Getting from bad to better.
Getting from nothing to something.

For someone living on the streets, satisfying basic human needs is the first priority. Having someone share their home with you is a big ask. Being allowed to safely shelter in someone’s unused backyard space, behind a gated fence, may be an unglamorous but viable first step.

An eight-foot-tall, eight-foot-deep, and four-foot-wide sleeping unit with a lockable door can be constructed using eight 4X8 construction panels and some 2X4 lumber. Building it upon a light-weight utility trailer gets the floor up off the ground, makes it moveable, and minimizes building code violations.

Many camping shower options facilitate warm bathing and privacy. A private space for a quality waterless, composting toilet and camping sink needs to be added. For outdoor cooking, eating, and recreation, a camping table and bench give more flexibility.

All of the electricity can be provided via solar panels and battery storage. A temporary 120-volt extension cord might be connected to the main house as needed. Non-potable water comes from a garden hose. Gray water is directed into the ground via French drains.

The year-round weather in Southern California is very forgiving. While the sleeping unit needs some insulation and ventilation, it does not require heating or air conditioning. An extra blanket or a 12-volt fan is all that is needed for reasonable comfort.

If more sleeping units are added, a “reception” type tent could be set up for group cooking, dining, and recreation.

A more robust solution, instead of secure backyard camping, would be for each resident member to have a studio/one-bedroom apartment in a building that included communal meeting spaces and a laundry room.

Baby Steps.