A New Approach to Homelessness: Homeless "Binners" Take to the Streets with Specially Designed Bicycles and Tent-Trailers
by VIPIRG
Victoria, November 18, 2008 - An innovative new project launched in Victoria today distributes specialized bikes and trailers to homeless people who earn an income by collecting recyclable bottles. The bike trailers provide "binners" with a custom-built cart for storing their belongings and collecting recyclables. The trailer floors fold out into a platform for a built-in emergency tent.
"This project will make life easier and safer for homeless binners", said Rose Henry from the Committee to End Homelessness. "By providing reliable transportation, a functional cart and a fold-out tent, this project is a tangible, immediate and empowering way to deal with a crisis situation".
The pilot project is a joint effort of the Committee to End Homelessness, Tony's Trailers, the UVIC Community-Based Research Laboratory and the Vancouver Island Public Interest Research Group.
PILOT PROJECT GIVES HOMELESS BIKES WITH TRAILERS EQUIPPED FOR STORING
BELONGINGS, COLLECTING RECYCLABLES AND PITCHING EMERGENCY TENTS
Funding from VanCity has meant that the first four bikes and trailers, designed by Tony Hoar, will hit the streets of Victoria today.
"With hundreds of people sleeping on the streets of Victoria in the cold right now, we needed to take emergency measures", stated Committee to End Homelessness activist Levi Van Doren. "Not only will it be possible for binners to collect more bottles, have a source of income and access shelter, but the environmental service they provide to the city will also be improved"
The recipients of the bike carts will document their experience through videos over the course of the next month. The project organizers will use the videos to assess the project and plan for future phases.
For more information, photos and interviews on the MOTHERS project:
Rose Henry, Committee to End Homelessness: 250-812-0199
Tony Hoar, Tony's Trailers: 250-744-9192
Philippe Lucas, Committee to End Homelessness: 250-884-9821
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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Tamara Herman
Research Coordinator
Vancouver Island Public Interest Research Group (VIPIRG)
http://vipirg.ca
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