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Philadelphia - Addicted to Freedom

America's oldest city grapples with poverty and inequality

In 2023, homelessness kept rising in Philadelphia for the third straight year, according to the annual point-in-time survey. Despite volunteers' efforts to feed and shelter the needy, it's not really making a big impact. There just aren't enough beds for everyone in shelters. Homelessness hits folks from all walks of life, whether they've always struggled or used to have it all. Feeling unsafe and losing their dignity is something they all share. Many young people, desperate for a break, turn to gangs, drugs, and theft. Whole neighbourhoods are deserted, and those who can't afford a place to stay end up camping out on the streets, forming a homeless community. The documentary explores the legal and social constraints the homeless in Philadelphia face. What do they themselves think may be the solutions?

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Published: 31 January 2024 12:00

Duration

27:34

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