Vista Village
Vista Village is a faith-based nonprofit organization in Columbus, Ohio, pioneering an innovative approach to addressing homelessness through a tiny home transitional living program. Its mission is to guide individuals experiencing homelessness toward stability and self-sufficiency by providing safe housing and comprehensive supportive services within a community-focused environment.
Phase I of Vista Village comprises 41 fully furnished, 420-square-foot tiny homes, each equipped with essential amenities such as a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, living area, storage space, and a front porch to encourage neighborly connections. The development also features a 4,000-square-foot community center, a community garden, a park, and ample green space, all within a secure, gated setting.
Residents are referred by partner organizations and are expected to participate in a personalized case plan upon signing a lease. The program offers a range of on-site services tailored to individual needs, including primary care, mental health treatment, substance use recovery programs, GED preparation, and vocational skills training. These services are provided through collaborations with various community partners, ensuring residents have access to quality treatment and programming just steps from their front doors.
Vista Village emphasizes a community-first approach, fostering meaningful connections and relationships among residents to promote well-being and a sense of belonging. The organization aims to move beyond transactional interactions centered around meeting immediate needs, instead cultivating a relational approach that supports residents on their journey toward a brighter future.