this gave me an even better idea.  Use the Internet to find out what the office of the REO office of a local bank chain.  With the economy as it is, they certainly have a few properties that are empty, for which they are responsible to an association of homeowners, and they are concerned about vandals stealing the copper lines.  Call the office and make an appointment, if you can.  Show up like you are going to a job interview.  Don't give them your whole sob story, just sum it up and then tell them that you are a responsible single adult with a job.  Tell them what they can do for them.  In exchange for written permission for living in a REO property of their choosing, you will maintain the grounds as well as provide the security that comes naturally with your presence.  I.E. you will call the cops on those who you suspect intend harm to the property, but will not actually put yourself in harm's way.  State that you expect a written agreement, but not compensation; and you are willing to vacate on short notice should the property need to be shown to a client.

the worst that can come of it is that they say no, and you are out the time and effort, but it could be far more productive than begging at a corner.  If your friend can clean up, and not scuttle the deal, bring him with you and offer to each squat on a different home or the same one, at the bank's preferences