Lynn: we could (and have) debate the issues around both addiction and alcoholism related to being a "disease" or not.  We do know that certain persons are genetically predisposed to both conditions.  When you refer to them as "a way of relieving pain" I'm concerned that you defining them as a "bad choice" mechanism to deal with such pain.  That's OK if we take the conversation to the next "step" and discuss the community's role and responsibility to provide other "choices."  I think you and I agree that few communities really help provide meaningful, effective alternative choices for impoverished and often homeless individuals facing mental health, addiction and alcoholism (very frequently all three combined).  I agree with you that shelter is a necessary first step and would make those following steps much easier for everyone.  regards, Gary