Providence Park in Little Rock, Arkansas, is taking significant steps toward addressing chronic homelessness with the start of construction on its ambitious permanent housing project. This initiative, which has been years in the making, aims to offer a sustainable solution for individuals who have faced long-term homelessness.

The community will feature 400 tiny homes, offering residents not just shelter but a comprehensive support system to help them rebuild their lives. According to Providence Park CEO Errin Stanger, the project is built on hope and focused on providing those in need a stable foundation to thrive. "This entire project is built on hope and really focusing on our future neighbors that will need permanent housing," Stanger said. "What does it look like to offer someone, who may be lost, who may be broken, they've been chronically homeless, to give them a place to land?"

The project will not only provide homes but will also feature a wide range of amenities designed to support the residents' well-being and independence. The community will include a medical clinic offering physical, mental, and dental health services, work opportunities on-site, a community garden and orchard, and spaces for personal growth, such as a chapel, memorial garden, and labyrinth.

Providence Park is committed to creating an environment where residents feel empowered to become self-reliant. The process includes an application and interview, ensuring each resident's needs are understood and supported. "We're going to have an application process, and then we're going to have a human-to-human, heart-to-heart interview, to see where they are and where they want to be," Stanger explained.

Currently, the construction is in Phase 1, which includes building a 12,000-square-foot community center, kitchen and laundry facilities, up to 100 tiny homes, and the amenities that will create a holistic living experience. The goal is to foster a sense of belonging and community, helping individuals reintegrate into society.

The project has received tremendous support from the local community. A recent fundraiser at Shotgun Dan's Pizza raised 20% of the proceeds to support the project, with owner Josh Woodard expressing his family's commitment to helping the homeless. “We have a passion for helping the homeless population, and this was a great way to get the community involved,” said Woodard.

Providence Park's development represents a forward-thinking approach to ending homelessness, creating a space where individuals can access the tools, resources, and support needed to start anew. The initiative underscores the importance of community collaboration in solving one of society’s most pressing issues.

As Phase 1 continues, the vision of Providence Park is beginning to take shape, offering hope and new beginnings for those who need it most. For those looking to contribute or learn more about the project, further details can be found on Providence Park's website.

Originally reported by Daniela dehaghani in KATV.