Our Vision
We build homes for those living on the streets, and we take a bold stand: We will never end homelessness through housing alone. A new approach is needed, one that acknowledges that relationships are the building blocks for healing our communities and that we can no longer see people experiencing homelessness as ‘other’. This bold new model invites all of us to step forward with our own abilities to create societal change.
Our vision is to help end homelessness by building BLOCK Homes and supporting thriving community throughout Seattle. The BLOCK Project has five core beliefs that have helped shape it and will continue to guide it’s path forward:
INCLUSIVE | Our neighborhoods and communities are stronger when everyone has access to safe, affordable, housing. The BLOCK Project offers support to folks formerly surviving on the streets, bringing added stability, wisdom and equity to our communities.
SUSTAINABLE | BLOCK Homes are designed to achieve the highest standard for sustainability in the built environment (Living Building Challenge (LBC)). Our homes are designed and built to be healthy - from the air-quality for our residents, to non-carcinogenic manufacturing practices, and sustainable forests where our wood is sourced, these homes give more than they take.
SUPPORTED | The BLOCK Project builds a compassionate network of support, resources, and connection for both Host and Resident. Staff and partner case managers are engaged to provide social and mental health services, hosts are welcoming neighbors, and our Companionship program offers connection and gateways to new long lasting relationships.
AFFORDABLE | The barriers to developing traditional low-income housing are high. The BLOCK Project makes use of underutilized / available property and leverages the community’s desire to get involved to dramatically reduce the cost of housing.
PERMANENT | BLOCK Homes are permitted, fully equipped houses with a shower, bathroom, kitchenette, storage, and sleeping area. The homes are built of quality materials and provide a private, personal space as a foundation for long-term stability and access to community care for Residents.