KQED's Forum In Search of Home Part 2: What Happens When Someone Loses Their Housing
Sep 30, 2025
Join housing affordability reporter Vanessa Rancaño, St. Mary's Center executive director Sharon Cornu, and former homeless resident Keanna Ward as they explore the intricate journey of losing housing. They discuss the harsh realities of homelessness, barriers to shelter access, and the unique challenges faced by seniors. Keanna shares her powerful personal story of fleeing unsafe situations, while Sharon highlights the importance of early intervention programs. Together, they offer insights on sustainable solutions to make homelessness brief and rare.
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Words Shape How We See Homelessness
- "Unhoused" and "houseless" shift focus from personal blame to structural lack of housing.
- Language affects how society treats people and frames policy responses.
Leaving Unsafe Housing With Almost Nothing
- Keanna Ward left unsafe housing, lived near a park and library, and waited about a month for shelter.
- She kept only her ID, a backpack, and savings while using library services and hotlines to reach help.
Use Walk-In Housing Clinics
- Visit walk-in housing clinics for help completing complex affordable-housing paperwork.
- Use clinics for document collection, tenant verification, and peer support during long waits.