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Housing is Healthcare: A Leader’s Vision

With Dr. Pooja Bhalla

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Stories to Solutions

This understanding led to innovative programs like their "street to home" model and senior micro-communities, demonstrating how personal insight can transform into systemic solutions. Her vision of ending family homelessness in Orange County shows how targeted, focused efforts can create meaningful change.

Dr. Bhalla’s story powerfully illustrates that effective solutions come from truly understanding the human experience behind the statistics. As Dr. Bhalla says, "It's beautiful to have conversations with human beings who are not used to being treated as human beings."

Dr. Bhalla's personal experience of isolation as a young immigrant helped her connect with the profound loneliness many homeless individuals face, shaping her compassionate approach to healthcare and housing solutions.
This understanding led to innovative programs like their "street to home" model and senior micro-communities, demonstrating how personal insight can transform into systemic solutions. Her vision of ending family homelessness in Orange County shows how targeted, focused efforts can create meaningful change.
Dr. Bhalla’s story powerfully illustrates that effective solutions come from truly understanding the human experience behind the statistics. As Dr. Bhalla says, "It's beautiful to have conversations with human beings who are not used to being treated as human beings."

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Links to Solutions

Early intervention is crucial

Rather than waiting for people to become "chronically homeless," we need to provide immediate support. As Dr. Bhalla notes, "By then, their health has declined... They need a stable place to be."

The face of homelessness has changed

Today's reality includes working families, single mothers, and seniors. In Orange County alone, a one-bedroom apartment requires working 70 hours per week at minimum wage, highlighting the economic challenges many face.

Innovation through understanding

The Illumination Foundation's "micro-communities" model emerged from recognizing that housing alone isn't enough - people need community and connection to truly thrive. This human-centered approach demonstrates how deep understanding leads to effective solutions.

Meet Our Guest

Dr. Pooja Bhalla

Dr. Pooja Bhalla is the Chief Executive Officer of the Illumination Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to disrupting the cycle of homelessness in Southern California. With a background in nursing and healthcare leadership, Dr. Bhalla has been instrumental in expanding the foundation's services, including the establishment of the Illumination Foundation Medical Group and the development of specialized care facilities. Her work focuses on integrating healthcare and housing solutions to address the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly those experiencing homelessness.

Connect to Dr. Pooja Bhalla

CEO - Illumination Foundation https://www.instagram.com/ifhomeless

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooja-bhalla-dnp-33b12477