Pilot Point Hessel House Raising Page

Mickey & Lupe with Susan Frank, Founder & Executive Director of Hearts for HomesMickey and Lupe are lifelong residents of Pilot Point who have lived in their home on Sherman Street for over 25 years.  Both of their daughters went to Pilot Point schools and Lupe worked as the elementary school secretary for many years before her retirement.  Now, Lupe volunteers at The Shepherd’s Storehouse, a local food pantry.  Mickey is a Vietnam-era Army veteran who worked in construction for years. Most recently, he worked at the King Ranch Sod Farm until he retired and now serves as the local “neighborhood watch.”  

The Hessel House is beyond repair.Their 1953 pier and beam house was built very low to the ground supported by bois d’arc blocks, which is common in the area. Over the years, the entire structure sank, and the bottom framing plate of the house has been resting in the dirt. Over time, moisture caused the bottom plate to decay and rot to the point that the house is now beyond repair. 

Hearts for Homes has looked at trying to move a house onto their property, but the streets are too narrow.  The plan at this time is to build a 1,300 square foot home for Mickey & Lupe, so they will have a home that is safe, comfortable, and well-functioning in which to live out their years.  However, home construction is something that is not in the Hearts for Homes budget.  

Pilot Point is known for helping their fellow citizens.  That’s why we are coming to you, the good people of Pilot Point, seeking assistance.  The minimal cost for a home of this size would be approximately $170,000.  It is our hope that with the help of the people of Pilot Point, we will be able to raise this money quickly.  We’ve already have raised cash donations over $43,000, as well as thousands of dollars in materials and labor from the building trades.  Our goal is to raise $70,000 in cash to make this build possible, so we still need to raise approximately $56,000.

Designating your donations this North Texas Giving Day to support this enormous effort to provide a home for Mickey & Lupe, who have been active in the Pilot Point community for over 50 years, would be such a blessing.

Thank you for creating hope for this senior couple in need of a home replacement.