Puyallup Tribe Prepares To Open New Tiny House Village

PUYALLUP, WA — The Puyallup Tribe of Indians is preparing for the grand opening of a new tiny home village, which they hope will be able to help struggling members of their community.

The village will be called ʔay’gʷasilali, or Place of Transformation in English, and will offer up to 30 tiny houses to Puyallup Tribe members who are both struggling with homelessness, and who are at higher risk for COVID-19. The tribe says the houses measure about 8 feet by 12 feet, come insulated with heat, electricity, and a locking door. Village residents will also have access to a community kitchen, wash station, and case managers who will help them as they continue their journey to obtain permanent housing and stability.

The project was made possible in part thanks to a partnership with the Low Income Housing Institute. As the tribe explains on their website, organizers hope the village will offer a transformative experience for those who are struggling:

"The village will reflect a space for healing and community for tribal members and shelter clients – with the supportive services, culturally-respectful resources, and village design to support their journey to stable housing."

The village will be located at 2027 E Wright Ave in Tacoma. It will officially open at 10 a.m. Thursday, when the tribe hosts a virtual ribbon cutting and grand opening ceremony.

You can learn more about the project, volunteer or donate to help out by visiting the Low Income Housing Institute's website.