Tiny home villages are increasingly considered a solution to the affordable housing crisis, offering temporary stability to unhoused people as they get back on track. But concerned neighbors continue to fight these developments every step of the way. One local developer was undeterred.

Thomas Mercer was on his way to earning a degree in electronics engineering before a motorcycle accident changed his life forever. Now, he and his family are camping in a remote area east of Bend. As he struggles to maintain his health, and area officials continue to sweep encampments, he wonders how he'll survive.

J.R. Montgomery strives to help those struggling with homelessness and substance use disorder. Studies show that peer support improves outcomes for those being helped, as well as those who help.