Content note: This episode contains references to self-harm and suicidal ideation. Please be careful with yourselves.

Hello, Homeward Indy Listeners, this is Elliot Zans, co-producer and occasional host. I want to personally welcome you all to the last and pinnacle episode of 2024. Today I am privileged to present a conversation between myself and my dear friend Nancy as she shares her experience of being homeless in Indianapolis. This episode is both an indictment of systems and institutions and a love letter to the community of compassionate people who exist within and beyond those systems. While Nancy’s story is unique, the number of people who experience homelessness in our community is becoming alarmingly common.

Nancy’s testimony uncovers the raw challenges of homelessness—surviving on limited resources, battling health issues without adequate medical supplies, weighing medical crises against access to shelter, and facing systemic gaps within the shelter system. Her hard-won transition to stability is marked by moments of unexpected support, from friends stepping in during crises to compassionate healthcare workers who became lifelong allies. Nancy’s experience underscores the struggle for dignity and the transformative power of timely, compassionate assistance. She makes an irrefutable case for compassion, and a poignant call for those experiencing homelessness to hold fast to hope- a better life can be reached.

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.

How does someone transition from being a survivor of domestic violence to becoming an advocate for others? Tracy Clark, Director of Supportive Services at Coburn Place, shares her powerful journey in this episode. Joined by Erica Young, Housing Program Coordinator with the Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ICADV), they provide an unflinching look at the escalating domestic violence crisis in Indiana. Tracy and Erica discuss their roles in providing critical support and housing for survivors, stressing the urgent need for more resources and the collaborative efforts required to address this overwhelming issue.

The COVID-19 pandemic has cast a harsh spotlight on the realities of domestic violence, compounding the dangers survivors face. We challenge misconceptions, like the simplistic notion that victims should easily leave their abusers, and emphasize the importance of safe, stable, and affordable housing. Personal anecdotes and professional insights reveal the multifaceted challenges survivors encounter, from financial instability to the fear of losing their children. This episode underscores the necessity of empathy and unconditional support for those attempting to rebuild their lives.

Finally, we delve into the legal protections for survivors, such as those under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and Indiana-specific measures like eviction expungement clinics. Erica Young explains her work in policy development and technical assistance to better protect and support survivors. We also touch on generational trauma and the ‘two-gen’ (two generational) approach, highlighting programs that aim to break the cycle of abuse. Learn how community efforts, like local events and educational support, can make a significant impact. Tune in to understand how you can contribute to creating a safer environment for victims of domestic violence.