[watertom]

A lot of people who are homeless have mental health issues and are homeless due to those issues, it's almost like they need to be cared for in a mental health environment because being homeless isn't actually their problem.

A lot of people who are homeless have substance abuse issues, and are homeless due the those issues, it's almost like they need to be cared for in a substance abuse program because being homeless isn't actually their problem.

Once we whittle away the people who have issues that cause their homelessness other than just being homeless we can get to the people, who are either unemployed, under employed, or so debt ridden that they can't find a place to live.

This may be a coarse filter, but IMHO it's better than just shoving people into a "living space" and being done.

[koheripbal]

The programs you suggest should treat these individuals DO exist. Typically the people afflicted with addiction and/or mental health issues refuse treatment.

I have seen well intentioned social workers walking through these tents cities trying to bring people in for treatment. They do not want to go.

Should we force people into facilities they cannot leave so that they can be treated?

It is a similar story for homeless shelters. The issue isn't the availability of beds - it is that the homeless do not want to stay in the shelter.