The Esperanza Community is currently at capacity. We are not accepting applications at this time. Please check back on this page regularly to see when we have more availability.
To find other services in your area, head to https://www.findhelp.org/
The Esperanza Community is a non-congregate emergency shelter complex in East Austin. Esperanza’s low barrier and trauma informed nature makes it a unique and integral part of Austin’s continuum of care. The physical shelter and associated services are designed to respond to the multifaceted needs of people who have fallen into homelessness. Community members are diverse and are well served in this community, that uniquely offers workforce development services, individual lockable shelter units and a robust community building program. include people experiencing chronic homelessness, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, people with pets, couples, among others. Check out the video below, made by our friends at Findhelp Presents, that shows some of the latest construction progress!
Originally established as a sanctioned encampment in November 2019 by the State of Texas, the site lacked the necessary service provision and coordination to run smoothly. In August 2020, TOOF and the Texas Department of Transportation worked together to establish TOOF as site operators and develop the appropriate infrastructure for an emergency shelter.
In partnership with a self-governing group of community members, TOOF is constructing a shelter complex made up of 200 individual shelter units, shaded gathering areas, hygiene facilities, and a community center. Community members are offered holistic supportive services; including onsite work opportunities and vocational development, substance use support, highly personalized case management and housing navigation, and 24-hour crisis management. TOOF partners closely with a network of service providers, to bring a variety of supportive services on-site, including healthcare, mental health care, substance use services, training in skilled trades and more.
The goal of the Esperanza Community is to assist community members with transitioning out of homelessness. Community members are offered not only physical shelter, but a safe environment where they can move into the next phase of their housing journey. Through a variety of social outlets, wellness services, and work opportunities, the Esperanza Community sets the stage for people to learn the skills needed to build and engage in community wherever they are.

