"Seems to me right now it's easier for someone to get back on their feet than it ever has been."
No, it is much harder.
Homeless with no one, and nowhere to go with $1,000 will only buy the young man 2-3 weeks now days. Corporate HR departments take 2-3 weeks to do their thing. That is today's reality.
Cheap motels have jacked up their rates over the past year. By 50% or more. Not even an option for someone on unemployment anymore.
This time of year, a good $300 tent and a campground near a mid-sized city.
A car, truck or van is a must.
Been through this more times than I wish to count.
Twenty years ago, bought a 1990 Dodge Ram van with travel package. Best $2500 I spent. Was able to live in it when the only job available was Labor Ready. Showered every other day at a truck stop to stay clean. Back then, $6. Last I checked $12.
Once knew a 50 year old man who lived as a hobo, the Denver to San Antonio line for years. Even he gave that up. Getting much harder for the poor in this country.
"Doug" was a wealth of information on survival. If I ever need to go at it as a hobo, I know what to look for to find what I need. (That's for another post) We lived in adjoining rooms above a vacant store front next to a homeless shelter in the Dirty South. $350/month. Shared bathrooms, kitchen, and what not. Just don't forget to look under your car for alligators. LOL!