Tucson mutual aid group Community on Wheels shutting down after 6 years of serving people in need

After six years of providing direct support to people experiencing homelessness, Tucson mutual aid group Community on Wheels is ending its regular operations.

The group began in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Each Saturday, its van delivered food, hygiene supplies and clothing, and hosted community events using donations. Community on Wheels served hundreds of people each weekend.

Founder Victoria DeVasto said the group started with supplies purchased by volunteers and donations from Tucson residents. She said the experience was emotional and meaningful, and that the organization helped draw attention to the city’s housing crisis and the needs of unhoused residents.

The final Community on Wheels event is scheduled for Saturday, August 1, at South 4th Avenue and East 25th Street. DeVasto also pointed to other local mutual aid efforts, including Community Care Tucson, ALMA, Unhoused Neighbors and South Tucson Community Outreach.