Tussn[h]us

Modular housing units with a mission

The non-profit organisation Tussn[h]us converts old sea containers into temporary housing units for pupils who can no longer live at home. This allows the youngsters to continue attending school while waiting for a permanent housing solution. Converting the containers is also an educational journey for the pupils of the VTI in Ostend.

Preventing school drop-out

VTI teacher Nick Vandeput noticed that some pupils were in danger of dropping out of school due to homelessness. Together with colleague Annemie Tyvaert, he started working with the concept of tiny houses. This resulted in a project aptly named Tussn[h]us. The idea is that young people can stay in these houses for 5 to 6 months, until they can possibly return home or while waiting for another solution. The condition is that they continue to attend school.

Sustainable and comfortable crisis housing

The containers come from the Port of Ostend. Teachers and pupils work side by side to convert the empty sea containers into sustainable and comfortable crisis homes. This way, pupils not only learn technical skills, but also empathy, teamwork and social awareness. The first container is expected to be finished by the end of the 2024-2025 school year. Where the containers will be located has not yet been determined. Suggestions are welcome!