[Broken_Hippo]

I*m working from memory here, but evidence generally finds that having an actual safety net and giving folks homes to live in works. Making sure folks have mental health care works. Even with folks that insist on trying to stay on the streets ... it seems simply taking them home enough time works.

You could also build centers with toilet facilities for people to live outside if they choose - like campsites, only nicer.

If the people are criminals, the solution is to have better re-integration programs and focus much of the criminal justice system on helping folks instead of being cruel and punishing folks.

You are correct, however, that it is outrageous and an absolute failure of government.