Characteristics of homeless alcohol and drug abusers identified through an assertive outreach program

Differences between substance abusers and non-abusers, and among abmers of alcohol, drugs, or both substances, were investigated for 1166 persons identified as homeless or at risk of homelessness by an assertive outreach program in a moderate size city. The 603 self-reported substance abusers included disproportionate numbers of male, Black, unmarried, and currently homeless persons with a history or symptoms of mental illness, who expressed a primary need for assistance dealing with the social service system. Type of abuse was associated with demographic characteristics, length of homelessness, mental illness status, and primary expressed needs. An accurate picture of subgroup differences can aid design and delivery of services for the homeless.