MIDLAND, Texas — Homeless camps can be found in several parts around town.
While an eyesore, Midland and Odessa Police do not have enough officers to break up the camps on a daily basis.
David Boon is one of many who call a tent their home in Midland. He and others leaning on people's compassion to get by.
“What if it was you or your son or your brother that just needed $1 dollar for the bus?" Boon said. "What if they just needed something to eat. “
There are many reasons for people to fall into homelessness.
For Boon, it was an addiction. Alcoholism cost him his wife and home 13 years ago.
Since then, he has lived on the streets. Setting up camp wherever he can, never staying long in one place.
Midland Police say while homelessness is an issue, their approach is mostly hands-off.
“If the homeless population is not causing problems, the police are not going to get involved in that and we are not going to interfere," Greg McRight, Deputy Chief for Midland Police said.
Police often point people like Boon to resources in the community that helps get people back on their feet.
Boon's saving grace was the Salvation Army. Their program helped him get sober a year ago.
That means no matter the sign or your definition of home:
“All I can do by the grace of God is go upward and onward from here," Boon said.
Midland and Odessa Police tell NewsWest 9 they will interfere with homeless camps like this one if there is trespassing, drugs, or violence issues.
As far as resources for the homeless and how you can help?
Midland Police recommend donating to the Salvation Army rather than giving cash directly to panhandlers.