A national problem

All across America there is a huge need for housing for the homeless. The term “homeless” automatically implies no money. Nevertheless, we as a society need to help the homeless have a place where they can safely sleep at night.

Most homeless congregate in the center of cities. We find them living under bridges, in the lee of tall buildings, in alleys, in tunnels, in sewers, usually in or near a city’s downtown area. In many cities local charities and the cities themselves try to help. Often old hotels are converted into shelters. But the need is usually so great that many homeless continue to “camp out.”

Then too, placement of conventional homeless housing is a huge problem. Permanent facilities cannot be moved without tearing them down, and no one wants permanent shelters in his or her backyard. The simple truth is that permanent buildings have almost zero flexibility.

A solution

The Monolithic Cabin is flexible and should be considered for homeless shelters. It is very strong, but relatively easy to move and can be moved many, many times during its lifetime.

Monolithic Cabins are extremely energy efficient and can hold a relatively steady temperature even without a heater. They are as “green” as buildings can be. Their utilities cost a fraction of those in conventional buildings.

They are also fire-safe, hurricane-safe, tornado-safe, termite-proof, rot-proof and low maintenance. They are quiet and meet the criteria for safe and serene.

Placement and use

Generally, a downtown area includes some privately owned or city-owned, rentable land on which moveable, Monolithic Cabin shelters could be placed. Cabins could be set on these places and moved as needs change. In some areas, cabins could be placed on the underside of bridges and waste places. Here they could simply be moved if needed for access to utilities or other local dictates.

Monolithic Cabin shelters can be built in various sizes. The Model 15 Monolithic Cabin would be obviously palatial for many homeless. But it could be built half that size and work well for single occupants.

Cabins in various sizes could be utilized and provide housing for one person or a family of several. The cabin may be a total integrated unit, tied to a water, sewer and electrical service. Or several can be placed around a central service module with multiple bathrooms; that would eliminate plumbing in the sleeping modules. In any case, these structures will work far better than a cardboard box.

Tough

Obviously the Monolithic Cabin could have graffiti painted on it, and it could be made a mess inside and out. But it is extremely tough. It will not be burned, and if it is damaged, the damage can be readily repaired. It cannot be stolen. A Monolithic Cabin’s weight prevents it from being hooked to a pickup and dragged off.

A practical consideration

Housing for the homeless is a complex problem with no ready-made, easy answer. But despite its complexity, it deserves our attention and consideration. The Monolithic Cabin certainly fits into the category of practical, worthwhile, helpful solutions for our country’s homeless.

April 18, 2009