Riverside, CA is taking step forward in combatting homelessness!
ABC7 is reporting that the city is using an empty lot north of downtown Riverside to fill with 10 small cottages. Those cottages are designated for the homeless, and comes as part of the city's ongoing efforts to combat homelessness.
Riverside's Mayor, Rusty Bailey, told ABC7 this has to happen "one by one":
"It's not going to be taking all 437 unsheltered homeless off our streets at once. It's one step at a time, and this is the next step in solving our homeless crisis."
The proposed lot is located at 2825 Mulberrry St., which is next to several residential homes in the city of Riverside.
Wondering about costs? ABC7 reports that this project will cost approximately $800,000 and will be paid for in part by a grant from the California Department of Housing and Community Development.
Who is building these tiny homes? ABC7 adds the homes will be built by Habitat for Humanity in partnership with the city of Riverside.
According to ABC7, each cottage will measure approximately 425 square feet, and have a bedroom, small bathroom, kitchenette and laundry area. The report adds that there are "rules" to living here. The homes are for lower-income residents, who will have to pay the affordable rent themselves. The city is also providing them with wraparound services to get them out of any situation they might be in.
Finally, ABC7 adds that if the project on Mulberry Street is approved by the Riverside City Council, construction could begin in a matter of weeks.
PHOTOS / VIDEO: Courtesy of ABC7