Community Model

Supportive Housing for Pierce County

Tacoma Rescue Mission has witnessed a growing population of chronically unhoused individuals in our community. In 2015, we took inspiration from Community First! Village (CFV) in Austin, Texas, which pioneered an innovative residential community dedicated to restoring hope, dignity, and purpose for those facing chronic homelessness. This model has since been celebrated nationwide for its approach to providing supportive housing communities that empower residents through responsibility. Residents will have access to on-site supportive services like health care, counseling, addiction treatment, and more.

Duke Paulson, Executive Director of Tacoma Rescue Mission, initiated discussions with CF!V and learned firsthand from their success. These collaborative efforts culminated in the vision for Good Neighbor Village, a community tailored to our local needs and values.

In 2023, Pierce County voters supported the project through $22 million in matching funds, signaling a community-wide commitment to addressing homelessness. With this initial funding secured, Tacoma Rescue Mission launched a spirited fundraising campaign to fulfill the remaining financial needs for Good Neighbor Village.

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Established in 2015 in Austin, Texas, Community First! Village (CFV) is a meticulously planned residential community with a primary mission of instilling hope, dignity, and purpose in individuals facing chronic homelessness. It achieves this through a combination of meaningful employment opportunities, restorative relationships, and a thriving communal environment. Inhabitants of CFV reside in well-designed micro-homes, benefit from on-site addiction and mental health support services, and earn a fair wage by participating in various on-site microenterprises.

At its core, CFV asserts that homelessness is a human predicament necessitating a compassionate human response. The community is further enhanced by staff and volunteers living alongside formerly homeless residents to foster a stronger sense of belonging and community. Residents also contribute by paying rent and committing to being good neighbors.

Visit the Community First Website

Learn More About the Community Model

A production of Freethink and Mobile Loaves & Fishes partner Stand Together, “Finding Home” provides a close-up look at the innovative Community First! Village, a one-of-a-kind development in Austin, Texas that is designed specifically for men and women coming out of chronic homelessness.

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