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MAY 2024 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

The Neighborhood Monthly eNewsletter – May 2024

Empowering Families

Nothing Like a Mother’s Love

“A parent’s love is whole, no matter how many times divided.” – Robert Breault

Parents and caregivers showed love for their children at the recent Mother’s Day gatherings organized by our community life staff. With donuts, balloons, casseroles, drinks, and other treats, it was a beautiful day for bonding. The classic hand-made cards made each parent’s day and they loved seeing their students’ classrooms.

 

Hands-On Science Fun

Our Community Life students were back in Baltimore this month, partaking in another one of the city’s amazing learning institutions. MCPS schools were closed for voting, so MHP staff ensured that students could have a fun and engaging day out. GATOR elementary-age students visited the Maryland Science Center where they enjoyed interactive exhibits, a planetarium, a giant screen theater, science encounters, live shows, and more.

 

What is GATOR?

MHP partners with Arcola Elementary School in Wheaton to offer two innovative afterschool programs focused on strengthening students’ math, science, and reading skills through the Great Achievers Toward Outstanding Results (GATOR) program. GATOR enrolls up to 120 students, including elementary school students at Amherst and Pembridge Square from September to June.

GATOR is made possible through funding from the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers: Maryland Out-of-School Time Programs for the Future grant award.

Letter from a Parent

MHP staff make an impact every day. Recently, one mom took the time to share her appreciation for Program Manager Violeta Martel for providing exceptional and trusted care for her daughter.

Dear Ms. Violeta,

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional care and support you provide to my daughter, especially considering her type 1 diabetic condition.

As a single mom, navigating the challenges of raising a child with a medical condition can be overwhelming at times. However, knowing that she is in such capable hands at the GATOR Club brings me immense peace of mind. Your willingness to accommodate her needs and make her feel included in all activities despite her condition means more to me than words can express.

It’s heartwarming to see how the GATOR Club teachers not only take care of her physical well-being but also make her feel valued and welcomed as a member of the club. The kindness and understanding you all show towards her are truly appreciated.

Moreover, the support you offer me as a single parent by allowing her to participate in this after-school program is invaluable. Knowing that she has a safe and nurturing environment to be in while I’m at work is a tremendous relief.

Please know that your dedication and compassion do not go unnoticed. You play a significant role in my daughter’s life, and I am endlessly grateful for everything you do for her.

Thank you once again for your unwavering support and for making a positive difference in our lives.

Warm regards,

Gelila

Community Life Partnerships

Project Change

Silver Spring Judy Center

Kiwanis

Story Tapestries

Montgomery County Public Schools

The Civic Circle

The Washington Conservatory of Music

Montgomery County Department of Recreation

Parent Empowerment Program

Sharp Insight

TransAct

ABC Mouse

Girl Scouts

Maryland State Department of Education

Children Opportunity Alliance

PNC Bank

Action Youth Media

Charity for Change

Crittenton Services of Greater Washington

Upcoming Events

Annual Norman Christeller Golf Classic

This event is an important source of support for MHP’s Community Life programs, providing enrichment activities and homework help to students in our communities.

When: Monday, June 24, 2024

Where: Hampshire Greens, 616 Firestone Dr, Ashton, MD 20861

Link to Register: here

 

We’re Hiring

MHP is seeking qualified candidates to join our dynamic team in Silver Spring. With a mission that matters, MHP employees make a difference and enjoy a range of professional benefits.

Learn more here.

With competitive pay and benefits, a positive and inclusive workplace culture, and a mission to help people in the community, MHP is a great place to grow your career!

 

 

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MHP Receives $1 Million Grant from Citi Foundation

(Silver Spring, MD)   MHP recently received a $1 million unrestricted grant from the Citi Foundation’s Community Progress Makers Initiative, a program that supports visionary organizations that are working to connect low-income communities to greater social and economic opportunity. MHP will use this substantial funding to preserve and expand affordable housing across the DMV region in alignment with its mission of housing people, empowering families, and strengthening neighborhoods.

MHP was one of five nonprofits based in the greater Washington, D.C. area selected as part of the initiative’s fourth cohort through an open request for proposals (RFP) process, which focused on organizations working in the areas of affordable housing and access, economic development, financial health and workforce readiness. MHP will combine their local expertise and track record of community impact with a national network of resources and changemakers, which will accelerate their community-based work.

“We’re proud to be among the Citi Foundation’s Community Progress Makers,” said Robert A. Goldman, President of MHP. “This funding allows us to expand quality affordable housing for thousands of people in a region that is facing an affordable housing crisis. As the largest nonprofit real estate developer in Montgomery County, we are committed to serving low-income residents, and with the Foundation’s generous funding and extensive resources, we can amplify our impact.”

This news follows MHP’s recent announcement of a bold new campaign to make home possible for all, with a goal of doubling its impact by 2030. MHP’s affordable housing pipeline has been active and in 2023 alone, it completed the construction of Colonnade at the Creek, a 96-unit garden-style property in Takoma Park; broke ground on The Residences at Forest Glen, a 189-unit ground-up redevelopment in Silver Spring; broke ground on renovations at Worthington Woods, a 395-unit apartment in DC; completed the North Frederick Apartments financial close; and approved the sketch plan for the upcoming Amherst Square / Wheaton Arts partnership deal.

Now celebrating its 35th anniversary, MHP continues to provide wraparound support for children and families through its Community Life programs, in addition to supportive outreach to residents and businesses. The organization also leads affordable housing advocacy efforts throughout the region. MHP was named 2023 Nonprofit Developer of the Year by Washington Business Journal award.

ABOUT MHP

At MHP, we are dedicated to making home possible. Since 1989, MHP has preserved and expanded access to quality affordable housing. MHP is a private nonprofit that provides more than 2,800 homes in Montgomery County and surrounding communities. We accomplish our mission by housing people, empowering families, and strengthening neighborhoods. Learn more at mhpartners.org

About The City Foundation’s Community Progress Makers

With the support of the Citi Foundation, Community Progress Makers expand their work on affordable housing and access, economic development, financial health, and workforce readiness. The Foundation also provides a supportive community network through which these organizations can connect to learn from each other, share best practices and strengthen their roles as social change agents. For more information, please visit citifoundation.com/cpm and follow the impact these organizations are making at #ProgressMakers on social media.

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MHP Launches Bold Campaign to Double Affordable Housing

Silver Spring, MD, May 8, 2024 – Nonprofit affordable housing developer MHP has officially launched a bold new $20M campaign to double its impact by the end of the decade, activating a plan to expand and preserve more affordable housing in Montgomery County, MD and across the DMV. As of today, MHP has raised $15.8M, 79% of its goal.

The campaign motto is Making Home Possible for All, reflecting the many people who need affordable housing – from seniors to single adults to working couples with children. Each person is part of a diverse mosaic that makes up a community, and housing is a basic yet essential human need that we can work together to fulfill. MHP is making it happen.

MHP President Robert A. Goldman officially announced the campaign last night at a reception at El Golfo restaurant in the heart of the Long Branch community. He expressed his gratitude to supporters stating, “Today, while we continue to raise more funds each year, we are still facing an uncertain time with potential government cutbacks and rapidly rising living costs. Thank you to all of those who have supported, and are considering supporting, MHP as we continue to provide gold standard programs for our residents despite these growing challenges.”

As it celebrates its 35th anniversary this year, MHP is further strengthening its solid track record of managing the acquisition and rehabilitation of multi-family affordable housing properties and providing services for more than 16,000 residents since its inception.

In 2023 alone, MHP completed the construction of Colonnade at the Creek, a 96-unit garden-style property in Takoma Park; broke ground on The Residences at Forest Glen, a 189-unit ground-up redevelopment in Silver Spring; broke ground on renovations at Worthington Woods, a 395-unit apartment in DC; completed the North Frederick Apartments financial close; and approved the sketch plan for the upcoming Amherst Square / Wheaton Arts partnership deal.

In addition to a focus on expanding and preserving affordable housing, MHP remains committed to enhancing opportunities for its residents through its award-winning Community Life educational enrichment programs and targeted outreach programs that serve residents facing challenges.

MHP’s property acquisitions, renovations, and wraparound programs are made possible through the support of thousands of generous donors and funding partners. MHP aims to raise $20 million by December 31st to reach its goal of doubling its impact by 2030. Visit mhpartners.org/possible to learn more about how you can help.

 

About MHP 

MHP is dedicated to making home possible. Since 1989, the organization has been preserving and expanding access to quality affordable housing. MHP is a private nonprofit that provides more than 2,800 homes in Montgomery County, MD, and surrounding communities. It accomplishes its mission by housing people, empowering families, and strengthening neighborhoods.  Learn more at mhpartners.org.  

Media Contact

Ilana Guttin

Communications and Volunteer Manager

iguttin@mhpartners.org

301.812.4138

 

Download the press release here

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APRIL 2024 MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

The Neighborhood Monthly eNewsletter – April 2024

Housing People

Progress at Worthington Woods

Located in Washington, D.C. Ward 8, Worthington Woods is our largest property. After a recent groundbreaking and renovation celebration, construction is well underway and soon residents will enjoy updated, modernized homes along with a new playground and community center. Take a peek inside an apartment that was recently renovated down to the studs and view the rendering for the new community playground.

Empowering Families

Under the Sea Experience Delights MHP Students

The National Aquarium is a jewel of our region, but it’s far from Montgomery County, and it’s cost-prohibitive for many low-income families. Most of our Play & Learn preschool students have never been there before. Thanks to special grant funding from PNC Bank and Montgomery County Children’s Opportunity Alliance, 77 preschool-age students recently visited the museum with MHP staff. The children were completely wowed by the magical creatures living in our oceans. From delicate jellyfish to intimidating sharks, students enjoyed exploring and learning more about animals and their habitats.

Strengthening Neighborhoods

Gift Pantry Supports Residents in Wheaton

Even with the benefit of affordable housing, some families still struggle to make ends meet. Food prices have risen since 2020 due to a combination of factors, including inflation, labor costs, supply chain challenges, and global conflicts. Often, salary increases do not keep up with these increases and working families face difficult budget decisions. MHP’s resident outreach team helps in a variety of ways. For example, we recently held a pop-up pantry at Pembridge Square apartments. Runway for a Cause brought free household items, toys, and clothing. The event helped more than 50 families.

Featured Video

Community Makers Series

There are many people making a difference at MHP. In our new Community Makers series, we hear from Stefan, who was greatly impacted by the work he did during his AmeriCorps stint. Stefan saw first-hand how critical affordable housing is in our region, and how great the need is for the services we provide. Watch here.

Upcoming Events

Cinco de Mayo

You are invited to experience Cinco de Mayo in Long Branch! Join us May 3 – May 5 for a weekend of celebration – music, dancing, and margaritas. While you are there, explore the local restaurants and check out specials/Happy Hour deals.

Purchase your mug at the MHP merch tent and join us for our “Margarita” Crawl all weekend. Non-alcoholic drinks will also be available. We hope you will come out and join us for this Long Branch Business League initiative to support our restaurants.

Free event! All are welcome.

More Info: here

Annual Norman Christeller Golf Classic

This event is an important source of support for MHP’s Community Life programs, providing enrichment activities and homework help to students in our communities.

When: Monday, June 24, 2024

Where: Hampshire Greens, 616 Firestone Dr, Ashton, MD 20861

Link to Register: here.

We’re Hiring

MHP is seeking qualified candidates to join our dynamic team in Silver Spring. With a mission that matters, MHP employees make a difference and enjoy a range of professional benefits.

Learn more here. here

With competitive pay and benefits, a positive and inclusive workplace culture, and a mission to help people in the community, MHP is a great place to grow your career!

 

 

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March 2024 Monthly Newsletter

The Neighborhood Monthly eNewsletter – March 2024

Housing People

Honoring Women

Did you know that in the summer of 1988, Peg McRory, a housing activist, gathered a number of friends and acquaintances together around her dining room table to search for solutions to the lack of affordable housing in Montgomery County? This was a major moment in the creation of MHP.

As we celebrate our 35th anniversary and honor Women’s History Month, we reflect on the critical role women have played in MHP’s foundation and the important work they are doing today.

Advocacy in Action

MHP recently joined other mission-driven organizations in Annapolis for Maryland Affordable Housing Day. Our robust team met with elected officials and expressed the need to approve the proposed Capital Budget related to Rental Housing Works and other important affordable housing funding measures.

Nonprofit Developer of the Year – Washington Business Journal

MHP is thrilled to announce that we have been named Nonprofit Developer of the Year by the Washington Business Journal.

In 2023, we achieved many affordable housing development milestones and are proud to provide homes for almost 3,000 families in Montgomery County and beyond.  Many of our latest developments preserve or create apartments along the Purple Line corridor, preventing displacement of moderate- and low-income residents.

Big things are happening!

Read more here.

Empowering Families

Day of Love

Our Community Life staff recently celebrated Valentines Day with students and families, spreading love and promoting positivity in their classrooms. They enjoyed exchanging cards, eating treats, and showing appreciation for their friends, teachers, and families.

Wellness for Seniors

MHP provides affordable housing for more than 1,200 seniors. Many of our older residents live at The Bonifant or Franklin Apartments, both of which serve seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities. We also have seniors interspersed throughout other properties. Supportive programs can enhance the lives of seniors and keep them feeling connected. These include birthday gatherings, yoga, coffee hour, and more.

Strengthening Neighborhoods

Community Health Leadership – Fatima

MHP’s outreach team is at the forefront of resident support.

As a Salvadoran migrant, Fatima Coreas has experienced first-hand the struggle of moving to a new country and not knowing the language, a challenge that many of our residents also face.

Fatima was recently promoted to the role of Community Engagement Team Leader, an expanded position that will allow her to oversee a new health initiative. Fatima will use her expertise to train and employ residents to become Community Health Workers (CHWs) in the communities where they live. The CHW program will connect residents with health resources at MHP’s Amherst/Pembridge communities in Wheaton, MD.

Fatima aspires to be an instrument of change and help other immigrants in vulnerable circumstances, connecting them with health resources and other programs that can positively impact their lives.

Flower Theatre Highlighted on NBC

Thank you to everyone who helped us celebrate the Flower Theatre’s façade reconstruction. In case you missed it, NBC stopped by to celebrate this milestone. Watch an interview with Policy and Neighborhood Development Director Chris Gillis and another with MHP President Robert A. Goldman.

We’re Hiring

MHP is seeking qualified candidates to join our dynamic team in Silver Spring. With a mission that matters, MHP employees make a difference and enjoy a range of professional benefits. Learn more here.

With competitive pay and benefits, a positive and inclusive workplace culture, and a mission to help people in the community, MHP is a great place to grow your career!

 

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February 2024 Monthly Newsletter

The Neighborhood Monthly eNewsletter – February 2024

This year, MHP is celebrating 35 years! On Jan 11, 1989, MHP was incorporated and shortly thereafter Norman Christeller, just retiring as chair of the Planning Board, agreed to serve as the first president. The first Board of Directors was chaired by Bill Murry and included members of the River Road Unitarian Church and prominent homebuilders Tony and Tom Natelli. In 1991, Norm moved to chair of the board and Tad Baldwin, a housing consultant, was asked to become president. A caring collaboration was born!

From 1990 to the present, MHP has continued its mission of preserving and expanding quality affordable housing in our region. Our supportive programs have also expanded to meet the needs of our residents and help local businesses.

For the last 35 years, we’ve been housing people, empowering families, and strengthening neighborhoods. With your support, we’ll be around for many more.

Housing People

Progress at Forest Glen

Construction continues at The Residences at Forest Glen. Site preparation and foundation work are complete, and building envelope work is now underway. Buildings one and two are being framed and will soon be enclosed with roofing, siding, and other exterior elements.

Neighbors and visitors passing by can view significant construction progress on this multi-family property. We look forward to bringing 189 new affordable apartments to the Silver Spring community. The project will be completed by spring 2025.

 

Thought Leadership in Affordable Housing

MHP leads the way in advocacy for preserving and expanding access to quality affordable housing in our region. Read more about MHP President Robert A. Goldman’s perspective on building affordable housing on church land in Montgomery County.

 

“The need for affordable housing is great. Much of the county is already built out, so finding opportunities for land like this…is a wonderful opportunity.”

– MHP President, Robert A. Goldman

Empowering Families

 

Emeli’s Take on Giving Back

MHP Community Life Program Manager Emeli Oliva was recently featured on a WJLA Helping Hands segment. She shared how growing up in an MHP property helps her connect with her own students.

“I am the story of how it is, and I tell the kids I work with that I used to be one of you guys,” Emeli said.

Oliva understands first-hand what her students experience. She has shared some of the same challenges and joys and this keeps her connected to their success. Watch the video here.

Angels for Children Toy Drive – 25 Years of Magic

For the 25th year, the Angels for Children Toy Drive brought gifts to hundreds of affordable housing residents in the Wheaton community. Here are a few highlights from this magical endeavor. Thank you to the many businesses, organizations, families, and individuals who collected gifts, helped with wrapping, and made donations. We could not have done this without all of you!

Strengthening Neighborhoods

 

Long Branch Flower Theatre Relighting

Flower Theatre illuminated the Long Branch neighborhood at our recent relighting event which attracted more than 125 people. The façade renovation is now complete and MHP hopes to build interest in funding and renovating the interior of this beloved venue.

The event was organized by Discover Long Branch and featured speakers including Project Manager Amee Bearne, Councilmember Kate Stewart, Councilmember Evan Glass, Councilmember Will Jawando, Delegate Lorig Charkoudian, MHP President Robert A. Goldman, MHP Director of Policy and Neighborhood Development Chris Gillis, and more.

Many partners were thanked, including Donohoe Construction, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, Montgomery County Department of Housing & Community Affairs, Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation, Cafritz Foundation and MHP.

 

Lyttonsville Highlight

What is Lyttonsville? This Silver Spring neighborhood was established in the 1850s and it has a rich history and many business offerings. It is also centrally located with varied transit options and will be home to a Purple Line stop in 2027.

Last year, MHP acquired Rollingwood Apartments in Lyttonsville and we’ve been working to develop connections with our residents there, including free backpack distributions, toy drives, and social gatherings.

Now, we’re excited to announce that Discover Lyttonsville has been established with the tagline Doers+Makers+More. Learn more about this effort to strengthen the community and local business district at https://discoverlyttonsville.com/

MHP receives funding through Montgomery County’s Placed-Based Management program that assists with economic development and tourism in business districts and in urban corridors with significant business and retail offerings.

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January 2024 Monthly Newsletter

The Neighborhood Monthly eNewsletter – January 2024

2023 was a highly productive year at MHP. Thanks to our dedicated staff, partners, and supporters, we met or exceeded many of our goals, expanded access to affordable housing, enhanced our supportive programs, and remained a strong presence in the community of Montgomery County and beyond. Given the high cost of living in our region coupled with inflation, we responded to the varied needs of our residents, providing a wide range of services and resources, helping families living on low and moderate incomes. We’re proud to provide quality affordable housing for more than 4,000 people and remain committed to our mission of housing people, empowering families, and strengthening neighborhoods.

Here are some highlights from 2023:

Housing People

  • 189 apartments – Residences at Forest Glen financial close, demolition, groundbreaking, and construction progress
  • 395 apartments – Worthington Woods financial close, groundbreaking, progress on renovations
  • 78 apartments – N Frederick financial close, renovations coming in 2024
  • 96 apartments – Colonnade at the Creek renovations and ribbon cutting
  • Nebel Street Site Plan – All entitlements received, all funding including 9 and 4 percent tax credits awarded, and application for building permits was made
  • Amherst Square / Wheaton Arts – Sketch Plan approved

Empowering Families

  • Increased overall student enrollment, serving 400+ children in 2023
  • Expanded outreach efforts to Rollingwood Apartments, including a community celebration where we distributed more than 140 backpacks and supply gift cards
  • Partnered with Empowering the Ages, providing mentoring for FLOW middle school students
  • Provided arts and nature programming in partnership with Nature Forward and Washington Conservatory of Music
  • Achieved 82% attendance at Amherst/Pembridge GATOR Club
  • Achieved 100% parent satisfaction rate for GATOR Club

Strengthening Neighborhoods

  • Launched free scholarship portal for MHP residents, with more than 10 categories of scholarships targeting the community’s demographics
  • Grew number of recipients at Gilbert Highlands monthly food distribution and oversaw new food distribution efforts at Great Hope Homes and Amherst/Pembridge
  • Oversaw distribution of over $56,000 in fire relief funds
  • Provided Community Health Worker training for a second MHP resident engagement specialist
  • Hosted 11 events in Long Branch, including new Cuts 4 Cuties event which provided free haircuts to almost 80 kids in time for back to school
  • Led group of Worthington Woods residents to NeighborWorks Community Leadership Institute
  • Led restoration of Flower Theatre façade, including placing the iconic Flower neon sign that adorns the top of the theater, relighting the marquee, restoring the ticket booth, and more
  • Held first Apartment Assistance Program landlord seminar in three years with the highest number of attendees in AAP history

 

 

 

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MHP Director of Policy and Neighborhood Development Addresses Affordable Housing Webinar

MHP Director of Policy and Neighborhood Development, Chris Gillis, recently participated in a webinar on affordable and attainable housing in Montgomery County. Gillis joined three other industry experts in a webinar organized by the League of Women Voters of Montgomery Country Maryland (LWVMOCOMD). Gillis said MHP, as the largest nonprofit affordable housing provider in Montgomery County, has grown leaps and bounds over the years, currently managing about 3,000 apartment units, largely thanks to policy changes and funding by Montgomery County. He said within the last 18 months, MHP has grown its portfolio by about 500-600 units in Montgomery County. Gillis acknowledged the inroads Montgomery County has made in addressing affordable housing especially in the last four years, using the opportunity to encourage the state and federal governments to play a greater role in affordable housing.  

MHP serves more than 4,000 residents in Montgomery County and neighboring communities, providing nearly 3,000 quality affordable homes. Watch the rest of the webinar here: Affordable and Attainable Housing in Montgomery County: Are We Making Progress? (youtube.com). Gillis’ remarks start at 27-52 secs. 

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MHP President Testifies in MoCo Council Hearing on Takoma Park Minor Master Plan Amendment

MHP President Robert Goldman recently testified during the Montgomery County Council public hearing on the Takoma Park Minor Master Plan Amendment.  Goldman informed the Council that MHP is one of the largest property owners within the master plan boundaries, owing five separate properties comprising over 400 homes. He said most of these properties are located along Maple Avenue. “At present, MHP has no foreseeable plans to redevelop any of our for-profit properties in the Maple Avenue District. Some properties such as our 7610 Maple apartment community have been renovated within the last decade while others will be renovated in the coming years like our Franklin Seniors apartment building,” he informed. Goldman said MHP generally supports the recommendation in the affordable housing section of the plan. “We especially support the language seeking to increase the amount of new affordable housing, prioritizing two- and three-bedroom MPDUs and the inclusion of language encouraging developers and private residential lots to partner with nonprofit affordable housing providers to reach deeper levels of affordability,” he said. Watch the entire hearing here: Jan. 25, 2024 – Public Hearing – Takoma Park Minor Master Plan Amendment (youtube.com). Mr. Goldman’s testimony starts at: 1:30 mins.

MHP serves more than 4,000 residents in Montgomery County and neighboring communities, providing nearly 3,000 quality affordable homes. Since 1989, MHP has been preserving and expanding access to quality affordable housing. MHP is a private nonprofit that accomplishes its mission by housing people, empowering families, and strengthening neighborhoods. 

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Housing People

Empowering Families

Strengthening Neighborhoods