The Hítx'i Sáani Community

The Hítx'i Sáani (Little Houses in Tlingit) Community is a permanent supportive housing project that has 12 residential units, a caretaker unit, and soon, a services building. This housing provides 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 prioritizes the immediate need of housing so that those experiencing homelessness can focus on other goals for improving their lives. We do not require residents to be sober, to have a job, to be in treatment, nor to participate in our services. Hítx'i Sáani is a Permanent Supportive Housing initiative, so residents have a lease,  pay rent, and have the opportunity to receive and participate in services that will help with substance use, gaining employment, navigating external support, building community, and more.