In Austin, Texas, two innovative organizations are coming together to build a series of 3D printed homes for the homeless.
Mobile Loaves & Fishes believes that housing alone isn’t the solution to homelessness, but instead, building a safe and loving community around the homeless will have a greater impact. As part of their mission, they built the Community First! The village provides affordable, permanent homes for the homeless along with other support systems to help them thrive.
This one-of-a-kind neighborhood is designed to help residents make lasting changes in their lives, start the healing process, and find new ways to connect with their purpose. In the 51-acre village, residents have access to on-site support and public spaces such as a theater, art gallery, a market, a farm, nature trails, laundry, food services, health services, and more. Residents also have the opportunity to earn income through the various micro-enterprises in the neighborhood, such as car care, screen printing, blacksmithing, and woodworking.
Housing at the Community First! The village is comprised of micro-homes, manufactured housing, and RVs, providing a flexible variety to residents based on their needs. Now, Mobile Loaves & Fishes is continuing its track record of disruptive thinking by partnering with ICON, a company that uses 3D robotics, software, and advanced materials to revolutionize homebuilding.
Together they will add a revolutionary type of residence to their village: 3D printed homes. With impressive design and durability, a 3D printed house provides more than just adequate shelter to someone who was previously living on the streets. These innovative homes are some of the most unique homes ever built – and ones that anyone would be proud to live in.
