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Updated 11/29/2010 10:29 AM

Homeless conversations live-streamed to the masses

By: News 8 Austin Staff

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A 21st century approach to reverse homelessness.

The Homeless Coach is more than your standard recreational vehicle. It's equipped benches and tables to feed restaurant-donated food to homeless residents in Austin.

The mission of the organization is to reach others through live-streamed conversations with those living on the streets.

Homeless residents can engage in interactive chats with an end goal of reaching a larger portion of the community.

Sunday, the founder, Tom Baum, celebrated the finished product in Pflugerville.

"This enables an arms-length interaction if you will, one that's safe and anonymous if they want to be. It enables that first connection to really start a conversation to see what this individual is like," he said.

Baum said he's seen the power the concept can have. He said it’s resulted in more individuals and local businesses offering help.

To watch online, visit www.homelesscoach.org.