The Hítx'i Sáani Community: How We Will Shelter Sitka

The Hítx'i Sáani (Little Houses in Tlingit) Community is a permanent supportive housing project that will have 12 residential units, a caretaker unit, and a services building. This housing will provide affordable housing for the chronically homeless as well as essential services, such as behavioral health services, employment services, and individualized support on-site.

With roughly 8,500 residents, Sitka is the fifth largest municipality in the state of Alaska, yet it does not have transitional housing (except for individuals fleeing domestic violence) nor permanent supportive housing. Additionally, the climate of Sitka can be particularly dangerous for those who are unhoused, especially during the winter when low temperatures and wet conditions pose serious hypothermia risks for those living outside.

Operating under a Housing First model, Hítx'i Sáani will prioritize the immediate need of housing so that those experiencing homelessness can focus on other goals for improving their lives. We will not require residents to be sober, to have a job, to be in treatment, nor to participate in our services. However, because Hítx'i Sáani is a Permanent Supportive Housing initiative, residents will have a lease, a rent, and the opportunity to receive and participate in services that will help with substance use, gaining employment, navigating external support, building community, and more.