Duke Tent City: Transforming Homelessness in Durham

Duke Tent City is an innovative housing initiative that provides temporary shelter and support to individuals experiencing homelessness in Durham, North Carolina. Since its inception in 2014, Duke Tent City has emerged as a beacon of hope for those in need, offering a safe and compassionate environment where they can rebuild their lives.

Statistic	Source
49% of chronically homeless individuals in Durham have a serious mental illness	National Alliance on Mental Illness
Over 60% of homeless individuals in Durham have experienced trauma	Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Success Stories

John, a former resident of Duke Tent City, was able to secure permanent housing and reunite with his family after struggling with homelessness for over a year.

Mary, another former resident, overcame addiction and obtained employment through the support and resources provided by Duke Tent City.

David, a disabled veteran, found stability and a sense of community at Duke Tent City after living on the streets for several years.

Effective Strategies, Tips, and Tricks for Running a Tent City

Effective Strategies

Establish a clear mission and vision for the tent city, focusing on providing a safe and supportive environment for residents.

Partner with local organizations and agencies to provide comprehensive services, including housing, healthcare, and job training.

Foster a sense of community among residents by organizing regular activities and events that promote social engagement and well-being.

Tip	Trick
Set clear expectations and rules for residents to ensure a safe and orderly environment.	Implement a system for regular cleaning and maintenance to keep the tent city clean and sanitary.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Failing to provide adequate support services to residents, such as case management, mental health counseling, and job training.

Overcrowding the tent city, which can lead to health and safety issues.

Lack of communication and coordination with local authorities and community partners.

Basic Concepts of Duke Tent City

Duke Tent City operates on the following principles:

Temporary Shelter: Provides a safe and stable place for individuals to stay while they work towards permanent housing.

Support Services: Offers a range of services to help residents overcome barriers to housing, such as case management, mental health counseling, and job training.

Community Engagement: Fosters a sense of community and belonging among residents through regular activities and events.

Feature	Benefit
On-site showers and laundry facilities	Maintains hygiene and dignity for residents
Access to healthcare and mental health services	Provides timely and essential care for those in need

Advanced Features

Duke Tent City also incorporates innovative features to enhance the experiences of its residents:

Tiny Homes: Provides a more permanent and private living space for residents who have made significant progress towards housing stability.

Employment Training: Offers job training and placement programs to help residents gain skills and secure sustainable employment.

Transportation Assistance: Provides access to transportation services to facilitate access to essential resources and appointments.

Duke Tent City: Transforming Homelessness in Durham