Note: There is an upcoming Stories from the Frontline event at Mariachi Plaza in Boyle Heights on November 8. Read about the Venice event below, and you’ll see why you need to be there.
On June 20th, community members packed the backyard of The Brig bar in Venice to hear equally harrowing and hopeful stories from those who’d experienced homelessness.
Created in partnership with the John and Marilyn Wells Family Foundation’s “Stories From The Frontline,” the turnout was exceptionally high for an area of town that’s long been associated with NIMBY opposition to supportive housing, signaling that more and more people are recognizing the need for real solutions to our homelessness crisis.
The night not only helped people understand what it’s like being homeless in Venice and across Los Angeles, it also highlighted the work of local service providers — including Venice Community Housing, Safe Place for Youth and St. Joseph Center. The call to action was clear: support the four supportive housing buildings, and one temporary housing site, currently being proposed in Venice.
“I never thought I’d end up homeless. The thought scared me to death. Every day, I would say to myself, ‘This is only temporary.'” — Sue Gallagher
“I’ve been looked at badly and had people say things to me like, ‘It’s your fault’ and ‘You got yourself into this situation.’ I want my siblings to know not to give up hope and that they are not a burden on anyone, no matter what people say.” — Erika Herod
“Because I had a safe and stable place to live, I was able to do what I needed to move forward and get recovery.” – Motique Alston
“I’ve never been in an environment with so many people dealing with the same problems and supporting one another. I now believe that I have a future.” – Daniel Chavez
