For a while now I've been thinking of converting an airport shuttle or hotel shuttle into a homemade RV. Look at
Steves_Van_Conversion for ideas on modding the inside of the van for when times get tough. Other links on cheaprvliving.com cover everyday living in vans, laundry, cooking...etc. Lots of people on a budget on that site so a lot of the ideas may be dooable for your friend, also check out vandwellers.org. During a skiing trip I found out this style of living is very popular in Colorado and could be in other places too. HTH. -Ryan