United Methodists Partner with Tiny Homes for Humanity
The United Methodist Church’s Social Principles affirm that every person—regardless of circumstance or social standing—deserves basic human rights, including food, shelter, and the opportunity to obtain safe, affordable housing. Yet the need remains great. In Cincinnati alone, the shortage of affordable housing exceeds 40,000 units, and more than 6,000 of our neighbors in Hamilton County are unhoused.
Tiny Homes for Humanity, founded by President Earl Crossland, member of Hyde Park Community UMC, and Board Chairman/Treasurer Larry Plum, aims to provide housing and a fresh start for unhoused veterans, individuals and families. In partnership with Gaines United Methodist Church in Madisonville, they plan to build a Tiny Home Veterans Village with 14 unites on 3/4 acre behind the church in Madisonville.
“This project is our first tiny home development, but the design goal of this and future communities is to create a neighborhood feel, encourage social interaction, build camaraderie and develop personal responsibility,” Larry Plum shares.
Rev. Paula Stewart of Gaines UMC adds, “We hope that this project becomes the model for tiny home development throughout the city to help curtail the trend of unaffordable housing.”
Tiny Homes for Humanity has received a commitment of a large government grant, conditional upon raising $760,000 in private funds by June 30. Each tiny home costs $70,000 to build, with a total project cost of $2,020,000, including site infrastructure, engineering and other costs. The units feature the comforts of home, including a small front porch, living area, kitchenette, dining area, full bathroom and bedroom area.
Half of the required GMD donation of $70,000 has been raised for the project. Will you consider being part of making this community a reality? Please send gifts to the district office, 7388 E. Kemper Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249.
Click here to read the full story recently published in Hyde Park Lifestyle magazine in April, 2026.