AThe ordinary citizen had contributed greatly to addressing this issue.  In a very direct way if there is someone living on the street that you see every day on your way to work acknowledge them as a person and ask them if they want assistance getting off the street.  If they do you can call the outreach hot line 215-232-1984 and an outreach worker will come and assist them.  They may refuse you but at some point as you build a relationship of trust, they will accept your assistance in some way.  In addition, you can advocate with your elected officials that you find homelessness unacceptable and that government must find a way to make housing affordable for each and every person.  Lastly you might want to contribute your time, talent or resources to local groups addressing homelessness. And/or encourage your friends, family or religious congregation to become involved with the issue.  Everyone needs to be part of the solution.