Occupy Madison's Tiny House Communities Offer Housing Solutions
MADISON (WKOW) — Following the closure of the encampment at Dairy Drive, concerns have risen about where people experiencing homelessness will find shelter. Occupy Madison, a nonprofit addressing homelessness through tiny house communities, currently has openings at all three of its locations.
Community Participation as a Requirement
Residents must contribute "sweat equity" before moving in, which helps screen applicants and ensures they can integrate into the community. Brenda Konkel, co-founder of Occupy Madison, explained:
"You have to build up some sweat equity hours before you can move in. And that's the way we sort of screen people. It's like, can you get along in our community?"
The Nature of Occupy Madison's Tiny Homes
Constructed during the pandemic, these tiny homes provide shelter similar to the former Dairy Drive encampment but require more active involvement from residents. Tim Jones, president of Occupy Madison, highlighted the community governance aspect:
"The thing that makes it sort of special is because the people who are actually living here are governing it."
Sweat Equity Responsibilities
- Building fences at the newest camp
- Working in the workshop
- Assisting with fundraising efforts
Conflict Resolution and Community Pride
Residents must also develop skills to resolve conflicts, fostering a sense of ownership and pride. Brenda Konkel noted:
"We work through a lot of conflict, and I think it really makes it -- just having that buy-in and that ownership [makes] people feel proud."
Community Growth and Availability
Occupy Madison plans to have a total of 53 tiny houses across all three communities, with 12 houses currently available for free occupancy.
Author's summary: Occupy Madison offers a unique, community-led tiny house solution for homelessness, requiring resident participation and fostering ownership and pride.