This report examines how the social problems of homelessness can be addressed through land-use planning. Progress toward solving the shelter and service needs of the homeless is hampered by lack of attention to the geographic distribution of people in need and of the services designed to assist them. The concept of a service hub is advanced to overcome this lacunae in theoretical understanding and planning practice. The significance of localized coping networks among the homeless is examined through the example of Los Angeles' Skid Row. The implications of the L.A. experience underscore the need for a planning paradigm which addresses the service hub concept (author).