TUCSON, Ariz., March 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Explore how Old Pueblo Community Services is redefining the approach to homelessness, proving that a collaborative, housing-first strategy can create lasting change.

Public Television viewers will witness the transformative impact of the Housing First model in an upcoming segment of Empowered with Meg Ryan, featuring Old Pueblo Community Services. Titled "The Power of Housing First," this segment will explore the collaborative efforts of OPCS, the City of Tucson, and Pima County in addressing the complex issue of unsheltered homelessness. Set to film later this year, the documentary will focus on the evidence-based Housing First approach, demonstrating its effectiveness in providing stability and support to individuals facing significant challenges, including addiction and mental illness.

"At the core of the Housing First model is compassion. Recovery and healing start with a safe place to call home," shared Tom Litwicki, CEO - OPCS

The segment will highlight the critical need for systemic solutions to homelessness, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the broader community. It will address the misconceptions surrounding Housing First, particularly the political debates that often misrepresent its efficacy. The feature will underscore the reality that safe, stable shelter is not a reward for recovery, but a fundamental prerequisite. By providing housing first, OPCS creates a platform for individuals to address their health, employment, and social needs. The segment will explore the challenges faced by those living unsheltered, including the profound difficulty of managing chronic health conditions and securing meaningful employment without a stable address. The feature will shed light on the often-overlooked reality that individuals experiencing homelessness are frequently victims of systemic failures within healthcare and social support systems. We will delve into the societal costs of neglecting these individuals, demonstrating how preventative measures, such as Housing First, are not only more humane but also fiscally responsible. By showcasing the cost-effectiveness of this approach, the segment will demonstrate that investing in housing first can lead to significant reductions in healthcare and criminal justice costs. The segment will aim to educate community members, businesses, and policymakers, about the importance of collaborative solutions and the power of providing housing first, fostering a deeper understanding of the complex factors that contribute to homelessness and the proven strategies that lead to lasting, positive change.

About Empowered with Meg Ryan:
Empowered with Meg Ryan is a Public Television program that aims to educate and inspire viewers by highlighting organizations and individuals who are making a positive impact in their communities. Through compelling storytelling, the program fosters a deeper understanding of complex social issues and innovative solutions. Learn more at: https://www.empoweredprogram.com/

About Old Pueblo Community Services:
Old Pueblo Community Services (OPCS) is a leading non-profit organization in Pima County, Arizona, committed to ending homelessness through the Housing First approach. By providing immediate housing and comprehensive support services, OPCS empowers individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve long-term stability. Learn more at: https://helptucson.org/

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SOURCE Empowered