This is complicated no doubt. But if there are jobs in a neighboring city or state and the cost of living might be more affordable, then people should uproot. It doesn't have to be forever. If they are going to be broke either way, doesn't it make more sense to be broke where there is a rope to grab and climb your way out of the hole? Rather than just sitting around hoping a job will come available.
There are many ways to move if you don't have much money at all. If you find a job in another area, there are organizations and churches that have people who can provide temporary housing and assistance. There are plenty of resources. The person/s just have to seek them out. Even for the rare cases that have been mentioned. Several charities are focusing on those rare cases to help out. They've got nothing to do with the government.