2017 Film Challenge Finalists

Title: Community by Design: Skid Row Housing Trust

Category: Homelessness

Description: Los Angeles has the highest number of unsheltered people in the country. The Skid Row Housing Trust in downtown Los Angeles provides not only housing for the homeless but innovative solutions to keeping them off the streets. In 1989 The Skid Row Housing Trust began restoring and preserving single room occupancy housing in the downtown area. Currently, the Trust focuses on new construction projects while collaborating with renowned architects including Michael Maltzan Architecture, and Brooks + Scarpa Architecture. By utilizing design techniques to provide natural lighting, open courtyards, and semi-public spaces, the Trust fosters a sense of community within its buildings. Residents have the option to attend various job training, mental health, and art classes throughout the buildings, which help the tenants transition from living on the streets. With the use of intelligent building design, community classes, and wrap around health services, The Skid Row Housing Trust offers effective solutions to fighting homelessness with a proven track record. The portfolio of buildings that the Trust owns is steadily expanding, using a model that can be replicated in any city.