The Hope House community in Liberty Hill marked a major milestone this month with the opening of the Rathgeber Community, two newly built homes that will provide safe, permanent housing for 16 more children with profound disabilities. The celebration also introduced a broader initiative, Renewed Hope, a long-term project to create inclusive residential and vocational spaces for people with intellectual disabilities.
Expanding care and stability
The Rathgeber Community was made possible through support from Sara and Dick Rathgeber, HomeAid Austin, and Pacesetter Homes. Each child at Hope House now has a private bedroom designed to promote comfort and individualized care. Executive Director Dave Gould said the new homes symbolize resilience after last summer’s flooding, which damaged existing residences and forced temporary evacuations.
“This day reminds us that hope always rebuilds,” Gould said. “Because of our community, every child who was displaced from their home in the flood now has a safe, forever place to belong.”
The Renewed Hope project
Looking ahead, Hope House plans to expand its reach with the Renewed Hope initiative, a multi-acre development featuring ten forever homes built in smaller, family-style settings rather than traditional group facilities. Each home will be equipped with adaptable features, such as accessible showers and flexible care spaces, so residents can remain in their homes as their needs change.
The project also includes a proposed 10,000-square-foot community center for therapy, vocational training, staff development, and enrichment programs designed to support residents’ independence and social connection.
Timeline and community involvement
Hope House expects to secure land for the project by the end of 2025, with engineering and site work planned for early 2026. Construction of the community center is slated to begin in late 2026, followed by the first homes between spring and fall of 2028.
Community members can contribute by donating online at www.hopehousekids.org. Each donation supports therapy, education, medical care, and enrichment for residents.
Thanks to lhindependent.com for the scoop.
