Pallet (shelter)

The Pallet shelters are made from aluminum and composite panels, which makes them easy to clean.[3][4] The walls are made of fiberglass reinforced with plastic, and insulated with styrofoam, and the floors are made of composite plastic that can be placed on any reasonably flat surface without installing a foundation.[5] Each shelter is pre-fabricated and can be set up on a flat surface in less than one hour, with minimal tools.[3][6]

The standard size is 64 square feet (5.9 m²).[7] They contain one or two twin-size beds, built-in shelving, a lockable front door, windows, lighting, electrical outlets, heating, and space for a wall-mounted room air conditioner.[3][7]

Pallet shelters do not include plumbing.[1] Restrooms, showers, and other services need to be provided in other buildings, similar to the style used in summer camps.[7] According to the company, not including plumbing significantly reduces costs and installation time, encourages residents to interact with staff and community members, and simplifies maintenance.[1]

One project reported a total cost of US$8,000 per shelter,[4] and another reported a cost of almost $5,000 each for the shelters alone.[8] A village of shelters can fit into spaces that are too small or the wrong shape for larger trailers.[7][1]

Pallet shelters have been used as part of transitional housing and supportive housing programs, and for homeless people who are recovering from surgery or illness.[3][4] A village, complete with individual shelters and separate support buildings, can be designed and built in a matter of weeks.[7] Separate buildings may be used to provide food, case managers, security, and rehabilitation services.[8]

Some agencies were able to obtain US federal funding through the CARES Act.[3]

As of 2021, villages using Pallet's tiny homes have been built in about 50 communities in California, Minnesota, Hawaii, and Washington.[6][5] Some agencies have reported that up to half of the residents have subsequently obtained permanent housing.[2]

Many of Pallet's employees have experienced homelessness in the past or have had other difficulties, such as drug addiction or criminal convictions.[1]

The company was founded in 2016.[2] The manufacturing facility is in Everett, Washington.[2] As a social purpose company, the organization is meant to achieve a socially valuable goal, rather than merely to maximize shareholder value.

• Safe parking lots
• Accessory dwelling unit