For two years I lived in a homeless camp. Those folks ridiculed institutional programs to help them because the programs were embarrassingly naive. They were

For two years I lived in a homeless camp. Those folks ridiculed institutional programs to help them because the programs were embarrassingly naive. They were "taught" things like how to fill out an employment application. These folks were not stupid nor ignorant. They understood this sort of thing. The programs they were often forced to attend to get help were based on fantasies about who the homeless were and what their problems were. Homeless people have difficulty leading their lives. They have problems coping. Their problems are deep-seated personality problems which constantly interfere with maintaining a directed lifestyle. Compelling drug, alcohol, and tobacco habits were common, but this was not the problem. Why did they have these habits, and what was this thing that was interfering with living a direct lifestyle? I don't know. I do believe that they need a sheltered life and the help of a psychologist with a deep understanding of what was interfering with their lives. They were trying to lead the best lives they could and be the best people they could manage. But, that was not enough.