In 2017, there were approximately 554,000 homeless people in the United States. Homelessness eventually leads to substances abuse and vice versa. Having to live on the streets, find food, battle mental illness, being away from family, and fear of arrest takes a heavy toll on those battling life without a home. This constant battle of attrition to survive makes many take refuge with a substance, and with almost nothing to lose they themselves get lost. Those suffering from mental issues are more likely to be victims of assault, thus giving most a reason to get addicted in the first place. This never ending-hellish cycle is one of the any reasons those without a home refuse to seek help, they fear no one cares and will treat them he same as on the streets. 

There are ways in which we can combat this ever growing issue across the nation. According to a paper published by the National Coalition for the Homeless, in 2008 the United States Conference of Mayors reported that substances abuse services were surveyed as one of the top three items needed to combat Substance Abuse amongst the homeless. Other barriers that keep the homeless from getting the help they need include lack of transportation, lack of legal documentation, and having to wait long periods of time to receive any help. 

    Since homelessness and substance abuse go hand in hand, both of these problems have to be addressed. People on the streets are battling a war that many of them cannot fight alone but we can help. Learning more about how homelessness and substance abuse co-exist with each other and finding a way to rid of it is the biggest challenge but it can be done.  Below are several links that will provide more insight on the effects of homelessness and substance abuse and some ways it's ben tackled. 

https://mentalillnesspolicy.org/consequences/homeless-mentally-ill.html

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK138716/