Next steps for the jigsaw puzzle known as a Tiny House, are installation of two windows, a door, and the roof – the final Steps #12-23 of building a home for the homeless. “Good hearts, kind wishes, a dependable work crew, and a strong support staff all continue to come forward,” said Onsite Coordinator D’Ann Tedford
The 8’x12’ foot building accommodates a bed and floor storage. When completed, with primer and paint days in mid August, the house will be transported to Seattle, by the Low Income Housing Institute. A member of LIHI, Mark Friesen from Four Corners, first presented the idea for the community project to his new home church, Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran. Those involved in the project are now encouraging other local churches, community groups, neighborhoods, and businesses to follow suit, to foster unity and pride, and to fill lives with downright ‘fun’ in building a Tiny House. The housing temporarily addresses increasing homelessness and has a strong support system with outreach provided by LIHI in the Puget Sound area. As noted by Friesen’s congregation, “This is a Hands Up versus a Hand Out.”
Those who are curious about the building’s progress can visit the construction site in the parking lot of SVLC on SE 216thStreet. Also, due to a few items of necessity that were not included on the original materials purchase list, statistics now show that $264.19 is needed for cost coverage – to break even. Original cost was estimated at $2500. Donations will be accepted for two weeks. On Paint Day and Celebration Day, August 15, the Homes for the Homeless account will close and excess contributions will be donated to LIHI for future Tiny Houses. Checks written to SVLC should include “Homes for the Homeless” on the memo line. Donations are tax deductible. Donations through discounts, store coupons, and no-cost supplies have come from Covington Home Depot, Johnsons Home and Garden, and Stoneway Roofing Supply. A placard for community sponsors can be placed on the Tiny House so that the businesses are recognized for their partnership. Project coordinators encourage Maple Valley and surrounding community families to acknowledge and reciprocate with their own shopping.
A large responsive support staff has contributed in many ways to the project – including child care and food preparation of main dishes, fruit and vegetable sides, along with drinks for an onsite dinner each Wednesday. One of the most unique and creative donations is that of a quilter, Carol Shakerley. She has been sewing homemade quilts with themes ranging from sports to forests. As alternative residency to other living accommodations is facilitated, the residents are free to take their quilts with them. A Paint Day/Celebration Day is August 15. Arrive at 5:30PM, eat, and work.
