Startup Plans To Convert Old SF Muni Buses Into Washing Stations For Homeless
SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) - A new startup in San Francisco aims to transform old city buses into hygiene and sanitation centers for the city's homeless population.
A startup known as Lava Mae plans to convert decommissioned buses into mobile shower and toilet stations for the city's homeless. According to the San Francisco Examiner, the group has already secured rights to one decommissioned bus with plans to eventually convert more. San Francisco Municipal Railway plans to scrap 40 buses in the near future in favor of newer models.
Founder Doniece Sandoval has said she plans to retrofit the vehicles to allow access for disabled residents. According to the Examiner, Sandoval expects to draw about 100 to 130 people a day with the first bus.
Sandoval said the vehicles could take as much as $100,000 to renovate, and she is searching for grants and donations in hopes of eventually getting four vehicles up and running 10 hours a day.
(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
