I both agree and take exception to your premise. My son has been homeless for over a year, closer to 2. He's brilliant, handsome and a hard worker. He's also an alcoholic and suffers from PTSD, which together with high housing prices, left him homeless (add in poor choices). He's just gotten a place and will be moving in on Sunday! I couldn't be happier.
That said, he's seen all the things you mention. He wants to write about it. Addiction and mental health are serious concerns, as are conditions in many shelters which leave people feeling dehumanized.
I have so much more to say here, but not enough words at the moment....