andy bales

Rev. Andy Bales has  fought to end homelessness in Los Angeles County for more than three decades.  His tales of life on the streets of Skid Row illustrate the emergency situation in which Los Angeles has found itself. An average of 5.5 people die daily in LA County when they are  unhoused. Bales and his team at Union Rescue Mission have provided housing, counseling, job programs and much more. Seniors end up homeless for a variety of reasons. When they do they find themselves in a situation that is said to reduce life expectancy by nearly 30 years.  

This episode is a frank discussion with someone who has literally given his life to this cause--losing both legs in the process. Hosts Nicole Franklin and Bryant Monteilh were honored to spend this time with someone who knows first-hand--and who tries to implement when he and his team can-- the steps needed to put an end to this growing human tragedy.

To volunteer and/or donate, please visit Union Rescue Mission @ urm.org.

This episode first aired on KBLA Talk 1580 in Los Angeles.

Homeless at high risk. Homeless shelters are potential coronavirus hot spots. Yet they’re busier than ever. Union Rescue Mission on L.A.'s skid row continues to serve free hot meals and is taking people in with nowhere else to go. Our guest is the Rev. Andy Bales, chief executive of Union Rescue Mission.

More reading: 70 test positive for coronavirus at San Francisco homeless shelter.

[Advertisement] This L.A. Times podcast is presented to you by Blue Shield of California. The fight is tough, but so are you. Thank you, front line.

Frank Sontag and Rev. Andy Bales of Union Rescue Mission to talk about the devastation of homelessness in America, more specifically Los Angeles, CA, and what Christian ministries are doing to try and help.

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