Presented by:

Shannon Dobbs

Company:

Food System Hackers PBC

Website:

https://www.foodsystemhackers.com

SESSION DESCRIPTION

Homelessness is a complex challenge that requires many stakeholders bringing lots of resources to the table to succeed.  Far too often homeless initiatives ignore these complexities, believing that merely slapping tiny homes onto some land will solve everything.  My intent is to spotlight the various issues involved in reducing chronic homelessness sustainably, and to share strategies for developing collaborative programs that address many needs at once as a "one stop shop" solution. Components should include at a minimum food access, tools and education focused on food security and healthy lifestyles, skills training and certification programs to reintegrate residents into the job market, social worker support including mental health, and access to other community resources including proximity to the housing projects and public transit options.  

I will present topics for discussion and moderate the overall event, while focusing on drawing out expertise and opinions from attendees.  I want to do a poll regarding residential needs and expectations to create a commonality between those who need help and those who wish to provide assistance, to ensure that everyone has a better understanding of the complexities involved in homelessness reduction centered on a social justice model.