October 19, 2023
Pathways out of homelessness
Season 3 of “The Way Home” documentary series, created with support from Kaiser Permanente, highlights solutions for ending homelessness. Watch it now on YouTube.
“The Way Home” documentary series examines the homelessness crisis in America and solutions for how it can be overcome. Season 3 is available now.
The path out of homelessness is not always easy to find, but it does exist.
Season 3 of “The Way Home” docuseries sheds light on this path by lifting the voices of people who were once homeless and have now found their way home.
Their stories reveal ways people and organizations can help end the homelessness crisis, improve health, and strengthen communities.
The series, funded by Kaiser Permanente and produced by KTF Films and Bread and Butter Films, is now streaming free on YouTube.
Housing is health
At Kaiser Permanente, we know that homelessness affects physical and mental health. It also makes getting care more difficult. These factors motivate us to end homelessness.
“A safe, stable home is vital to good health,” said Bechara Choucair, MD, senior vice president and chief health officer for Kaiser Permanente. “Homes are the foundation for healthy lives and communities. They create stability, encourage social connections, and allow people to focus on improving their mental and physical health.”
Season 3 of “The Way Home” highlights the link between housing and health. The episodes feature stories from people in California, Oregon, Washington, and Virginia.
Each story reveals an improved life thanks to successful programs and services. For example, A Way Home Washington is an organization that helps homeless youth find permanent housing in Walla Walla, Washington. Shelter House in Fairfax County, Virginia, steps in before people lose their homes.
How you can help
No one organization can solve homelessness. You can be part of the solution. Watch these brief films and share them. Then, consider taking action.
- Learn more about the organizations featured in the series, including those listed here.
- Talk with your friends and family about the misconceptions that surround people experiencing homelessness. Listen and try to understand different perspectives while encouraging empathy and understanding.
- Volunteer with organizations in your community. You can provide resources and critical services that support people without housing.
Even small actions can make a big difference. For Lily Killbear, who is featured in season 3, episode 2 of "The Way Home,” the help she received from Health Share of Oregon’s Metro 300 program was anything but small.
Killbear was homeless. Metro 300 helped her find long-term, stable housing. She now lives right down the hall from her daughter and grandchild.
“If this is the last place I land,” shared Killbear. “Then OK, this is nirvana.”
