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MADISON, WI-- On Thursday, January 20, 2022, all are invited to a virtual screening of the short documentary “Not Homeless Enough” hosted by Madison Public Library, and presented by the Doubled Up Work Group (Homeless Services Consortium). The 10-minute film will be introduced by filmmaker Diane Nilan and Senator Melissa Agard, and the screening will be followed by a community conversation. Following the film, learn ways you can support these families in the community.

“Every family I met, despite fighting multiple challenges, demonstrated unconditional devotion to their children,” said Nilan. “The least we can do is match their parental devotion with an outpouring of community support.”

Since 2005, Diane Nilan has traveled the United States documenting the pervasive and underestimated problem of homelessness in our country. “Not Homeless Enough” features the story of four families in Madison and Dane County who experienced homelessness. This film in particular highlights the struggle of living in doubled-up situations, or self-paying to live in a hotel and how it disqualifies these families for federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) homeless programs. 

"Diane Nilan's work is absolutely inspirational, and crucial to understanding a national issue that, though relatively hidden, has such an apparent impact on families in our communities," said Sean Ottosen, a Community Engagement Librarian at Central Library and a coordinator for this event.

Madison Public Library purchased five copies of Nilan’s book, Dismazed and Driven, which is available now for check out from any library location.

The event will take place on Zoom from 6-7 p.m. on January 20. Registration is required – visit madpl.org/homeless to attend. 

About Madison Public Library
Madison Public Library’s tradition of promoting education, literacy and community involvement has enriched the City of Madison for more than 140 years.  Visit the library online at www.madisonpubliclibrary.org, @madisonpubliclibrary on Facebook, @madisonlibrary on Twitter, or @madisonpubliclibrary on Instagram.

About the Homeless Services Consortium
Homeless Services Consortium of Dane County is a partnership of agencies, funders, advocates, and formerly homeless persons committed to preventing and ending homelessness. Their goals are to prevent homelessness, support people experiencing homelessness and to collaborate with local, state and national partners to end homelessness. Learn more at: https://www.danecountyhomeless.org/

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