A tiny solution for a huge problem

The tiny house is one of the most interesting, fun and unusual developments in the housing sector in decades. Its potential in addressing problems of homelessness is obvious and there’s real excitement as people explore the solutions it makes possible.

At Agape we have a vision that could go a long way to eliminating homelessness in Australia – dozens of small (100 dwellings or less) self-sustaining, tiny-house communities across the country, providing accommodation to both the long-term, chronically homeless and to those needing short-term housing while they transition to a more permanent solution.

Each community would need no more than two hectares of land, with existing roads, water and sewage. Six, two-bedroom houses, fully equipped for families, would be built and sited separately from the permanent residents. Stays in these places would be limited to three months.

The other 94 houses would be single-room, permanent one-bed homes for the long-term homeless. It sounds basic but by using all the space-saving ingenuity of the tiny house phenomenon, each will include a fridge, wardrobe and lounge. And it’s a house, an unimaginable luxury in itself for a homeless person! Every dwelling will also have its own outdoor patio area. There’s a communal kitchen, shared community lounge areas and caravan-park style toilets and showers.

To help foster a sense of community and to encourage residents to claim ownership, each will be asked to contribute in some way, within their abilities. That could be tending a vegetable patch, helping in the kitchen or simply sweeping a path. Issues that typically arise with the chronically homeless, such as relationship problems and addiction, would be dealt with by on-site life coaches. There’d be security at night, a men’s shed and courses, lots of courses (such as cooking, budgeting or woodworking), depending on the residents’ interests and wants.

Using rescued food and sustainable practices we believe that we can provide housing, supported living, electricity and three meals a day for less than $200 per week. With each resident paying rent, the estate would be self-sustaining, which makes a compelling case for tiny-house communities. Because homelessness does cost the community and the price is often high, in terms of welfare, health care and policing. It’s not just a humane solution; it’s the sensible answer.