ADA, Okla. — Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby led groundbreaking ceremonies for the Chickasaw Nation Chuka Lokoli Transitional Housing Community Aug. 13.
Located in a gated community west of the Chickasaw Nation Medical Center, the planned neighborhood will assist those in need of housing, thus helping to fulfill the Chickasaw Nation’s mission “to enhance the overall quality of life of the Chickasaw people,” Governor Anoatubby said.
“This is a very important addition that will strengthen the Chickasaws and help them with their needs. It will build on the tribe’s already long history of community, of assisting those facing homelessness and housing insecurity,” he said.
Throughout history, the Chickasaw Nation has created communities that care for its people. In the 1960s, housing services were among the earliest services offered by the Chickasaw Nation and continues to remain a significant area of focus.
“Because we understand that it is of profound importance to have a secure place to call home, even if it is only for a short stay,” Governor Anoatubby said.
The planned community is a mix of residential and commercial structures and offers housing to those impacted by severe weather or at risk of housing insecurity.
The program and the facilities that go along with it will continue to build on a foundation of service and care to provide short-to-long-term housing for citizens and employees of the Chickasaw Nation facing housing insecurity and homelessness.
The residential construction will consist of 24 single-story tiny homes, with 12 one-bedroom homes and 12 two-bedroom homes. A community building featuring a teaching kitchen, a large community room, a laundry room, guest resource room and 10 suites for short-term stays, as well as staff office space, is also planned.
Outdoor amenities such as a pavilion, playgrounds, storm shelters, dog park, community garden and open lawn space are included in the planned neighborhood. A guard station will also be constructed at the entry gate.
Services that will focus on empowering individuals through respect and empathy, including preemployment and life skills training, therapy and transportation, will be available and provide a social network that promotes healing and self-sustainability. Housing and services will be offered as long as needed, provided guests are progressing toward set goals.
“I truly believe once it’s constructed and in operation, this program will have a tremendous impact in the lives of those who stay here as well as the community from which they come, particularly right here in Ada and throughout the Chickasaw Nation. We believe it will provide the security, the support and hope needed to empower the individuals and families who spend time here.
“We look forward to extending the benefits and comforts of our Chickasaw community to each person and family that we serve,” Governor Anoatubby said.