Stitch challenges the preconception about homelessness that having a home and a community requires one to have permanent shelter where they sleep every night. Participants identified a challenge in the public spaces around downtown Raleigh; homeless individuals are not welcome. As our Southern cities become denser, and as development intensifies, our public space is only public if you are there to buy, to consume, or as the city defines it, “contribute”.

The proposal identifies 3 existing, vacant parcels in the Prince Hall Historic District as a landing spot for individuals experiencing homelessness; this lot would serve a sanctuary offers outdoor space, necessary daily amenities, and opportunity for structured community. Utilizing existing fabric allows for seamless and subtle integration into the community and attempts to avoid the typical public ‘NIMBY’ reactions to change.