The 'You Can Van' is a mobile office that helps stop evictions in New York City. For those who are on the brink of eviction, it can be difficult to access local aid services before it is too late. This mobile homelessness prevention unit goes directly to those who are in need.
The You Can Van is a specially designed RV that is run by the social services organization 'CAMBA.' The van uses big data to figure out the areas where people are more likely to lose their home. The van then visits these neighborhoods and tries to help people figure out a solution to their problem before they end up homeless. Offering on-the-spot prevention services allows CAMBA to reach out to the elderly, the disabled and other people who may not be able to visit a traditional office building.
The program demonstrates a concerted effort to help more people keep their home and ultimately stay out of the shelter system.
Mobile Homelessness Prevention Offices
The 'You Can Van' Helps Stop Evictions in New York City
Trend Themes
1. Mobile Homelessness Prevention Offices - Mobile prevention offices that provide on-the-spot services to those in need can greatly reduce the number of evictions and ultimately prevent homelessness.
2. Big Data-driven Outreach - Utilizing big data to identify neighborhoods where people are more likely to lose their homes and providing outreach to these areas can lead to more effective homelessness prevention efforts.
3. Mobile Service Delivery - The use of mobile offices and vans to deliver aid services to those unable to visit traditional offices can increase accessibility and inclusivity in social services.
Industry Implications
1. Social Services - Social services organizations can benefit from the use of mobile offices and big data-driven outreach to provide prevention services and ultimately reduce homelessness rates.
2. Transportation - The development and use of specialized RVs and vans for mobile services presents opportunities for transportation companies to expand their offerings and serve social impact organizations.
3. Community Development/non-profits - Non-profit organizations and community development initiatives can use mobile prevention offices to better serve at-risk populations and prevent evictions and homelessness.