Try to contact any offices or local shelters or community groups as suggested above, if all else fails and you're roughing it without a car.

Your best bet is to probably invest in a tent and some cooking stuff and things like that. Warm blankets and a leashe and harness for your feline friend to stop them from wondering. If you can get a bike maybe try to find a secluded spot in lower Carmi up the foresty road, but if you don't want to be bothered set up far way from the road and don't make it obvious. I'd feel safer setting up out of town and make trips when you can over sleeping in town because of crime rates. These things don't have to cost a lot at the dollar store or Walmart, I've gotten a tent for 50$ that held up well. Best of luck to you.