Living without the burden of rent or mortgage is a fantasy for many, but for a select group of seniors, this dream is becoming a reality in an unexpected place.

Find out where this is located and see if you qualify!


The project called "In Our Backyard" was built in the parking lot of Central Lutheran Church in Anchorage. Founded in 2023, the non-profit behind it has quickly turned its vision into action, using donations to fund the construction of six tiny homes and a trailer-style bathroom facility.

These homes will be reserved for elderly individuals facing homelessness. With support from volunteers and case managers, residents will receive assistance in finding long-term housing while having a secure place to stay in the meantime.


With limited space available, applicants must meet four key requirements:

• Age Requirement – Applicants must be at least 50 years old and can be single or in a couple.
• Independent Living – Residents must be able to care for themselves without additional assistance.
• No Criminal History – Those with a history of sex offenses are not eligible.
• Substance-Free Commitment – The use of alcohol, marijuana, or illicit drugs is strictly prohibited on the property.

The tiny homes vary in size, with two measuring 96 square feet and the remaining four just 64 square feet. While compact, they provide essential shelter—especially during Alaska’s harsh winters.


Although residents won’t pay traditional rent, they are required to contribute a small monthly fee. However, this money is refunded once they transition to permanent housing. More details about the application process can be found on In Our Backyard’s website.

Across the US, skyrocketing rent and housing shortages continue to push vulnerable individuals into homelessness. Communities, charities, and policymakers are experimenting with various solutions, including:

• California’s Tiny Home Villages – The state has been constructing small home communities to address its housing crisis.
• Low-Cost Faith-Based Housing in Texas – A religious organization is building a community offering “very low” rent for those in need.
• Innovative Urban Housing in Los Angeles – City officials are planning to build apartments on top of a Costco, aiming to maximize living space in dense urban areas.

Also read: A new initiative in Salt Lake City, Utah is offering tiny homes with full-sized amenities, giving people a fresh start at an affordable price.


Some individuals are also taking matters into their own hands by building personal tiny homes to cut housing costs. As creative solutions emerge, they highlight the urgent need to address housing instability nationwide.

While the In Our Backyard project is specific to Anchorage, it raises important questions about how we can address housing challenges for seniors across America.


We'd love to hear your thoughts on this innovative approach to housing. Could tiny home villages be a viable solution for seniors in need?

Have you considered downsizing to a tiny home yourself? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below!