Based on personal experience of the author, and use of anthropological theory, this paper examines small groups of urban 'street people.' While realizing that many of these people have substance abuse problems and are in general disadvantaged, the paper shows that they are far from powerless, and utilize many strategies in order to survive in the city. Networking is focussed upon here, in terms of ways that these individuals are connected in urban settings, as well as facilitating a connection between rural (often nearby reserve) and urban communities. Native and non-Native transients have important roles in subsistence strategies necessary in the process of First Nations urbanization, and these are often overlooked. Copyright © 2004 by the Institute of Urban Studies All rights of reproduction in any form reserved.

'Street people' First nations Subsistence Urbanization Networking

urban population Canada World Western Hemisphere Urbanization indigenous population homelessness North America