Dr. Kadri Webb & Dr. Nate Sessoms

"I think one of the things I'm most proud of about the organization and obviously your leadership is a huge part of that, is that the organization has taken this bold stance to say we are going to stand up against injustice, we are going to serve the most vulnerable, be proud of it, and we're not going to be quiet about it." Dr. Nate Sessoms

This week, we have a very special episode in store for 'Homeless in San Diego.' For the first time ever, our podcast is hosted by Dr. Nate Sessoms, CEO of Success Beyond Measure, and our Board Chair, Dr. Kadri Webb. Join them as they explore this year's theme, 'African Americans and the Arts,' delve into black history, and discuss its personal significance. They will share their experiences, stories, and accomplishments, shedding light on Interfaith’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) within the community.

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Point In Time Count 2024

Joining CEO of Interfaith Community Services, Greg Anglea,  are 3 employees each with their own diverse careers and their take on the Point In Time Count. Throughout the podcast, we tackle essential questions, such as the motivation behind participating in the PITC, the personal experiences of those involved, and the impact of the count on our community. Discover the stories behind the statistics, uncover the reasons people decide to work with those experiencing homelessness, and explore the concept of "meeting people where they are at."

2023 Data : https://www.rtfhsd.org/wp-content/uploads/2023-City-of-San-Diego-Region-Breakdown.pdf

Volunteer: https://www.interfaithservices.org/volunteer/

Lisa Halverstadt Season 4 Episode 1

Lisa Halverstadt is a senior investigative reporter for Voice of San Diego who has been digging into the region’s homelessness crisis for more than eight years.

Join us for this episode as we interview Lisa the most tenured reporter on homelessness in San Diego. As we cover our broken homeless system, the increased need for behavioral health beds, and the challenges people face experiencing homelessness.

If you have ever wondered how difficult it is for people to get help this episode offers invaluable insight. Make sure to look at the show notes below

P.S. After we recorded this episode Lisa released a two-part in-depth story on homeless hospital patients detailing the complex reality our San Diegans face on a daily basis. If you have the time we highly encourage you to read the story as well.

Email: lisa@vosd.org

X: @LisaHalverstadt

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-halverstadt-781a283/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LisaHalverstadthttps://voiceofsandiego.org/2023/11/03/law-could-increase-demand-for-often-elusive-addiction-treatment/

https://www.talesofthestreet.com/

vosd.org/lisa

https://voiceofsandiego.org/2024/01/03/county-under-pressure-to-deliver-more-behavioral-health-beds/

https://voiceofsandiego.org/2023/12/28/san-diegos-homeless-response-took-a-punitive-turn-in-2023/

https://voiceofsandiego.org/2024/01/31/theyre-medically-cleared-get-them-out-why-homeless-hospital-patients-end-up-on-the-street/

Listen to https://www.homelessinsandiego.org/listen/jen

Peter Seidler

Join us for a reflective journey in this special episode of "Homeless in San Diego: Real People, Real Stories" as we pay tribute to the late Peter Seidler. Your host, Greg Anglea, CEO of Interfaith Community Services, guides us through a poignant exploration of a past episode featuring Peter Seidler, Managing Partner of the San Diego Padres.

In this thoughtful retrospective, we revisit the insightful conversation between Greg and Peter, delving into Peter's background in business and Major League Baseball. Together, they explore the transformative moments that shaped Peter's commitment to addressing homelessness in San Diego. Peter's personal experiences, including his battle with cancer and the meaningful connections he forged while walking the streets of Downtown San Diego, provide a powerful backdrop for this reflection.

As we honor the legacy of Peter Seidler, this episode serves as a tribute to his dedication and compassion towards making a positive impact on the lives of those experiencing homelessness. Join us for a heartfelt journey as we revisit the wisdom and insights shared by Peter in this memorable episode.

Scott

Scott life had hit rock bottom. After serving in the Air Force and battling homelessness and addiction on the streets of San Diego, he felt trapped in despair. Yet, a glimmer of hope emerged when he realized he had the unwavering support of the VA. With nothing left to lose, he sought solace at the VA hospital, where he began his journey to recovery.

During his time there, Aspell was informed a program for homeless veterans run by Interfaith Community Services. Determined to turn his life around, he immersed himself in the program at the Abraham & Lillian Turk Recuperative Care Center. 

 Aware that the road ahead wouldn't be smooth, Aspell acknowledged the challenges he faced. Although he possessed disability benefits and social security, his credit score is in poor shape. Yet, he holds onto optimism, hoping that he would qualify for a low-income home.

With determination fueling his spirit and newfound support guiding his path, Aspell embarked on a quest for stability and a fresh start. The echoes of his troubled past spurred him forward, eager to break free from the chains that once bound him. As he seeks a place to call his own, Aspell dreams of a future built on resilience, strength, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

Hugh

Hugh Hughes is the president of Residency Apparel, a social enterprise using custom, branded apparel to support women transitioning into permanent housing in Los Angeles. For over the last ten years, Residency has worked with and alongside the unhoused population in LA, and they are able to fund that work through their donors and their clients that need their own branded merchandise. Their programs are two-fold: supportive employment, and sponsorship of trauma therapy for women in need. You can learn more about their work at www.residencyapparel.com

Lynn (Ashley's Hope pt.2)

We welcome back Lynn Solorzano, Founder and President of Ashley’s Hope.  Lynn started this non-profit in memory of her daughter, Ashley.  Ashley passed away after 8 years living on the streets of San Diego -- she was only 25.  The mission of Ashley’s Hope is to provide people struggling with homeless-related issues dignity, respect and most importantly, hope.  Lynn is providing all Interfaith locations with clean, gently used clothing on a regular basis.

Learn More About Ashley’s Hope: https://ashleyshope.org/

Rich

Rich has lived experience of homelessness and addiction. He is a former Marine, MMA, Fighter, and Police Officer whose life has not been easy. While dealing with trauma Rich turned to drugs as an escape from reality. Ultimately, he ended up homeless for 4 years. Since then, Rich has gone through programs and reflects on his journey to self-sufficiency and recovery. Rich has since then overcome homelessness and is someone who wants to give back and be of service to those who are in a similar position he was in.  

Shannon

Shannon came to Interfaith through a referral to be part of our RWC Program (Recovery and Wellness). After successfully graduating from the program, she is now a live in Manager of a women's sober living home. Through the trials and tribulations of her life, Shannon has overcome homelessness, is sober, and lives a life to help others. 

Mei pt.2

Mei Bautista returns to give updates on how being on the show last year has given her voice back. In Mei’s own words, she “suffered bouts of homelessness throughout her life and continues to push forward through many years of trauma since childhood." She recognizes that healing is not linear; she is actively trying to rise above her challenges and create a better future. In remembrance of her stepfather who died while living on the streets, she created Humanitote. For every bag sold, Mei donates a Humanitote bag to Interfaith filled with toiletries which are given directly to Humans experiencing homelessness. Humanitote also gives Mei hope as she sews each bag. Mei hopes to reunite with her five younger siblings who were taken away and adopted over ten years ago and she puts out a call to anyone who can help with reunification services. Mei will be at Change Your Mind this Saturday May 6th with Humanitote for the 2nd year in a row! You can also support by visiting her store, Daydream Here in Escondido, at 227 E. Grand Ave and by following Humanitote on Instagram @humanitote.
.daydreamhere.com/page/humanitote-project.