In Travis County, just beyond the zoning laws of Austin city, the Community First! Village has emerged as a beacon of hope and compassion in the fight against chronic homelessness. Initially opening its doors to renters in 2019, this tiny home community, operated by the Mobile Loaves & Fishes charity, has been providing a secure haven for formerly homeless individuals. With 100 RVs, 125 micro-houses, and an array of communal facilities, including gardens, workspaces, and recreational areas, the village fosters a sense of community and stability. Residents contribute between $200 to $430 per month, often through employment opportunities within the village, allowing them to rebuild their lives. Since its inception in 2014, the village has housed 200 people, but recent philanthropic efforts and fundraising initiatives have set the stage for expansion to accommodate nearly 500 residents, a significant step in addressing Austin’s chronically homeless population.
In a ground-breaking move, the organization has embarked on an ambitious plan to build an adjacent site, aiming to increase the number of tiny homes to 2,000. Pro-bono contributions from architectural firms have facilitated the design of energy-efficient homes, ensuring sustainability for the long term. The construction efforts received substantial support from the American Rescue Plan and a generous gift from the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, propelling the project forward. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s approval of federal housing vouchers for the tiny homes further solidifies the financial foundation of the village, offering a clear path to success and sustainability. As a testament to its impact, similar communities have sprouted across the nation, inspired by the neighbourly and sustainable approach pioneered by Community First! Village.
