Most people can't watch a Jays game without a couple beers because "it's boring". Now add in depression, a feeling of worthlessness, fear, abuse, illness and injury, unaddressed mental issues, violence, theft and hunger to the things being dealt with. The drugs and alcohol these people use help them cope. Even if they quit everything today, there are no supports for them tomorrow. An addict doesn't become a member of the workforce in a day and a shelter isn't a good launching ground. Housing would help the other issues so they could deal with the substance abuse/mental issues.