Randy: They’re Not Hobos

Randy Myers (RE: Homeless evicted from camp behind Target ): Hobos ride the rails and work a bit then keep on moving. These people are NOT hobos. There are mentally ill and addicted folks there which is why they are avoiding Conroy and St. V’s. This problem is much more complex than even the professional social service helping folks want to believe. .A hobo is a migratory worker or homeless vagabond—especially one who is penniless. The term originated in the Western—probably Northwestern—United States around 1890.[1] Unlike “tramps”—who work only when they are forced to, and “bums”—who do not work at all, “hobos” are itinerant workers.[1][2] (Wikipedia )

Question: Along the Centennial Trail, north of Coeur d’Alene’s UI branch, is a sign that explains the difference among bums, hobos and tramps. Today, we use the terms “homeless” and “transients.” I’m not exactly sure what the individuals who prefer the camps to places like St. Vinny’s are called now. Anyone?