There you go, Cooper, what comes first mental illness or drug addiction?  And who's going to determine whether or not someone is suffering from mental illness?  Have you checked to see what the cost of therapy is?  Or realize that it takes months to be seen unless one's suicidal?  I believe by the time someone is living on the streets for a period of time they are swallowed up into a cycle of loss of dignity and morales.  Have you tried standing or sitting on a community corner holding a sign begging for money or food?  How about slithering under a shrub along side a sidewalk or road?  Ever had a brush with drug or alcohol addition and try to get a job.  I don't believe anyone starts out in life with a "goal" to have to scrounge for food, water, shelter, or a place to shower.  People get into a rut and oftentimes can't seem to get out without help.