Vehicular Homelessness

BHHI researchers recently completed a qualitative research study of Oakland residents living in their vehicles at the request of Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf.

Background

The COVID-19-Oriented Resident of Oversized Vehicle Assessment (COROVA) report consists of 48 in-depth qualitative interviews with people who live in oversized vehicles, such as RVs or school buses, to understand their housing and service needs. 

The interviews assessed residents’ views on the current Safe RV Parking Program and a proposed Rental Parking Program. The proposed Rental Parking Program model would provide long-term parking spaces with security, water, electricity, and hygiene facilities. It would adhere to California State Mobile home park laws, grant tenants’ rights to occupants, and not require renters to participate in social services or case management.