The causes of homelessness are many and complex, and include large-scale socioeconomic factors as well as personal risk factors including mental illness, disability, and lack of a family or social network. In our work with other organizations, we have identified four broad categories of at-risk individuals:
1.Those who desire assistance in regaining self-sufficiency
2.Those who suffer from mental illness or other conditions which inhibit reasoning skills
3.Those who refuse help and choose to lawfully live outdoors
4.Those who refuse help and may be engaging in unlawful activity The City directs its efforts at providing resources to those who are willing to accept help, partnering with regional organizations to address the causes of homelessness, and deterring unwanted behaviors.