Dear Supporters,

We're thrilled to announce that we've reached 150 signatures! This milestone reflects our shared commitment to addressing homelessness in America. Here's an overview of the current state of homelessness, the potential impact of the Freebird Fund, and the innovative solutions we propose.

Current State of Homelessness & Trends

As of the most recent data, approximately 580,000 people experience homelessness on any given night in the United States. Despite a 14.5% reduction from 2007 to 2018, recent years have seen a slight increase, exacerbated by economic hardships and the COVID-19 pandemic. The primary causes include a lack of affordable housing, poverty, mental health and substance abuse issues, and domestic violence.

Existing Programs & Their Success

Various programs have aimed to reduce homelessness, including:

1. Housing First: Prioritizes permanent housing, reducing chronic homelessness by up to 30%.
2. Emergency Shelters and Transitional Housing: Provides temporary relief but lacks long-term solutions.
3. Supportive Services: Includes mental health care, substance abuse treatment, and job training.

The Freebird Fund: An Innovative Solution

The Freebird Fund offers a unique alternative to traditional housing by providing qualified individuals—those with a valid driver's license and a sober period of 6-12 months—with converted minivan mobile homes. This program offers:

1. Relocation Opportunities: Participants can move to areas with better job prospects and support networks.
2. Low Liability and Independence: Reduces financial risks and increases autonomy.
3. Minimal Work Requirement: Allows participants to focus on self-healing, mental health recovery, and spending time in nature, fostering new positive experiences.

Cost Comparison & National Tax Savings

Providing traditional housing and associated services for homeless individuals can be costly. Estimates show that it costs taxpayers approximately $31,000 per person per year for emergency services, healthcare, and housing solutions. In contrast, the Freebird Fund's solution of providing converted minivan mobile homes requires a one-time investment of $7,000 to $15,000 per individual.

 

National Tax Savings Calculation:

- Traditional Housing Cost per Individual: $31,000/year
- Freebird Fund Cost per Individual: $7,000 - $15,000 (one-time)

Assuming an average of $11,000 for the Freebird solution, the potential savings per individual are $20,000 annually. With an estimated 116,000 individuals benefiting from this solution in the first five years, the annual savings would be approximately $2.32 billion. These savings could be redirected to support other vulnerable groups, such as single parents, disabled individuals, and senior homeless citizens, providing them with permanent housing solutions.

Job Opportunities & Economic Independence

The flexibility of "vanlife" opens up various job opportunities, including:

1. Seasonal Work: Participants can engage in jobs tied to specific seasons, like agricultural work, festival staffing, or ski resort jobs, aligning with their relocation flexibility.
2. Gig Economy Jobs: Easy-to-approach jobs like DoorDash, UberEats, and other gig economy opportunities offer flexible working hours.

With an average wage of $17/hour, individuals working around 24 hours per week can cover essential expenses, including insurance, gas, food, and vehicle maintenance and extras, like day trips and small investments (Laptop; Phone; Clothes). This model encourages financial independence and provides a sustainable lifestyle.

Supporting Evidence

National Alliance to End Homelessness: [Homelessness Statistics]
- HUD Annual Homeless Assessment Report: [PIT and HIC Data]
- Cost-Benefit Analysis: [Central Florida Commission on Homelessness Study]
- Income and Expense Data: Various sources detailing wages and costs associated with gig economy jobs.

CALL TO ACTION

As we celebrate reaching 150 signatures, we need your continued support to make the Freebird Fund a reality. Together, we can address the root causes of homelessness and provide meaningful, long-term solutions. Please share this petition and encourage others to join our cause.

Thank you for your support and dedication to ending homelessness.