail, then for some reason it just sort of handles homeless people, what would you have physical disabilities, there are all sorts clicked with him, and he became sober, change? of variables, so the benefit is that they have and when hed been sober for a year and a RS: Hah (he chuckled) I would change the somebody to call, we are a resource to the half, we helped him with the program to way the homeless shelters are run. I would patrol guys, just like K-9 is a resource for get a job working at a local car dealership, be a lot more assertive working with the search and rescue, we are like the resource just washing the cars, then he went from individuals in there. for chronic homeless guys. there to being the parts manager, so hed CW: What is something all San Diegans CW: Is San Diego the only city with a been working there for five years and he should know or do for the homeless popu- homeless outreach team? call us up and says “hey I’d like to take you lation? RS: You know I believe we are it, well that guys out for a cup of coffee” and we were RS: ( He paused to think) First, they need has the police apartment attached to it. like “ ok why don’t you meet us at the po- to know that it is not a crime to be home- CW: Really? lice station” and so he shows up at the po- less, and that a lot of these individuals are RS: Yeah I don’t think there is anyone else lice station and we were gonna go to such seriously ill a lot more ill than they think, that does this. Well there are outreach and such location and then he said “ well and that they are not necessarily danger- teams out there. ill drive” and we were like “you’re gonna ous, but there are not enough programs CW: But like civilians? drive” and he was like “ yeah I drive, I got out there to work with them, so you know RS: Yeah, none of them are attached to a my license back now” so like everything to let them know that there needs to be police department. had stuck with him, he had got it together. more programs, for drugs and alcohol, and CW: Seems like there should be more He actually did some public speaking with mental health programs need to be ex- RS: Well it works pretty well, its pretty us, and it was pretty powerful stuff. To see panded. affective. someone that was literally in a garbage can CW: Why is it important for the people in CW: What is the most challenging thing and the gutter, for like thirty years drink- San Diego to be aware of the homeless? about working with the homeless popula- ing heavily, you know he had the big beard RS Uh because I believe they(homeless) tion? and everything. have direct impact on their(San Diegans) RS: You know just getting them to go... to CW: Those are the people you think will businesses and lives, and there are people, go into treatment is really difficult. Yeah. never get out if it? these are peoples kids, it could be your kid, CW: Has there been anybody who has im- RS: Exactly! And they do, they do get out it could be you, and somebody has to care, pacted you in this profession? of it,but it’s just a matter of putting yourself and as a society we should care, why is a RS: Sure, there is a couple of people that in a situation to help them out, they do all dude that is mentally in standing in the umm... who are people that are beyond the hard work you just have to give them corner with pouring rain with no socks on what I called repair, and now have full the ability to get the help. Yeah, so that was and only a thin jacket. Is that ok? That is time jobs, because of the team being able pretty cool. The drivers license thing was not okay. We should speak up. to move them at the right time into the kind of wild, it was like wow he used to right place, thats what keeps you going, push around shopping carts. that ability. CW: What made you want to do this job? CW: Do you have any specific inspiration- al stories about a client you worked with? someone says the sermon and then we help them with their problems, and train feed [the homeless]. Sometimes, for hol- them for work. And I would want to do idays we even give out clothes for special the same thing along the lines the same occasions for example: Christmas, Easter, thing so that they can be reintroduced and Thanksgiving. And yeah, that was my back into normal public lives so they know first experience. how to work and survive in this world. AC: Nice well you seem like you enjoy AC: Has there been a moment when a helping the homeless after doing it alot. homeless person has touched you emo- Why do you enjoy it? tionally? Why? AR: I enjoy helping the homeless because AR: Yes um it was during one of the com- it helps me see everything. That people munity service days with my advisory. could change, and that im helping them before then, I really didn’t notice that and they could be helping me, like I would there was homeless children and going to be learning from them because it is open- Saint Vincent De Paul’s and working at the ing my eyes to what’s really going on and I rescue mission I saw like all the kids with Arik Espineli: Changed to Make would think everythings perfect. their families and it was pretty sad because AC: What made you want to work with the they had no permanent home. And that a Change homeless in the first place? touched me, and I think homeless people By: Angelo Cortez AR: Umm.. What made me want to work should be helped because some are just with the homeless was that well, my par- kids and they need a home and a stable Arik Espneli is a junior in high ents took me the first time but after that I place in their life. school. Like most juniors, he cares about liked going there once every month and AC: How did you feel before your encoun- his grades, works hard in school and plays now more often , but I like talking to them ter with the homeless and how did you feel sports. His sports?: track, cross country seeing how their life is going and seeing if after? and swimming. Like many students-- es- things are getting better or worse for them. AR: Before I was pretty little like seven or pecially students at High Tech High Ch- AC:What have you physically done to help eight and I thought they were a little scary ula Vista, where community service days the homeless? as most kids did because they were on the happen school wide and annually-- he is AR: Like I said, we go to the church with- street and they asked for money but as I also involved in community service. But, out walls and we make and bring food or began working with them in church with- what I learned in the interview with Arik, water and help set up and clean up the out walls and other organizations I started is that this project about homelessness event to feed the homeless. to know that there really nice and there allowed him to get even more involved AC: Are there other organizations you’ve just like you and me. with a type of community service that he worked with besides church without walls? is already passionate about-- working with AR: I worked With Saint Vincent De Paul’s the homeless. and the Rescue Mission and I did those It was a cold day at school when I with my advisory class and our class for pulled Arik outside to be interviewed. It community service day and we just served took awhile to get him to comply because breakfast and we cleaned up after the ser- he kept saying he wasn’t good at answering vice was done. questions, but he grew the courage to fi- AC: There are many stereotypes about the nally get up and do it. He was actually real- homeless, do you agree or disagree with ly good at answering the questions I asked them and why? him. He was very specific and the way you AR: I don’t [agree] because every Saturday see in in his eyes and his hand gestures we get to go and meet people and I know he knew what he was talking about and it one guy named Jeffery and he is really nice was very good information given from his and he just says hi if I am just sitting there. point of view. Everyone has their flaws but they really do care and they’re all nice and not scary like everyone says. AC: When and what was your first experi- AC: If you had the power to end or fix homelessness what would you do or how ence with the homeless? Giessella Elena Castaneda Reyes: AR: My first experience with the homeless would you do it? was with my parents church small group AR: I would want to start an organization A Young Woman With A Valiant and they heard about this homeless or- like the FTS which is the Federal Transit Heart ganization called Church Without Walls Service and that was during the depression By: Reyna Flores in downtown Balboa and we went once and basically what they did was like pro- vide a shelter for the homeless and helped every month on Saturdays. Elena is a 16 year-old junior at High Tech re-educate them, shelter them, AC: What was Church Without Walls all High Chula Vista. I’ve known Elena since about? Freshman year, when we were 14. In those AR: Basically what it was, was church ser- two years, I’ve seen her morals and kind- vice in Balboa park and they have a wor- ness grow. We both have been taking the ship team that does the worship, city bus to get to and from school throughout our high school years. In our you volunteer? RF: What do you think is the most import- walks to the bus stop she often talked to EC: Well it’s basically just either it’s either ant thing all San Diegans should know, me about her volunteer work. As she talk- serving the people or it’s uh working to about homeless people? ed, she always sounded so responsible and create little lunches or as we did last time EC: They should know that it’s not it- some her eyes glowed with determination. At separating tortillas and um marinating the of the people think it’s- it was their choice that time I hadn’t done much community fish for the lunch it’s b- it’s just basically they wanted to go into homelessness they service. Listening to her made me admire helping uh the organization with the food decided to go through that- to that path, her. She seems so passionate about being and then there’s also the part where uh and basically just tell them that some- nice and helping. we got to prepare paper and like got to do times people can’t um they can’t- they can’t One time, she talked to me about wak- crafts in order to prepare for an event. really help it they are just they they just ing up at 3 a.m because she had to be at RF: What goes through your mind when can’t come out of it it’s- it’s a problem that a homeless shelter by 5 a.m. with Miss you see all these homeless? they’re facing. Angie’s advisory. I was glad to not be in EC: I would just wonder what they’ve been RF: What is something all San Diegans her place. Then I felt guilty having those through, and how they feel ‘cause I have- I should do, for the homeless population? thoughts, because she genuinely spoke can kind of relate to them and I- I feel very EC: Um they should volunteer with people to me with amusement. Elena has been sad to see them go through it ‘cause I have- not just actual like, um they should vol- volunteering with the homeless for three I haven’t been homeless but I’ve been close unteer not just want to help- um when I years. This year we are focusing completely to homelessness so I know how they feel interviewed the officer they said that don’t on the homeless population as a project. I and I- I just I want to help them in anyway just go up to them and how they said that decided Elena would be a perfect person to that I can but sometimes it’s hard. some people just go up to them and buy interview about her feelings towards it and RF: What were some of the challenges you McDonald’s and give them McDonald’s- experiences because of her sincere passion faced while volunteering with homeless? yes that might work for that day for that for the service she has been doing over the EC: Um okay so basically, just kind of hour to k- to keep them um out of hunger years. Elena enjoys helping out, especially comparing them to me ‘cause I know that but overall in like a week they’ll still be the needy, and I’m sure she will continue I felt really bad as myself kind of having hungry and basically just volunteering, to volunteer for as long as she can. to um move a lot because of our situation overall is basically it. with money and how I thought it was so RF: Based on your experiences from work- RF: Before you started volunteering, what hard for us to like go to school and like um ing at different organizations, what is the was your first impression on homeless like I- I just like compared myself to them most effective strategy to raise homeless people? and I see how like they have it so much awareness? EC: Uh well my first impression was that worse than me and I just like yeah just EC: Uh basically creating I guess um, com- they- they all have their stories I mean we kind of relating myself to them was kind of munity events- getting the community to- can’t blame them for being homeless. And the hard part. gether and having presentations, going to I didn’t really think of them as bad peo- RF: What was your favorite experience uh- going to schools, going to classrooms, ple, I just thought they were people and I about volunteering? teaching them about homelessness and not feel- I felt a lot of sympathy for them it’s EC: Um it was talking to them, I really en- just the overall but kind of in depth ‘cause just that I was I guess kind of scared before joyed talking to them and just like know- some people when they have just the- the I started volunteering. I wouldn’t make ing that I’m helping them out and knowing basics of homelessness they kind of still contact I wouldn’t uh talk to them uh and that even though they might not say it to don’t get how important ending homeless- yeah. me I know that someone who is receiving ness is. RF: What made you want to volunteer? what I did is thanking- like is thankful for RF: What do you think is the best advice EC: Well for the first time that I volunteer what we are doing and yeah. to give to a homeless person wandering was for Ms. Angie’s um advisory, so basi- RF:What has been your favorite organiza- the streets? cally we just went to the- to I think it was tion to work with? Why? EC: I would tell them that there is help out Saint Vincent de Paul’s and (sniffles) I uh EC: Saint Vincent de Paul’s because I’ve there and that even though it’s hard to get volunteered uh with serving food so I was been there um more- multiple times. on your feet it’s worth it all on the end um um on one of the first rows and uh people RF: What is something you learned, that just because they feel that they can’t make would come up to me and say thank you you did not know before about homeless it or it’s hard that shouldn’t get in their way and um it was just basically I wanted to people? of believing that they can have a better life go volunteer because I wanted to have the EC: Mm, basically that they just- they’re than they do right now. opportunity to serve the homeless and to also people and that they’ve- it’s really- I RF: If you were to start a homeless organi- just get to know more about them. mean it must take a lot of courage for them zation, what will you name it and what will RF: What steps did you take in order to to actually come up and talk to us about you focus on? volunteer? their problems ‘cause I know that it’s hard EC: Okay so I’ve been thinking (chuckles) EC: Well I didn’t really take any steps it for people to talk about their problems, about this for a long time, um the name was basically all Ms. Angie’s doing, I just and how hard it is for them like being I’m not so sure um it’s- I would name it kind of took the initiative to actually go to close to homelessness and it just like- yeah Care, just plain Care and then I would ba- the community service. I just realize it. sically focus- what I was doing is like what RF: What kinds of things do you do when I was kind of thinking is that when I grow up I kind of want to create um housing for them and basically from that N.C: During the tour, I noticed how pas- housing I can separate the- the homeless, sionate you were when you talked about from like families who are homeless, peo- the building and the program. So, I wanted ple who are homeless, and then the people to ask you, what made you want to work who are actually addicted to drugs, alcohol with the homeless? and have like mental illnesses and then A.G: That’s a good question. I actually was from there just kind of give them each a yoga instructor, a pilates instructor, and separately as individuals the- the attention an undergrad. I would service all the time they need and the services they need in with the homeless and I also volunteered order for them to uh have what- in order at [the U.S Department of Veterans af- to actually receive the attention that they fairs] and health care. After that I realized need. I wanted to service on helping those who RF: In what ways do you think you can really needed that time and faith and peace grow as a volunteer? to find a home. So, I actually switched my EC: Mm, well I’ve noticed that a lot of peo- undergrad major to social work and start- ple um they learn more to sympathize, I-I ed interning at the VA and graduate school think sympathy, sympathy is one of them Creating a Better Future with and all of those things came along and I and basically just learning that sometimes April Joy Galka started my dedication to social services. it is no all about you it’s about other peo- By: Nadine Cornejo It’s really the warmth you get for helping ple and just- just not being selfish think of another person. It’s like no other job, I can others. The interview took place at the tell you that. RF: What has been the saddest story Connections Housing building located N.C: How did you find out about PATH? you’ve heard about a homeless person? in Downtown San Diego. I arrived at the A.G: A long, long, long time ago, I actually EC: Well it wasn’t really sad it was just I building at around two o’clock in the af- worked in LA for an agency called OPCC. was kind of thinking about what got him ternoon on November 13, and I was lucky “Daybreak” was the project name and to that place, and I learned from him um enough to get a tour of the building with we would work with the mentally ill and ranting was- he was a veteran and I guess Ms. Galka. The building is divided into addicts. That agency was looking to con- after he came home from where he was five different levels that are dedicated to nect with a housing program and I was the stationed -wherever he was stationed- uh reducing the number of homeless people housing coordinator and the case manager. he didn’t- the government didn’t help him living in the downtown neighborhoods. As One day, they had me contact an agency and I mean I find it really hard to believe you walk into the building, you can’t help called PATH and it was unlike anything that he worked for the government at but notice how colorful it is inside. All of I had ever heard of before. I came down one point and then when the government the walls are splashed with red or bright here to work on a small project that lasted didn’t help him he just kind of stopped green and the whole building is decorated for a while until the contract ended and believing in the government. And then he to seem like you are in a train station. This then PATH came down here. I was look- kind of went against the government and building does not only provide two-hun- ing for a job at the time, so I applied and I tried to convince the people to stop. And dred and twenty-three housing units, but it got accepted. Somebody from cooperation it just kind of like he went through all that also provides hope for those who want to housing, Maila, was the one who helped to help the government and at the end the live better lives. At the end of the tour, Ms. me get this job. government kind of just like, didn’t have Galka and I went back to her office where I N.C: In what way has working with PATH the necessary help for him, and they just prepared and conducted the interview. changed your life? kind of- the government let him down and Ms. April Joy Galka is the director A.G: I’m a workaholic, ha, ha! I’m not that’s what like disappointed him. of programs for PATH San Diego and I [actually] a workaholic, but honestly I love RF: What accomplishment do you want a was lucky enough to interview her. She has my job so much and I feel so lucky that homeless organization to achieve? been working at PATH since it first opened I have a job that I feel good to come to. I EC: Uh basically just to, uh reduce the here in San Diego, which was in March want to do it after hours, I want to wake homelessness in whatever city or whatever 11, 2012, but has been working with the up and check my emails right away and area they plan to reduce. homeless ever since she was an undergrad. it is honestly the best job I’ve ever had. RF: What skills did you bring to the com- The main reason why I decided to inter- Since we are a non-profit organization, we munity service events? view Ms. Galk is because I wanted to meet get limited resources -- like we don’t get EC: I brought compassion, to volunteering and learn from a person that actually had paint and brushes. So we normally have and my hard work. the chance to interact with the homeless members go out and get donations from RF: What skills did you learn from volun- rather than just working in an office.. In art stores or we have a few members who teering with homeless people? this interview, I was able to not only find work with partners who can come and EC: I learned (sighs) I learned how to sep- out about how this organization works, but teach classes, where it really keeps this arate tortillas and I learned more morals I was able to meet a person whose main project running and gets clients inspired. than I already did have. I learned how to goal in life is to help those who are less N.C: Do you think that in the future, the be open minded. fortunate. government will try to find a way to solve it? A.G: Well, I think there have some amaz- From that group, there was an individual The goals that we are reaching for interim ing transitions happening. I don’t know who was looking at the housing program a hundred and thirty-four beds plus the if you have heard of the HEARTH act and the excitement on his face... just hav- sixteen. Count it together and that’s a hun- [Homeless Emergency Assistance and ing his application packet in his hands, dred and fifty beds. We have to get about Rapid Transition to Housing]. So there’s you could see the fear, the excitement, all thirty percent of the number of assisted the transitions of HUD [Department of the feelings mixed into one of this new individuals who had no income at the be- Housing and Urban Development] and, chapter in his life. It was so amazing to ginning of the program and the percentage for instance, our continuing care money see. Also, a micro moment that happened of assisted individuals who increased their is separated to each of our agencies where this morning: an older, senior gentleman income. That means that if they already we get scored by them to see how our talked about how he got approved for an had an income or they leave with a job, project is doing and they provide funds apartment at a senior housing and just to we have about thirty percent. I think right from there. They are basically constructing see his excitement… he talked about how now we have seventy-four percent which themselves like they are creating a govern- he would sleep behind a bench and he’d is really good, so we are above our goal. ment committee and an advisory commit- fold his thing really neat and wrap it up. The one that might be the most challeng- tee. They are basically shifting the power He was so thankful that he had been able ing is for folks who gain employment and they have in function to make sure that we to survive and just to have a day where he they are disabled, whether ’s mentally, are compliant with ours. So there is change could be on a bed, his own place. So it was physically, or they’re dealing with trauma happening, but I think it might take a long nice to hear someone being so grateful and or medical issues they need to address time to try and solve. I honestly think it positive and being able to see how lucky he first. It’s kind of challenging, but when you will shift. I recently went to a training for was to have an apartment. Just to see those finally get to rest on a bed, take a nice long HUD were they talked about a small town stories and seeing the stories we have as a shower, and get some sleep and do it all in [either] Ohio or Iowa, where they actu- staff really works with the clients the most. over again... It was really exciting to see the ally solved the problem of homelessness in Their blood, sweat, and tears are here ev- numbers go up. a very small town where only ten people eryday connecting with them and hearing N.C: In your opinion, what do you think were homeless. the bad times and the good times is just makes PATH more original than other N.C: Do you think that media has to do beautiful to see. organizations? with our knowledge about the homeless, N.C: What has been the organization’s A.G: We bring the community together. I like they have given us the wrong idea? biggest event? think we really know that we are not the A.G: Of course. The county sends a lot of A.G: Well, we don’t want to be an attrac- experts in everything and we shouldn’t be money to do ad campaigns, you know the tion point because we aren’t in an open the experts in everything. We are good at ones you see on the bus, benches about site. We have educated the community, pulling everyone in. We are the good kind mental illnesses. I mean, they give a un- but also having your services utilities, so of committee that pulls hands to work derstanding about many different things a lot of it comes from our outreach guys. together because this is a community issue and unfortunately the media plays a part That team goes out into the field and does and we should solve it as a committee. We in that. Honestly I think that if someone all kinds of presentations to local agencies have legal aid who is good with legal situ- volunteers their time and they see you that are needed and reach out to folks we ations, we have [Veteran Affairs] who deal person to person, they get that human want to connect with, but a lot of it up- with vet issues, we have Sally Hampers connection. [The homeless] aren’t different stairs is funneled through our outreach with medical and Manuel with metal. So from anyone else. I mean, we all had a rel- team. The big event that we did have was we have these experts that work together ative, a friend of a friend, or even ourselves about eight hundred or a thousand peo- to help. Being able to work with all of these that were homeless at one point. They ple at our grand opening on March 11th agencies is PATH’s biggest strength. The might have been at risk of being home- and you can probably still see stuff online building itself, the project connects hous- less, lost a job, had to sleep on a friends about it, like on our Facebook page. It was ing, it’s composed of Alpha project con- couch… so it’s a human thing and I don’t just a fun event where people could see tractor floors, perser grants for those with think they are different from you and I. what we were about. I think it was also fun special needs. We have all these layers of I mean, they might have lost their job at for the team because most of them started special things and we really come together a construction site or lost their job six before we even had offices, desks, or chairs to make this nice bouquet of programs and months ago, so it can be a mixture of dif- where we started at the housing commis- that’s PATH’s greatest strength. ferent variables. I’ve met people who have sion and that was where we did our train- N.C: What do you think the future of a PhDs who were homeless and it’s also the ing... then we went to a little front door PATH looks like? economy that plays a part of it. space and we started our outreach and A.G: That’s a good question. We had cou- N.C: What do you think has been your then we finally got our space here. ple of people tour from Colorado and a most intense or rewarding experience N.C: Out of all the people who stay here, few people intern in San Jose and I real- you’ve working here at PATH? how many actually get a job after living? ly see people duplicating this model via A.G: There was a guy a while ago, at the A.G: It varies. Our goals are very specific. contacting PATH or even doing their own very beginning, again we haven’t been For interim, they want to see at least thirty version. I think people need to have all open for at least twelve months, but you percent... I just did the report. We get goals these things in one place. It’s just a positive have seen the start of our group, the Beat- and outcome so that we receive money, so model. I think you will see it duplicated, en Path, and the client participation. we need to produce. definitely. didn’t expect? GF: Why do you give out food to the SF: I thought it was going to be really de- homeless? pressing to see all the people, but it turned SF: I give food to the homeless because out that the people weren’t as bad as I my family taught me to give back and help thought. They were funny. They had a lot people. Especially those in need because of fun with each other. It’s like they knew they are less fortunate than I am. each other. GF: Why do you give food and not mon- GF: What was a moment that stood out to ey? you? SF: I give food instead of money because I SF: There were a few moments that stood feel like if I give them money, they would out to me... I saw one person play a little not spend the money on something they joke on another person and they started really need. laughing. And then another part is when GF: Do you believe helping the homeless is they started putting music on and every- good or bad? one around us started singing at the top of SF: I believe helping the homeless is a good Small Body, Big Heart: A Sit their lungs and dancing around and hav- thing because we need to help people get ing a good time. off the streets so they can have a normal Down With Seara Fernandez GF: Why did those moments stand out to life. By: Grace Fregoso you? SF: Those moments stood out to me be- It was November 15 -- a Friday. cause they changed my perspective on Outside it was really hot and the sun was homeless people. beating down on us. We sat at the lunch GF: Would you continue to volunteer? table under the oddly shaped canopies at Why or why not? the back of our school. There were people SF: I would continue to volunteer because behind us and on the field. But despite the it was a fun experience and it changed my noises, it was very easy for us to concen- perspective. I would like to take my family trate on the interview. We both sat down, out there, or maybe some more friends to making ourselves comfortable, and began. show them that what we think of home- Throughout the interview, it got hotter less people is completely different than the and we were trying to hurry because class truth. was almost over. We kind of rushed at the GF: Did any of your stereotypes regarding end but the interview came out great and I homeless people change? got to ask a lot of questions. We started to SF: Yeah. I thought that homeless people laugh at the end. We are never very profes- were dirty, smelly, and rude. They weren’t sional with each other, so doing this was as well groomed as we are, but pretty awkward, but fun. I am glad I got to ask decent and they weren’t rude… they were her questions that were serious, for once. nice, saying thank you and everything I interviewed my peer Seara Fernan- that we did was life changing in a way. dez for the homelessness project because GF: How would you spread the word she recently volunteered at a homeless about homelessness so that people can do shelter. I really enjoyed listening to her something about it? talk about her experience volunteering at SF: Like I said before, I would spread the St. Vincent de Paul’s and what she does word by bringing in friends and family to and would do to help the homeless. She show them more about homeless people was born in California. She is 16 years old and help them out a bit. and does Motocross; she is on BMX. She GF: What would you do to prevent home- comes from a Christian family and helps lessness and what do you think the com- by giving food and service to shelters as munity should do? often as she can. SF: I don’t think there is anything I could do to prevent homelessness, but I can GF: So Seara, why did you volunteer? help in a way. My family, we go around SF: I volunteered because we had a school town sometimes and see the people on field trip to St. Vincent de Paul. the streets begging for change and we give GF: What did you learn from volunteer- them either money or if there’s some place ing? like fast food we go buy them some food. I SF: From volunteering, I learned that think the community could help by build- homelessness is a problem in San Diego, ing more houses. I know my church does and it’s very hard to get through it. it. But I really don’t go to those. I really GF: What did you see there that you should. L.H: So the first question I have is why L.H: So what moment stood out to you? volunteer? J.F: Seeing a homeless man in a wheel J.F: It was a school project but I was also chair looking helpless and cold while I was really excited to help people that were in warm need or are not as fortunate as most people L.H: What about the homeless people are. And just for the satisfaction. smiling at each other and being happy L.H: So what did you learn when you vol- even though they don’t have anything? unteered? J.F: I don’t think there happy that they J.F: I learned to be thankful for all the stuff don’t have anything but that you don’t I have. And being thankful and listening to always have to be sad and upset in those my parents and working hard in school so types of situations and. that I could get a good future and not end L.H: So what did you think of homeless up in the streets. before you volunteered? L.H: So do you think the homeless people J.F: I did not think much of them i would on the street are uneducated or lazy and just think of them as a guy holding a card- that is why they are homeless? board piece that has a writing for a dollar Change Doesn’t Happen by Itself J.F: No I don’t but I think this is the safest i’m hungry and there walmart carts. By: Luke Helton way for me not to end up on the streets. L.H: What did you think of homeless after And I learned that I am not scared but you volunteer? For this project we did research on would not like to be homeless. J.F: I thought that they were not that like homeless and how much of it there is. Also L.H: So what did you do when you volun- they were nice people you just need to get we went to two different homeless centers teered? to know them most people would ignore and helped at Saint Vincent de Paul’s by J.F: I was in the back in the kitchen helping them just because of their looks and smells serving food or helping to make it in the all of them A.J. and a lot of other friends to and not all of them came from bad back- back. We also got a tour at the San Diego take out boxes of tilapia and stack them on grounds and were not all drug addicts. Rescue Mission and they told us what the a carts so we could feed the homeless and L.H: So have you volunteered before with- main homeless they deal with and how after we had to cut the tilapia out of their out your school? they treat and help them. For this project individual bags and we cut like over two J.F: Yes I have well. It was not in the U.S. I we also read a lot about the depression and thousand bags of tilapia. actually went over to T.J. We gave home- how it affected the homeless and we also L.H: So will you try to continue to volun- less people food, blankets, water and we read chapter from the book “Down and teer? even had a raffle for who would take a out, on the road The homeless in Amer- J.F: I will yes I will try but I do not know microwave. ican history”. And that is what lead up where I will or when I can. L.H: So what do you think is the difference to this interview because we had to pick L.H: So if you were to go volunteer what between homeless in America to homeless someone that helped with the homeless do you think you would try to do like in other countries like Mexico? and send them an email requesting an volunteer like feeding breakfast or helping J.F: I don’t think there is much of a differ- interview but mine never responded so I with a food drive, or simply helping count ence. Some people are born into poverty interviewed one of my classmates. the homeless or? and lost on the street. They did not go to The person I interviewed is Jose F.F: I would do a food drive. school so they stayed like in Mexico. If a Furriel. He is one of my classmates that L.H: What was your impression of volun- kid is born in poverty he does not go to went to the two homeless centers and did teering? school for most of the time and he stays in research on homeless. Furreil (as we call J.F: That I would see a lot of homeless the streets and thats all he knows and here him) has been attending High Tech for people which i did but at the time I didn’t in the U.S. that homeless people or home- four years and is in Ms.Angie’s Humanities know they were homeless because they did less kids have more of a chance of leaving. class for his junior year. The reason I chose not look like homeless so my impression is L.H: So do you think people in America to interview Furreil is because he went on not everyone is stereotypical homeless you that are homeless might have it easier be- our field trips and has been see on the street. cause Americans they like to get the new- involved in the project and I wanted to get L.H: So what was something that surprised est thing available so they might just throw a point of view from someone that they do you? something away or donate it somewhere not volunteer often and also because he J.F: The lady that was helping me was and it might go to the homeless. Do you just like anybody else and so I wanted to homeless and I would of never thought see think that would happen in mexico? know what he thought of homelessness. would of been homeless and that they are J.F: I think so. I think that problem is nicer than what they look like. all over the world and not just in Amer- ica that some people are just greedy rich people and they don’t care and they are not grateful. more um and now we’re K through 12 and their mind goes to the people that are we have a brand new building. We moved living on the streets with the shopping cart in 5 months ago and we doubled our stu- or maybe someone standing on the corner dent population to 300. with a sign and that’s kind of the stereo- ML: Wow that’s really cool type that people straight go to when they KB: So, even though its been around since hear the word. At our school, its a very dif- the late 80’s um and its current space we’ve ferent story and I see a lot of people work- only been here for 5 months, so we’ve been ing hard and going over various obstacles through a lot of different transitional peri- they’ve put into. So, I think overall since ods. then Monarch, the stereotype has definite- ML: That’s really awesome. Ok, so um in ly been growing and I’ve been inspired by your opinion how does a school for uh the families that I’m surrounded by. homeless kids affect the community? ML: That’s really cool. Where do you see KB: Um, I think, well that our end goal is yourself and the organization in 10 years? to break the cycle of poverty and a lot of, KB: Um, that’s a good question. One of Together As a Community To you know all of our student didn’t decide my friends just asked me that the other End Homelessness: Katie Bradel to become homeless and a lot of their day. In 10 years I see myself continuing to parents didn’t decide to either, but through grow the programs for Monarch School, to By: Mahlia Lagai different situations and the economy and be able to reach more students and more all of that, then somehow or someway they effectively. Katie Bradel is the Volunteer Coor- ended up in the situation that they’re in. ML: Ok, so I understand that you and my dinator at the Monarch School. She plans So, I think that our school really affects teacher Ms. Angie worked with Invisible the volunteer work that is held at the Mon- and helps the community by changing and Children. Can you tell me more about arch School in downtown San Diego. She by providing education and to break that that? is such an inspirational person with how cycle and to have future leaders that aren’t KB: I worked with Invisible Children in dedicated she is to the work that she does on the streets like their parents have ended 2004, and I worked there for 6 years and I with Monarch School and Invisible Chil- up, but are able to help their families. was a volunteer there, in our programs in dren, another non-profit organization here ML: That’s really great. Um, how do you Uganda. in San Diego. Even though we didn’t have feel when you see these children and learn ML: That’s really cool! a long conversation, I could tell by her about their background and what they’ve KB: Yeah its really cool because now the response and the sound of her voice that been through? Invisible Children offices are a block away she is passionate about the topic of helping KB: Um, I think that all of our students from Monarch School. So, I’m able to go young people who are less fortunate. have very individual and specific stories other there and still help out there some- Ms. Bradel was a volunteer at the and no two students are alike and they’re times and then we have Invisible Children Invisible Children programs in Uganda not part of statistic; they’re apart of their volunteers who come here, to Monarch for six years. She is now working with own life and their own story and how and help out a lot as well. Monarch School, but still goes to help out they are able to strive and work hard and ML: That’s so awesome, I actually want to with Invisible Children. It is so inspiring to um just get their education through a lot look into that. Uh, so whats your plan of hear about somebody’s goals to help better of other obstacles. I know when I was action to reduce homelessness, like if you the community. It really shows that if you in highschool, it was hard enough and I could reduce the numbers of people out on put your mind to it and you’re passionate didn’t really have any obstacles. Um, but the streets? about the work you do, then the finish line these students go through very difficult KB: Um, yeah so the monarch school is a won’t be so hard to reach. She believes that times, even just to get to school everyday, lot longer long term plan of action. Um, a by the support of the community we can um after school. You know there are many lot of other organizations who work with end homelessness. barriers and obstacles that they have to go the homeless are a more of that night or through. So, its really inspiring to see how that week emergency situation shelters, hard they work. but because were a school we look at the ML: How does your work impact these ML: Yeah, I understand, we’ve been uh long term life of the student, and um our kids? volunteering at St.Vincent De Pauls and goal is that all of our high schoolers go on KB: The community with our students and the San Diego Rescue Mission, and its to college or trade schools or the military help them trans.. uh go through a process been such a humbling experience, its really and are able to have careers that then are of transformation for success. cool to see everything. Um, so whats your in the future able give back to Monarch as ML: That’s really cool. So, um how long overall opinion on homelessness, and a whole and through those long time goals has the Monarch school been like helping has it changed over the years that you’ve that were able to break the cycle of poverty out these kids? worked at the Monarch School? with these students through their educa- KB: Well, it kinda goes through some KB: Um, definitely. I think that it’s...a lot tion and they’re able in term to support different stages, um for example we were of people when they hear the word home- their parents and their families because of first open in 1988 as a drop in center, so less the education they received at Monarch. that was when it was just a high school and there was only one teacher, um but since then we’ve expanded more and ML: Wow, thats really cool. I actually do Shaina Gross is the Vice President researched and found to be more effec- want to volunteer at the Monarch School, I of Impact Strategies and Mobilization at tive than other methods. In homelessness, think it would be really fun. United Way of San Diego County. The the best practice is called “Housing First, KB: Yeah, that’d be great. We don’t have United Way is an organization that focus- Housing Plus.” This means that you first any volunteer opportunities for anyone es on education, financial self-sufficiency, put homeless people into safe, stable hous- under 18 unfortunately. Um, just because health and homeless prevention. United ing. And then you bring them all of the of our students sensitive situations, but Way ranked number one on Forbes “The services that they need (addiction services, as soon as you graduate and you’re 18 we Largest U.S. Charities For 2012” by col- mental health services, job skills training, would love to have you volunteer. lecting almost $4 Billion dollars in dona- and more). The old way was that people ML: Definitely. tions. had to first address all of their issues be- KB: But then we also have people under 18 I was able to schedule an interview fore they were allowed to be in a shelter at different school hold volunteer by hold- with Ms. Gross at High Tech High Chula or housing. But, you can imagine how ing supply drives. So, either for toiletries hard it is to keep track of your medications or socks or underwear, or school supplies EF: What is the relation between the Unit- and take them at the same time every day, or different opportunities like that. ed Ways and the San Diego Rescue Mis- when you don’t even know where you’ll ML: That’s really cool. Do you ever think sion? sleep tonight. The Housing First method homelessness will end? SG: We partner with the Rescue Mission puts people into housing and then brings KB: I don’t think it will end completely, but to develop an agreed upon vision of what them what we call wrap-around services. I definitely can see the reasons, the specific we want to see changed in homelessness in This is a very effective method for people reasons for homelessness ending. So, uh San Diego. We then figure out who else we who have been homeless for a long time. for example some people who don’t decide need to help us (other agencies, govern- For those who have only been homeless to be homeless, it’s just because of certain ment, etc). Then we identify the role that for a short time, transitional housing, with situations that happen in life. Whether its each group should play. For the San Di- fewer resources, is more effective. This medical problems or language barrier or a ego Rescue Mission, they were the best to means that we need to know what each job layoff or the economy. Um, and I think provide the recuperative beds for homeless homeless person needs, because they all that in those situations there is a possibil- individuals discharged from the hospital. need different things. ity for those people to get the support and We provide them with funds to support EF: According to the US Census Bureau, help they need to not be homeless if they the work they are doing. San Diego holds the third largest number don’t wanna be. I think that people who EF: Why choose the San Diego Rescue of US Military Veteran Resident falling decide to be homeless are just because of Mission? Why not any other charity? short to Los Angeles & Maricopa County. their lifestyle choices, that might not ever SG: We chose the San Diego Rescue San Diego County is a home for 240,677 end but for people who don’t wanna be I Mission through a competitive process. (Study from 2011) US Military Veterans, think that it can end by the support in the Various non-profit agencies applied, and do you see these as a big variable in San community. wrote a grant proposal of how they would Diego’s problem of homelessness? achieve the goals we had outlined (reduc- SG: Yes, veterans are a big variable in the ing homelessness). The Rescue Mission homeless population. We estimate that had an impressive plan of how to help the 25-35% of the homeless in San Diego are people, as well as how the would sustain veterans. Often they transition out of the program after our grant was over. We the military and are dealing with mental felt that they were in the best position to health issues, or don’t have the job skills treat the clients, and had good relation- needed to transfer into mainstream em- ships with other key groups - such as the ployment. hospitals that would be discharging the EF: Apart from Military Veterans, what do patients to them. They submitted the best you see as another big reason why people proposal and had the best plan of how to go into homelessness? help reduce homelessness. SG: Struggling with mental illness and not EF: What do you see as the most effective having the resources to handle the issue and efficient way to end homelessness? is another big reason. There is a stigma SG: The Federal government has a depart- about mental illness, so often people don’t ment called Housing and Urban Develop- get the help that they need. In addition, Shaina Gross & United Way ment, or HUD. They fund all of the home- sometimes the doctors or medications Hoping to Stop Homelessness less efforts across the country. They have that you may need aren’t covered by your identified what they call “best practices” or health insurance. So, many people strug- One Dollar at a Time. “proven practices.” These are methods that gling with mental illness find other ways to By: Emiliano Fragoso have been tested and cope – primarily alcohol and drug abuse. This can lead to lost jobs, poor relation- ships with family, etc which can all lead to homelessness. EF: What can the average San Diego resident do to help end the homelessness hugging his neck and sitting on his lap-- So basically I have the accountability to problem? a warm and loving family man, too. His make sure everything goes well. Obvious- SG: There are many agencies who serve tie was pressed perfectly in place and his ly I have a staff under me to help me with the homeless and they can contact one of demeanor was more friendly than profes- finances, project, business operations poli- them and ask how they can help. It’s best sional. What I uncovered was Mr.Phillips cies and what not. My job really is to work to get involved in an existing organiza- was not only a family man, but started out with the board, policy makers, funders, tions work, rather than giving money or as a volunteer himself. to make sure that the issues are being ad- clothes individually. dressed that effect at-risk youth. H.G: Start off by telling me a little bit H.G: I know you guys have other outreach about yourself and how and why you got programs for youth who are not necessarily involved in this organization. homeless, so what exactly do you guys spe- W.P: I am the Chief Executive Officer for cifically do for the homeless youth popula- San Diego Youth Services (SDYS), which tion? means I’m the boss (we both chuckled). W.P: We have three different divisions I’ve been doing non-profit work since within SDYS and one of our divisions is 1985 here in the community. I am a social the homeless and transition age youth worker, I have my master’s degree in social programs. Transition age youth are those work. I’ve always worked with at-risk that turned 18 and many of them end up youth and their families. That’s always homeless. The second division is our child been my focus in my career as far as social abuse and neglect division which deals work. I got involved with this position with children who have been abused and here because I had worked with the pre- most of them have been taken from their vious CEO.She was retiring and recruited families and put into foster homes. And me for the position. The reason I really our third division is the community service Walter Phillips: Changing Young decided this was a good fit for me, after I for behavior health. That is where we of- Lives had gone through all of the interviews and fers programs for substance abuse, mental was offered the position, was that it fit for wellness, therapy, counseling. But if you ask By: Haley Gorman what I am passionate about. Helping kids companies in San Diego we are the primary who are at a disadvantage and are at-risk provider for homeless youth in San Di- After scurrying quickly into the is who I love to work with. We need to ego. Other organizations deal with this age admissions office of San Diego Youth Ser- address their needs comprehensibly. So, group as well but we specialize in it. vices in Point Loma, California, I tidied this is why I started working here, it’s a H.G: How do you guys differ from other up my skirt and took a deep breath. Per- great organization and we’re doing credi- organizations such as St.Vincent De Paul or fectly on time, I walked into the office of ble things. San Diego Rescue Mission? CEO Walter Phillips as he greeted me with H.G: How long has this organization been W.P: A unique thing that we do separate a smile. He told me to take a seat as he fin- operating? from Vincent De Paul, we have a great ished up a phone call. His voice was stern W.P: The organization was founded in relationship with them, is that the youth to whomever he was talking to on the 1970. The founder, John Wedemeyer, was that we serve who are homeless are not other line-- clearly winning the debate, he a brand new graduate from the school of accompanied by adults. So they don’t have a hung up and shook my hand firmly. His social work and about a year after, him parent involved and they don’t really have a voice was not so stern anymore, but rather and his wife found a homeless kid on place to go. So the youth that we provide to fatherly. I knew instantly that this was a the street. They said that it was ridicu- are essentially the kids who really have no man committed to the programs and peo- lous; that there shouldn’t be kids without place to go. ple he serves. a home. So he and group of volunteers H.G: Is this the primary location for SDYS San Diego Youth Services is a decided they should do something about and do you have more locations? non-profit organization that is dedicated it since the kid they met wasn’t the only W.P: We actually have 14 locations in San to stabilizing the lives of at-risk, home- one. So they started SDYS and they started Diego and that isn’t counting where our less, abused and runaway children in the first shelter for runaway and homeless staff are colocated in the juvenile detention San Diego. SDYS provides services and youth in San Diego. It was only the 3rd in centers and on school campuses. We have housing to youth and according to its site, the nation so far. From there, volunteers many staff that are housed there as well. For has provided these intensive services to and staff have grown into what it is today. the homeless population we have the shel- more than 500,000 children since 1970. H.G: So how long have you been working ter called The Storefront. It’s a shelter for The work that Mr. Phillips and SDYS do is here? the homeless ages 12-17. So we have 3 ma- important to not only young people and W.P: I’ve been the CEO here for a little jor components to The Storefront, we have homeless people, but also to the commu- over 13 years. a street outreach team that goes out on the nity. H.G: And what role do you play as the streets every night and they try to connect Throughout the interview we CEO? with homeless kids on the street. Bring- shared a few laughs and even exchanged W.P: Well ultimately I was picked by the ing them resources such as food, clothing, stories about our own volunteer experi- Board Of Directors and I am responsible blankets, socks and we ences. I noticed many picture frames of a for the overall operations of the agency. girl and boy a little older than I am try to get them to come into our shelter. Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Chil- shelter, way back when it wasn’t called They don’t always want to come into the dren. What happens is there are pimps monarch. It was a teacher from the San shelter so we try to meet their needs on and gang members who prey on these Diego County of Education who came in the streets. Then we have a shelter that is kids on the streets, this is why the 24-72 to teach the homeless youth in the shel- a 20 bed shelter that you can come in on a hours right after a child becomes home- ter. After time they grew, and we grew so temporary basis to get housing, food, and less are very crucial because if we don’t get they got their own place. We have youth hopefully develop skills to go back into to them these bad guys might first. and that will go to Monarch but more often we society and get out of homelessness. The force these kids into prostitution. And try to keep youth, if they want to, in their night shelter is where they sleep but we also unfortunately for whatever reason there home school. Because one of the problems have a day shelter that is attached to the are a market of people who want kids. It’s for the homeless is that they tend to lose Storefront where youth can come in during just horrible. So we have a group for girls touch with their education. That’s where the day. If they don’t go to school they can who are victims of that. So that same girl they have their friends, and connections. receive some sort of education from us. We got those services and that is what really They lose everything when they become also have transitional housing for youth changed her life. homeless. If possible I believe they should who are 18+ and might be homeless who H.G: What are some ways people can help stay at their home school. Monarch is a need help. We have apartment complexes the homeless population through your great alternative if they are behind or don’t for them here. At this location we have a lot organization or others? have a school to be connected with. of young moms who have children under W.P: We have a volunteer program, and H.G: If you could snap your fingers and the age of 5. in addition to that we provide a volunteer coordinator, so all opportu- solve the issue of homelessness what a lot of support services. We provide mental nities go through her. She tries to match would you specifically do, and realistically, health counseling, substance abuse counsel- people’s interest areas with the needs of what do you think it would take? ing, parenting life skills training, job train- our programs. Sometimes groups of peo- W.P: I don’t think it’s that hard. I say that ing and more. ple might want to help out at the shelter, because I had a cousin who came into H.G: What are the three main reasons peo- like my daughter with her girl scout troop, town 2-3 weeks ago and she’s from the ple you have encountered become home- they came in and brought meals during Netherlands. She’s a social workers there less? the holidays. Others might want to do and they don’t have a homeless problem. W.P: That’s a really good question. It’s dif- activities with the youth. And then there’s Especially with youth they don’t have a ferent for youth than it is for adults. Most individual opportunities. homeless problem. What they do is they youth are homeless because they are com- H.G: What is one thing that the majority don’t let kids on the streets. They don’t let ing from a home that they cannot stay at. of people do not know about youth home- them become homeless. They will find the Most homeless kids come from families lessness? homeless youth and give them all the re- who are dysfunctional for different rea- W.P: About kids being sexually exploited. sources and services and find them hous- sons such as substance abuse or neglect. People have no idea that it is happening to ing. One of the problems we have here, A very high percentage of homeless youth a significant number of kids on the streets. and in many cities, is a lack of resources are LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans- Sometimes these young people are in for the youth. Especially for the youth gender & Questioning). Often times we such a desperate place that they will often who are not in the foster care system. If find that when youth come out as LGBT exchange shelter, food and water for that you aren’t in the foster system, there are their parents kick them out onto the streets. life because they feel they have no other very few options. We are one of the only Also there are families who are homeless to option. So I think people don’t really quite places they can go. So I think if we real- begin with and bring kids into the mix and understand that it happens here in San Di- ly put the resources into it and worked can’t provide. ego. Most people would never believe that. with kids all the way up to the age of 18, H.G: Who is one person that has changed H.G: Do you personally believe their is a regardless of why they left their home your perspective on homelessness? stereotype around the word “homeless”? we could solve youth homelessness. One W.P: Wow, it’s going to be hard to just pick W.P: Yes, I think when most people think of the reason Child Welfare can’t get in- one. One that really stood out for me is a of the homeless they think of the per- volved with homeless children is because young girl who came to our doors, and her son pushing a shopping cart, or they guy they say it’s not abuse or neglect. But if we story really made me see how families in who is dirty and disheveled on the corner had a system that said it doesn’t matter our community really do struggle. It was a asking for change. That’s the stereotype. why they left, we just need to get them 13-year-old girl living in our shelter who The one thing about homeless youth is help and resources, there would be less had been living on the streets with her that you don’t see them. They are invisi- and less children falling into homeless- parents who were substance abusers. Come ble. During the Point-In-Time counts it is ness. We need to give them whatever they to find out, her parents had been trying to never accurate because they don’t count need to not slip back into homelessness. sell her for their drug money. At the time, the youth. The youth hide, they blend in, Right now there are so many kids who slip my own daughter was around this age so I and most go to school. They are very hard through the cracks because we have a very remember thinking what parent could do to count and they definitely don’t fit that robust system for kids in foster care but that to their own child? We were able to stereotype. for those who weren’t there’s very little we get her help and put into a foster home. We H.G: Do you guys have any relation to can do. It’s not about getting more money have specialized services for victims of Monarch High School? it’s about re-prioritizing where the money W.P: In fact Monarch started in our is used. MB: There are so many… That’s the differ- MB: Well, I’m obviously more behind the ence between back home and here. Myself scenes than on the front line. I’m usually and my boys see so much homelessness, pulled in more for when there is a crisis. especially where we live. Here in San Um, I look at CRF as everybody helping Diego there is homelessness everywhere the homeless. We have a lot of people at and my boys will even ask [about] them. I our central office because , whether it’s never knew about that at all. I never even somebody in accounting, processing our saw a homeless person [where I’m from]. receipts to make sure that we are able to It’s just very prevalent with the population purchase items for our staff, or somebody that we specifically work with. We work going over our policies and procedures to with those individuals who are high uti- make sure that we are keeping our staff lizers of psychiatric services, so if there is safe and that we are abiding by the law, no intervention, the cycle just keeps con- or processing insurance so our staff can tinuing. And I just have a heart for people drive. I mean there are so many jobs that with mental illnesses. People just don’t go on behind the scenes that make it work understand. When they see a homeless for our front line staff that help on a day to person, they don’t see them as a whole… day basis. Um so specifically working with just someone who is lazy and not working them directly, not so much. But I do the Melissa Beals: A Woman with a and that’s not the case. They usually have a overall, everyday work to try and make it mental illness that impairs them or they’ve run smoothly around here. And to keep Heart had a lot of trauma in their history. So they our program funded. You know I do a lot By: Sierra Green are just a cry for help and I have a heart for of liaison work with the County and try to that. make sure we have a good reputation and The first time I met Melissa Beals in SG: You talked about the number of home- are doing a good job and training staff to person, I felt as though I had just inhaled less in San Diego. Doesn’t San Diego have make sure they feel competent and ade- a breath of cool, fresh air. I’d exchanged the third largest amount? quate and prepared. a few emails with her prior, but it hadn’t MB: You know, I don’t know the latest stats SG: And so you said making sure you have been enough for me to get a sense of who but we do get a lot of transient folks be- a good reputation. How do you do that? she was as a person. I was immediately cause of our weather … It wouldn’t sur- MB: Um, by going above and beyond what’s struck by her self-confidence. Beals is prise me, it wouldn’t surprise me at all. required. By making sure we’re doing what beautiful, intelligent, and down-to-earth. SG: … When did you first become pas- we say we’re going to do in our contract , She breezed into the room with a big sionate about helping the homeless peo- and being respectful to other organiza- smile and the kind of posture that com- ple? tions and agencies working with us. Um mands respect. Yet despite all of this, she MB: Um, really … [I] didn’t become pas- Um we have a moto in our RFP of doing was far from intimidating. As soon as she sionate until I actually started with CRF . whatever it takes, whether that’s a front started speaking, I realized how caring I had a passion for people, helping people line staff or me in a County meeting . Just and kind she is. Melissa Beals strikes an with mental illness. Obviously that’s why working and collaborating. impressive balance between loving mom I’m in the field. But I hadn’t really ever SG: And so the front line staff are the peo- and accomplished businesswoman, and considered working with the homeless ple who work directly? she has amazing stories to tell. population until CRF started recruiting me MB: Yeah that’s what I refer to as our staff Ms. Beals has been the program for this position and for the program … so that have everyday contact. director of the IMPACT (Intensive Mo- um yeah probably when I started working SG: And what do they do? bile Psychosocial Assertive Community here about 2006. And more so because MB: … So um in a nutshell just to let you Treatment), a program of Community I came from working in the children’s know so we’re a program has roughly Research Foundation since 2006. The world . I mean I had worked prior to that 250 clients in our program. They have to CRF and IMPACT provide intensive, I worked in another ACAT program but come into our program homeless and once community-based, case management having worked with adults and children they come to our program our goal is to services for 224 homeless adults in the like I see like if they don’t get intervention get them off the street so we try to house Central and North Central regions of then I see what they are going to grow up them even like the same day. So we have a San Diego County. As program director, [like] and [what they’ll] likely have a more housing specialist that we work with. They Ms. Beals not only oversees the IMPACT probability of becoming and on the flip coordinate with our intake specialist who programs in San Diego, but also oversees side I also see in working with our clients those two are the first staff that clients will public relations for the organization. now probably what they experienced in have contact with. And then once the cli- the children’s system which is not always ent is opened and housed we transfer them the greatest. to one of two teams. We have the clients SG: Tell me about how you started at IM- SG: So working here made you even more split up into two teams just because there PACT. compassionate? are so many of them. And then on each MB: Yeah… I was recruited during the MB: Yes absolutely. team we have the team lead who runs the RFP writing, the grant writing process, SG: And how do you specifically help the day to day because I had experience working in this homeless? [area], in another program similar to this. SG: What is the number one reason you think it’s important to help the homeless people? operations for the team. A psychiatrist, for the homeless too, as far as permanent 62. And so I was able to get her 5050ed RN’s, we have an employment specialist, housing not temporary housing … on that which means she was involuntarily hos- substance abuse specialist, peer specialist website there’s also interviews of clients pitalized and get her the care, you know, who is somebody who has experienced of our program and other programs like point her in the right directions. Its peo- mental illness themselves. Perhaps been a ours. So you can look at videos there. ple like that that inspire me. Unless you consumer of mental health services. And Some of our staff are on there … take the time to actually get to know then we have a couple masters level and SG: Who is someone who inspires you to somebody and actually help them then bachelors level clinicians. We also have a make a difference or help the homeless? they’re probably not ever going to get probation officer that we share between MB: Um well I’ll think of someone like the help they need. They will always be the teams . That’s everybody on the recently I guess. Someone who keeps me seen as this scary person that’s just lazy teams. So its quite a variety of services motivated. There’s an old woman in our and not was not the case at all. She was that we provide. Its a one stop shop. Yeah neighborhood who would chronically go actively psychotic and just wandering … we try to get the housing first , we try to around pushing a cart. She appeared to be they are everywhere! I think of when we give the client choice on where they live, homeless . She was looking for pop cans were ramping up as a program we did a they type of housing they want to live … she was adamant, she was diligent, she lot of outreach. Like we would actually in, and try to get them in immediately would do this everyday, I would see her go out and recruit people because had because if we can meet their basic needs out there. And she was very skinny , very to ramp up. Now we can get referrals and their survival needs then they don’t fragile and I don’t know why, but I was from hospitals, or from anywhere. But have to focus on surviving, whether or not drawn to wanting to meet her -- to want- when we were first starting we were going they are going to get physically or sexually ing to know her. But every time I would to the beaches, we were going to bridges, assaulted on the streets or how they are see her I had my small children with me we were going to to intersections and just going to survive, whether they are going and just kind of felt a little reserved , I recruiting people and we heard story after to stay warm, or were they are going to get didn’t feel comfortable with them being story after story of people who are similar. their next meal. If we can help them meet [with me]. One day my husband and I Of people who have psychotic break[s] those basic needs then we can help them were driving , we were driving along and I and who don’t get the help that they need focus on what are your goals for your life? was like oh there she is again! And so we and have some sort of traumatic event in Are you wanting to go back to work, then were driving by but we were going on to their life whether its a divorce a death or they have the opportunity to focus their an on ramp on the interstate. We couldn’t some other environmental stressor that energy on what direction they want to go stop because we were in traffic and every- could trigger their psychosis . next. body was behind us. But as we were driv- SG: How did you do that? Did you call a SG: So how could the community help the ing by I looked down and I saw her feet. PERT team? homeless? And they were just appalling! Just her feet MB: No I just called the police. I didn’t MB: That’s a good question. Well I would were bloodied and swollen and purple have to go through PERT. I went through basically , an initial response would be to and [I] don’t even know how she walked. non emergency police and they came out volunteer and get more involved … But I don’t even know how she walked and and they looked at her feet and they were I think its also just education … I think it just broke my heart … but I couldn’t like oh we need to get her to the hospital . if people became more educated about do anything because I was right in the I haven’t seen her on the streets since So I what homelessness is what it looks like midst of crazy traffic but I remember it hope she’s in a good place and getting help. and the more they know what’s going on just broke my heart and [I was] just cry- SG: Would it have been different if you behind the scenes instead of just looking ing and wanting to help her. And so she had gone through PERT? at someone on the street and not knowing vanished [and] I didn’t see her for a few MB: Um no PERT I usually use for some- the person’s story or why they are there months . Eventually I ran into her again. one who may be violent or refusing help for that reason. That would really really I pulled over and got to go and meet her. where she was, I was able to correspond help if they were more educated about I met with her and again it’s just some- with her on paper and she was willing to those with severe and persistent mental body taking the time to stop and reach go to the hospital. She was reluctant at illness and substance abuse because a lot out and help somebody. When I met with first but eventually she agreed to be as- of our clients have co occurring illnesses her she isn’t someone who is walking the sessed by the police and coaxed into go- with substance abuse. So I think if they streets looking for or begging for money, ing. She was a little bit reluctant. But she could just some how become more educat- she is someone who couldn’t even speak ended up going. But it was great because ed. I know the County has put a big push with me because she felt she was hearing I had everything on paper to show the [that] its up to us campaign. I don’t know voices and she was paranoid and she felt police. This woman is actively psychotic. if you’ve seen that . Billboards, posters, people were out to kill her and to rape her It wasn’t just me telling them trying to get tv commercials, they have a website that’s so we had to sit and correspond through them to take her. good to refer people to so they have been paper and pen. She was even leery about SG: If you could tell the community one trying to educate more through that. Spe- that. It was just really really sad because I thing about the homeless people or about cifically for homelessness, too. It might be don’t know if anybody had ever taken the how to help them, what would it be? a good website for you to look at. Itsup- time to sit down with her and try to get MB: Um I guess the biggest way I would tous.org is what it is. It talks a lot about her services. Tried to get her the help she want to help is just to try to get rid of stig- our housing projects that the County is needed. Here she is actively psychotic and ma. I’m not saying that people need to sponsoring she is go up to people in the intersection and I was able to get a last minute inter- J.S: Yeah so I do that, we have, so I am start helping them. But maybe just take a view with Juliette Sherry. I got to meet her part of like with a non-profit development step back and not be so judgmental. Try during our tour at The San Diego Rescue team, so we are the ones that raise all the to see the person as a whole. And that Mission when our class visited as part of money to keep the lights on and keep they are a human being. And to realize the project on homelessness. I really liked everything going, so we have individuals that maybe they don’t have the advantag- the way she talked about helping others gives manager, umm that does a bunch of es in life that you had growing up or that with so much passion. staff and we also do a bunch of direct mail you don’t have their trauma or their his- Juliette is the Community Relations and grants so we have a lady that oversees tory or their loss. Just to be able to take and Event Manager at the San Diego Res- all the direct mail and grants. a step back and try to see the person as a cue Mission. She is originally from Sacra- A.P: That’s very interesting, like I’ve never whole. See that they do have something to mento, but moved to San Diego recently to gotten to know more about projects like offer. If we can get them the right services take on this position at the Rescue Mis- this. that they need they can focus on making sion. When I interviewed her in Novem- J.S: Yeah non-profits are pretty cool, umm themselves better. Focus on their goals, ber, she had been with the organization you know businesses-- they’re the same, and become better overall and just see that for only five months, but her newness does but total opposites on the way they oper- they can contribute to society and they are not distract from the significance of her ate, because it’s all about being efficient not just a burden. work. She plans all of the events that keep and you’re asking for money because you SG: And see I think what you said about the Mission going as well as coordinates have a product if you have a business or a not being judgmental and seeing people large food donations like those from the service and then here we’re providing ser- as a whole I feel like that could just be a San Diego Padres and Petco Park. She is a vices and we’re asking people to support message to the world about everything. It beautiful woman, from the inside out. She us.So we have to ask and talk about what definitely applies to homeless people but shared with me, that her heart is full of the we are doing and like Herbert said we applies to everyone. hearts of all the 100 kids that she has been don’t take any government money so we MB: It’s so hard to get past the holes in the able to get to know at the Rescue Mission. literally raisee every penny of that, usually clothes, and the stench and the long hair When she offered our class a tour of the its about in cash nine million dollars of and beards and the sunkissed skin. Its just Rescue Mission, she inspired me to want sending mail pieces to people’s mail, ask- hard to get past the surface for a lot of peo- to do better things in life, which is exactly ing and just generous hearts of people in ple unfortunately, but there’s a very rich why I think she is a hero in our communi- the community that love the people here. experience beyond just the surface and I ty. A.P:What’s the reason why you don’t ac- totally agree with you. cept money from the Government? SG: Where are the other two ACT pro- A.P: So one of my first questions is, how J.S: We are faith based organization, so grams? long have you been working here? they won’t umm, if we were to take money MB: There’s Downtown IMPACT and tget J.S: So I been here five and half months, from the government they dictate the way service Downtown, and then Senior Im- five months you do your program and we’d rather have pact is the whole County. They just moved A.P: Well it looks like you’ve done like a lot the freedom to run it the way we want to to 9th and Broadway Downtown with it the past five months! instead of umm, doing what the govern- [the] Jane Westin Center. There are not J.S: I love this place, so it feels like forever! ment says because we are Christian, if that children’s ACT programs. (laughing) makes sense. A.P: How did you start working here? A.P: What do you think people in San J.S: My husband and I were going to move Diego should know about the Rescue Mis- and, I was doing sales for a company in sion? Sacramento and so umm we were gon- J.S: That there’s, you know roughly a hun- na transfer but I just wanted to work for dred women and kids every night that non-profit again so I umm saw the appli- have absolutely no where else to go but the cation and I applied and they called me on mission you know. And the people that the next day and I flew down from Sacra- you don’t think about, that are homeless mento, that bought a ticket because I knew it’s the kid that you’re in class with that you I was gonna get the job so (both laughing) never know, that comes here with his mom yeah I flew down the next day and inter- and little siblings every night and packs of view. every day and comes here and that’s the A.P: What’s your title in this job? J.S: only shower and maybe the only clothes I’m the community relations and events and only food that they’re going to get is manager. So I do, I manage all different that. (tears welling) community activities and groups and go A.P: What is something that people can do out and talk about the mission, and then I to help the rescue mission? planed all of our event here too. J.S: So they can support us in a buncher A.P:Wow thats very interesting. Are you ways where its financially or donating any How Five Months Can be Full of the only one who does this job? umm items that they have that they don’t Success: An Interview with Ju- need anymore or doing a drive. liette Sherry By: Alejandra Pichardo We always need socks and underwear and and having work here I am very relational was kidnapped by the Khmer Rouge, and you know the things that people don’t of people so I get to know people, like I was the first person to ever be released by want to think about but: shoes,socks, like to know peoples names and knowing them. Mr. Malone’s entire life seems to underwear, pajamas, clothes anything things like little boy Jerry he is probably have been dedicated to service and learn- that you can think of: sheets, towels, all six and he is here with his three siblings ing how to better address the needs of of those things. Our average cost because and him and his little brother their like, people around the world. For this reason, we get most of the food umm donated, for they just want to hang out, everyday he is he is a true hero! us to prepare a meal it cost a $1.67 so you like okay I’ll see you tomorrow were gonna can’t even go to McDonalds and get a meal play basketball alright and I’m like okay, AJ: Where did you attend college? for a $1.67 so you know even five dollars but i’m like I don’t wanna see you tomor- KM: University of Notre Dame feed someone for a day, so thats what we row, like I want you to have a safe place but AJ: And did that have anything to do with tell people and like it’s the little bit it’s the I’ve gotten to know him and its that part your path to philanthropy? people that give five, ten, twenty dollars of like, you love those people you having KM: I wouldn’t say I’m in philanthropy, you know they’re the people that wanna does kids actually I have 100 kids they’re but, I would say that the choice in collage give very large sums of money too but if all all here and I love all of them like that just had something to do with my interest in of san diego you know gave $5 we would warms my soul. Yeah, that’s the part of being involved in social change work be, you know we keep running. like you come back everyday after leaving AJ: So did that have a class, or anything A.P: How are ways that you can deliver and seeing that, and its that reminder I am that encouraged you to start? stuff to the Rescue Mission? doing something, or I don’t feel bad about KM: What Notre Dame says about itsself J.S: So people can umm donate cash they asking for money because its helping the and what it actually is, that’s a different can mail it on check or online , or we even people that are hopeless. conversation, is that it is focused on, as an have a text campaign where it can run institution on, creating a better and more through your phone bill umm they can just world. And so within the university, donate guides, they can schedule pick up it’s part of its catholic nature, it’s a catholic if they have a lot of stuff and our truck university, there were a bunch of different would pick any items that they have or programs and centres where you could get they can drop of on our warehouse or drop involved in social change work. off stuff in the mission or even shopping AJ: Ok, and did you get involved in any of on our thrift stores if people go buy on our those? thrift stores all of the money comes right KM:Yeah I did, yeah. back to our programs. AJ:Where you in the Peace Corps or any- A.P: How many thrift stores does the Res- thing during college? I know that some cue Mission have? colleges actually require that you partici- J.S: Three thrift stores, YUUUP! National pate in something of that sort. City, City Heights and North Park. The KM: I was in the peace corps, but the North Park one is the fancy one. peace corps was after collage, I didn’t really A.P: What is the most challenging part of learn about the peace corps while I was this job for you? there, I guess I sorta did, there were vari- J.S: I think umm seeing, seeing the peo- ous volunteer efforts that recruited people ple every day. Like you, when I graduated Kevin Malone: A Life of Service from universities, and one of them was the college I thought I was going to move to By: AJ Kemp peace corps Africa and spend the summer there, and I AJ: How was your experience with the thought oh I have to go Africa and see or- Kevin Malone is the executive di- Peace Corps? phans and kids and help people and then rector of the San Diego Organizing Proj- KM: It was great, I mean I went to West I came here and I got to to a lot of stuff ect (SDOP), an organization that seeks Africa; I was in Sierra Leon for a little of life and I feel blessed. I have a husband to find creative solutions to community more than the normal time for a Peace and a home and umm but I leave everyday concerns. Mr. Malone has a long history Corps volunteer, so more like two and a from work and I see the kids on the emer- of service to community and the greater half, three years. gency shelter and they just want love and good in society. His activism and service AJ: And where else do you do missions? they just want those things that I had, that has led him to amazing and inspiring life KM: Um, that was the only peace corps they don’t have that as kids, so I cry like stories that all of society can learn from. experience, but then I decided to go and everyday when I leave. He was born in the State of Wash- live and work in south east Asia, and work A.P:Do you prepare mentally before com- ington and attended Notre Dame, where in a refugee camp, so I was in a refugee ing here everyday? he received a degree in mechanical engi- camp called______on the Thai Cambo- J.S: I think a lot about in my car like,or neering. He later joined the Peace Corps, dian border for a couple years, and then like I am Christian we are a Christian where he did work in Sierra Leon and the refugees went back to Cambodia, back organization so I just pray a lot and think other parts of West Africa. After leaving into the war zone actually, and I went there about the people here the Peace Corp, he continued to do work as well, and I lived in Cambodia for about in Sri Lanka and Cambodia with his wife. eight years. While he was in Cambodia, he AJ: So being in Cambodia, I understand that it was fairly unstable time for the not really, they weren’t perceived of as So I get back to our house, we lived on country, was there any event or any time equal, and as soon as I started to under- the third floor of this Cambodian family’s that you were really in danger, but kept stand that, I started to see other things. I house. Ali was there, with the mattresses going for the good of the people? grew up in a small, redneck town, and I covering the windows, and holding the KM: Plenty of time, plenty of times. I remember I had a friend in kindergarten. baby, and she says “I’m leaving!” and I worked with a Cambodian Buddhist He was the only black kid in class, but I said, “I guess I am too.” monk, a Jesuit Brother, and a Jewish wom- didn’t realize that he was black. It wasn’t AJ: So where did you meet her? an and we built a nonviolent movement until middle school or later that I was like, KM: Well, in England. I had a really in- for peace, a lot like Ghandi, and every year “woo, this world is,” pardon me teacher, tense year, doing pretty crazy stuff in Cam- we would do an annual peace march called but “f****d up”, and it needs to change. I bodia. I went to do a meditation retreat in the ______, which is Pali and essential- can remember that I this small, redneck England, at this Buddhist centre where she ly it means walking to bring coolness, or town, these Vietnamese refugees moved was, and she came back to Cambodia with peace. So every year, we would, it built into town and I was a coach of a soccer me. up to like a thousand of monk and nuns a team, and so of them were on my team. AJ: So how would you say that working year, and we would walk into the war zone, Their houses were being firebombed, I with these people and all of these people to try and end the war. mean nobody got hurt, but it was this have shaped your life? AJ: And there was never a time where be- ugly ugly racism. So I think that that was KM: Oh it has made me who I am. I ing in danger really discouraged you? like, what really prompted me. And then mean, the variety, and you know we took KM: I was there for a reason, I knew what my mom always bringing us to go and do our kids and moved down to Central we were doing, we were trying to end the things, to volunteer at rest homes, with America, so that they would have a similar war, a couple of people did get hurt, we people who had no family, and to vol- experience of living out of this culture. I had a monk and a nun killed on one of the unteer in bread lines and work with the think that everybody needs to leave this walks, and I was briefly kidnapped by the homeless. One of the summers in collage, country at some point, and become a citi- Khmer Rouge, and survived, the only for- I went and worked with the homeless the zen of the world. It is a big ole world, and eigner to ever be kidnapped by the Khmer whole summer and lived on the streets. it is too easy for Americans to think that Rouge and still live, you are looking at him It wasn’t the whole summer, only a few the whole world is here. You don’t really AJ: Do you have any contacts, or is there weeks, but some of the homeless activists learn that until you leave. anyone that you met while in the Peace that were working to end it. I ended up AJ: So what is it that made you want to Corps or Asia that you have kept a rela- sleeping outside for a few weeks, and see- work with the San Diego Organizing Proj- tionship with? ing how screwed up things were, thanks to ect, and not some other organization or KM: Yeah, I lived and worked with Cam- Ronald Raegan, for turning out all of the someone else? bodians for ten years, it was a long time homeless and mentally ill onto the streets, KM: They do the only thing I wanted to ago but I am still in touch with quite a few way to go dude. do. The work that I do is called Organiz- people in Cambodia. AJ: So why did you leave Asia? ing, Community organizing, and in this AJ: So did you ever have an experience KM: Oh, we had a baby. Declan is the case Congregation Based Community Or- when you were younger that made you reason. I had lived out of this country for ganizing. We work with churches to find think, “you know what I need to be the uhh.. well, since I had graduated. I was and develop leaders, who work on issues change, I need to cause a change”, was in Africa, then Southeast Asia, and hadn’t that they care about in their communi- there anything that really prompted you to been back, at least not for much more than ties. It’s all I have ever done, in Africa, in start? a visit. I wasn’t really planning on ever Cambodia, and here, it’s all about finding KM: Um, I suppose the answer is yes, be- coming back, but met my wife, Declan people who care and creating change, and cause I think that it is all I have ever done, was born in Bangkok. We were living in holding people accountable. So what we so I now find, train, and recruit young Penampang. At that time, I was creat- do is not charity, what we do is justice. people to be organizers and change agents, ing, or helping to create, the first national There is a huge difference charity is giving an everyone has a story that they can go centre for conflict resolution. A military something to somebody. It is necessary, back to, that helped them to understand coup happened, and Declan was about two people need food, and clothing, and we that they needed to be the change. For me, months old. A tank shell, well actually, need a safety net that works for people to I think it was growing up in the church, what happened was Ali(his wife) called get them stabilized. The market econo- in the Catholic Church, and seeing that me, saying there were tanks in the streets. my that we have created has winners and what was being taught, in the church, and I was planning a peace conference, so I losers, and the winners keep winning, and what was being practiced in the world was just said not now, and hung up. I thought right now we are living through the most very very different. And I think that the she was just joking around with me, but income inequality we ever have in this early days was my understanding of how she called again and said, no, there really country. Revolution should be happening, women and men were not treated equally. are tanks in the streets. So I got on m little and that is my job. It won’t change until It didn’t make sense to me. So I’m older motorbike, I’m riding back, and it was people demand it, until people take power than you, and my mom was a stay at home quite a ways to where we lived. There were back, and organizing folks around their mom, and like lots of other women at the tanks and soldiers. They weren’t shooting own needs and interests and building pow- time, she was at me, but I weaved my way home, and er to hold systems accountable is a way to a tank shell had fallen about a hundred do that. yards from our house. AJ: One of the reasons that I wanted to interview you, instead of My class went on a field trip to Saint with my church and family so it wasn’t say someone from St. Vincent DePaul’s, is Vincent de Paul’s to help make breakfast something new for me. I remember help- because I felt that your organization was for the homeless population in downtown ing when I was younger and I still re- more focused on the long term fix. San Diego. The day after Saint Vincent, member a lot of it. I might volunteer this KM: Yes, we are Ms. Angie told us that now that we have Christmas. When I was younger, I re- AJ: Something like a soup kitchen or shel- all gone on this field trip and had worked member helping my mom and dad and we ter, yes that is good for the night, but that with or around homeless people, we could would go downtown and I don’t remember is a short term fix. now interview each other. I chose Jack. where we went, but I remember there was KM: Yeah, that is absolutely true, the truth While we helped out the shelter, I a lot of homeless people and we would is that, well, there is a distortion of the had the opportunity to work with Jack in pass out soup and sandwiches. We didn’t golden rule. Those that have the gold, the kitchen. I noticed that he did every- go buy the sandwiches; we made them all. make the rules. So, that is the golden thing with a smile on his face, never com- JF: Would you keep volunteering and help- rule that prevails on this corporate kind plaining and doing his best. I asked him ing people? of ruled world that we are in. We live in if I could interview him and he replied, JH: Yes. I believe it’s important. I would this world where the wealthiest 1% have “Of course.” My main question for this keep volunteering even if I was in a dif- control of 90% of the wealth, and that’s interview was “What made you have such ficult situation, but yes I would still help, just wrong. And it’s stupid, and not sus- a great day helping homeless?” The reason and this year I’m looking forward to help- tainable. This country really has two I asked this was because all of us had to ing people. phenomenal things going for it. One, its wake up at 4 - 4:30 AM that day and be JF: Did this experience change your view diversity, and two, until recently, the cre- at school by 5AM. Most people with the or opinion of homeless people? ation of a strong, vibrant middle class. exception of a few looked like zombies JH: I can’t say it has, but I can say that One that my parents helped to create, and working -- not because they didn’t want this process of interviewing or talking that your parents have benefited from, but to work but because they were half asleep. to homeless people is when talking to a you won’t. We are losing this middle class, Jack, however, looked happy and not tired homeless people is looking at them in the and it is because of this concentration of at all -- I wanted to know why. eye, make it so that they know you are wealth. Because of Ronald Reagan, and listening and they know you know they George Bush, and those other a******* JF: How did you feel after leaving the shel- exist and that is something that changed giving the farm away, and us not figuring ter that day? my perspective. out how to hold corporations account- JH: I felt very good about myself. Not to be JF: Are you wanting to do your internship able. Take it back further, and it’s because all high and mighty, but I did a good thing helping shelters? of greed and if you don’t create solutions for the day when I could of easily done JH: I can’t say I would; that’s something I that address the system, and the structural something else and I felt good because like to do in my spare time. If I can’t get inequality, nothing will change. But that these people have nothing and it’s great to the internship I want, then I will volunteer takes power. help people in need. It was a great oppor- at a homeless shelter for my internship. tunity to make a difference. JF: Are you planning on picking a line of JF: Would you be willing to volunteer at a work where it involves helping others? shelter again? Why or why not? JH: Like I said before, it’s something that JH: Of course! It’s something I would I would do on my free time. I don’t think look forward to doing again! The reason that I would be focusing on it 100%, but I I would do this is because it feels good to would be focusing a large amount on vol- help others. unteering… still, it wouldn’t be a full time JF: What did you like about helping home- thing. Next year, I’ll be doing an event less people? with this program called Stand Down that JH: I liked that the homeless people were helps homeless veterans and I’m really very grateful and it makes you feel good looking forward to that. about yourself because you are helping JF: What is Stand Down? someone in need and they know you are JH: It’s an organization that helps veterans helping them or wanting to help them and with their stress. It helps them get back they are grateful. on their feet after combat because a lot of JF: Was this your first time volunteering to them have seen bad things that leave psy- Jack Hawley: A Volunteer with a help the homeless or for people in need? If chological damage. Smile not, where else have you volunteered? JF: That sounds really cool. That’s great! JH: Yes and no. I have done volunteer By: Jose Furriel JH: I know, man! They gave me a hat! work before and I’ve helped homeless peo- JF: What are some interesting things you ple before this trip to Saint Vincent, but learned? I’ve volunteered mostly with my family to JH: Well, the one thing I learned was that help people during Christmas time the one thing I can really do for the home- less is acknowledge that they exist. Make them feel like someone cares and GC: So how long have you been working help people and then not accepting it, but respects them. for the San Diego Police Department? most people want to help people. (umm) JF: While helping homeless people, have JL: The San Diego Police Department 14 have images of being a kid and a police of- you ever felt grateful for the things you years ficer having a significant impact in my life have now in life? GC: Before becoming an officer, what did (uhh) you know I have very clear memo- JH: Yes. There’s people who have practi- you want to be? ries of very positives interactions. So. For cally nothing and I’m sitting in my house JL: Well probably, one of my earliest me its was like I wanted to (umm) kind of with my iPhone and my 3.5 acres of land. memories was to be an officer (umm) my give back what, what I got. It makes me feel very fortunate to have uncle was a mountain officer in Toronto GC: Okay, so kind of like you’re saying all these things. I have a house, I have my Canada, which is where I am from. And so you wanted to do what you saw the police family, I have an endless supply of food I had from an early on I think it was family officers doing. and running water… These people have background or maybe our social economic JL: Yeah they made a difference they nothing. Reading the book Under the status. The most reasonable careers would weren’t just about arresting people they OverPass really changed my perspective of be the military, fire police took the time. I , I was poor, I had friends these guys. They have it hard and it really that ended up in prison I have teachers makes you realize how lucky you are. public service. I have a lot of family mem- that when they would see me they would bers the (uhh) were like fire captains and say I thought you would be in prison. chiefs. (umm) sometimes it’s a kind of easy way GC: Was it because of your family that to go one way or another, and fortunate- kind of helped you realize you wanted to ly I picked the right way the right way I work in this type of job? hope, but sometimes it’s hard when you’re JL: Well let’s see I had a positive image of a teenager and you don’t know what to do the police, not everybody does you know and you can’t get a job. You know I had I have people telling their kids don’t talk friends that turned to other things for sure. to them, their bad. (umm) I think for me GC: So would you say that your position growing up in Canada culturally that’s having to be in a lower class did that kind very , the majority of the population are of make you choose which way you want- very pro. (umm) they really appreciate law ed to go, as in you had to go this way or enforcement (umm) emergency services, that way? firemen, everybody loves firemen, and JL: I think was a couple of times yeah military. The military I was in the Canadi- where I had to make a serious decision but an military as well, and that over the years It’s Called Compassion: An I just deep down that couldn’t do anything has gone is very negative view of the mili- bad, like it was just my personality. You Interview Jim Livesy tary. know (umm) The, the person who is drink By: Elena Castaneda JL: You know why do we need a military. and can’t take care of themselves even if (umm) some of the things the military was they weren’t my friend I would make sure The man that I interviewed works being involved in, it was difficult some- they got home safe. You know that kind with the San Diego Police Department. times to be in uniform. But yeah I had a of thing. I couldn’t see something and His name is Jim Livesy. He works in a part pretty good view of what law enforcement then god forbid something happen and of the department that is called Home- was. So. I wanted to help people. I could have done something that’s the less Outreach Team (HOT). He came in GC: When you first got into the Depart- biggest thing, and that’s probably the kind to give a presentation to our class for our ment what did you imagine your job was of mentality of why I got into what I do is homelessness project. After giving the going to be like? that. You can sit on the sidewalk and watch presentation, I had the opportunity and JL: When I first got in? Police work? and complain or you can jump in and get honor to interview him. We went into an GC: yeah when you first went into the Po- involved and you know I saw people being office with the perfect amount of lighting. lice Department. What’s the difference of victimized I saw really bad things happen- He was wearing his police uniform with what you imagined you would be doing. ing and I wanted to actively participate in a badge and everything that comes with JL: I think the majority of the police, that it. And preventing that I could so. the authority of a uniform. He has worked I know. They join the police department GC: What has been one of one of you with the police department for 14 years. because they want to help people, not so clients that you will always remember and The department he works with is a psychi- much I mean there’s a lot of people who never ever forget that you will, that has atric emergency response team. What the will give you the cool answer. You know I made an impact in your life. homeless outreach team does is work with get to drive cars fast and shoot and arrest JL: (haha) that’s a hard question, cause I’ve the chronically homeless. The chronically people for living, and that’s pretty cool. had a lot and honestly sometimes I don’t homeless are people who have experienced (umm) after you’ve been in a few pur- even remember because you just deal with homelessness three times in a year. They suits and violent incidents it’s not as cool. so much (umm) I mean there’s a lot of work together in anything the team can (umm) but most everybody that I know trauma I’ve see. A lot of bad things I have provide such as assistance in finding hous- when you ask them why, really they might experienced usually I see people ing for them, and providing help to those have become jaded after years of trying to who want to change their lives. when they are having a bad day. that’s usu- more of and actively volunteering and get mouthy with somebody and they’ll be ally when the police get involved in you’ve participating rather than just look, and say drunk and they get arrested. You know been you know seeing somebody later on well there is a problem over there; some- your behaving badly but they can’t see that who nearly killed for whatever reason. one should do something about it getting the big picture. It’s their own behavior Because of their behavior and then seeing involved in whatever that is law enforce- that’s causing the problems so yeah their them later and then realizing that what I ment or street outreach mental health getting attention ( umm) but when you did for them and that they got to go home services those sorts of things people are are able to build a bridge, with folks and that day and that their families still have taking time to get involved I think that the they trust you then you’re are opening the them. And they’re not high on the drugs homeless population in particular. door to let’s find something more better or whatever else was causing them to do The majority of people I of don’t to than just be out here. And what we do? crazy things. (umm) that’s very rewarding want to acknowledge that they are there When people ask me what my job is on the for me because I feel that there are sever- they might feel bad for them and from homeless outreach team It’s one of those al people that I can think of that I quite there political status they might say oh this things I hate that question because there literally saved their lives. So and just some- terrible and they should do something but is no simple answer to it the bottom line time I was just getting them away from the they take the time do anything themselves is ill do pretty much anything I can legal- drugs. Getting them out of the situation and when they see somebody on the street ly to help a person if that means driving they were involved in (umm) you know thy don’t make eye contact they don’t want them to an office and filling out a form I part of my job now is that I try to get peo- to get involved they want to just pretend have never even heard of before but that’s ple who are addicted and try to get them they went away unless its affecting their the only way these people are going to get into programs health treatment programs businesses so it’s like right in front and benefits, I’ll do it. (umm) if it means going and I’ve had several people recently who they say I want the police to fix this make into court and testifying for something so a week later completely different person them go away . so . education is always that it gets done I’ll take the time and dot then what you saw. Completely different good and there’s a lot of misunderstand- that a lot of it is just like peace keeping person and coming out of the cloud the ing I think that a lot of people have their going and talking to land lords. Or differ- haze of being involved in the substances own perspective of the population and ent people and just hey lets work this out realizing what their had become. Very if you’re not really in the population you why did this person get kicked out. You educated middle class kids who ended up don’t really understand it’s not just what know is there maybe something they could you know going through recycling and you’re seeing on the surface there a lot do to correct that and be able to come OB and that was their life. Making seven more underneath somebody might say all back. (uuhh) or kicked out of programs, dollars a day so they can buy a bottle of I need is a job or a place to stay. Its what You know like a person I’m waiting for cheap alcohol, realizing what their life had they say but when u dig a little deeper well her to call me has pretty much left all the become. And these are educated people it’s there a reason why they ended up on the programs. They are not really excited to let a very powerful addiction. So one person street and it wasn’t just they didn’t have a her back. is really hard for me to say but there’s been place to stay anymore. Its because they get GC: As an individual if you could change several that I feel I have made a difference evicted because of their behavior and you anything what would you focus on with and I you know I just want to make sure know whatever is causing their behavior. the homeless? that people get through the rough spots, So part of the job that I do now I like the JL: resources would be nice a lot of time most people are good people at heart and most is that police officer and patrol id see there’s a frustration of I have astutely no good people make you know bad deci- people every day and try to help them .can place to put this person even for a night I sions. They get involved in things but they I help you. When other people don’t have mean we pay for a lot of things out of our still. Their people they have family yes they the time to sit down and talk to them and pocket that the public doesn’t know and have kids they have loved ones you know try ask them what’s really going on cause I realize they’re not. A lot of people have I don’t want to be the person who has to know I put you I helped you out last time this image that we have all this empty say or tell somebody and say you know and your right back where you were so space to keep these people in these hotel I could have done more but I didn’t you obviously something is not working and rooms and if u just get to the right person know your sixteen year old. So I go out of sometimes just taking that time (umm) it they get a free hotel and everything is go- the way rather than just putting someone makes the difference. A lot of the people ing to be paid for. It’s not like that (umm) in jail under the influence. I will actively part of my job is to just building the trust there’s not as many benefits as other people try and convince to try to go to treatment with the people who have learned not to think I mean there are subsidized housing because long term that’s going to solve the trust anyone. And especially authority and in San Diego there is way too many to take problem for them because a lot of these I think one of the biggest tings is when care of. Can you wait eight to ten years people are getting arrested over and over I introduce somebody and I walk away until you get an apartment? and over again and the homeless popu- without taking them to jail. Or putting GC: Yeah I (um) I don’t think so lation use the hospital and usually they them in handcuffs or whatever else it’s a JL: it’s kind of ridiculous when you are don’t take the time to be insured. shock. Because they have never experience homeless. Think about it. Because hope- GC: Do you think us as a society need to that before to them but then there’s behav- fully in eight to ten years you’re not in learn more about homelessness? iors that their doing they will position that you’re not homeless anymore JL: I think knowledge is good and having hopefully right. Or now you’re so far deep into it that you’re going to be stuck in pov- erty because you have been doing it for ten years. (uhh) San Di- THEY KNOW that if I stay here people are of the City Council. He became Interim ego is a very expensive city to live in going to bring me stuff. So they won’t even Mayor of the City of San Diego on August and a lot of people come here so the go down to saint Vincent de Paul’s or Neil 30, 2013 and it was as mayor, in his down- resources that are here are stretched good day center and sign up for services town high-rise office, that I began my very tightly and one of the biggest because they don’t want to miss something interview with him challenges is for me is to find a place good. That’s going to be given away for to put somebody who wants help. free, so if being involved with an organiza- J.C. What is is the most creative solution , most of these people don’t want tion that kind of know what they’re doing to homelessness that you’ve seen in your help. Right now but I don’t give up has a track record and it’s also safety. To I career? I’ll tell them that I’ve never given up mean I see youth groups going you know T.G. Are you familiar with the Check-in on anybody, I will work with you at night I am a little worried that why us a center? it just might be different what I do police officers do it because we are to pro- J.C. No for you in future. You know I offer tect ourselves and the civilians that come T.G. This is very creative. Homeless peo- you opportunities sometime being with us. (umm) and they have to be em- ple have a lot of stuff right? It’s unfair to in jail is the best thing for a person ployees they can’t be volunteers. But you say they don’t have stuff, they just don’t honestly. know it’s all for everyone’s safety. have a home. And so you see there stuff in GC: Do you think homeless get carts, and bags, you know shopping carts them less into trouble so that the and things of that nature. And of course police take them to jail. Just because that causes a problem for the community they think going to jail is better than because you end up with a lot of blite, you being in the streets and having no know a lot of stuff along sidewalks, block- roof over your head, and not having ing rights of way, in canyons, things of that food to eat every day. nature. That’s a problem for the commu- JL: The short answer is yes. I think nity, that’s also a problem for the homeless that is not as simple I mean peo- person. You can imagine how difficult it is ple will simply say they have been to get a job if you show up institutionalized their whole lives. People can be in some pretty un- to that interview with all of your worldly comfortable situations living in possessions. Or you can stash them some- very poor conditions and they will where, maybe like stash them in a bush, choose that over being in a shelter. but then it’s stolen and you lose every- And you kind of go really? It seems thing. So it’s a practical problem; how did like you know sleeping in the rain Todd Gloria: A View From the we solve it, you’re asking about solutions. with absolutely no shelter I would San Diego Mayor’s Office So we took and an old city owned ware- think if I could get you a motel By: Jessica Castro house, we acquired a bunch of city trash room maybe not the nicest place but cans, you know the typical black and it would be yours and you wouldn’t My mind raced as I sat in the plush, blue ones you might have at home, we have to share with anybody and pay green chair, wearing my nicest, black blaz- wheeled them in there, and then we have for it monthly. That would be a good er. I still could not believe that the Mayor a non-profit group that allows the home- idea. of San Diego was taking time out of his less to store their stuff in those trash cans, GC: How do you think we as a team day to be interviewed by me-- a regular secures it for them. They leave it there, no can raise awareness about homeless- high school kid. His assistant walked in cost, for a couple of days, then re-up every ness? and directed me through the doors into his few days. It’s a very low cost solution to a JL: Well I think Rick kind of said it office. Her warm smile slightly calmed me very practical problem. And it was some- helping and that has a proven track down. I entered his neat office. He greeted thing that was implemented in a short record that aren’t just like a pop up me with a smile. His black suit and, red tie amount of time, and we have had diffi- of you know somebody that say uhh seemed to show off his political power. I culties. We have had some difficulties, it’s you know I have a Ministry but they wanted to interview Interim Mayor Gloria have had to move locations a couple times don’t even have a building but some because of what I had seen on the news a because you know, vacant parcels are va- of the well know rescue missions few days before. On November 3, 2013, the cant for a reason; normally someone wants like saint Vincent de Paul Rachael’s San Diego Rescue Mission held a candle- to do something else with it, it’s a tempo- is a women shelter, they have emer- light vigil to commemorate the homeless rary use. But it’s been going for, I think gency beds. A lot of organizations men and women that died on the streets about 3 years now or so. Anecdotally, what want to help, but it takes a while and Mayor Gloria was not only present at we hear from folks who use it is it is very to kind of there a lot of perspec- this vigil, but he spoke as well. After seeing helpful for their peace of mind, they aren’t tives and a lots of misinformation this, I knew that he was someone who not worried about their stuff all the time. Some out there and a lot people just kind only cared about the homeless, but he was folks have actually found jobs because of of want to help. And just show up also someone who could do something it, and the people that I represent, I repre- downtown and start handing out about this issue. sent Downtown San Diego and it’s located bags of McDonalds. That, That gives Todd Gloria graduated from the downtown, the neighbors, the people who somebody a meal but it long term it University of California. He was elected live here are happy might not be the best thing (umm) to his second term as Council Member on because of that some of these people June 5, 2012. On December 3 of the same won’t leave the same spot because year, his colleagues elected him President because they notice less stuff kind of ladders of housing. Doing those kinds of they have done a whole lot more. And ac- stored up on their sidewalks. It’s a sort of efforts is what we should do. And so, the tually, if you go to their website, you’ll find two birds one stone situation. answer is absolutely yes you can, it’s just a they have a whole housing intevation sec- J.C. I’ve never heard about that. matter of making sure you understand in tion, which is what they call their homeless T.G. If you google it, The Girl’s Think Tank your mind what that looks like. It means, unit, and you can see a lot of the work they is the name of the non-profit that cur- not that there won’t ever be homeless peo- are doing. rently is running it, there’s a whole story ple, but when there, there will be a way to J.C. How do you balance the issues of behind that as well, and that’s probably not get them out of homelessness. homelessness and the lack of shelter with necessary for you purposes, but it’s called J.C. I also came across an article about how all the other obstacles that occur in the San the check-in center. And another name, if you were former member of the San Diego Diego County? you google for it, would be the Waterman Housing Commission, I was curious on T.G. You mean other issues or priorities? or David Ross, and he was sort of the guy how that helps the homeless people and J.C. Yeah who kind of conceived of it. LA has some- how that works. T.G. Well it’s hard. It’s hard as an elected thing similar, he kind of brought the idea T.G. So the Housing Commision is a com- official because, just very candidly the to the city and we concoursed, so if you ponent of the city, and is chaired by board homeless don’t vote, right. And the people want to find more, that would be easy to of commissions appointed by the city that do often see homelessness, not always find out. council, I was one before I was elected, and with complete compassion. San Diegans by J.C. Do you believe that our country will they are largely concerned with affordable and large are very compassionate people, be able to end homelessness? housing, which is kind of different than but many people, when faced with home- T.G. Absolutely. I imagine for some, that is homeless housing, in a way. If you think lessness, whether it’s aggressive panhan- probably like yeah right, right. And I have of housing as a ladder, there is how I pre- dling, someone sleeping in front of their to admit, when I first heard that I was like sume you and I both live, you know in a home, things of that nature. They don’t please. But it’s how you think of it; it’s the standard, run of the mill housing situation, see it with the kind of charitable heart that framework of when you hear or say that. to homeless and everything in between. In I’d like them to, and they get very angry, End homelessness as in end it for you, for between would be shelter beds, transition- and so the answers are not the sort of long an individual. Every day someone will al housing, supportive housing, permanent term solutions they are more become mentally ill, will develop a sub- affordable, and then market. So you have a predative in nature, you know move ‘em stance abuse problem, will lose a job, will ladder of housing. The Housing Commis- along, get them out of here, I don’t want get divorced, will be thrown out of their sion, for the longest time, was really just to see them. That actually doesn’t solve the home, whatever the case is. People fall kind of concerned with affordable housing, problem, it just moves it somewhere else. into homelessness everyday, thousands of meaning to say a subsidy because you can’t So as a result, working alot on this issue, people across the country. The question is the rent in it of itself, and that was true isn’t always politically a plus, ya know. A how do you get them out of that, and how when I was on the Housing Commission. lot of folks don’t run office, talking a lot long will it take. So if you came to me as a Since I became a council member, we had about homelessness, I did but that was homeless person, presented, maybe you’re asked the Commission to take on more one of several things I talked about, and dually-diagnosed with a mental illness and responsibility for the homeless. Probably when you talk to the average person on a substance abuse problem; do we have a for you, you’re like wouldn’t the Housing the street, if you ask them what’s the most way out for you to get off the streets and Commission deal with homelessness any- important thing to them. In San Diego, into supportive housing? The answer is way? Well until, probably 4 or 5 years ago it would probably be one or two things, yes, we can do that, with the right kinds they really didn’t. I mean they had some it would be the roads and the fact that of supports. And so, I think when people involvement but not a whole lot. Now, the we have a lot of pot holes, or just broadly hear that, they believe a world where you city has actually taken it’s homeless service, speaking public saftey. You know, want- would never see another homeless person which used to be held inside this building ing to feel safe in their neighborhood, and again. That’s simply not the case. You will actually, in the city, we have given that to wanting a lot of police officers and fire- always have homeless people, it’s simply a the Housing Commission to do so that fighters and things of that nature. I ab- question of how long will they be on the their involvement on the ladder of hous- solutely understand and respect that, but streets. And a part of my passion on this ing, instead of it just being this, is this, I just happen to think that we can;t be a issue is that the longer you leave people on right. And they now administer the winter great city when we have thousands of peo- the streets, the more expensive it is, and tents; they are working to develop new ple sleeping on our streets. And again, I go the more costly it is for taxpayers. And so affordable housing that is targeted toward back to the point that it is actually more it is in everyone’s interest to take the dol- the homeless, so you have shelter beds, expensive, in my judgement, to leave them lars we are spending kind of in silly ways transitional housing beds, ext. So there on the streets then house them appropri- now, for example, having homeless people involvement has grown, a large part of ately. So it’s a difficult thing to prioritize. rely on emergency rooms and ambulance that at my request because my experience One of the things that we did in my time rides for their health care, take that money as a Housing Commission, I was familiar here in office was to take a funding source because both of those things are really ex- with what they were doing and what they that we call Community Development pensive, put it into permanent supportive weren’t doing. You know I’ve used my role Block Grants. It’s federal money that is housing, which we know gets people off as a council member to try and push them sent to cities to be spent on low and mod- the streets and gets them up the to do more, and for their credit, erate income people, and we have set aside a significant portion of those dollars for the homeless. That ac- should increase funding for this program tually is [a] really controversial thing to do or to try and champion things like the and is still kind of politically unpopular. I check-in center that continually need ad- just happen to think that for money that ditional support. It’s just a very human way supposed to be spent on low and moder- to take what can sometimes be an abstract ate income people, there is no more lower issue, you know if you and I are not living than the homeless right? But there are a lot the homeless life we haven’t experienced of folks that are unhappy with that deci- personally and you don’t understand why sion. So I think it’s perhaps a case study or it is important. That’s one way to make it example of how difficult it can be to pri- important, and to give a voice to people oritize the homeless over other priorities. who kind of, by their nature don’t have I just happen to be of the opinion that we voices. I mentioned before, they don’t vote have to do it. typically. They may suffer from mental ill- J.C. The big question is, I mentioned that ness and that can make it difficult for them I saw you speak at the San Diego Rescue to communicate; that event helps bridge Mission Candlelight Memorial Vigil... that gap. T.G. Yeah J.C. So what struck you about that whole experience? T.G. It’s just a very raw thing, that folks die. You know again, when people aren’t as compassionate they may not think all the way through that this is a life threatening condition to be homeless, right. And many do die, and typically people don’t see that, I mean you don’t come across, we had someone in the river yesterday who passed who was probably homeless, it’s just not something that’s spoke about. And I think one of the problems with public policy, in [being] able to change public policy, the way to change public policy is to tell sto- ries. To humanize it, to make it, the deci- sion-makers like myself, even the general public, it has to have public support to get something done, you have to be able to tell the story. Great example right now would be around immigration reform, you are probably familiar with a lot of folks fasting right now currently, trying to bring atten- tion to the issue, or even today there are a lot of fast food workers who are striking to try and bring attention to the issues of low wages. The core of both of those things is telling the story of what it’s like to be in this country on undocumented status, right. Or what it’s like to work on $8 dollars an hour in San Diego, and how hard that is. That event is really helpful to explain to people that our decisions, if we are not prioritizing homelessness or not dedicating enough funding to it, has real life and death consequences. And as the gentlemen, you were there, the guy who got up and spoke about how he ended up homeless. I mean, stories like those help to humanize the situation, and then in turn help me to make the case to my city coun- cil colleagues about why we How to Make a Change a stable environment and eliminate fre- Student By: Alicia Randolph quent moving of schools, for many chil- dren experience this. Long-term housing

programs could be a very practical and Homelessness is an issue that has Research Papers cost effective part in reducing homeless- been around for centuries, dating all the ness. way back to 1640. Homelessness is a sad A major factor the contributes to problem that is alive and very apparent in homelessness is the high unemployment today’s society. The most common, stereo- rate. According to the Bureau of Labor typical homeless person is the dirty-look- Statistics, the current unemployment rate ing, smelly, drug-using man holding a in America falls roughly above 7 per- sign on the corner of your nearby 7-eleven cent. Homeless programs often provide store. It’s difficult to give them money, compensation for work and are paid with especially when you don’t know where federal money for a short period of time it’s going. That’s the problem with people to allow individuals to build their skills and their relationship with homelessness. and experience in the market (“How to People do not know enough about the Build Employment Programs that Prevent issue. The foundation in fixing an issue and End Homelessness.” 1). Homelessness is educating people on the problem: how would be reduced if there were more jobs it affects them, and what they can to do available. Giving them a job will allow make a difference. No, it is not possible to them to develop a stronger work ethic and completely end homelessness due to the gain more experience in the job market. fact that some people choose to be home- There are many positive things that go less and there are some people that will not along with creating new jobs. For exam- accept help. However, it most definitely is ple, they have an opportunity build up possible to reduce the number of homeless their experience and resume, so they will people in America. The solutions would be able to work better paying jobs. These be creating long-term housing programs, better paying jobs will result in a steady jobs for the homeless, and programs that income making permanent housing af- specialize in mental and emotional health fordable. Creating new jobs for the home- assistance therapy. less would even benefit the economy. The The very first step in improving the general public would pay less taxes for the lives of the homeless individuals is creating homeless if there weren’t many people on a long-term housing program to get people the streets. Creating new jobs is a stepping off the streets immediately. Housing First stone to a more successful future not only models places people directly from the for the homeless, but America as well. streets into permanent housing units with A good part of the homeless popula- appropriate services including a safe haven tion suffers from mental health issues. Put- program (Ernest 61). Long-term hous- ting them in houses is one thing, but help- ing programs would benefit the homeless ing them regain mental stability is another. that do not suffer from mental illness, The final piece of the puzzle to reduce mainly families with young children. The homelessness is creating programs that initial act of providing them shelter and would be beneficial to the homeless’ men- their basic needs will allow them to fo- tal health, such as psychotherapy, counsel- cus their energy on moving in the right ing, and one-on-one consultations be- direction, rather than just survival. This tween the doctor and the patient. Exercise will result in a distraction-free environ- and physical activity are constantly gaining ment that will help the people get back attention as adjuvant treatment (Zschucke, on steady feet. Long-term housing helps Heinz, & Strohle 2). Physical activity has individuals and families access and sustain been proven to release endorphins which permanent rental housing without time affect moods positively. A central aim of limits (“Housing First: A New Approach” occupational therapy in any setting is to 2). Research has proven that once people engage and empower people to live better start to notice a difference in their lifestyle, lives. The main goal with providing ther- they feel motivated to maintain what they apy is not only help the homeless become have done well. This will also give them an healthier, but also to make them realize opportunity to develop financial skills with there are people that are willing to help. the help of financial advisors. Long-term While they would have someone to talk to housing programs will also provide chil- and someone helping dren with a stable environment and elimi- nate them, they would feel motivated and in their lives, and it is one of the most ef- will become less prone to end up back on encouraged to keep going. “The majority fective methods used today. the streets after they graduate from the of street homeless population has mental It is important to help any and all program. Also, the stability from having illness and/or substance abuse (Homeless homeless in order to end the problem. a home will help a person get back up on Services). Nearly 40% suffer from these There are programs that in order to be their feet and start on the road to a normal issues. Drug counseling classes would be admitted to it, a homeless person must go life. According to the NAEH, “A central necessary in this department and avail- through an admittance process and can be tenet of the Housing First approach is able to those who will accept help. Pro- denied from the services because they do that social services to enhance individ- viding proper treatment for mental stabil- not meet the requirements. According to ual and family well-being can be more ity is a key part in reducing the number of Megan O’Dowd, a housing program ana- effective when people are in their own homeless people in America. lyst for the County of San Diego, “ Hous- home” (“What is Housing First”1). If the Homelessness is an issue that will never ing first programs don’t have a screen- social services provided are ineffective, go away. Although, reducing the amount ing process to be let into the program.” the time spent on the person would be of people that are homeless is an obtain- (O’Dowd). Without a screening process, a wasted because they were not helped in able goal, it won’t happen in a day, and it wider range of people can be helped and the short term program and end up back won’t happen overnight. It is a very long put into homes and given needed services. on the street. With a home and stability, process that will take years, but it is pos- Unlike other programs that have restric- it is easier for a homeless person’s services sible! Homelessness is something that af- tions and requirements to be helped, no to be effective and ending their homeless- fects everyone, directly and indirectly. The one is turned away. The housing first pro- ness. On the road to ending homelessness correct and quickest way to support the grams help shelter the homeless first then it is important that the services provided homeless is by getting them off the streets help reintroduce them into society. After are effective so that the person doesn’t stay immediately and placing them in long- a person is housed, services are provid- homeless. The stability of a house makes it term housing programs, putting them on ed that will help the person permanently more likely that the services will be effec- the right track for financial stability by stay off the streets. The National Alliance tive. creating more jobs, and developing thera- to Ending Homelessness (NAEH) says, The final reason that using the py and counseling programs to focus a bit “Housing is not contingent on compliance housing first model will help end home- deeper on the people behind the issue. with services – instead, participants must lessness is because studies have shown that comply with a standard lease agreement it is the most effective method in ending and are provided with the services and homelessness. “Both, government and Off the Streets: Solving supports that are necessary to help them private sector non-profits have discovered Homelessness do so successfully” (“What is Housing over the past few years that the “Housing By: Arik Espineli First” 1). In a housing first program, the First” model works better than any other main objective is to house the homeless, program currently available” (Barbieux Homelessness has been a recurring for it is not required to participate in 1). It is important for the government and problem throughout American histo- services as long as the lease agreement is other organization that help the homeless ry. The earliest recorded time period met. Doing this puts the responsibility to know which method is the most effec- of homelessness in America was in the of getting help on the person instead of tive. With that knowledge both will be 1640’s (“The History of Homelessness” them being forced to do things they do not able to put more or all the funding to- 1). Throughout history homelessness has chose to do. Without requirements and re- wards that program to start ending home- been a prominent issue. During the 1900’s strictions like religion and illnesses, more lessness. Also, they can start taking funds homelessness started getting public atten- of the homeless can be helped to get back from other programs that are not as effec- tion and organizations started forming to regular lives and bring the U.S closer to tive to save money of add the the hous- to help the situation. Although the issue ending homelessness. ing first fund. Not only is housing first of homelessness has been around for a Having a place to call home, even model effective in getting permanently off long time, it can be solved. Today, there if it is a temporary house allows a home- the streets, but it is also cost effective. “It are many programs solely for the purpose less person to have a sense of security and [housing first model] has been proven to of reintroducing the homeless back into provides stability in their lives. This is get homeless people off the streets, and society. Some of these programs follow a important to ending homelessness because keep them off the streets, for approximate- “housing first” model. The Housing First without stability in their lives a person can ly $17,000 a year per person” (Barbieux model provides homeless people with fall into a cycle of being helped then end 1). According to a secretary from The U.S. housing and different services to help up back on the streets. This cycle can lead Department of Housing and Urban De- them back into society. The solution to to becoming chronically homeless which velopment (HUD), “It costs about $40,000 ending homelessness in the U.S. lies in means they have either been homeless for a year for a homeless person to be on the programs like this. Homelessness can be a year or more or have been homeless four streets” (Donovan). If the numbers are ended through programs that support times in three years. “Housing first mod- correct, a person living on the streets costs the homeless and assist them to get off el promotes stability and individual well the streets. These programs will help end being” (O’Dowd). With more stability in homelessness as quickly as possible, giv- their lives, a recovering homeless person ing the homeless stability and security of fighting homelessness not only will it be that drugs and alcohol play some role in their shoes and realize how much they cheaper, but also more effective than other homelessness is naive-- but, what about need help and that they aren’t going to do models. the people who actually need it? What anything bad. After that happens, there Homelessness has been around for a about families, veterans and children? could be a great change. They are really long time and it needs to be ended. This can “Most homeless people are not criminals unfortunate people most of the time it’s not be done by helping everyone off the streets and many of those who are technically their fault so why do they have to contin- with the housing first model. The housing criminals have only committed what are ue suffering because of our ignorance and first model should be used because it helps called status crimes.” (Shay). It is really fear? everyone, improves the lives of the home- unfair for someone to be treated like a It doesn’t take much to help end homeless- less, and it is proven to be the most effective criminal for just trying to survive by doing ness. “‘Just help … if you see a guy with a method. Doing this is a simple solution to a things that aren’t going to harm anyone sign that says he will work for food, help large problem that America faces. else. Homeless people are judged harshly him. Yes, there’s a possibility that he will go and that will never help them out of home- down to the store and buy a beer, or that A Change in Mind Makes an Im- lessness because an average U.S. citizen he will go down the street to buy drugs,’ ... pact isn’t going to help a criminal. Ms. Shay is ‘But there’s also a chance that he’s trying a clear example of someone who hit hard to get diapers for his kids, or he’s honestly By: Alan Verduzco times, struggled, became homeless, but trying to get a meal. Even in the simplest fit none of the stereotypes society had set. aspect … just try to help’” (Isaacs). Those “Forget about the idea that all people who Now she writes to inform people about negative possibilities of homeless people have lost their homes are drug addicted the reality of homelessness in our country, are possible and could happen but it is criminals” hoping to be an agent of change in Ameri- more likely that they are actually trying to --Kylssa Shay ca’s attitudes about the homeless. survive or help their children. Most people Almost everyone in the United States When someone is educated about what abhor giving their well-deserved money or other parts of the world accept negative homelessness or hears about it first hand away for causes that won’t really help, but, stereotypes about homeless people. How from a homeless person they really don’t in these cases anyone is helping. “‘Do we are we, as a society, going to try to help expect it and are surprised about the real- need money to run those shelters? We people who are homeless if they don’t see ity. Students who recently visited a home- absolutely do … but most of all, come and past the image of a negative stereotype? less shelter to see first hand the faces of visit,’ Marks said. ‘Take someone under The public is not going to try to help if homelessness had this reaction: “I didn’t your wing and teach them how to manage they always think that their helping hand is really.. I have never really thought about their money. Offer transportation … just going towards a person who is going to take this problem and I usually just saw indi- come and be a part.’” (Isaacs). Any kind of advantage of that in a negative way-- no- viduals, homeless individuals in the streets help is can make a change and it doesn’t body would do that. But the misconception asking for money and... I thought every- even have to be money. If people are afraid that homeless people are all drug addicts where it was common like theres no way of wasting their money on people who and criminals is something that has to stop really to help them. I’ve never been think- might use it for bad, then, why not just in order for there to be more progress in ing about it deeply” (Marko). Sometimes, lend a helping hand and volunteer for them ending homelessness. People need to be in- people aren’t aware of their surrounding to see their charity in action? formed on the real causes of homelessness and their problems and are oblivious to Everyone in the United States pays taxes. in order for there to be people who will what kinds of horrible situations common Most people vote. People vote for where volunteer to help. people are living through. If homelessness their tax money is going to be spent on. If There are many misconceptions about isn’t addressed to the public then how is everyone would have a negative mentality homeless people; that they are criminals or the public going to act and help end home- towards homelessness, homelessness would drug addicts. As Klyssa Shay, a once home- lessness? When high school students went be infinitely worse. If people are aware of less woman, turned freelance writer states: on a recent service trip to St. Vincent De how the homeless are normal people they “Many are neither drug addicts nor alco- Paul’s Village, they discussed learning are most likely going to help out and, even holics. While close to half of adult homeless about different people’s problems that led helping out once can make an impact. If people in the United States currently strug- them to becoming homeless, which was everyone does it, it could lead towards end- gle with addictions or have struggled with eye-opening. Here, Roman Marko, a high ing homelessness. Are you going to spend addictions in the past many of them do school junior states:“ I think there was one a dollar or two on a lottery ticket that will not have and have not had a drug or alco- man who had a family and wife and they just go to waste? Or, would you rather have hol problem” (Shay). There are sometimes got divorced and she took all of his money, it serve to buy food for a starving child in a homeless people in the street that will ask so that was his story. He used to work real- homeless family? You make the choice and for spare change but, the first thought in ly hard. like, a normal life. That was all that being conscious about problems is what someone’s mind while hearing this is, Is this happened and it ended in a life like this.” makes the difference. person trying to get money for alcohol or (Marko). If a person living a normal life drugs? Might as well not do them any extra heard that these kind of things happened harm by giving them money. This can be to a homeless person, hearing that they true some of the time-- to ignore were and are normal people just like them, they would put themselves in The Much Needed Perspective conundrum they are currently in. This is before, the homeless population numbers Change reflected in a mini interview by Humans would surely drop dramatically. “The aver- of New York to Charlie, a young homeless age cost for an affordable housing unit in By: Ariana Delucchi man, when asked why he essentially gave California can be anywhere from $250,000 up on life. “I was born broke [...] But I to $400,000 per unit.” (Poverty Insights Drug addict, alcoholic, dirty, lazy. made it hard on myself too. I left school. I #2) That being said, with the trillion dol- A man standing on the edge of the street left home. I threw all my stuff in the street lars that was allocated to the Iraq war, begging for money, a person holding up a and left [...] Nobody ever cared about me. a whopping four million housing units cardboard sign that reads “Will work for Nobody ever said: ‘Charlie, what’s wrong?’ could have been created! Although one money”, a sleeping bag and a messily set They said, ‘Shut up, Charlie. We’ve got our trillion dollars of the federal budget would up camp under a bridge. The commonality own problems.” (QTD Stanton) If society not go into solving homelessness, that is between these words and images? They continuously portrays homeless as drunks, just a mere perspective of what could’ve all represent stereotypes of the homeless. alcoholics, and lazy, they would never been done with the budget being used Although at times these may be true, it get to see the rest of the homeless; the towards war. Additionally, if individual’s is a common misconception that most group of homeless who are struggling to budgeted properly, they could help do- homeless are like that. Homeless people change their position in life. If we keep a nate to the cause as well. Considering that come from all walks of life, and have had blind eye, it is evident that things will not nonessentials such as purchasing alcoholic different occurrences to lead them into change. How would the public react if they beverages and tobacco, since they cost the homelessness. People also believe that knew that out of 633,789 homeless people average household about $780 (Pinola), homelessness can be solved by simply giv- in the nation, only 25% of the popula- and possibly easing up on personal care ing poor people some money, as that’s just tion are chronically homeless; aka their items such as makeup, in which the av- a common practice if someone walks by a seemingly stereotypical homeless? And erage woman spends about $400 a year homeless person, and maybe even a job. If that 38% are families, and 9% of them are replacing for lost items alone (Huffington it were that simple, would we have a home- veterans? Surely, their perspective would Post #1). If all 313.9 million civilians of less population? There are several prob- change then. In San Diego alone, 40% of the United States directed about $100 out lems that arise with being homeless. Even shelter residents are families (61% being of their yearly budget to homelessness, if the homeless do have a job (as many do), children), and 1,486 are homeless veter- that would amount to a total budget of how would they get there and back? What ans, with a total homeless population of $31,390,000,000, well over the estimated would they put down as their address? 5,733 (O’Dowd). If this information be- total. As you can see, through proper bud- Would they even have clean clothes to came more accessible/widespread, society geting, whether it be federal or personal, it use every day? It is evident that homeless- would hopefully become more empathetic can be done. ness is not a simple issue to solve, which towards the homeless, and be more willing Once there is sufficient community is why the homeless numbers can only be to donate to nonprofit organizations that support and funding, housing units may reduced. Some ways that homelessness in work with the homeless. be implemented in communities. A reason America, and possibly even the world, can Money. Seemingly one of the most why people would be turned away by sup- be reduced by, is through the education important things to have in life. With- porting the homeless is due to the costs. of the public to sympathize and donate to out it, families wouldn’t be fed, business The homeless population is infamous for the cause, creation of a better budget, and wouldn’t be able to run, and countries just the numerous hospital visits, in which spreading the principles of “Housing First” overall couldn’t function. That being said, taxpayers have to pay for. “On average, to give them a stable home. money is necessary to help bring an end they visit the emergency room five times Education has been the basis for hu- to homelessness. Unfortunately, “It would per year. The highest users of emergency mans for hundreds of years. It provides us cost about $20 billion for [the] govern- departments visit weekly. Each visit costs with knowledge of the world surrounding ment to effectively eliminate homelessness $3,700; that’s $18,500 [...] for the average us, and can change our entire outlook on in the United States.” (Huffington Post person and $44,400 spent per year for the life. Changing a homeless person’s outlook #2) but “The Government Accountability highest users of emergency department.” on life could be an essential part in leading Office (GAO) announced that the federal (Green Doors) However, through housing, them out of homelessness, and changing a government spent $2.9 billion for feder- those numbers can be reduced, as they are “normal” person’s outlook on the homeless al homeless programs in 2009.” (Poverty in a more supportive environment and are could lead to more donations, thus raking Insights). It is clear the budgeting for the generally more receptive to care. “Offering in money to support the homeless pop- homeless programs are either not being the provision of housing to the homeless ulation to change. After speaking with a used properly, and/or could use some community decreases the number of visits few homeless, and reading interviews with more funding. If we spent nearly as much they make to emergency departments by homeless, it is safe to assume that some money on helping the homeless as we do nearly 61%.” (Green Doors) Additionally, agree that if they had known that their on war, the numbers would dramatically through the At home/Chez Soi Project, choices would lead them to homelessness, drop. For example, the Iraq War cost the they conducted a control trial to see the ef- they would change. Another trend that United States “nearly one trillion dollars fects of a housing system vs going through was duly noted was that if someone had (on average $10 billion per month)” (Pov- the normal treatments. This is what they cared for them, they would most likely not erty Insights #1). If the government used a found. be in the fraction of what they used for the Iraq war, as stated “The At Home/Chez Soi Project [...] con- hand to a person in need. As the old say- Temporary housing isn’t a viable ducted a randomized control trial ing goes, “Treat others the way you would solution if one wants to end homelessness. where 1,000 people participated in Hous- like to be treated.” So are we, as a society, This has been displayed in various projects ing First, and 1,000 received ‘treatment as treating others the way we would like to be in the past. “Earlier attempts by the city to usual’[...] you can take the most hard core, treated? completely end homelessness have already chronically homeless person with complex failed” (Dean). The city of San Diego and mental health and addiction issues, and The Right Step many non-profit organizations have in- [...] they stay housed. Over 80% of those vested in temporary housing projects, who received Housing First remained By: Andrew Defante such as the San Diego Rescue Mission, housed after the first year. For many, use the Alpha Project, and Section 8. These of health services declined as health im- When faced with a challenge or projects and services are popular, result- proved. Involvement with the law declined problem, one is inclined to explore differ- ing in a long waiting list to get in. This as well[...]many people were helped to ent possible solutions. Ideally, the solution leaves much of the homeless outside, not make new linkages and to develop a stron- that is chosen is the one that requires the solving the problem. The average amount ger sense of self.” (The Homeless Hub) least work and effort, but still achieves the of time a person has in temporary hous- Housing First has proved to be goal. However, the solution that requires ing is two years. This raises the questions, beneficial, and cost effective. It reduces the least effort and work can be hidden be- what happens after the two years? Where the amount of money the taxpayers must hind those of more difficulty. In San Diego, will they go, and what will they do? “In use for their medical bills and jail sessions the issue of homelessness is prominent. 2006, the city devised the “Plan to End significantly. “Over 80% of people in per- Often seen on the side of the street hold- Chronic Homelessness,” which included manent supportive housing stay off the ing cardboard signs with words written building 2,000 new housing units for the streets for good.” (United Way of Greater in black Sharpie saying, “God Bless, Any most severe cases by the end of 2012. This Los Angeles) Not only does Housing First Help Is Appreciated”, the homeless popu- plan was only designed for a portion of benefit the taxpayers by having to pay lation in San Diego is the third largest in the total homeless population, and as the less on their expenses, but it also creates a the entire country behind New York and deadline passed, chronic homelessness positive change in a homeless person’s life, Los Angeles (Fudge). According to Megan remained a major problem in San Diego” as they can guide themselves to a positive, O’Dowd, the total number of homeless (Dean). Despite the efforts to put the more self assured path, and to not end up people in San Diego is 5,733 (O’Dowd). chronic (homeless people who are on the homeless again. Citizens are well-aware about the issue, streets for a long period of time, and/or on All in all, homelessness is not a and government officials are taking action. and off the streets constantly) in housing, simple issue to begin to explain, let alone However, homelessness is an issue that can they still remained a problem. The hous- solve. However, if this becomes a commu- be tackled and overcome. Putting an end ing only served them temporarily, hoping nity effort, it can be reduced significantly. to homelessness should be encouraged be- to provide a “kickstart” to get them back The first step would be through commu- cause it affects everyone. There have been on track. “Two years sounds like a long nity support. Without it, homeless would different ideas on how to approach solving time, but it isn’t” (O’Dowd). The two years be less susceptible to want to create change this issue, ranging from developing park- doesn’t give them a home, but serves them in their lives, and civilians would be less ing lots for people who live in their cars, more like a hotel. “You can help detox likely to donate to the cause. Community to overnight shelters that provide meals. people from the street,” using the shelter to support can be created through analyzing These ideas are more temporary though. stabilize them and get them into other pro- statistics, or simply speaking with one. While a meal for a homeless man might grams, he [President and CEO Bob McEl- Once there is community support, hope- feed him for a night, what will he do to- roy of the Alpha Project] said. “But once fully there would be money donated to morrow? Where will he go if someone else they leave, we can’t reach them” (Cavana- the cause. If everyone donated about $100, takes his spot in the shelter. The strategy ugh, Lane, Pico). Ending homelessness is the total cost to supposedly end homeless- should be centered around the housing centered around keeping the homeless off ness, would be covered, and then some. first model. “Housing First is an approach the street and providing them with a home This goes to show that if the government that centers on providing homeless people permanently. Temporary housing is what and civilians were more aware of how they with housing quickly and then providing it is stated. Temporary. Problems aren’t spent their money, they would surely rack services as needed. What differentiates a solved temporarily. up enough money to donate to the cause. Housing First approach from other strat- Temporary housing is also more inally, the Housing First program is egies is that there is an immediate and expensive over time. Consider temporary a surefire way to keep most homeless off primary focus on helping individuals and housing a compounding investment that the streets, and decrease the amount of families quickly access and sustain perma- continues to pull money as time progress- money the average taxpayer uses for the nent housing” (“What is Housing First?”). es. “All of these issues impact you one way homeless. Although homelessness cannot Temporary housing and services don’t or another, it pulls on your tax dollars for be completely eradicated, there are steps to really help the homeless unlike permanent example” (O’Dowd). The taxes that are ensure the prevention of it. At the end of housing which is a better investment over pulled from people’s earnings go toward a the day, it is about if someone is willing to time. Permanent housing also promotes variety of public services. However, if taxes reach out a helping a better lifestyle, opening doors for the are constantly being spent on various tem- homeless to get their lives back on track. porary housing services, it might compound and eventually be more efficient resolution for the issue. It is bet- expensive than a large investment for per- ter to make a larger investment initially manent housing. The tax money that goes for permanent housing, than to continue towards homeless efforts is money that making medium payments for more tem- could be spent for other causes such as porary housing. The fight to end home- education and military defense. Everyone lessness can be won, and putting an end to is affected by the issue of homelessness it should be encouraged because it affects whether they know it or not. The various everyone. Permanent housing doesn’t give projects that are constantly developed the homeless a chance to be thrown back also take a toll on the tax dollars. It costs on the streets. It gives them an opportunity money to have people working to develop to start over and create the life they want more and more projects in effort of tak- to live. ing people off the streets. Housing first models might cost more initially, but are a better investment over time. According to the United Way of San Diego County, “This [housing first model] is saving San Diego County a significant amount of money” (“Ending Chronic Homelessness in San Diego”). The homeless population is expensive. The cost of them can come from their housing or from them using the public services like hospitals. It truly affects everyone one way or another. Permanent housing improves the quality of the homeless’ lives, completely taking them off the street. Permanent housing gives them an actual home, and takes them off the street completely. “Permanent housing means they have their own unit that has no end date. It is true housing” (O’Dowd). True housing is a reasonable solution if one wants end homelessness. “If we start by giving the chronic homeless a place to call home, then we can create structure to offer support, services, mental health care and job readiness assistance in a smarter, more successful way. The hous- ing first model keeps homeless individuals off the streets and living a better, fuller life” (“Ending Chronic Homelessness in San Diego”). By giving the homeless a definite home, they are given a fresh start which in turn promotes a better life. It allows them to be on their own and have their own space. Megan O’Dowd, Housing Program Analyst for the County of San Diego said that, “With increased perma- nent housing, chronic and veteran home- lessness will be ended by the year 2015, and family and youth homelessness will be ended by the year 2020” (O’Dowd). Once the homeless are taken off the street, the focus can then be shifted into creating a better life for them. The answer to ending homeless- ness lies in providing permanent housing for the homeless. Strategic planning and smart spending might result in a more Touched by the Homeless every person who grabbed syrup from my Student By: Remi Kim station. After awhile, I felt like a broken record choking out those words after each Reflections of I am not a morning person, and individual. I specifically remember these mornings are hard enough without me two kids. It was undeniably clear that they waking up at 4:15 A.M. The minute I woke were about our age, probably even the Service up, all I could think about was how awful exact same age as us. I saw them walking I was going to look, and what I was going in and I stared at them while they walked to wear. But then, I began realizing why I up to grab some food. I just could not woke up so early: to help the homeless. Al- even think that people our age could be most instantly I shut my mind up. “Today, homeless. As they stepped up and grabbed I am not going to be a spoiled brat. I will their food, I spit out another, “Have a nice do whatever it takes to show my compas- day,” which was kindly responded with a, sion, kindness, and respectability to these “You too.” I let my eyes follow them to the people. I will not judge anyone.” I told very back left hand corner of the room. myself. The one thing I can’t stand is when I was kicking myself because I had used people go to feed the homeless and they the same line I had said 20 times earlier to come back almost arrogant, thinking that them. I should have said something differ- they’re better than everyone else because ent. They touched me, and now they will they did this one act of kindness. I was never know. But even when I look back, I not going to be one of those people. I was have no idea what I would say. Would they going to help with my two hands that was think that we were all spoiled brats? Would graciously given to me by God, and serve they judge us like I had judged them in the these people who were less fortunate than past? me. Coming out of feeding the homeless, I As I hopped on the bus and started felt grateful. I also felt and feel inspired to to head off to St. Vincent de Paul, I tried to make change. I have learned not to judge fight the sleepiness that seemed to con- the homeless population without know- sume me. I remember driving off the free- ing each individuals story. I wanted so way into Downtown San Diego, and seeing badly to know how those two teens end- these homeless people lined on the streets. ed up homeless, but I would never have I mean, I’ve always seen these homeless the nerve to ask. I could and would never people while going for a nice dinner in disrespect any one of them. I have learned Downtown, but seeing these homeless that they all have fought their own bat- people today was different. I think the tles, and are trying to succeed as much as realization that I was about to help people they can. I think the value of spending a like this finally dawned on me. Wednesday morning feeding the home- Walking into St. Vincent de Paul, less is to recognize that they should not I was extremely impressed with how or- be judges on preconceived notions. They ganized everything was. Brittney, Haley, are all individuals and that is what makes Mariana, Erica, and I were separated from everyone so similar. I also think the val- the larger group and were told to serve a ue of feeding the homeless is knowledge. delicious breakfast consisting of two pan- With knowledge and understanding of the cakes, four sausages, and cream of wheat homeless, we can create this new perspec- to anyone who came up to us. I remember tive that was never taught in schools. We my stomach growling as I kept smelling get to make up our own mind about what the food under my nose, even when I saw we think about the homeless without any- that people needed this food much more one telling us what to think. With knowl- than I did. My personal job was to pour edge comes power, and with power comes the syrup into tiny styrofoam containers. change. After awhile, I even made a mini competi- tion with myself to see if I could pour the syrup into the container without letting anything spill out of the sides. I was so engulfed in my job, that I forgot to talk to the people standing before. I forgot to say, “Good morning,” and “How are you do- ing today?” I finally snapped out of it and started to say, “Have a nice day,” after We Are All the Same: Learning three blocks down to the San Diego Res- Back at St. Vincent de Paul, one of the very Empathy Through Community cue Mission. When we got there, we were first people to come out to breakfast that greeted by a friendly young woman named morning was a little boy. He reached over Service Juliette who worked as the Church/ Com- the kitchen counter to grab his plate of By: Brittney Aceron munity Relations and Event Manager of pancakes and sausage. When I saw a little the San Diego Rescue Mission and also hand come over the table I reached for the On a Wednesday, my class and I took a acted as our tour guide for the day. She plate to help the boy get ahold of it better. field trip to St. Vincent de Paul’s and the showed us around the San Diego Res- He wasn’t nearly tall enough to see past the San Diego Rescue Mission for our Home- cue Mission building, where they housed kitchen counter. He looked up at me and lessness Project. We arrived at school at 100+ women and children overnight daily, smiled cheerfully, with his bright blue eyes. the crack of dawn and waited with our where women and children of the year The little boy looked about 7 years old heads leaned on the window as the last long program lived, where the men lived, with tan skin, buzzed cut hair, and a dino- few stragglers hopped on the bus. 5:30 am the kitchen, the classrooms, and the “play- saur hoodie and backpack. He approached came and we hit the road. All of us were ground in the sky”. I was really moved by Erica next and asked her for some milk, still too tired for jokes and giggles--just the incredible stories she told along our then made his way, confidently looking small talk here and there-- until we finally tour about families who’ve gone through for a table in the cafeteria all on his own. arrived on Imperial Avenue. Out my win- their organization and have done some- A few minutes later, a young girl with dow I noticed crowds of homeless peo- thing amazing with themselves. Especial- long thin brown hair a pink backpack, ple throughout the streets with blankets, ly the changes people made through the and three younger siblings, approached sleeping bags, shopping carts, backpacks, classes they were offered at the Rescue the breakfast line with their mother. The and signs. One man with ripped sweat Mission, from anger management to GED boy with the dinosaur backpack ran over pants, a loose shirt, and thick black hair classes. It seemed as though with a little to the girl. They were extremely excited crossed the street without paying attention help and a little communication, people’s to see each other. That moment made me and I could hear him mumbling some- lives can be changed and go a long way. think of my brother and his good friends thing through the crack of the bus window, After this experience, I thought back to when they see each other. I began to feel but there was nobody near him. Then as the beginning of the morning when I had both warmth and pain in my heart when he began throwing his arms up angrily in saw a man talking to himself on the street. I saw the boy and girl smiling together. It the air, I realized he was talking to himself I remembered how much I wondered reminded me that we are not so different and I wondered, why? As I contemplated about that glimpse of that man’s life that I after all. You could tell on those children’s this idea in my head I realized the bus had had seen. On the car ride back to school, I faces that they were happy like my brother stopped and our first stop had approached wished so much that I could come across and his friends. Sometimes adults need to to the left of the bus--St. Vincent de Paul’s. that man again and give him someone to be like children because children find ev- At St. Vincent’s, we had the opportu- talk to and get him help. I wanted to be ery opportunity to be happy and they don’t nity to serve homeless families breakfast. that person who makes a difference in his categorize people or discriminate some- My friends-- Haley, Erica, Remi, Mari- life. Through this thought process, I real- one because of their differences. I feel like ana-- and I formed an assembly line in ized that this field trip not only taught me I learn the most from kids because they the kitchen of the cafeteria. Haley served about homelessness but also about myself. haven’t been completely brainwashed by the pancakes, Mariana served the sausage, So many thoughts and questions lin- society and they think on their own. Remi offered the syrup, I served the cream gered in my mind throughout the day. In that moment, I learned the true of wheat, and Erica handed out the cartons Everything that I had experienced that value of service. We are all one and it’s sci- of milk. The delicious smell of pancakes morning made me want to become a more entifically proven that humans are the only and sausage made my stomach grumble, selfless person. From seeing a man talking species that rely on each other to survive. but greeting and briefly conversing with to himself on the street to serving home- When we set aside our differences we see the people we served, made me forget how less people cream of wheat, I could almost that any one of us could potentially be hungry I was. I really enjoyed working in feel my heart in pain. It wasn’t just that I homeless and sometimes we need a little the kitchen and seeing so many friendly felt the need to help them, but I also felt push to pick ourselves back up. Like with and thankful people. When breakfast was something for myself, I looked back at family, we need to look out for each other. over, we helped clean up trash, wipe down where I am in life and the things I’m going By helping others, we begin to see things tables, and sweep. Then in the few minutes through and I see that I’m so fortunate and in their perspective like I did on this day we had left, we waited in the lobby for the privileged to be where I am, under a roof and you begin to see hope and feel the rest of our class to finish their jobs. with such an incredible, supportive family. love and gratitude that comes with helping Our next stop was the San Diego I realize how much we don’t know about others and being part of a movement in Rescue Mission. We arrived a little earlier other people’s lives and how we judge society. than expected, so we took a quick pit stop them based off of appearance and stereo- at the nearest liquor store off of Elm Street. types, when in reality, so many Americans We refueled our energy from our early are just a few paychecks away from being morning start with snacks and munchies homeless. So why are we defining people and then we made our way based off of their financial standpoint? Community Service Reflection self-conscious again, moving closer to even in these undesirable circumstances, By: Zuri Smith the group. Once we got to the kitchen, they were still putting their kids needs and we were divided. Paola, Alejandra, Karla, wants above their own. Then, I realized In total and complete honesty, I Karissa, Cacho, Israel, and I were left in that I shouldn’t be surprised. They were looked at volunteering at St.Vincent’s as an the kitchen, and the rest of the group was still parents. opportunity for community service. Some- taken somewhere else. I glanced around, I kept looking around at everyone. thing for the college officials to look at on slightly uneasy. It was the most primitive Some looked like they had never known my resume. That’s all I saw it as. of human needs: the dislike of being sepa- homelessness, while others looked like they I woke up at 4 A.M. this morning. rated from the rest of the group. greeted it personally at their doors each I showered, dressed, and ate quickly as I The woman in charge had us wash morning. None of them looked like they moved quietly through my house trying our hands, put on hair nets and plastic deserved it. I wanted to set down the tongs, not to wake anyone. By 4:59, my mom and aprons, then set us up at our stations. sit down somewhere, put my head between I were walking out the door and into the Four of us serving the food, the other my knees, and think. Just think out this early morning. The air was cold, immedi- three preparing it. I was part of the four whole situation. Instead, I tapped the tongs ately raising goose bumps on my arms. I serving the food. The task was quite sim- against the metal of the counter, joining in remember looking up into the darkened ple: when someone came up, you grabbed the light conversation with my peers. Why sky; the stars filling the empty space with a plate, asked them what they wanted, put had this happened? Who was here because tiny white dots. My mom drove me to it on the plate with the metal tongs, then they couldn’t afford to live where they had school, moving smoothly along the empty handed it to them. Quickly, we were put any longer? Where any of them on drugs? highway. When I got to school, we checked to work as people approached, asking for Whose parents had kicked them out? How in and walked back into the chilly air. Ten what they wanted. Some spoke in quiet, could we, as a race, allow this? We, the hu- minutes later, we were in the darkened humble voices barely glancing up to make man race, proclaiming ourselves the smart- bus, racing along the freeway. I put my the minimal amount of eye contact. Oth- est out of any organism that has ever lived; headphones on and watched the sky slowly ers spoke in almost authoritative voices, we who put ourselves next to the gods; we turn blue against the rugged terrain. Thir- looking at us directly in the eye, letting who were supposedly the best of the best ty minutes later, and we were downtown. us know that they weren’t ashamed. But have let our fellow men and women sleep By that time, it was almost light outside. there was one thing that remained con- on the streets, battle drug addictions, live As we stumbled off the bus, I checked my stant in everyone that we served. Except in shelters, unable to provide for their chil- phone. 5:50 A.M. I put my hand against for one, everyone was respectful, some dren. How did we sink so low? my head. I remember thinking that this even thanking us for our services, foret- During those three hours, our chat- was incredibly early and it was insane ting up so early. And very quickly, waking ter grew from quiet, only speaking when to be up at this time. I looked around at up at 4 am wasn’t so bad. we needed to, to conversations and laugh- my classmates. They leaned against each An hour or so into serving every- ter. It felt good, even if there was the issue other yawning, and grumbling quietly to one, I began to notice that there were a lot beneath the surface. One woman in partic- themselves. Soon, our teacher led us to the of kids there. Ages ranged from months ular stood out. Standing at around 5 feet, entrance of the shelter. On the way there, old to about 17, around my own age. I be- black, around 50 and thick. She shook her we passed several people who were home- gan to worry as I watched a woman pull head at one of the kids who was mouthing less. The air smelled like downtown and a tiny baby dressed in a purple jogging off to his mom in front of her. She mur- stale cigarettes and I felt myself grow wary, suit from a stroller and into her arms. I mured something about kids not respect- remembering the ludicrous tales of people wondered how she had ended up with a ing their parents, and we laughed. We being attacked by the homeless and my child all by herself. My feeling of unease served her and before she went to sit down own idiotic fears of being approached, not increased as I watched a boy of around and eat, she thanked us. She looked each of just by someone homeless, but anyone in 15, keys around his neck, eyes trained us in the eye and thanked us for getting up general. towards the ground, approach me. He had early to do this. She left after that, telling We entered the building, blinking at to repeat what he wanted several times us to have a blessed day. Her words trailed the bright light. We walked in small packs, before I heard what he was saying. Often behind her, making me stand a little taller, almost afraid to be separated from each times, Paola would remind me that they proud to be there, glad that I woke up early, other in this strange environment. At the were only allowed a certain amount. I re- glad that I wasn’t sitting around useless. gated entrance, they gave us visitors pass- member telling her to tell them, because Happy to make a change in this world, as es and we clipped them onto our shirts or I certainly didn’t want too. I, myself, was small as it was. pants. We walked into the hall, looking calculating roughly how many calories The rest of our time surmised of me around. It looked like a cafeteria, large these kids needed in the morning, and going back to tell the people in the back round tables dotted around. The sides of this certainly wouldn’t cut it. that we were out of food, then refilling it. the building were curved and open, so that I looked at the parents who Conversations, and smiles filled the atmo- you could walk through them. The walls brought their kids into the line, ruffling sphere around us. I felt good. “You see that were painted yellow. As we walked toward their hair affectionately, and asking them button down there?” the woman in charge the kitchen, people looked around at us, what they wanted before they asked for asked, pointing to the button openly staring as we passed. I felt myself their own portion. I was struck by how, become behind the metal countertop. “Push it, you of my ignorance, saw the homeless as a guys are done.” Alejandra pressed it, sig- group of senile, drug-addicted, aggressive naling that out shift was over. “You guys people. In my defense, I knew that not get what you want. Thank you for your all of them were like this, but I am still service.” The woman gestured towards ashamed to have ever thought of it all. That the remaining food. The rest of my group day, I learned that everyone has a story went towards the food, filling their plates. I and just because they don’t tell it, doesn’t hung back. I had already eaten that morn- mean it’s not there. ing, therefore I saw no reason to eat now. I don’t know why homelessness The rest of my group hadn’t. I followed exist. Financially, I do. But I don’t under- them to one of the grey tables, thinking stand how one person can look at another, that I didn’t want to fulfill the American know that they’re being denied 3 of the 4 stereotype of eating more than I needed. I fundamental rights needed to survive to watched my friends eat, laughed at a story sustain human life (food, shelter and wa- that Karla told about falling off the bed, ter), and continue on with their lives and and watched all of them. They were smil- not care. My question for anyone is: How ing, but there was something in the back can we justify that? How can we pretend of their eyes that told me that they were as not to notice? How do we look at young affected as I was. Not necessarily bad, but kids and not immediately offer assistance? a new understanding blazed behind their How do we look at a man, leaned against otherwise unaffected exteriors. a building, huddled in a sleeping bag and When we visited the rescue mission, not immediately offer him a place to stay? there was one woman who we talked to, How do we sit around and do nothing? that changed my perspective on the home- How do we justify homelessness? less population. Smooth copper skin, black In all and complete honesty, I think hair and dark eyes, she talked in a way that we’re afraid. I think we’re ashamed. I think made you want to listen, even if there was we’re afraid to understand. Afraid to care something else that you had to do. She and get attached. Afraid that if we look to talked about how grateful she was that we closely, we realize that that young wom- were here, and that she was here doing the an or that young man could be anybody, Lord’s work, and that she was just a vessel, could be us. But mostly I think that we’re doing His work. She spoke about how you afraid that if we look into their eyes, they had to have a passion for what you did, be- will see all of this: our fears, our doubts, cause if you didn’t then you were going to our uncertainties about them. be unhappy. She left then, thanking us and telling us to have a blessed day. The hall- way we stood in was silent, nobody know- ing quite what to say. I looked around, slightly shocked to find some of the girls moved to tears. Not that I wasn’t moved myself. I felt as though I had been filled with a new kind of purpose, even though I’m not particularly religious . Regardless, it was a beautiful speech, one that if the rescue mission ever had a conference, they should use as their closing speech, because it spoke not only in depths, but into the depths of each person in there. When we went back to school, we reflected. We talked about our experiences, our thoughts. Some of us were emotional, some of us were negative. I thought about the things that had changed that day. I thought about how my perspective on homelessness changed entirely, shattering into unrecognizable pieces, then forming into something else entirely. I, in the low- est point Special Thanks To: County of San Diego - Megan O’ Dowd, April Balge

Urban Street Angels - Eric Lovett, Joalby- Phoenix Lopez

Nueva Vida Haven - Molly Downs

Students of High Tech High Chula Vista - Mikko O, Grace F, Andrew D, Gerry C, Sierra G, Erica O, Dave H, Alyssa I, Roman M, Nick H, Jess H, Karissa S, Luis C, Jessica C, Arik E, Elena C, Seara F, Jose F, Jack H

San Diego Veteran Village - Phil Landis

Regional Task Force (San Diego) - Imelda McClendon

Chula Vista Community Collaborative - Margarita Holguin

San Diego Rescue Mission - Robin Colberg, Deborah Krakauer, Juliette Sherry

South Bay Community Service Programs for Homeless Victims of Domestic Violence - Amaris Sanchez

Gives Hope Outreach - Adel Espineli, Temukisa Letuligasenoa

San Diego Food Bank - Lisa Bacon

San Diego Police Departments Homeless Outreach Team - Sergeant Richard Schnell

PATH San Diego - April Joy Galka

Monarch School - Katie Bradel

Impact Strategies and Mobilization of United Way of San Diego County - Shaina Gross

San Diego Youth Service - Walter Phillips

IMPACT - Melissa Beals

San Diego Organizing Project - Kevin Malone