Mobile Outreach Van strengthens support for Bethlehem’s vulnerable residents
A growing partnership between Bethlehem Emergency Sheltering (BES) and the RISE Mobile Outreach Van is providing critical support for some of Bethlehem’s most vulnerable residents, bridging gaps in care and building trust with those facing homelessness, addiction, and mental health struggles.
Northampton County unveiled its new mobile van in January to provide addiction and drug services to the community. By February, the van had already made its first visit to BES, providing face-to-face access to addiction and recovery services to any shelter guests who wished to seek them.
“The RISE Van plays a key role in supporting individuals and communities throughout Northampton County by meeting people where they are and offering vital resources,” said Dana Stebelski, Drug & Alcohol Program Specialist with Northampton County.
“By showing up consistently and without judgment, RISE builds meaningful relationships with those it serves. It stands as a reminder that help, hope, and support are always within reach,” Stebelski said.
More than 50 shelter guests visited the RISE van over the course of the van’s three visits to the shelter in February and March, opening the door to assistance and conversations that many guests may not otherwise have been able to access.
“BES continues to partner with provider organizations to bring additional supportive services to those who find themselves homeless,” said BES Executive Director Bob Rapp. “We are grateful to have dedicated partners such as these great cohorts from Northampton County.”
The RISE van travels throughout Northampton County, providing introductions to recovery centers, assessments, and case management, as well as human services resources such as mental health, children’s services, and veterans’ affairs.
Its main goals are to provide resources for substance use and mental health, increase access to harm reduction supplies, such as NARCAN and wound-care kits, and connect individuals to services that support recovery and stability. RISE also seeks to foster trust, reduce stigma, and create pathways to long-term wellness and community connection.
“At the RISE Van, we understand that individuals facing both addiction and homelessness often need more than just supplies—they need support that’s compassionate, consistent, and tailored to their needs,” Stebelski said. “We take the time to assess each person’s current situation—listening to their concerns, understanding their immediate needs, and identifying any barriers they may be facing.”
BES and the RISE Van began their collaboration through a shared commitment to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and substance use challenges in the community. Recognizing the need for accessible, on-site support during the colder months when shelter demand increases, the RISE team began visiting the shelter to provide harm reduction supplies, hygiene products, and resource referrals.
“This partnership was built on open communication and mutual goals—ensuring that guests not only had a safe place to stay but also access to critical services that promote safety, health, and stability,” Stebelski said. “Over time, this partnership has grown stronger, creating a dependable presence for shelter guests and reinforcing the power of community collaboration in meeting people where they are.”
The most common treatment sought by visitors to the RISE van is harm reduction supplies, such as NARCAN and wound-care kits, which help them stay safe and prevent overdose. Many also request hygiene items like soap, socks, and feminine hygiene products, especially those experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.
Shelter guests have expressed appreciation for the kindness and respect they receive, and many say they feel heard and supported during each visit.
“At its heart, community means standing together—offering support, respect, and hope to one another,” Rapp said. “This partnership is a powerful example of how collaboration can create real, lasting connections that help our most vulnerable neighbors find stability and dignity.”
“Simply learning someone’s name and engaging in casual conversation can make a big difference—it helps build connection, trust, and reminds them that they’re seen as a person, not just a situation,” Stebelski said. “Staff members have also shared positive feedback, noting that this partnership has helped more shelter guests access outside services and resources they might not have sought out on their own.”
This article was written by Colin McEvoy, Bethlehem Emergency Sheltering. The article can also be viewed at News & Updates - Bethlehem Emergency Sheltering.