Youngstown homeless documentary airs tonight on TV-21

YOUNGSTOWN — A 30-minute documentary, “Another Side of the Valley,” will premiere at 7:30 p.m. tonight on WFMJ TV-21. The program, produced on behalf of the Rescue Mission of Mahoning Valley, will focus on the Valley’s homeless, downtrodden and disadvantaged people.

Jim Echement, Rescue Mission’s director of development, said some people have lost their jobs, suffered sudden catastrophes such as a fire or serious illness or injury or are victims of domestic violence. Echement also acknowledged that some people have simply made poor choices.

Individuals and families turn to the Rescue Mission for food, shelter, safety and a second chance. Programs range from providing overnight stays and daily meals to education and life skills training.

The show tells true life “before and after” stories of people in their own words.