The Village , on U . S . 278 in the Bethel community , has one model home completed with another four expected to open in six to nine months . They ’ ve asked to build 30 homes in five different sizes , with the smallest being 10 ’ x20 ’ and the largest at 14 ’ x40 ’.
The Village emphasizes personal responsibility and discipleship , said Sharpe . “ Our goal is to help people reach their full potential , whatever that full potential is ,” he said . “ We ’ re looking at this project as making a longterm difference .”
Because they don ’ t want to create something that will attract homeless people to Cullman County , they have established screening criteria and requirements for occupants . “ We want to create some hoops without creating barriers ,” he said . Those hoops include background checks — no persons with a history of sexual assault or violent crimes will be permitted — a pre-approval evaluation over a two-week period and an intake fee of $ 200-300 .
“ We want the Village to be a place where disciples are made and lives are restored one at a time .”
Travis Sharpe in the model home . This particular model , without a stove or oven , is for someone who may need more guidance as they transition to a more permanent home . With new kitchen appliances like air fryers , a resident would still be able to prepare a meal .
10 Cullman magazine | SPRING 2022