How do the homeless survive?

As a pharmacy student there are LOTS of volunteer health care hours you have to do outside of class. I was trying to fulfill some of mine by helping out with a free health care clinic at a local homeless shelter for the past two weeks. I learned a lot of lessons that were health based and social based. I began to understand more about our publicly funded health care programs and the many struggles it faces. I also learned how scary, difficult, lonely and discouraging homelessness might be. I felt empathetic for all the patients we saw because I cannot truly imagine how hard it must be knowing you have to suffer through pain because you do not have healthcare or the means to get any medical attention. I also learned a few lessons on how homeless people survive and get resources they may need/want.

-There are many shelters that are willing to help out with a place to stay or eat. If you are there beyond your welcome stay there is always another city or state nearby that has a shelter. Plus, there is not rule saying you cannot come back in a few months.
-There are very few free health clinics in larger cities. Dental is never included.
-If you cannot afford cigarettes (who can nowadays) you can always count on finding butts around that can be lit up.
-Sorting through residential dumpsters for cans and bottles in states with deposits can be semi-profitable if you do not mind the smell and are diligent.
-Soup kitchens are scatter around the city and open certain days or meals so keep your eyes open and ears peeled about the scoop.
-Sorting through commercial dumpsters can be good news if you are looking for something to eat and there are no soup kitchens open.
-Forests are somewhat warmer and safer when winter comes along.
-Shelters are pretty generous with clothes if they have your size.
-Convenience stores and fast food restaurants are numerous therefore bathrooms are nearby.
-Public libraries are a warm, safe place that you can catch up on some reading or a nap.
-Free samples are a god send.
-Look at the bright side you are still living to see another day.

I guess when you do not have too much you can always rely on creativity to get you through!