Los Angeles is facing a significant homeless crisis, with over 45,000 individuals residing in tent encampments and RVs. Despite efforts to address the issue, outdated computer systems with inaccurate data hinder the provision of essential information and services.
In response to the lack of technological advancements in aiding the homeless population, Better Angels United is developing a series of apps aimed at revolutionizing shelter and services for those experiencing homelessness. These apps will be provided to participating groups and include a mobile-friendly prototype for outreach workers, systems for shelter operators, and a comprehensive shelter bed database currently lacking in the region.
Los Angeles County houses more than 1 in 5 homeless individuals in the United States, totaling around 75,000 people on any given night. The use of disparate software systems among various governments and service groups leads to a tech traffic jam, where communication barriers, outdated information, and data loss are prevalent issues.
One pressing challenge is the absence of a centralized listing of available shelter beds in Los Angeles County, making it difficult for homeless individuals to secure a spot within the 48-hour time frame. Inconsistent practices among caseworkers in collecting and inputting information into databases further exacerbate the problem, leading to errors and delays in data entry.
Despite being located in the tech hub of Silicon Valley, Los Angeles struggles with outdated technology due to challenges such as the pandemic and the complex government structure of the county. Better Angels conducted extensive research and interviews to address gaps in the system and develop software to enhance homeless programs.
Efforts to encourage participation from governments and service groups in utilizing the donated software face obstacles in implementing change. While the software promises security and accessibility, convincing stakeholders to adopt new processes remains a challenge. Better Angels emphasizes the potential benefits of widespread usage to improve outcomes for homeless individuals in the region.
