Author tells story of doctor who spent career working with homeless people

By Mark Brodie
Published: Wednesday, October 4, 2023 - 12:52pm
Updated: Friday, October 6, 2023 - 1:28pm

Audio icon Download mp3 (12.9 MB)

Homelessness has been a significant problem in the Valley for several years.

The Maricopa Association of Governments reports more than 28,000 people were experiencing homelessness here between July of last year and June of this year.

Now, a judge has denied Phoenix’s request to have more time to clear out the area known as "The Zone." There were still close to 500 unsheltered people living there as of mid-September.

Tracy Kidder told The Show the story of one person in Boston who’s created a solution of sorts to the problem of getting health care for people living on the streets. Kidder is a writer and his latest book is called "Rough Sleepers: Dr. Jim O’Connell’s Urgent Mission to Bring Healing to Homeless People."

Kidder spoke with The Show about O’Connell’s story and his work, beginning with how he came upon it.

Tracy Kidder
Tracy Kidder
Tracy Kidder

More stories about homelessness from The Show

The Show Health + Medicine Housing