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The extent and nature of homelessness is discussed. Only after understanding these parameters was the federal government able to develop an appropriate homelessness policy, including an explicit goal to help end, rather than simply address, the problem. The article describes how, with increased information, federal programs for the homeless have evolved, beginning with emergency remedies and shifting to more permanent solutions. Significantly increased cooperation at federal, state, and local levels is called for to effectively address this multifaceted problem. In the long term, we must wage a broad attack on poverty if we are to eradicate the root problems that force people into homelessness.

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