Ellis County, Texas, January 5, 2026
A new initiative in Ellis County, Texas, aims to address homelessness in the Dallas area with ‘OurCommunity,’ a tiny home community developed by OurCalling. The project will feature 500 tiny homes, comprehensive support services, and on-site amenities for individuals facing homelessness. Set on a 280-acre site, it offers a dignified living environment and aims to provide long-term assistance for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and disabled.
Tiny Home Community Launches in Ellis County to Combat Homelessness
A Model Initiative Aimed at Addressing Homelessness in Dallas
Ellis County, Texas – A groundbreaking initiative is underway aimed at alleviating homelessness in the Dallas area with the creation of OurCommunity, a tiny home community developed by the nonprofit organization OurCalling. Situated on a sprawling 280-acre site near Ferris, just 25 miles southeast of Dallas, this project promises to deliver not only housing but also essential support services for individuals facing homelessness. With an anticipated 500 tiny homes, each approximately 390 square feet, OurCommunity is tailored to offer a dignified living environment for those needing long-term assistance, including the elderly and disabled, all while fostering community engagement and stability.
As Dallas grapples with approximately 10,000 individuals experiencing homelessness, initiatives like OurCommunity unlock the potential for local entrepreneurs and organizations to make a significant impact. This project highlights the resilience of private funding and community involvement in tackling social issues, emphasizing how limited regulation can facilitate innovative housing solutions and bolster economic contributions from compassionate enterprises.
Background and Objectives
The OurCommunity project arose from an urgent need to provide a sustainable solution for the homeless crisis in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. By combining permanent housing with comprehensive support services, the initiative aims to equip individuals with the tools necessary for long-term stability and success. With integrated amenities designed to provide a safety net, the community fosters an environment where residents can thrive without the threat of eviction.
Community Features and Services
- Housing: 500 fully furnished tiny homes, approximately 390 square feet each, including accessible units.
- Support Services: A range of on-site amenities including a chapel, medical clinic, café, mental health clinic, and counseling areas to meet the various needs of residents.
- Community Engagement: Development of additional community spaces such as a food pantry and plans for further facilities as the project advances.
Funding and Development
This innovative project is entirely privately funded, with the first phase set to be completed by late Spring 2025. An initial $15 million has been raised, earmarked for the construction of the first 25 homes along with the necessary infrastructure and community facilities. As the project unfolds, further funding endeavors will target completion of the entire community, comprising 500 homes.
Implications and Future Outlook
The development of OurCommunity not only represents a significant financial investment in addressing homelessness within the Dallas area, but it also offers a promising template for similar initiatives across the nation. By marrying stable housing with essential services, this model could herald a new approach to combatting chronic homelessness, reinforcing the notion that private investment and community support are vital components in driving effective change.
Key Features of the OurCommunity Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Housing | 500 tiny homes, each approximately 390 square feet, fully furnished, with some units equipped with ramps for accessibility. |
| Support Services | On-site amenities including a chapel, medical clinic, café, mental health clinic, and counseling areas to address the comprehensive needs of residents. |
| Community Engagement | Development of community spaces such as a food pantry and medical clinic, with plans for additional facilities as the project progresses. |
| Funding | Privately funded, with the first phase expected to be completed by late Spring 2025. The initial $15 million raised will cover the construction of the first 25 homes, infrastructure, and community facilities. Additional funding will be sought for subsequent phases to complete the full 500-home community. |
| Implications | Represents a significant investment in addressing homelessness in the Dallas area, aiming to provide a sustainable solution for individuals who have experienced chronic homelessness. Success could serve as a model for similar communities nationwide. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the OurCommunity project?
The OurCommunity project is a new initiative by the nonprofit organization OurCalling, aiming to provide long-term housing and comprehensive support services for individuals experiencing homelessness in the Dallas area. Located near Ferris, Texas, the community will consist of 500 tiny homes and various on-site amenities designed to address the holistic needs of its residents.
Who will benefit from the OurCommunity project?
The community is designed to serve individuals who require ongoing assistance, including the elderly, disabled, and those with chronic health conditions. It aims to provide a stable and dignified living environment for those in need of long-term care.
What services will be available at OurCommunity?
On-site amenities will include a chapel, medical clinic, café, mental health clinic, and counseling areas. These facilities are intended to address the comprehensive needs of residents, ensuring they have access to essential resources without the fear of eviction.
How is the OurCommunity project funded?
The project is privately funded, with the first phase expected to be completed by late Spring 2025. The initial $15 million raised will cover the construction of the first 25 homes, infrastructure, and community facilities. Additional funding will be sought for subsequent phases to complete the full 500-home community.
What are the future plans for the OurCommunity project?
Upon completion, the OurCommunity project aims to provide a sustainable solution for individuals who have experienced chronic homelessness. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for similar communities nationwide, demonstrating the effectiveness of integrated housing and support services in combating homelessness.
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