On one night in January 2022, a local point-in-time count identified 701 people experiencing homelessness in Madison and Dane County that very night.

In addition to the structural supports needed to address homelessness, a group called Friends of the State Street Family tries to bridge the gap by meeting immediate, individual basic needs on-the-ground, including distributing water, meals, clothing, toiletries, gift cards, bus passes, and survival gear—and sparking conversations with neighbors in need.

Today on the show, Wednesday host Carousel Bayrd learns about the work of Friends of the State Street Family and practical tips for supporting people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity in Dane County.

Jeff Turk is president of Friends of the State Street Family.

Beth Maglio is vice president and outreach director of Friends of the State Street Family.

Cover photo: Friends of the State Street Family team serving Christmas breakfast and distributing thermal mugs on a cold day, December 2021

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