Fra Noi Embrace Your Inner Italian
Chicago writer-director Lucia Mauro will premiere her new film, “I Have a Name,” online at 7 p.m. on Dec. 9. The one-hour documentary is co-produced by In My Brother’s Shoes Inc., the nonprofit film organization founded by Mauro and producer Joe Orlandino, and Jacqueline C. Hayes, founder and president emerita of the Chicago HELP Initiative (CHI). The film gives voice to individuals experiencing homelessness and explores the programs CHI offers on their behalf.
“I Have a Name” puts a face on homelessness by focusing on the efforts of CHI and its partners to provide access to meals, health services, shelter, adult education, job training and the arts. Those who have experienced job loss, homelessness and other challenges tell their stories. The documentary also takes a wider look at the many factors contributing to homelessness for individuals from all walks of life, and it addresses how CHI is adapting to a world changed by COVID-19.
“I witnessed firsthand how CHI and its partners assist those experiencing homelessness with extensive initiatives,” says Mauro about the process of filming the documentary. “But I was most struck by the dynamic communal environment of their meal program and how each guest is treated with dignity and humanity.”
The online event includes opening remarks by Mauro and Hayes, a film screening and a post-show Q&A. Tickets are $25, with a portion of proceeds going to support CHI’s meal programs. To reserve tickets, click here.
