According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary the definition of homelessness is “having no home or permanent place to live.” The reality of the daily life of the homeless is uncertain and can be dangerous.

Keeping that in mind the first step to interacting with the homeless is to understand that they are people. They have feelings and needs just like everyone else. It’s easy to desensitize ourselves to the human aspect of homeless people for a number of reasons. Anything from the mass amount of homeless people you interact with to the humiliating levels that they sometime have to stoop to.

It’s good to be safe but it’s not good to be naive. Being informed is key. Know your city code and legal ability to take corrective action. For example in San Francisco the Municipal Police Code Section 25 states that “no person shall willfully remain upon any private property or business premise after being notified to leave by the owner, lessee, or other person in charge.  Notice may be oral or in the form of a written notice posted in a conspicuous place.  The first violation is an infraction; a second within 24 hours is a misdemeanor.  Property or business owner should contact their district station for postings of 25 MPC Placards (every six months, color-coded) so that officers on patrol can take immediate enforcement action when someone violates this provision and current signs are posted.”

Being informed gives you the power and knowledge to be responsible, aware and assertive.