In this holiday season, is there a solution to chronic homelessness?

What do homeless people most need to reenter the fabric of society? Some say the answer is right there in the question: homes. NOW investigates a program that secures apartments for the long-term homeless, even if they haven't kicked their bad habits. If you think that sounds crazy, think again. Advocates say this approach reduces costs, encourages self-help and counseling participation and restores self-esteem. The program follows a man nicknamed Footie, who invited NOW to see this idea in action.

The NOW Web site at www.pbs.org/now will provide additional coverage, including a web-exclusive video report about how some homeless earn a living on the street and assumption-busting truths about America's homeless population. Also, the Top 10 NOW reports of 2007.