Homewalk 2013: Why I Walk

Tomorrow I will be walking in my first 5K with +United Way of Greater Los Angeles.

I'm walking because being homeless sucks, whether you are living on the streets, crashing with friends, or living in your car, a motel, or hostel because you have no where else to go.

I know, you're probably thinking "No shit, Captain Obvious." Being homeless with kids is even worse. It's a reality I have lived through and a fear I constantly have with being a contractor. There is nothing scarier than living paycheck-to-paycheck and having your contract and your lease end at the same time. Or having an uncaring landlord who doesn't care that your next gig will start in three weeks and you'll be able to get caught up then when rent is due last week.

I'm walking to help end that fear and uncertainty for at least one family.

By the way, you can still donate. Just click right here.

Double Your Money!
Fundraise or donate $100 or more and it will be matched, dollar for dollar, through a challenge grant by the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation!

What is HomeWalk? HomeWalk is United Way of Greater Los Angeles’ annual 5K Run/Walk to End Homelessness. Each year, thousands of Angelenos come together to do their part by fundraising and spreading the word that homelessness is a solvable problem.

Why HomeWalk?
Los Angeles is the homeless capital of the nation. Over the past 6 years, HomeWalk has mobilized 38,000 walkers, raised $3 million and moved 13,000 people into housing. 100% of proceeds from the event go back into the community, supporting effective strategies to end this crisis.

How Can We End Homelessness? The number one reason for homelessness is loss of a job. With our region’s unemployment rate at an all-time high, it’s not surprising that we’ve become the homeless capital of the nation.

The policies and solutions United Way advocates, such as permanent supportive housing and rapid rehousing, have a 43% cost savings for taxpayers with an 85% success rate when it comes to keeping people off the streets. That’s why our five-year action plan to end chronic and veteran homelessness is called Home For Good.

HomeWalk is an opportunity for all Angelenos to come together to raise funds and awareness while building a brighter future for our community. Join us today by registering, donating or volunteering! Together, we can end homelessness once and for all.