A four-day series of stories (Herald, July 19-22) delved into what is commonly called homelessness. That one-word label, however, wrongly suggests that there is one problem and, by implication, that there could be one answer. Neither is true.

Nonetheless, there are things that can be done both to minimize human suffering and to lessen the negative effects of homelessness on the larger community.

To fix the homeless problem would require a national effort to create a nationwide mental-health system, bolster the social safety net and reverse the ongoing hollowing out of America’s middle class. That is a tall order and may not even be possible. In any case, it would have to be the work of the federal government.

What we call homelessness is a constellation of issues and problems that, at least at the local level, can only be addressed piecemeal and in part. What is involved can include unemployment, sickness, domestic problems, the lack of a support network of friends and family, poor choices, mental illness, substance abuse and just plain bad luck. And, yes, the ranks of the homeless do include some who have simply chosen an alternative lifestyle. More than one factor is typically in play.

No single effort can address all of those problems. Some steps, however, can be taken.

Exactly what those might be will have to be worked out one at a time. The focus, however, should be placed first on safety, health and public order.

There are already programs to help with food and shelter. Those, of course, deserve continued support and expansion where possible. Where local authorities can quickly do more is in areas such as law enforcement and trash management.

Law enforcement is for everyone’s benefit. The most common victims of crimes committed by homeless people are other homeless people. They deserve police protection, too.

Police already target overly aggressive panhandling and trespassing, but enforcement efforts could be stepped up both there and by cracking down on littering at campsites.

In part, that is because neither humans nor animals should suffer because some people are slobs. Sympathy for the less fortunate or concern for the homeless does not extend tolerating the kind of camp conditions that led to two men being bitten by a bear in May – and to the death of the bear.

In drier years, poorly maintained or illegal campsites could also pose a fire hazard, a danger both to the campers and others. That alone could be reason enough to enforce some simple rules. Then, too, it might be in everyone’s interest to work with some of the campers and place dumpsters near some of the known camping areas. Actual trash collection would involve a cost, but it might be cheaper than hunting down bears. It would certainly be more humane.

Of course, that could also be seen as a step toward establishing regular campgrounds near town expressly for the homeless. That may be a more humane option, but is it really a path Durango wants to head down?

Whatever the exact steps, any efforts to enhance the safety and well-being of the homeless in and around Durango will likely have to involve more than one agency. Those could include the Durango Police Department and the La Plata County Sheriff’s Office, as well as a number of federal, state and local agencies of all varieties.

Recognizing that, and the imperative to act, may be where to begin.