Today, Nashville opened its first permanent supportive housing (PSH) facility. Strobel House will feature 90 homes for Nashvillians experiencing homelessness. PSH connects its residents with supportive services that include medical aid, addiction treatment, mental health supports, and career assistance.
Named in honor of the late Father Charlie Strobel, this $35 million development embodies its namesake’s lifelong commitment to community service. Half of the homes in Strobel House are reserved for those experiencing chronic homelessness, and the other half will be reserved for unhoused veterans, young adults, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Raised in Nashville, Strobel's innate compassion and desire to help those around him led him to pursue the priesthood. Charlie Strobel dedicated his life to serving others, particularly those marginalized and in need. Room In the Inn was founded by Strobel because of his continued desire to meet the needs of the unhoused.
Several years prior to COVID, the previous administration contributed to this monumental development. The Strobel House embodies Nashville’s commitment to a “Housing First” model that addresses homelessness by first ensuring stable housing. This initiative aligns with the federal House America program, encouraging cities to expand their permanent supportive housing and rapid rehousing inventory. This is yet another example of Nashville’s commitment to providing trauma-informed, high-quality solutions to a problem as complex as chronic homelessness.
“Opening our first permanent supportive housing facility is a significant milestone for Nashville and our unhoused community,” stated Mayor O’Connell. He further stated, “Permanent supportive housing supports residents’ overall well-being. Strobel House is more than just a place to stay – it’s a place to heal and rebuild.”
“Providing housing right in the heart of the city for those who once were forced to reside outdoors; I am honored and proud of the decisions made by our mayor, former Mayors, and Metro Council Members for securing this location and dedicating resources to provide housing opportunities for our unhoused Nashville neighbors” - April Calvin, Director of Office of Homeless Services.
“As a local firm, BELL is particularly proud of its role in helping bring Strobel House to life. We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Metro Nashville on this vital development that addresses the needs of literally and chronically unhoused people in our city, and we look forward to seeing its positive impact on the community”, said Eric Pyle, president of BELL Construction.
Homeless Planning Council Chair, Jaha Martin remarks, “This is a great step our city has taken in providing housing for individuals experiencing homelessness. The Strobel House will be a place for people to recover from the trauma of homelessness in a safe and supportive environment.”
On May 31, 2022, Mayor Cooper summarized the city's commitment to Strobel’s vision: “The suffering happening every day on our streets is tragic and unacceptable, and its long past time Nashville step up and make meaningful progress on getting our unhoused neighbors back on their feet. This 90-unit supportive permanent housing development is a huge step forward in making Nashville a housing-first city, where we have the resources available to get every individual the help they need.”
The Office of Homeless Services, along with the support of the Metro Nashville Government, is honored to continue the legacy of Charlie Strobel and his heart to leverage resources to provide the highest good for our unhoused neighbors.
Related Images
