In Sacramento, California sits a tiny house neighborhood where emancipated foster youth — or those between the ages of 18-24 facing homelessness — find the first place that is all their own.
Formed by First Step Communities, The Grove is a tiny-cabin community that offers housing, as well as a comprehensive program to empower young adults to transition into adulthood with support and direction.
Last week, the organization held a “cabin beautification competition” with area partners to transform the 50 tough sheds into more comfortable and dignified spaces for The Grove’s residents.
“It’s one of the most successful shelters in the Sacramento region, but we had a dream to make it even more impactful,” a social media video from First Step Communities said.
With the help of HomeAid Sacramento, Northern California Construction Training, and countless community supporters, the shabby shelters were turned into personalized and cozy homes for the young people of The Grove.
It was all part of First Step’s “Adopt-A-Cabin” program, which called for individuals or organizations to sponsor these cabins. Their donations would fund essential repairs, ongoing maintenance, and the creation of a welcoming and comfortable home environment.
Names and logos of donors would also be displayed on the cabins and they would receive regular updates on the progress of the program.
“This program was designed to empower a young person’s journey towards a brighter future by allowing the community to sponsor their temporary home at The Grove as they rebuild their lives,” First Step Communities shared on its website.
Phases 1 and 2 of the project included building the cabins and creating supportive services. Step 3 — which the beautification event kicked off — aims to “turn each cabin into more than a safe place to sleep, but a home.”
“By creating a more nurturing space, we will invite even more growth and transformation,” the website continues.
In the end, 31 companies “stepped up” to adopt cabins, and volunteers and contractors were off for the races.
First, they created concrete pathways outdoors to make it easier for residents to move about the property. Then, they turned their focus to the interiors of each cabin.
“Each team brought their own vision, creativity, and skills to the project,” the First Steps social media video shared. “Each cabin took on its own unique feel, reflecting the care and effort put into it. The best part was seeing the excitement from The Grove residents.”
This past weekend, the first 26 cabins were completed. With details like new linens, shelving, wall decor, modern furniture, and even plates of cookies welcoming residents home, the team effort transformed The Grove in just a few short hours.
“For many, this is the first time they’ve had their own space. Creating a home-like environment gives them comfort, stability, and a sense of belonging,” the First Steps video continued. “It’s a space where they can feel safe, recharge, and start dreaming bigger.”
Next weekend, volunteers and supporters will finish the remaining cabins, and landscaping will soon follow.
As the organization’s social media post said: “This is the power of people coming together to create change.”
Header image courtesy of HomeAid Sacramento
