Is housing the key to help us build a more equitable society? In this episode of Homeward Indy you’ll gain critical insights into the state of homelessness in Indianapolis, directly from some of experts who are driving change. We're joined by Elliot Zans and Abe Roll from CHIP, the Coalition for Homelessness Intervention and Prevention, who share the motivations behind the first-ever State of Homelessness event that took place in June. This event aims to educate city and county officials, state legislators, and the public about the harsh realities of homelessness through by understanding the contributing factors behind the 2024 Point-in-Time count data.

Listen as we shift the narrative from statistics to real-life impacts, highlighting the broader economic and policy factors contributing to homelessness, such as housing shortages, high rents, and low wages. Elliot and Abe dive deep into the overwhelming demand on family shelters and the complex issue of housing instability, from couch surfing to temporary hotel stays. Our guests stress the importance of addressing economic factors like rent increases and wage stagnation, particularly in areas like Indianapolis, while centering the fact that every number reported represents a sacred human life.

Finally, we explore actionable strategies to improve housing equity, especially for Black households. Elliot and Abe discuss enhancing the coordinated entry system, the urgent need for state policies to prevent income discrimination, and the critical importance of tenant protections. They share their enthusiasm for community engagement and public education, expressing a heartfelt appreciation for the collective effort required to combat homelessness. Join us for this powerful call to action, emphasizing the necessity of accurate information, community outreach, and sustainable solutions to make a difference in Indianapolis.