Tulane University students built a tiny home for a man who had been homeless for nearly twenty years.
Life often brings challenges that test our faith. This story from New Orleans shows how hope and hard work can change lives. It reminds us that God is always with us, even in tough times.
Benjamin Henry used to live under Interstate 10 in New Orleans. He struggled with drugs and alcohol. “Sometimes you have to go through some things awhile to see how bad you really want it better, you have to see how bad you really want it,” he said.
His journey was hard, but he never lost hope. “But if you hang in there, hang in there and keep hope, things are possible for you. Now look where I am. I’m about to get a home, not a place just to lay my head, but a home.”
Students at Tulane spent ten months building a 440-square-foot home for Henry as part of their UrbanBuild program. They designed and built the house in a Tulane-owned warehouse before moving it to the Lower Ninth Ward.
Noah Lion, one of the students, had his design chosen, which included a porch. “It’s really important in New Orleans to spend time on your porch — to spend time in the community, with your neighbors and that was really important to me to make the porch part of the living space,” Lion said.
The students did not know who would receive the house until the end of the project.
Henry’s new home marks a new chapter in his life. The Travelers Aid Society of Greater New Orleans helped identify him as a candidate for the home. Tulane University plans to continue this partnership to build more homes in the future.
Henry was very grateful. “Now I got air. I got space. I love this. This is where I’m gonna die. I’m gonna die in this home. I’m so grateful,” he said. This home represents a big change in his life.
Watching Henry move into his new home was a powerful moment for the students. Student Elliot Slovis said, “Building someone’s forever home is crazy and so rewarding.” For Henry, the reality of having a home is still sinking in. “It’s starting to come through. That’s why I was crying because I know and… it’s real, you know? I thank you. Thank you.”
This story reminds us of the impact that faith, hope, and community can have on our lives. As we think about Benjamin Henry’s journey and the students’ hard work, we are inspired to help others.
Let us continue to hold onto hope and work together to show God’s love. Please pray for more opportunities to help those in need and for the success of projects like Tulane’s UrbanBuild program.
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