Ep 7. The Homeless Crisis in LA

In United Shades of America season 5 episode 7, "The Homeless Crisis in LA," host W. Kamau Bell travels to Los Angeles to explore the city's ongoing homeless crisis. Los Angeles is home to the largest homeless population in the United States, with over 60,000 individuals living on the streets.

Bell speaks with a variety of individuals impacted by homelessness, including homeless individuals themselves, advocates, and policymakers. He learns about the challenges that come with living on the streets, including access to healthcare, safety, and basic necessities like food and shelter.

Bell also examines the root causes of homelessness, including lack of affordable housing, mental illness, addiction, and job loss. He speaks with experts in these areas to better understand how these factors contribute to the crisis and what can be done to address them.

Throughout the episode, Bell also explores the impact of homelessness on different communities in Los Angeles. He visits Skid Row, one of the largest homeless encampments in the world, to see first-hand the conditions and devastation caused by homelessness. He also speaks with those living and working in nearby neighborhoods to understand the impact the crisis has on their daily lives.

Overall, "The Homeless Crisis in LA" provides a deep dive into a critical issue facing not just Los Angeles, but many cities across the United States. With interviews and personal accounts from those impacted by homelessness, Bell sheds light on the realities of living on the streets and the urgent need for solutions to this crisis.