IMPACT & BUDGET ANALYSIS
A projected comparison exploring how traditional outreach centers and BeSeen Machines can work together to serve more neighbors, regardless of budget, capacity, or resources.
| Measure | STAFFED DROP-IN CENTER | 2 BESEEN MACHINES |
|---|---|---|
| Staff needed | 10(could include an outreach director, outreach specialists, case managers, etc.) | 0 on-site* |
| Annual staff payroll | $650,000 | $0 on-site* |
| Estimated payroll taxes | $49,725 | $0 on-site* |
| Total on-site staff cost | $699,725 | $0 on-site* |
| Hours available per week | 40 | 168 |
| Hours available after 5 PM | None | Yes |
| Weekend availability | Depends on center | Yes |
| Holiday availability | Depends on center | Yes |
| Case management | In person, if offered | Potential referral or virtual connection |
| Volunteer opportunities | In person | Virtual and in person |
| People served daily | 80 | 160 |
| People served annually | 20,800 | 58,400 |
*Machines do not need on-site staff while in use. Volunteers connect virtually from anywhere.
128 hours
each week the example drop-in center is closed.
That is approximately 76% of the week.
The gaps we're trying to fill
Over the years, we've heard from so many neighbors experiencing homelessness about how difficult it can be to find help after 5 PM. And the reality is, homelessness doesn't stop at 5 PM. There are incredible organizations doing amazing work in our communities, but many are limited by funding, staffing, and operating hours. In some parts of the cities we serve, the nearest shower or shelter can be a four- to five-hour walk away. And when those services close for the day, finding help becomes even harder.
We kept asking ourselves, there has to be another way. What if we could use creativity and innovation to help bridge these gaps? Not to replace or duplicate the work already being done, but to build on it. To make essential items and human connection more accessible, even when traditional services are closed. Because regardless of an organization's budget or the time of day, our neighbors deserve to be seen, treated with dignity, and have somewhere to turn for help.
This comparison uses an example of a staffed drop-in center to illustrate how different outreach models can work together. Actual staffing, costs, services, and operating hours vary by organization. Both models play an important role in serving our communities.