HEARNE, TX — On the outskirts of Hearne lies seven acres, which is home to Tiny Hope Village.
Over the course of the last three years, executive director Dan Kiniry has been raising money in an effort to create a community of support, and tiny homes, for those experiencing homelessness throughout the Brazos Valley.
“Over three years ago, we started the nonprofit, and all we had was the idea of building a community of homes for folks who have been chronically homeless, and we started asking folks for money to support,” Kiniry said.
Tiny Hope Village was about $30,000 away from having enough money to break ground on their first building in the community, the Pavilion, which will house a laundry facility, restrooms, open-air kitchen, and a large community space.
On Monday, Tiny Hope Village received a Christmas miracle in the form of a phone call.
“I had been sitting around thinking how are we going to raise $20,000 more, feeling worried and anxious, and so when they called and told us about this, it was a huge relief and it felt like a blessing from God moving through this person so we are very happy and thrilled,” Kiniry said.
Throughout the process of fundraising for Tiny Hope Village, Kiniry says his daughters have been his motivation.
“One of the beautiful things about children is that sometimes they just see what should be the directed response of okay, there are people who are experiencing homelessness, they should have homes, it’s that simple. Sometimes children can be so wise that way, and I am so thankful for my daughters being there to urge us on,” he said.
Though Tiny Hope Village Pavilion will soon be built, there is still a lot of money that needs to be raised to start building the tiny homes.
“We have a goal of building 24 homes out here. That's what our site plan has on it. Those homes will likely cost between $30,000 to $35,000 a piece. We are trying to build very nice homes. They will be small, but they are going to have all the amenities that you would need, and they are going to be dignified. So, we are asking the community to continue to give so that we can start building homes and moving people in,” said Kiniry.
If you would like to donate to Tiny Hope Village, you can do so on their Facebook page, by visiting tinyhopevillage.org or by sending your donation by mail to 708 W 17th St., Bryan, TX 77803.