Though the Big Lots business is struggling, the retailer still is forging ahead on multiple philanthropic fronts.

Columbus' first tiny home community is set to welcome residents early next year.

Construction on a first-of-its-kind community began in southeast Columbus this week.

Construction on a first-of-its-kind community began in southeast Columbus this week.

Work is expected to begin this summer on Vista Village, a pioneering tiny home community for the homeless on the Southeast Side.

Vista Village is expected to include 41 homes, each about 420 square feet, along with a community center and garden on the southwest corner of Refugee and Courtright roads, near Eastland Mall.

Organizers are finalizing details with the city and hope to break ground in late July or early August, said Juan "John" Perez, a partner at Perez Morris law firm who announced the project in early 2022.