New modular housing units to give some Reno homeless people sense of stability
RENO, Nev. (News 4 & Fox 11) — Next week, 45 modular housing units will open up near Reno's Cares Campus, giving some homeless people a sense of stability and a warm place to stay this winter.
The so-called ModPods, equipped with bedding, shelves, heating, air conditioning and electricity, are intended to provide safety and security for people who might not thrive in the nearby homeless shelter.
Friday, construction crews continued building the ModPods at Washoe County's Safe Camp at the old Governor's Bowl Park. People are expected to move into the units at the end of next week.
It's a dream come true.
Grant Denton, executive director of the Karma Box Project, said the units will allow people to better focus on improving their situation.
"When you come into Safe Camp, your basic needs aren't threatened anymore," Denton said. "You're not going to have to worry about getting your stuff stolen from you, you're not going to have to worry about physical violence."
The 8-by-8 foot pods, which cost about $13,000 each, replace the tents pitched at the Safe Camp last summer. The ModPods were supposed to arrive before winter, but were delayed by supply chain issues, prompting the county to open up a temporary cold weather shelter.
Catrina Peters with Washoe County said the goal of the program is to transition people into permanent housing.
"Within 48 hours of folks coming into the Safe Camp, we're getting them lined up with a case manager to start developing that housing plan," Peters said. "What we're trying to provide here are some basic services, get folks stable so they can pursue those housing goals."
Clients will get two meals per day. Bathrooms are located on site but showers are at the Cares Campus shelter just a short walk away. All spots were filled as of Feb. 4, but Denton said 2 to 4 spots usually open each month.
Email reporter Ben Margiott at bjmargiott@sbgtv.com. Follow @BenMargiott on Twitter and Ben Margiott KRNV on Facebook.
