Prototype Ideation: Tiny Houses, Big Futures

FESCH.TV INFORMIERT:

* This tiny-house community will be geared towards the homeless youth population in Phoenix, Arizona.
* Of the estimated 7,419 homeless people in Phoenix, 1,243 of these individuals are children or those under 18 years of age.

Homelessness. (2021, July 2). Phoenix Rescue Mission.

Why do they need your innovation?
* The simplified definition of homelessness is that a person does not have a consistent, livable place to call their own.
* 50 percent of homeless youth are unsheltered
* Many homeless youth and young adults have experienced significant trauma before and after becoming homeless and are particularly vulnerable, including victims of sexual trafficking and exploitation.
* LGBTQ; pregnant and parenting youth; youth with special needs or disabilities, and youth of color are among vulnerable groups

Youth and Young Adults. (2021, April 2). National Alliance to End Homelessness.

What makes your innovation important or different?
* A tiny-house community is a unique alternative to mobile units, section eight housing, and having to rely on a trek to a food bank or shelter for basic necessities. The concept of an all-inclusive community of resources will provide homeless youth with not only resources, but a sense of solidarity in a place where they can build relationships with safe people and others in their age group who are facing similar hardships. Homeless folks carry the burden of having to travel constantly to access food, shelter, hygiene, and basic necessities like water, cool air, and restroom facilities. Not to mention the struggle of keeping a child enrolled in school during all of this turbulence. This tiny-house community is important for this population because it has the potential to provide safety, job training and job opportunities, consistent access to resources (food, healthcare, hygiene, education), all in a space-efficient community that can utilize environmental materials more effectively to reduce waste and remain accessible to those living in the heavily populated Phoenix area.

Include specifics: Give your innovation a name, etc.
* Tiny Houses, Big Futures is the official name of this project.
* Tiny Houses, Big Futures’ mission is to be an advocate for poverty-stricken children in Phoenix, Arizona by elevating, supporting, and educating families while utilizing support from local policymakers and local resources to ensure these children have access to adequate education, shelter, healthcare, and food security.