Background on MHC and the History of Sutherland Estates
About the McPherson Housing Coalition
The McPherson Housing Coalition (MHC) was founded with a simple yet powerful mission: to end homelessness and strengthen families in McPherson County and surrounding communities. For over two decades, MHC has been a driving force in addressing housing insecurity through a blend of direct services, community partnerships, and advocacy.
From its early beginnings, MHC has recognized that housing is not just about providing shelter—it is about creating stability and opportunity. When people have a safe and secure place to live, they are better equipped to improve their health, gain employment, and fully engage with their community. This belief has guided every initiative MHC has undertaken.
Over the years, MHC has grown into a trusted leader in housing and homelessness services. Our team works closely with local governments, faith-based organizations, social service providers, and dedicated volunteers to ensure that every individual and family has a pathway to stable housing and a brighter future.
Today, MHC operates several programs aimed at meeting the diverse needs of our community, including
• Emergency Housing Assistance – Helping families and individuals find immediate shelter during crises.
• Transitional Housing Programs – Offering temporary housing and support for those working toward permanent stability.
• Permanent Supportive Housing – Providing long-term solutions for individuals and families with complex needs, such as chronic homelessness or disabilities.
• Case Management and Wraparound Services – Connecting residents with resources such as job training, healthcare, counseling, and financial literacy programs.
• Education and Development – Working to increase the availability of affordable housing and provide education that promotes sustainable growth.
Through these programs, MHC has directly impacted the lives of countless families, seniors, and veterans, helping them achieve independence and hope for the future.
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The Birth of Sutherland Estates
As MHC worked with families in crisis, one challenge became increasingly clear: the community lacked safe, affordable housing options paired with intensive support services. Too often, families experiencing homelessness were placed in temporary housing but struggled to maintain stability once those short-term solutions ended. Without ongoing support, many found themselves back in crisis.
In response to this need, MHC envisioned a new approach — a permanent housing community designed specifically to address the root causes of homelessness. This vision became Sutherland Estates, a tiny home village that combines innovative housing design with comprehensive, personalized case management.
The concept behind Sutherland Estates is simple yet transformative:
• Create a small, supportive neighborhood where residents feel safe and valued.
• Provide wraparound services tailored to each resident’s unique needs.
• Foster a sense of community and accountability that empowers residents to take steps toward independence.
The first phase of Sutherland Estates brought this vision to life, with a small group of thoughtfully designed tiny homes that quickly became a haven for families in need. These homes offered more than just shelter — they became places of healing, growth, and new beginnings.
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Success Stories: Lives Transformed
The impact of Sutherland Estates has been profound. Families who once faced uncertainty and instability now have a safe place to call home and the support needed to rebuild their lives. Here are a few examples of how the program has changed lives:
• A single mother and her two children, who were living in their car, were able to move into a tiny home where they received guidance from a case manager. Within a year, she completed job training, secured employment, and transitioned into independent housing.
• A veteran struggling with PTSD found stability and healing through the supportive environment of Sutherland Estates and the connections provided by the program.
• A senior living on a fixed income was able to avoid entering a cycle of homelessness by accessing safe, affordable housing and community resources.
These stories demonstrate the power of combining housing with comprehensive support. They also illustrate why expanding Sutherland Estates is critical to meeting the growing needs of McPherson County.
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Looking Ahead: The Next Phase of Growth
The success of the initial phase of Sutherland Estates has generated momentum for the future. With the demand for supportive housing continuing to rise, MHC is now preparing to expand the village with five additional tiny homes and a central clubhouse.
This next phase will focus on serving veterans, seniors, and families, providing them with the stability and resources needed to thrive. The addition of a clubhouse will create a shared space for programs, workshops, and community events, further strengthening the bonds among residents and between Sutherland Estates and the broader community.
