Documentary Feature Film, 1 hour, World Premiere

Synopsis: Inspired by his father, a physician who made house calls, Dr. Jim Withers began providing medical care to the homeless in 1992. Initially dressing as a homeless person, Jim made street rounds in alleys and under bridges. Soon, Operation Safety Net was born and sparked a movement that spread worldwide.

Jeff Sewald

Bio:

Jeff Sewald is an award-winning writer and filmmaker based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In 2000, he founded what would become Backstory Partners to develop his own independent film projects, and launched the company with Gridiron & Steel, a documentary focusing on the spiritual relationship that exists between the sport of American football and the communities of southwestern Pennsylvania. In addition to other wring and film projects, Mr. Sewald produced, wrote, and directed Peter Matthiessen: No Boundaries for PBS, which was narrated by famed actor Glenn Close, and We Knew What We Had: The Greatest Jazz Story Never Told, which traces the history of jazz music in the City of Pittsburgh and its connection to the growth of this uniquely American musical form. Most recently, Mr. Sewald produced, wrote, and directed “Go to the People,” about “CNN Hero” Dr. Jim Withers and his 30-year struggle to provide “street medicine” to homeless people around the world.

Website: jeffsewald.com