11-06-2023 6:38pm

Young NJ Author Zac Levy Shows the Challenges of Homelessness in His Latest Book and Cause

Donnella Tilery Editor

Homelessness and food insecurity have become a dangerous reality for many Americans. The issue has become so significant that future leaders like Zac Levy are learning more about it to become more aware. After speaking with those struggling, this young author decided to write a book to share their stories. During Raritan Neighbors NJ's interview with Zac Levy, he discussed what inspires him.

Raritan Neighbors NJ, Editor: What inspired you to get started?

Zac Levy, Author: I had an experience at a 7/11 (which I spoke about in a video when I started the Project(watch Zac's video here on YouTube) where I started to question how people could become homeless. I continued to do research online and found lots of statistics and numbers that pointed to one cause or the other, but I felt that most of the studies pointed to the final straw and ignored all of the steps that eventually led to that person's unfortunate fall into homelessness. I decided that I wanted to interview people on my own to get this full picture.

Raritan Neighbors NJ, Editor: what was the hardest part about staying with it?

Zac Levy, Author:I wouldn't say there was any one "hardest step." I had dozens of new experiences each of which were scary and unknown, but after each new experience, it got easier and easier. I acquired all sorts of new skills and accomplishments over the last 14 months.

Raritan Neighbors NJ, Editor: What do you think you learned from the experience that other people should know?

Zac Levy, Author: One surprising piece of information was how nice and welcoming many experiencing homelessness were to others. I expected the streets to be a dog-eat-dog world everywhere, but in many areas, those more experienced stepped up to teach the people I interviewed. They were told important pieces of knowledge like where to hide blankets, which stores have open bathrooms, and what local resources exist. In the winter, there was more hostility, but most of the year, everyone collaborated and worked together.
Additionally, I was surprised by how happy and positive many of the people I interviewed were. They shared the most beautiful (almost saintlike) perspectives on life and hardship. They have been a huge inspiration in my own life.

Raritan Neighbors NJ, Editor: What are some misconceptions people don't realize about homelessness in New Jersey

Zac Levy, Author: The misconception I continually heard over the last year is that homelessness is primarily caused by mental health and drug problems. This is not what I found in my research. Yes, mental health and drugs often play into the process, but not as a cause, or as a symptom. In all of the cases I've seen, I've found earlier more fundamental developmental problems that caused the person to develop substance abuse issues as a coping mechanism, or develop mental health issues due to stress, abuse, lack of good nutrition, or trauma. The reason this misconception bothers me so much is because it has become so prevalent that it has led to an unreasonable focus on this subsection of those experiencing homelessness and ignoring others. So many housing programs start with a rehab program or psychiatric ward. The three people I interviewed who didn't have substance abuse or mental health problems were unable to find aid because they did not fit the stereotype.

Raritan Neighbors NJ, Editor: What do you plan to do next now that your books are out?

Zac Levy, Author: I have no plans to stop Project Unhoused! I will be continuing to conduct interviews (possibly posting them on my website), collect and distribute winter clothing, and have tons of new ideas in the works!