An Inside Look into Homelessness in Our Hometowns

A narrative shared with me gives new insights on a pressing issue.

Recently, someone sent me a publication; I am not sure what to call it for sure.  A book?  A study?  A research thesis?  None of these really fit nicely, but it was a well written and fascinating narrative about the plight of homeless individuals in our own communities. This comprehensive account, based on the author’s own field observations from 2019 to 2023, provides a unique lens into the lives of those living on the margins of society.

The narrative begins with the story of a homeless man living in the woods, describing his makeshift camp and survival tactics in vivid detail. This introduction serves as a microcosm of the broader issues addressed throughout the piece. The author's journey into understanding this hidden aspect of homelessness began with a chance encounter with a homeless individual, leading to a much deeper involvement and a detailed study of this neglected population​​.

The town is not identified in the narrative, it is only described as agriculturally-based with a population of around 20,000 and is known for its hometown charm and low crime rate. However, as the author discovered, beneath this idyllic surface lies a largely invisible homeless population, consisting of various groups, including the rural homeless. This manuscript emphasizes that most townspeople are unaware of the extent of this issue​​.

The rural homeless, as the author describes these individuals, are primarily single, middle-aged white men, including veterans, who live in the woods, fields, and along railroads. This group, consistently numbering between 12-15, has been living this way for years. The author's account provides a rare glimpse into their world, marked by a struggle for survival and dignity​​.

A significant aspect of the rural homeless experience, as the narrative highlights, is the prevalence of drug addiction, particularly to methamphetamine. This addiction serves as a form of self-medication, offering temporary respite from their harsh realities​​.  The narrative also discussed in detail many of the challenges faced by the rural homeless population and some of the strategies these individuals use to adapt to their surroundings.  The challenges include:

Environmental Challenges:

• Pest Infestations: Mosquitos and chiggers are a significant problem, especially near moisture-rich areas like rivers and streams. The prevalence of these pests leads to hundreds of bites, causing discomfort and health risks.

• Wildlife Encounters: The homeless face dangers from confrontational and curious animals like coyotes, foxes, and deer, especially during certain seasons. These encounters can lead to destroyed belongings and physical danger.

• Weather Vulnerability: Exposure to harsh weather conditions, including heavy rains, storms, and seasonal changes, significantly affects their living conditions. Floods and falling tree limbs (dead fall) pose serious threats to their safety and shelters.

Health and Hygiene:

• Surprisingly, the rural homeless exhibit a strong resistance to common illnesses, potentially due to their isolated lifestyle and exposure to diverse soil bacteria. However, they struggle with deep bacterial and fungal skin infections, exacerbated by wet conditions and lack of hygiene. Access to clean drinking water is also a critical issue, with contamination risks from livestock runoff.

Mental Health and Trauma:

• Mental health issues are prevalent, with signs of PTSD and anxiety often mentioned by the individuals themselves. The rural homeless link their condition to traumatic events, and despite having family support, many choose or feel unable to reconnect with their loved ones.

Isolation and Loneliness:

• This group predominantly lives in solitude, with little social interaction. Their sense of isolation is alleviated through spiritual beliefs and caring for animals, which provide them with companionship and a sense of responsibility.

Substance Abuse and Legal Challenges:

• Drug addiction, particularly to methamphetamine, is a common issue. The cycle of addiction often leads to legal troubles, with increased risk of arrest for drug-related offenses or probation violations. Although jail time can lead to temporary sobriety, most return to drug use and homelessness due to lack of support and fear of the unknown.

The rural homeless have developed various strategies to cope with their challenging circumstances:

• Proactive Relocation: They move their campsites in response to environmental changes, such as rising mosquito populations or weather events.

• Building Tolerance: They develop a tolerance to extreme weather, especially cold, and devise ways to shield themselves from the elements.

• Utilizing Public Spaces: During harsh winters, they often transition to urban areas, using public spaces like libraries, post offices and fast-food restaurants for warmth and shelter.

• Self-Reliance in Health Care: Despite the availability of free medical and dental services, many prefer self-care, even to the extent of self-surgery for severe infections.

The narrative serves as a poignant and illuminating account that provides a much-needed perspective on rural homelessness. The author's empathetic approach humanizes this often-overlooked population, offering insights into their daily struggles with addiction, trauma, and isolation​​.

The narrative could stand to serve as a wake-up call to the community to think and work on issues of homelessness in the community.  And while these issues are often complex and multi-faceted, there are some concrete actions that could be considered to be taken:

• Enhanced Outreach and Support: Programs aimed at reaching out to the rural homeless, acknowledging their unique needs and circumstances, are crucial if the community wants to reverse tends of homelessness.  Regular visits, offering basic necessities and support, can build trust and provide a foundation for further assistance.

• Drug Rehabilitation and Mental Health Services: Given the strong link between homelessness and drug addiction, accessible and effective drug rehabilitation programs are essential. Additionally, mental health support services, including counseling and therapy, should be considered to be available to address underlying traumas.

• Alternative Housing Solutions: Traditional shelter solutions might not suit all rural homeless individuals. Exploring alternative housing options that respect their independence could provide more suitable living arrangements.

• Community Awareness and Integration: Raising awareness within the community about the realities of rural homelessness could foster empathy and support. Collaborative efforts involving local organizations, churches, and volunteers can create a more inclusive environment.

• Job Training and Employment Opportunities: Providing skill development and employment opportunities can offer a pathway to independence and social reintegration for the homeless.  However, getting these individuals trauma informed mental health care and physical safety should be seen as a higher priority than simply gaining employment. 

• Continuous Research and Documentation: Ongoing research and documentation of rural homelessness are vital for understanding and addressing the issue effectively. Future policies and programs can benefit from such data.

In conclusion, this was not only an eye-opening narrative but more importantly, it serves as a critical resource for understanding and addressing rural homelessness. It compels readers to look beyond stereotypes and develop compassionate, effective strategies for one of the most vulnerable segments of society.

Thanks for reading today’s Civic Capacity Newsletter. It is the mission of this publication to better connect you to the issues facing our hometowns and the decisions being made in our communities. Please feel free to share this with your friends and neighbors, if you have found this information helpful.

This was also a pretty heavy topic for today, feel free to leave your observations and insights in the comment thread. Thank you!