The Kriner Group Consulting, Spirit Media, and Hello Huntsville unite to support families through a community blessing drawing during the shutdown.
Community Rallies to Keep Hope Alive
When the government shuts down, hope doesn’t have to. That belief is driving Hope Stays Open, a new community campaign created to bless families in Walker County and surrounding areas who are struggling during the ongoing federal government shutdown.
The effort is led by The Kriner Group Consulting and supported by Spirit Media Inc. and Hello Huntsville. The campaign invites families affected by delayed federal paychecks, lost assistance benefits, or military income disruptions to register for a weekly blessing drawing. “There are people legitimately that need help, that need assistance,” said organizer Kyle Kriner. “I’m not wealthy, but I’ve got a little bit of change in my pocket, and I want to contribute to the relief. I’d like to start by blessing four families and encourage others to join in.”
Kriner said the idea came from a post shared by a friend’s wife online. Wanting to make a difference locally, he decided to bring the effort home to Huntsville. “You can agree or disagree about what’s happening, but the truth is there are families out there who rely on these programs to make it,” he said. “I’ve had tough times in my own life, and I know how much a small gesture can help.”
How the Campaign Works
Families directly impacted by the shutdown can register through HelloHuntsvilleTX.com to be entered into a weekly $100 Blessing Drawing. The first drawing will take place November 7 and continue weekly for at least four weeks, with the potential to extend into December depending on available funds.
This campaign is not a guaranteed payout. Families who register will be entered into a random drawing each week, and if selected, will be asked to provide proof that they have been directly affected by the shutdown. Verification could include documentation such as an active-duty military ID or a letter confirming a federal employment or assistance disruption. All requests and personal information will remain 100 percent confidential to protect each family’s privacy and dignity.
The weekly blessing of $100 may be used however it is needed — for groceries, gas, bills, or household essentials. “It’s not a grocery card or a gas card,” Kriner said. “It’s cash. If you need to put it toward medical bills, insurance, or just keeping the lights on, that’s up to you. Everyone’s situation is different, and this is about helping where it matters most.”
Local Voices and Personal Connection
During a special announcement on the Good Morning Huntsville program, host Rob Hipp expressed appreciation for the campaign and shared how it resonated with his own experience. “That $100 doesn’t seem like much to some people, but to some people that’s everything right now,” Hipp said. “This community always steps up for veterans and families in need. Although this is a small start, it’s going to be a big thing for a lot of people.”
Hipp recalled a time when his own family needed help through assistance programs during a difficult season. “You never know what people are going through,” he said. “I’ve experienced it firsthand, and there are more people in our community right now who are hurting than ever before. That’s why this campaign matters.”
Kriner encouraged others to spread the word. “You may not be affected personally, but you probably know someone who is,” he said. “Lead them to HelloHuntsvilleTX.com and show them how to apply. If all you can do is pray for these families or share the campaign, that still makes a difference.”
Giving, Sharing, and Encouraging
Community members who want to help can donate through Spirit Media Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN 88-1968797). All donations are tax-deductible, and every dollar goes directly to families selected through the drawing. The donations will be processed through Spirit Media’s secure platform to ensure transparency and accountability.
Hipp emphasized that every contribution matters. “If you’ve got an extra hundred bucks to spare, we can bless a lot more than four families,” he said. “And if you can’t give that much, even twenty or five dollars adds up. Maybe your workplace or church group could come together to adopt a family. We’re not keeping anything. Every penny goes right back out to the families that need it.”
Organizers also encouraged non-financial participation, including sharing the campaign on social media, telling friends or co-workers who may be affected, or simply offering encouragement. “If all you can offer is prayers and support, we’ll take that too,” Kriner said.
A Spirit of Hope for Huntsville
Hope Stays Open is more than a local fundraiser — it is a reminder that compassion thrives even when systems stall. As the holidays approach and many families face financial uncertainty, this effort reflects the heart of a community that refuses to turn away.
Families in need can register at https://tinyurl.com/hopestaysopen or through HelloHuntsvilleTX.com. Four families already will receive a blessing, thanks to Kriner’s personal contribution, and more will be added as community donations grow.
Hipp closed the announcement with gratitude and faith in the community: “This is the start of something that will make a lasting impact. Huntsville has always had a heart to serve, and together we can show that even when the world slows down, hope stays open.”
If you would like to donate, contributions are being made through Spirit Media Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law and go directly to families selected through the weekly drawing. Every $100 blesses a family and helps extend the campaign’s reach. You can give online at https://www.givebutter.com/hopestaysopen.
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