Preventing Homelessness and Promoting Affordable Housing

In this episode, Joseph interviews Joe Jackson, the Executive Director at Hesed House, a nonprofit organization dedicated to feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, clothing the naked, and giving people a chance to hope again. Joe shares his personal journey from the corporate world to the nonprofit sector, driven by his wife's experience with homelessness.

He explains that the mission of Hesed House is simple yet powerful: to provide basic needs and hope to those in need. Joe discusses the different programs and services offered by Hesed House, including a soup kitchen, food pantry, clothes closet, and shelter. He emphasizes the importance of individualized care and addressing the root causes of homelessness.

He also highlights the significance of preventing homelessness in the first place and the need for more affordable housing. The conversation delves into the impact of Hesed House, with tens of thousands of individuals served over the years. Joe expresses his pride in the dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners who make their work possible, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic.

He mentions the ongoing expansion of their shelter and their efforts to advocate for affordable housing. In terms of engagement, Joe encourages listeners to get involved in any way they can, whether through volunteering, donating, or simply showing empathy towards those experiencing homelessness. He invites people to visit the Hesed House website for more information and to participate in their annual Kentucky Derby fundraiser.

The episode concludes with a reminder to have empathy for individuals experiencing homelessness and to recognize their humanity. Joe emphasizes the importance of treating them with dignity and respect.

Want to learn more, donate, or get engaged?

  • Donate: https://www.hesedhouse.org/donate-online/
  • Phone: +1 (630) 897-2156
  • Email: info@hesedhouse.org
  • Website: https://www.hesedhouse.org/
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hesed-House-Inc/150320446146
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hesed_house/
Featured Organization
Hesed House

Mission

Feed the hungry; clothe the naked; shelter the homeless; and give people the chance to hope again.

About

Hesed House is the second-largest homeless shelter in the State of Illinois, and the largest shelter outside of the city of Chicago. Our model of ending homelessness is the culmination of nearly four decades of strategic evolution. As the area’s largest Comprehensive Homeless Resource Center, our most vulnerable neighbors receive support related to housing, support systems, life skills, legal issues, physical/emotional abuse and trauma, mental/physical health, and much more.

Housing & Homelessness
Employment Services

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