What The Homeless Crisis Looks Like In California

California reportedly holds more than half of all unsheltered homeless people in the United States and the highest number of homeless encampments. Clusters of tent cities line almost every block, beach paths, parks, underpasses, and street dividers. “People are dying on our streets,” says Los Angeles City Councilman Joe Buscaino. “There are criminal elements around these encampments. You have drug dealers. You also have gang members who are preying among our most vulnerable.” In the video above, Councilman Buscaino’s deputy takes you inside several homeless encampments in Los Angeles. Meet some of the residents and hear their thoughts. Plus, hear why Donald Whitehead, Executive Director of National Coalition for the Homeless, says “homelessness is a solvable issue.” On Friday’s episode of Dr. Phil, “Homeless Encampment Bans: Sweep or Stay?,” Dr. Phil’s guests debate the laws being passed by major cities across the U.S. restricting where the homeless can camp. And, hear from people who were formerly homeless. Check local listings to see where you can watch. TELL DR. PHIL YOUR STORY: Have an outrageous story that will shock Dr. Phil?