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Small space a big success for Veterans Community Project

Posted at 5:08 PM, Aug 08, 2018
and last updated 2018-08-08 18:08:51-04

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Veterans Community Project started on Veterans Day in 2015. With the original goal of 30 tiny homes for 30 homeless veterans, the organization is well on its way. 

"We're really making a difference," said Brandon Mixon, co-founder of the Veterans Community Project. 

Mixon is one of three veterans who started the VCP, an organization that will not turn any veteran away. 

In January, 13 homeless veterans moved into the tiny home community of Veterans Village. 

"Their housing is anywhere from 320 square feet to 240 square feet," said Mixon. 

It's a small space that VCP believes is needed for big success. 

"You've got one entrance and one exit, and they're looking right at it when they sleep. They don't have to worry, they don't have to look left or right," said Josh Henges, Director of Clinical Services for the Veterans Community Project. 

Since January, all 13 tiny homes have been occupied and VCP has transitioned six veterans into permanent housing. 

"Knowing that they have safety and knowing that they have a place to go every night speeds the process up immensely," said Henges. 

On Wednesday, construction started on phase two where 13 more tiny homes will be built. The homes are expected to be complete by Veterans Day. 

VCP has heard from more than 600 cities that want to learn more about the project and how to replicate it. 

VCP is currently working on projects in St. Louis and Denver. 

"We never thought it would turn into what it is today," said Mixon. 

In the end, VCP hopes to expand and help anyone, including non-veterans, who are not getting the services they need. 

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