The idea behind the tiny homes the non-profit Pivot from Oklahoma builds is to ensure teens have a roof over their heads once they leave the foster care system.
This non-profit advocates for at-risk youth and provides counseling to young people and families to help them create a positive outcome.
The organization also helps teach the youngsters the necessary life skills, while still offering them their services and support.
Although it may sound like a small idea at first, it’s more than essential, especially for the aged-out-from-foster-care teens.
One of them is the 19-year-old Carter.
The Importance of Having a Roof over their Heads Is Essential
Carter says that having a bed to go to is different. When he has to sleep on a couch, a lot of back problems happened. When he first went into the homeless shelter, he slept on a couch.
Now, he’s with his sister’s adoptive family.
Unfortunately, he has a father in prison and he lost his mom when he was just 10. The organization was there for him for clothing, therapy, and now, they will also offer him a place to live in.
The president and CEO of Pivot, Jennifer Goodrich says how they’re already good at giving permanent connections through their services; however, housing was one missing link.
The tiny homes they now build are located behind their offices. It’s convenient for the youngsters to use their services when needed and still offer them life skills to help them have an easier transition to adult life.
It’s Essential to Show We Care for At-Risk Youth
Carter says how he’s learning to cook and goes grocery shopping and plans out his budget.
And, the good news is that there’s no limit to how long the youngsters can live there; however, the rent gradually rises from $0 to $150 after 6 months.
Goodrich is happy that they show them they have talents and skills that any other youngsters in our community have.
They aim to change the vicious cycle of at-risk young people by showing them how much they care and that they’re there to give them the support necessary to grow.
Carter says he’s beyond thankful for the people who transformed this dream into a reality. The building of the homes is divided into several phases and by the end of it, 85 tiny homes will be built.
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