Axis of Logic
Finding Clarity in the 21st Century Mediaplex

Human Rights
Transit Benches To Shelter The Homeless
By Lisa McBride
Axis of Logic
Monday, Jun 30, 2014

RainCity Housing, a Vancouver-based grassroots organization that has worked to deliver progressive housing solutions for homeless people since 1982, has installed emergency pop-up sleeping shelters that resemble ordinary park benches throughout the Canadian city.

During the day, the design works as a regular bench, providing back support to people who might sit to have a snack or read a book. At night, the board folds up and out to provide an emergency cover in this notoriously rainy city.
When the roof is lifted, a message inside reads "Find a home here", along with RainCity’s address and website, so the unhoused can learn more about their supported housing programs.

Photograph courtesy of RainCity.


The conversion of the bench is creatively highlighted by the use of fluorescent UV lettering that reacts with sunlight. During the day, the benches read  “This is a bench.”  At night, a different set of words glowing in the dark emerge, reading “This is a bedroom”.


Photograph courtesy of RainCity.


With all the news regarding the continuing mistreatment and marginalization of unhoused people, it is very good to hear of people who are taking action in the direction of love. :)