In this episode of the Healing Theology Podcast, host Alejandra Salemi speaks with Reverend Mary Lee Downey, CEO of Hope Partnership, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing homelessness and poverty in Central Florida. Reverend Downey shares her personal journey, including her childhood experiences with housing insecurity and how they shaped her commitment to social justice. The conversation explores the intersection of public health, housing policy, and faith, emphasizing the importance of moving from “mercy ministries” (immediate relief, like providing meals) to “justice ministries” (systemic change, like housing policy reform).Reverend Downey highlights the unique challenges faced by Central Florida due to its tourism-dependent economy, the lack of affordable housing, and systemic barriers to addressing homelessness effectively. She also discusses the role of faith in her work, the tension between traditional clergy roles and community-based ministry, and the critical importance of housing-first approaches for public health outcomes.The episode concludes with reflections on the political landscape in Florida, the impact of conservative housing policies, and the need for informed, justice-oriented voting to support systemic change. Reverend Downey encourages listeners to stay engaged, informed, and committed to dismantling barriers that perpetuate poverty and homelessness.It's a powerful conversation about faith-driven advocacy, the long road of justice work, and the hope found in collective action.

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