Why Are So Many Older Adults Unhoused, and What Can You Do About It?

Homelessness among older adults is on the rise in California. Nearly half of all single homeless adults in the state are age 50 and older, and many of them are experiencing homelessness for the first time, according to a 2024 study from the UCSF Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative. On Sept. 30, the Public Press hosted a screening of “No Place to Grow Old,” a documentary directed by Davey Schaupp that explores of the inner lives of three seniors experiencing homelessness in Portland, Oregon. Following comments from the director, Public Press reporter Madison Alvarado moderated a discussion that examined examined why homelessness is rising among older adults, and how San Franciscans be a part of the solution. Panelists included Joe Wilson, executive director of Hospitality House, Amy Fairweather, director of policy at Swords to Plowshares, and Armando Bravo Martinez, a member of the Bernal Heights RV community and Coalition on Homelessness. The conversation touched on the criminalization of homelessness, the human costs of capitalism and strategies to combat this crisis.

Civic · LiLa LaHood, Madison Alvarado, Joe Wilson, executive director of Hospitality House, Amy Fairweather of Swords to Plowshares, Armando Bravo Martinez, a member of the Bernal Heights RV community and the Coalition on Homelessness