I am from Pawtucket, Rhode Island, 35 miles southwest of Boston and 150 miles northeast of New York City.  As a community, different business, social, and religious groups are discussing ways to work the challenges of homelessness.  Our city is a growing artists community that is working well with the homeless.  However, the downtown districts is becoming two cities in one.

What causes homelessness, mental illness or lack of gainful employment?  How does your town or city work on the challenge?