Here is another response to my question about how to define homelessness - an excerpt from an account written by a Pathway to Recovery resident:
"My life today is full beyond compare. I have nearly four years of sobriety and I am active in a 12 step fellowship. During the last couple of years, God has truly blessed me. I got married to my beautiful wife in 2009. Also, my handsome son was born on September 11, 2009. He has changed my life forever and I love being a father. Plus, I will be graduating with a B.A. in Philosophy in May. Then I will start graduate school to earn my Masters of Arts in teaching this summer. If asked if I thought these accomplishments were possible four years ago, I would have laughed with true cynicism.

In the end, Pathway gave me more than sobriety. They gave me tools to live a healthy life. Instead of being on the streets and nearly dead, I’m of use to people. No matter how rough or stressful life gets I also have a sense of peace and direction. I know if I stay willing and stick to the basics of recovery I will never have to traverse the dark path of untreated mental illness and addiction again. None of these wonderful gifts would have ever been possible without Pathway to Recovery. At Pathway, hope is found."