The Ojai Valley Democratic Club is set to host a presentation by epidemiologist Ryan Assaf, PhD, from the Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative at the Center for Vulnerable Populations, University of California, San Francisco. The event is scheduled for Sunday, November 12, from 3:30 to 6 p.m. at Kent Hall, 111 W. Santa Ana St.

During the presentation, Dr. Assaf will discuss a recent statewide survey challenging common assumptions about the causes of homelessness. The findings counter notions that homelessness is solely linked to drug addiction, mental illness, or alcoholism, and dispel the belief that the homeless are unwilling to work or have a home. Instead, the study identifies homelessness as a result of a harmful combination of profound poverty, soaring housing costs, and a shortage of affordable housing. The presentation will also delve into policy implications.