Drug Addiction Is Not the Root of Homelessness

Changing the Narrative About Homelessness

Laura Guzman, Executive Director of the National Harm Reduction Coalition, and Shawn Morrissey, Vice President of Advocacy and Community Engagement at Union Station Homeless Services, engage in a candid dialogue with host Anne Miskey to confront the prevailing myths about substance use and those experiencing homelessness. This episode explores the concept of Harm Reduction as a pathway toward destigmatizing drug use and prioritizing mental health. The conversation boldly challenges the misconception that Harm Reduction advocates for consequence-free drug access, emphasizing instead its pragmatic approach to reducing the negative consequences associated with drug use. Finally, the segment discusses the interconnectedness of Harm Reduction and Housing First principles, illustrating how these guiding principles converge to promote both public health and social justice.
Learn more:
National Harm Reduction Coalition
Principles of Harm Reduction

This podcast is produced by Brenda Lynch and Katie Cookerly-Dietrich, edited by Jesse Lumen, with production assistance and music by Colin Feldmeth. Special thanks to our Union Station Homeless Services Lived Expertise Advisory Panel (LEAP) for their insights.
Learn More | Donate | Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube