Well, I agree that if we take an approach of "you have to get off drugs and have 3 roommates", it will continue to be a dismal failure. It does take a different

Well, I agree that if we take an approach of "you have to get off drugs and have 3 roommates", it will continue to be a dismal failure. It does take a different approach (private rooms, no conditions, safe haven, etc.) and this will tend to cost more. People need stability and autonomy first and that will allow some to get back to normal society. Yes, there are some that just want to drink but having a home base in a building with food and other resources is the only way they even have a chance. I think this is key as they need to start to feel human again and having people there every day honestly trying to help (not "fix" or "correct") is empowering.