Why do people end up living on the street in encampments?
Encampments of people experiencing homelessness can be found throughout the United States and in countries around the world. Encampments form for many reasons specific to each location and each person who resides there. This case study looks at one encampment through the eyes of several different stakeholders to better understand some of the causes, consequences, and responses that might reflect encampments in other places. By listening closely to these stories, visitors can learn about the barriers to finding and keeping stable housing. And they can better understand why encampments form, persist, and even thrive.
Why did an encampment form in downtown South Bend?
Browse this case study's 3 sections to discover some of the causes, consequences, and responses to South Bend’s Main Street encampment of people experiencing homelessness. Explore news reports and stakeholder interviews to get a sense of who lived there, who provided services, and how things changed.
Want to get involved?
Join us in creating case studies that chronicle homelessness and other poverty-related issues. Connect with the Main Street Encampment's authors to get started.