A Waco nonprofit dedicated to combating homelessness has been honored as the TFNB Your Bank for Life Charity Champion. The Hangar, a hospitality house founded in 2017, focuses on building community rather than just providing shelter, offering essential services to the unsheltered homeless in a supportive environment.
Key Takeaways
- Recognition: The Hangar is named TFNB Your Bank for Life Charity Champion.
- Mission: Focuses on community and relationships rather than just housing.
- Founders: Dusty and Laurie Kirk, inspired by their military background.
- Location: Situated under the 17th Street bridge in Waco.
- Volunteer-Driven: Operated entirely by volunteers.
The Hangar’s Unique Approach
The Hangar is not an overnight shelter; instead, it serves as a welcoming space where individuals experiencing homelessness can access showers, meals, and companionship in a Christian family atmosphere. The founders, Dusty and Laurie Kirk, emphasize that their mission is rooted in building relationships.
Laurie Kirk explains, "Being the boots on the ground in our city has convinced us that the root cause of homelessness goes all the way back to childhood: trauma, and the loss of family through divorce, tragedy, foster care, among other things."
Founders’ Journey
Dusty and Laurie Kirk’s journey into nonprofit work began after Dusty completed a 30-year career in the Air Force. Their military experience taught them the importance of community and support, which they have carried into their mission at The Hangar.
The couple’s commitment to helping the homeless was sparked after they volunteered at a community meal alongside Jerrod Clark from Waco’s Meyer Center. This experience ignited their passion for serving those in need.
Community Impact
The Hangar is strategically located under the 17th Street bridge, a central area in Waco where many unsheltered individuals gather. The organization operates solely through volunteer efforts, focusing on those who have opted not to seek assistance from traditional social service agencies.
Dusty Kirk states, "Our goal is to inspire the homeless to desire change in their lives and to seek help from the services that are available."
Celebrating the Honor
As part of their recognition as Charity Champion, The Hangar will be honored during the Baylor homecoming game against Texas Tech. This acknowledgment not only highlights their efforts but also raises awareness about homelessness in the community.
The Kirks believe that the work done at The Hangar starts with friendships, stating, "Everything we do is built around relationships."
Conclusion
The Hangar’s innovative approach to addressing homelessness through community and relationship-building sets it apart from traditional shelters. By focusing on the root causes of homelessness and fostering a supportive environment, The Hangar aims to inspire change and provide hope to those in need.
Sources
- Waco nonprofit aiming to end homelessness honored as TFNB Your Bank for Life Charity Champion, KWTX.
