What Doesn't Kill You: One Cop's Perspective on Homelessness, Mental Illness, and Addiction

When Eric Hofstein changed his career path, he didn't expect to meet hundreds of lost souls, many of whom were desperate to be found. Here he shares what he learned about how the people he met became homeless, what kept them on the streets, and how to help them improve their lives. He learned what true harm reduction is, and how to manage his expectations and not center himself in his outreach work. Now retired, Eric is compelled to give voice to those whose stories inspired him so that others can be inspired in turn.

This memoir of essays illustrates his path, and offers important insights into how to mitigate the trauma of homelessness.