Independent Lens Season 9 Episode 15 Hard Road Home

In the Independent Lens season 9 episode 15 titled "Hard Road Home," viewers are introduced to three teenagers who have experienced trauma in their life and are trying to find a sense of stability and belonging. The episode focuses on the work of Covenant House, an organization that provides shelter and support to homeless youth.

The first teenager, Anissa, is a former foster child who has struggled with depression and addiction. She finds refuge in Covenant House, which offers her a safe place to stay and connects her with a counselor who helps her work through her issues. Through Covenant House, Anissa also discovers her love for singing and starts performing at open mic nights.

The second teenager, Tanya, has been in and out of juvenile detention and is struggling to stay on the right path. She is taken in by Covenant House and given a second chance to turn her life around. With the help of the staff at Covenant House, Tanya works hard to stay on track and even enrolls in college courses.

The third teenager, Tyler, is transgender and was kicked out of his home by his family when he came out. He finds acceptance and support at Covenant House, where he is able to be himself without fear of rejection. Tyler becomes a spokesperson for the organization, advocating for the rights of homeless youth and the LGBTQ+ community.

Throughout the episode, viewers are able to see the impact that Covenant House has on the lives of these three teenagers and the countless other youth they serve. The organization provides not only shelter and basic necessities, but also a sense of community and support that is often lacking for homeless youth.

Through the stories of Anissa, Tanya, and Tyler, viewers are reminded of the importance of organizations like Covenant House and the work they do to help some of the most vulnerable members of our society. The episode is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of youth who have faced difficult circumstances and the need for support and compassion in their journey to overcome those challenges.