December Advocacy Update – Affordable Housing Support
Tracking Equity Event
On November 19, MHP cohosted an exciting event in College Park which looked at the state of equitable transit-oriented development around the forthcoming Purple Line light rail line as well as the already established Metro Blue line.
MHP was an original signatory to the Purple Line Community Development Agreement and has since been working to expand affordable housing, support small businesses and revitalize communities in the Purple Line corridor since the project broke ground in 2017.
MHP President Rob Goldman participated in a panel discussion alongside small business owners, community advocates and philanthropic leaders whose organizations are investing in the work being done to bring more opportunity to the residents who live in these transit corridors.
The panel compared the different approaches to achieving equitable development in the Blue line corridor— a 40-year-old line that has not experienced the type of investment other regional Metro stops have — and the Purple Line, which is still under construction. The panel helped uncover best practices and key challenges across different facets of equitable development including housing, support for communities and small businesses, placemaking and more.
Special thanks go to Wells Fargo and LISC for their support of this event.
Call to Action
Last week, Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich transmitted a special appropriation to the Montgomery County Council to support several different County programs for households that are most at risk of homelessness or eviction.
Among other things, the appropriation would provide additional funding to the County’s Rental Assistance Program (RAP) which provides ongoing rental assistance to households at risk of homelessness. Earlier this year, the County had to close this program to new households due to lack of funding.
Over $1 million would go to support the county’s emergency rental assistance program which provides financial assistance to families that are at risk of eviction. Without additional funding, the County anticipated that funding for emergency rental assistance would be exhausted in the March to April timeframe, which would put even more households at risk of eviction.
The County Council is expected to vote on the special appropriation next Tuesday, November 9.
Assessing What Trump’s Second Term Could Mean for Affordable Housing
In the wake of the presidential election, MHP and other affordable housing advocates have been assessing the potential impacts to affordable housing.
During his campaign, Trump shared ideas for how he would address housing affordability, but his proposals often lacked detail. It remains unclear which proposals, if any, Trump will pursue in his second term, but here are several things to watch for when it comes to affordable housing and Donald Trump’s second term in office.
LIHTC – the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program is still the primary tool for creating and preserving affordable housing nationwide. There were efforts to modernize the LIHTC program during Trump’s first term, so it’s not out of the realm of possibilities.
Budget for Housing Programs – Federal housing programs are likely at greater risk of seeing budget cuts. HUD programs like housing vouchers, the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, and the HOME Investment Partnerships program which support the construction of affordable housing and low-income residents could see less funding in future years
Tariffs – We could see higher construction costs if the tariffs that Trump has talked about implementing come to pass. This would then put a strain on state and local housing trust as projects will likely require a greater local subsidy due to increased construction costs.
Opportunity Zones – You may remember the term Opportunity Zones from Trump’s first term. Opportunity Zones were meant to spur investment in economically distressed communities. There isn’t as much focus on Opportunity Zones now as compared to several years ago, but we could see this program brought back.
Streamline Construction of Housing – We could see a bipartisan push to remove regulatory roadblocks to housing construction. During Trump’s first term, there was an effort to eliminate regulatory barriers to affordable housing which looked at things like zoning, rent controls, building codes, impact fees, parking requirements, etc. However, this effort began late in his first term and ultimately most of the recommendations were not acted upon.
Committee for Montgomery Legislative Breakfast
MHP leaders recently attended the Committee for Montgomery Legislative Breakfast. This event brings together a coalition of leaders in business, labor, education, civic and community-based organizations to discuss critical issues facing Montgomery County. This year’s MHP table also included members of the Long Branch Business League and one of our founders, Jackie Simon. Our team networked with many elected officials at the State and County level and gained new perspectives on the legislative landscape we face going into 2025.
The Neighborhood Monthly eNewsletter – January 2025
Housing People
2025 Property Updates
MHP has developed 36 affordable properties consisting of 2,883 apartment homes. We will have many active projects in progress throughout 2025. Here is a quick snapshot of what’s in the works:
- Amherst Square/Wheaton Arts: New ground-up construction project and collaboration with Montgomery County. Moving forward with predevelopment work, set to break ground in 2026.
- Residences at Forest Glen: Construction in progress. Final apartment homes will be delivered in May 2025.
- Gardens of Gaithersburg: Renovation construction in progress. Final apartment homes will be delivered Q1 2025.
- Unity Place: Formerly Worthington Woods in D.C. Renovation construction in progress. Estimated completion by 2026.
- Rollingwood Apartments: Working towards closing on construction financing by end of 2025.
- The Chimes at North Bethesda: Ground-up construction in progress. Site work moving forward. Anticipated completion in 2026.
Empowering Families
Community Life Toy Drive
Students in our Community Life programs received their end-of-year gifts, specially selected by their classroom teachers. We also brought gifts to a few other properties with large youth populations. In total, we served 600+ children and teens throughout our Montgomery County properties. Their smiles were all we needed to know that we made great selections. Thank you to all the corporate and individual donors who made this year’s drive possible.
Angels for Children Toy Drive – Wheaton, MD
With 400+ children and teens served, 100+ volunteers, 22 gift drop boxes, and five Santas, this year’s Angels for Children Toy Drive was a great success! It took a huge village of support to accomplish this major task and together, we got it done. We sincerely appreciate everyone who gave their time and treasure to help our low and moderate-income Wheaton residents have a wonderful holiday. And thank you to our event partners for the past 26 years: Wheaton and Kensington Chamber of Commerce and Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad. Special kudos to Acorn Self Storage for donating our storage unit. We look forward to many more years of serving the community together. Check out this video feature on ABC 7 News!
Strengthening Neighborhoods
Winter Plantings in Long Branch
Aesthetics are a huge part of placemaking. If you’ve ever been to Long Branch, you may have noticed planters outside of some of the local businesses in this Silver Spring neighborhood. Many flowers and shrubs are planted and maintained by MHP staff as part of our effort to strengthen Long Branch in light of Purple Line construction disruptions and other challenges. This is just one of the ways we are engaging in community development efforts to support local businesses and residents. Check out our new winter plantings curated and nurtured by MHP’s Paul Grenier!
New Edition of La Verdad
Have you read the latest version of La Verdad de Long Branch? MHP’s bi-lingual newspaper is available in newsstands throughout the Long Branch business district. Read stories that bring this community gem and its residents to life. Stop by a local establishment or discover the green box outside of Flower Urban Park to get a free copy. Or check out the digital version here.
Building Dreams Tour
MHP provides thousands of low- and moderate-income families and individuals with quality affordable homes where they can thrive. Our Building Dreams tour, a one-hour experience, is a way to see our work first-hand. Each tour is held at an MHP property and explores the heart of all we do.
The tours include learning about our holistic approach to housing. You will walk the property, see facilities like Community Centers where innovative programs are happening, and hear inspiring resident stories.
Let us show you how MHP is fulfilling our mission by housing people, empowering families, and strengthening neighborhoods. Email Jaimee Goodman to learn more and RSVP: jgoodman@mhpartners.org
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.
You might be a fit for our featured job openings. 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!
The Neighborhood Monthly eNewsletter – December 2024
Housing People
The Chimes at North Bethesda
More than 80 people joined us for the groundbreaking of The Chimes at North Bethesda. We were honored to feature prominent speakers including Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich, Council President Andrew Friedson, Council Vice President Kate Stewart, and more. Located half a mile from the North Bethesda Metro, The Chimes will bring 172,720 square feet of residential space to a bustling area, connecting residents with extensive transportation options, high performing schools, and other amenities while enhancing outdoor spaces for the public. This unique and complex project received funds from many sources including Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs; State of Maryland Community Development Administration, Revitalization Programs and Housing and Community Development; Freddie Mac; Amazon Housing Equity Fund; Capital One; Grandbridge Real Estate Capital; Truist; NeighborWorks America and Enterprise.
Stay tuned for construction updates – anticipated completion will be in 2026.
Empowering Families
Sounds of Joy
MHP students in the GATOR elementary after-school enrichment program shared their voices for a timeless tradition – caroling around the neighborhood! This was our first time doing this and it was a lot of fun for the kids – and a joyful experience for neighbors. MHP Community Life program staff provided this opportunity in tandem with their end-of-year holiday celebrations, which included food, music, and of course delivery of toy drive gifts from our generous supporters. The greatest gift was celebrating the season together and providing a positive environment for students to learn and grow.
Strengthening Neighborhoods
Building Community Through Piñatas
The piñata is a popular tradition in Central America, Latin America, and the United States. To many people, it symbolizes joy, resilience, celebration, and overcoming adversity. Some of our Wheaton residents recently took part in a 10-week piñata-making class in partnership with Impact Silver Spring. This local nonprofit focuses on building a more thriving, equitable, and just Montgomery County. Residents connected with MHP staff and each other, building a sense of community while also learning a marketable and artistic skill. Here are some highlights from their end-of-class celebration!
Wheaton Cleanup
MHP partnered with the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection to host a neighborhood cleanup in Wheaton at our Amherst and Pembridge properties. About 25 volunteers braved chilly temps to take care of this affordable housing community. Thanks to their efforts, the community is sparkling
Upcoming Events
26th Annual Angels for Children Toy Drive
The annual Angels for Children Toy Drive is a joint effort between Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad, Wheaton & Kensington Chamber of Commerce, and MHP. This program has provided toys for low-income children in the Wheaton area since 1998.
We ask for donations of toys, books and games (value of $5 – $15). The collected donations are delivered to local children on December 24th by Santa and his helpers.
Volunteers are also needed in December to wrap and sort toys, books, and games that are donated by the public and collected at area businesses in Wheaton, Kensington, Silver Spring, and Potomac.
Learn more here.
Building Dreams Tour
MHP provides thousands of low- and moderate-income families and individuals with quality affordable homes where they can thrive. Our Building Dreams tour, a one-hour experience, is a way to see our work first-hand. Each tour is held at an MHP property and explores the heart of all we do.
The tours include learning about our holistic approach to housing. You will walk the property, see facilities like Community Centers where innovative programs are happening, and hear inspiring resident stories.
Let us show you how MHP is fulfilling our mission by housing people, empowering families, and strengthening neighborhoods. Email Jaimee Goodman to learn more and RSVP: jgoodman@mhpartners.org
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.
Do you have at least three years of grant writing experience? You might be a fit for our featured job openings. 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!
The Neighborhood Monthly eNewsletter – November 2024
Housing People
Fresh Names and Looks
MHP has recently overseen the rebranding and major renovation of two of our properties that are in the latter stages of construction. New names and logos reflect the unique features of each affordable housing community and showcase our commitment to quality.
Unity Place:
Formerly known as Worthington Woods, Unity Place is located in the Congress Heights neighborhood of Southeast DC with access to downtown DC and public transportation. Surrounded by well-maintained grounds, Unity Place offers residents exceptional apartment living, updated finishes, great service and an amazing location. Read more here.
Gardens of Gaithersburg
Located just off North Frederick Avenue in Gaithersburg, this small community is a hidden gem. Completely renovated inside, generous floorplans include beautiful, newly updated kitchens, ample closets, and hardwood flooring. Residents have use of a large community garden, playground and picnic area with grills.
The location places dining, shopping and entertainment all within easy reach and, for convenience, there is access to public transportation. Read more here.
Interested in renting an MHP apartment? Please contact the property management directly – info on each website. They can help you determine if you qualify based on your income. Find a list of all our properties with phone numbers here.
Empowering Families
Play & Learn + Nature = Enrichment!
Playing and exploring are such important parts of a young child’s development. Through our Play & Learn program, students practice basic skills like how to take turns, raise their hands, write their names, communicate their feelings, and so much more. It’s also amazing to see our students and families engage with nature AND each other on trips. On a recent trip to Nature Forward, students from multiple MHP sites discovered the flora and fauna living in our Maryland ecosystem. They also enjoyed the Woodend Sanctuary’s expansive and unique playground.
FLOW Students Take the Stage
In case you missed our recent benefit breakfast, MHP’s FLOW students were a huge hit. Not all middle schoolers are brave enough to perform in front of almost 300 people! Check out their impressive poetic performance here.
Strengthening Neighborhoods
Festive Fun at Unity Place
The weather was a perfect backdrop for a festive afternoon with our residents. More than 100 people attended the recent Trunk or Treat event at Unity Place (formerly Worthington Woods) in D.C. Families showcased many fun costumes and enjoyed inflatables, food, face painting, music and more! Unity Place is currently under construction, and we look forward to completing major upgrades throughout this property next year!
Upcoming Events
Long Branch Winter Mercado
Join us for a fun afternoon filled with local craft vendors, s’mores, and firepits! And did you hear?! We have a very special guest coming to Long Branch and we thought you should know… We heard he may or may not be arriving on reindeer. We guess you’ll just have to come find out!
It’s always free to meet Santa (real-life flying reindeer sightings may have additional charges).
Please plan to purchase hot beverages from participating restaurants: El Golfo, El Gavilan, & Koma Café.
Campfire & S’mores ingredients will be provided.
26th Annual Angels for Children Toy Drive
The annual Angels for Children Toy Drive is a joint effort between Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad, Wheaton & Kensington Chamber of Commerce, and MHP. This program has provided toys for low-income children in the Wheaton area since 1998.
We ask for donations of toys, books and games (value of $5 – $15). The collected donations are delivered to local children on December 24th by Santa and his helpers.
Volunteers are also needed in December to wrap and sort toys, books, and games that are donated by the public and collected at area businesses in Wheaton, Kensington, Silver Spring, and Potomac.
Learn more here.
Building Dreams Tour
MHP provides thousands of low- and moderate-income families and individuals with quality affordable homes where they can thrive. Our Building Dreams tour, a one-hour experience, is a way to see our work first-hand. Each tour is held at an MHP property and explores the heart of all we do.
The tours include learning about our holistic approach to housing. You will walk the property, see facilities like Community Centers where innovative programs are happening, and hear inspiring resident stories.
Let us show you how MHP is fulfilling our mission by housing people, empowering families, and strengthening neighborhoods. Email Jaimee Goodman to learn more and RSVP: jgoodman@mhpartners.org
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.
Do you have at least three years of grant writing experience? You might be a fit for our featured job openings. 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!
The Neighborhood Monthly eNewsletter – October 2024
Housing People
DHCD Secretary Jake Day Tours MHP
Our state funding partners recently visited the Residences at Forest Glen site and got a sneak peek at this dynamic project, which will be completed in spring of 2025. Much progress has been made and we were able to don our hard hats and explore the building’s interior and exterior. DHCD Secretary Jake Day also stopped by Long Branch to view our extensive community development work there.
We thank Secretary Day and his team for visiting and seeing our work first-hand.
Read more about Secretary Day’s visit here
MHP is excited to unveil the completed Residences at Forest Glen property soon and welcome residents who income qualify. For those interested in renting, please visit this site to complete an interest form.
Empowering Families
Pumpkins and Fall Fun
School days off are a perfect opportunity for special trips with our students! Homework Club students recently visited Butler’s Orchard for a day of fall fun. A hayride brought the kids out to a pumpkin patch where they each picked the perfect pumpkin to bring home. There were many activities including giant slides, a new playground, a rope spider web, corn pit, and mazes. It was a great day to get out and play!
Strengthening Neighborhoods
Tax Credit Support for Residents
Did you know that the State of Maryland provides a tax credit for eligible renters?
The Renters’ Tax Credit Program provides property tax credits for renters who meet certain requirements. The concept rests on the reasoning that renters indirectly pay property taxes as part of their rent and thus should have some protection, as do homeowners. The plan is based upon the relationship between rent and income.
This year, MHP helped 60 residents of Franklin Apartments apply for the Maryland Renters Tax Credit. If deemed eligible, they will receive up to $1,000 from the state and $500 from Montgomery County, which provides a 50% match of the State credit.
Franklin is a property for seniors, and this funding will help our residents immensely.
Staff Happenings
Hispanic Heritage Month
With so many members of our staff hailing from Spain or Latin America, our recent office gathering for Hispanic Heritage Month was both educational and delicious! We enjoyed a variety of foods from local restaurants and connected with each other. Numerous people contributed to this wonderful celebration of cultures and shared their experiences living in America as people of Hispanic descent. Their perspectives also helped our staff better understand the experiences of our residents and community members, many of whom identify as Latinx or Hispanic.
Real Estate Leadership Update
Congratulations to three of our team members who were recently promoted; Stephanie Roodman to vice president of real estate, John Poyer to director of real estate, and Jon McCall to director of real estate!
Read more here.
We appreciate the many contributions of our dedicated staff who help us make home possible
Upcoming Events
Long Branch 5K Fun Run
RUN, don’t walk, to register today!
The Long Branch 5K will be held on November 3rd, 2024 in Long Branch, MD.
This is a family-oriented community event, with proceeds going towards the efforts of Discover Long Branch and the Long Branch Business League, in addition to supporting the Long Branch Festival, one of our major community events! You can run, walk, or even participate virtually. Register here.
Building Dreams Tours
MHP provides thousands of low- and moderate-income families and individuals with quality affordable homes where they can thrive. Our Building Dreams tour, a one-hour experience, is a way to see our work first-hand. Each tour is held at an MHP property and explores the heart of all we do.
The tours include learning about our holistic approach to housing. You will walk the property, see facilities like Community Centers where innovative programs are happening, and hear inspiring resident stories.
Let us show you how MHP is fulfilling our mission by housing people, empowering families, and strengthening neighborhoods. Email Jaimee Goodman to learn more and RSVP: jgoodman@mhpartners.org
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.
Do you have at least three years of grant writing experience? You might be a fit for our featured job: Grants Manager. 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!
