An Indianapolis nonprofit is asking for the community’s help to finish a project that would provide tiny homes for people experiencing homelessness.
Sanctuary Indy plans to build six tiny homes as part of a larger project at a westside church. But the organization’s executive director, Michelle Shelburne, said infrastructure costs turned out to be higher than expected.
Now, Sanctuary Indy is facing a funding gap of about $375,000. Most of the extra expenses are related to land development such as water and sewer hookups.
Shelburne said there are 10 people ready to move into the tiny homes once they’re built.
One person is legally blind, she said. Another lost all of his toes to frostbite last year and is in a wheelchair.
“The vision is that we don’t see anybody live or die alone outside,” Shelburne said.
If you want to help or learn more, visit Sanctuary Indy’s website or contact Erica Schneider at eschneider@sanctuaryindy.org.
Tiny homes, duplexes and a community center
The vision for the housing project — called Circle City Village — includes more than tiny homes.
Circle City Village would be on land owned by Lynhurst Baptist Church and also include five duplexes for families, a community center and a garden.
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Tiny homes, duplexes planned at westside church to help homeless
Sanctuary Indy and Lynhurst Baptist Church are partnering for the project.
The plan is for families to have access to some of the church’s services, such as a pre-K program and recovery support groups.
Sanctuary Indy and the church received a grant to help fund services and assist residents with things such as furniture and grocery gift cards.
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Mirror Indy reporter Tyler Fenwick covers housing and labor. Contact him at 317-766-1406 or tyler.fenwick@mirrorindy.org. Follow him on X @ty_fenwick and Bluesky @tyfenwick.bsky.social.
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