Why don't homeless people just stay in shelters?

Far too often the shelters are full and cannot accept additional "guests". Also, not sure if this is just a stereotype or actual truth but I've heard many shelters are not very safe places to stay, especially for women who are alone or with small children. Although it does make me wonder if they wouldn't be safer than the streets though? So glad I've never been in this situation and feel for those who are or have been.

I'm pretty sure that shelters only offer temporary assistance. I think that even if the homeless person wanted to stay, they would be kicked out; a very sad situation indeed.

I think some are afraid of what might happen to them in shelters. I've heard some horror stories. I always wondered why those with family didn't choose to stay with them though. A friend of mine has a brother who is homeless. He could easily live with his family - but decided to live on the streets instead.

Many cities don't have enough shelters to handle all the homeless in the area and some people just don't like taking "hand outs" I guess. There could be a number of reasons.