i have an ex-marine friend that came from saipan, with just the shirt on his back, to barbers point va facilities. they straightened him up, got him medical and psychological help, gave him training, helped him get a job, an apartment and dignity. he hated it but knew he was on his last chance at fifty years old. in less than two years he moved to portland on his dime, where he is doing just fine. the difference between the va and the state shelters is rules, nothing except rules. rules about leaving the camp, rules about times to eat, shower, go to bed, show up at appointments, cleanup, laundry, noise and others. rules, and big guys and compassionate employees to enforce them.