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Think that one, the opinion itself, varies in boring/interesting depending on where you live. Likewise varies in truthfulness.
What do you mean by "depending on where you live?"
It (edit: the idea you're quoting) has more credence or less depending on your town.
I suppose nobody is "gaming the system by being homeless" because even if it's comfy, you're not gaining more than you would be by not gaming the system of homelessness. But i think it's undeniable that, in certain places for various reasons, people choose/pretend to be homeless.
As someone who works with homeless people in an area with a generous population, lots of charities, and free services, you are repeating one of the most dangerous types of misinformation. It's the kind that draws our attention to 0.1% that is technically true, while diminishing the conversation about the actual problem.
The "tourists", as we sometimes call them, are the 0.1%. They come and go and there is always one or two around, but they are not the ones with the serious problems. Some might think of them as outliers in the group, but I wouldn't even group those 0.1% with the other 99.9%. We still make sure they are okay, but they are not the problem when people talk about "homelessness".
I'm assuming you are good hearted. All intelligent good-natured people have mistakenly repeated points before understand the nuances. I just hope you and anyone else reading might consider a different way of thinking. Repeating this talking point makes it very hard for the people trying to fight homelessness. Funding drys up and people die because public discussion often focuses on the "tourists" and not on the actual problem.
Depends on the type of homeless. Folks who were just evicted and need someplace safe so they can get back on their feet? Sure. People with severe mental health issues or drug addictions? not so much.
Going to a shelter involves giving up certain freedoms that living outside affords you. If you're dealing with a heroin addiction, they won't let you bring your drugs in. Got a pet dog companion? No dogs allowed. Going with a friend or partner? Expect to be split up. Also shelters often fill up and the next shelter with space may be an hour walk away.
It also doesn't help that the shelters are all separate charities and don't really coordinate.
So as miserable as it is, many people prefer living in tents and won't even accept a shelter when they're offered help as their tent encampment is being cleared by authorities.