The Neighborhood Monthly eNewsletter – May 2026
Housing People
It’s all in the Bags!
When it comes to serving residents, it’s all in the bags! Special thanks to Lisa Cooley and her students at St. Peter’s Catholic School in Olney. They decorated bags, wrote special notes, and donated useful items for 50 of our residents at Unity Place. The bags will be reserved primarily for our Permanent Supportive Housing residents, many of whom have experienced being unhoused. Great work, St. Peter’s students!
Unity Place Ribbon Cutting
It’s official – we’ve cut the ribbon at Unity Place! Thanks to this project, 394 homes have been preserved as affordable and renovated. Now, families can enjoy a brand-new community center named after Evelyn Harrison, one of the property’s founding tenant association members. At the event, project partners were joined onstage by several residents, including Brenda Terry, who shared her moving and poignant story of resilience. We are grateful to the many partners who made this day possible!
Maryland Sustainable Growth Award
We’re thrilled to share that The Residences at Forest Glen has won a Maryland Sustainable Growth Award! The project was selected by the Sustainable Growth Subcabinet and the Maryland Department of Planning. The award was presented by Governor Wes Moore, Secretary Jake Day, and Subcabinet Chair Rebecca L. Flora.
The Residences at Forest Glen sets a new benchmark for affordable housing by transforming a formerly decaying site into 189 high-quality homes along the Georgia Avenue corridor. By integrating educational spaces, green infrastructure, and diverse community amenities, we have ensured that this development not only houses families but also connects them to jobs, stability, and opportunity. Thank you to our State of Maryland partners for this wonderful recognition.
Empowering Families
Generations United by Literacy
Did you know that according to the National Literacy Institute, the US ranks 36th in the world in literacy, and approximately 21% of adults in America are illiterate? There are actions we can take as a community to help strengthen students’ reading skills and build a lifelong love of reading. In addition to other efforts through our Community Life programs, MHP’s GATOR program has been working with a wonderful group of volunteers from Congregation Har Shalom. They have worked with students from kindergarten through second grade to help strengthen their reading skills. This intergenerational effort brings energy to our classrooms and connects community members through literacy-based activities. Thank you to our partners at Har Shalom!
Mugs with Moms
MHP staff are always looking for ways to connect with the families of students enrolled in our programs. In-person meetings and events allow us to better understand each student’s needs and ultimately better serve communities. Mother’s Day is a special time when we can honor the parents and guardians who play a pivotal role in their children’s lives, while strengthening connections. Thank you to all the moms who enjoyed cupcakes, balloons and mug-decorating with their kids.
Strengthening Neighborhoods
Piñata Entrepreneurship
MHP residents created some of the most charming and exquisite piñatas we’ve ever seen for Long branch Cinco de Mayo. Children gathered around the piñatas at this recent event and relished the opportunity to hit them with all their might. The piñatas were made by MHP’s third cohort of 🪅 students. Special thanks to Carol of Empresarias Latinas en Acción for presenting strategies of how to start a business and supporting residents who are enrolled in this class.
Long Branch Earth Day
It was another great Earth Day celebration in Long Branch! 🌎🌱 From Planting with Paul, to Roxana’s floral scavenger hunt, to the team from Montgomery County Public Libraries joining us, it was wonderful seeing the community come alive. This also marked the kickoff to our year of events in Long Branch, and Jacob’s first official event as our Main Street Manager! We’re excited for everything ahead this year in Long Branch. Visit https://discoverlongbranch.com/ to learn more about upcoming events.
In Other News
HQ Jewish American Heritage Month at MHP HQ
Colleagues came together to present a Passover-themed celebration for Jewish American History Month. MHP staff enjoyed traditional foods like matzoh and charoset and learned about how the holiday illuminates the importance of freedom. It was meaningful to share personal experiences and connect while discussing universal themes. Special thanks to guest speaker Dr. Jonah Murdock for sharing his extensive historical knowledge!
Sponsor the Christeller Golf Classic!
Our annual Norman Christeller Golf Classic is happening on June 15. We’re seeking sponsors to support this worthy cause! Sponsorships come at a variety of levels to meet the needs of your business or organization. It’s the perfect way to network with industry professionals and gain valuable marketing exposure. Help us put the FUN in fundraiser – become a golf sponsor today! Learn more on our website.
Seeking Pembridge Food Pantry Donations
Did you know that our resident outreach team runs a food pantry attached to our Pembridge Community Center? This small but mighty storage location can hold many nonperishable food items for residents in need. We’re seeking donations of canned goods on an ongoing basis. Please contact Fatima (fcoreas@mhpartners.org) to schedule a drop-off at the Pembridge Community Center. Thanks for helping us provide food for the community!
Combatting Food Insecurity with Fatima
Discover Fatima’s perspective on her work helping residents with SNAP benefits and combatting food insecurity in the latest MHP on Mic.
Building Dreams Tour
MHP’s Building Dreams tours provide a one-hour opportunity to see our work first-hand. Join Rob Goldman, Jaimee Goodman and other staff members for a deeper drive into our holistic approach and mission to expand and preserve affordable housing. RSVP and learn more by emailing Jaimee: jgoodman@mhpartners.org.
The Neighborhood Monthly eNewsletter – April 2026
Housing People
Now Leasing – Unity Place Apartments
With a brand-new community center, playground, renovated apartments, and an affordable price point, Unity Place is move-in ready! Looking for an affordable apartment in DC? Visit the Unity Place website or call the property management office today to learn more and see if you qualify. Visit unityplaceapts.com or call (202) 563-0400
Join the Interest List – The Chimes at North Bethesda
Join The Chimes at North Bethesda interest list today to receive updates on this brand-new affordable apartment community, which offers modern homes, thoughtful amenities, and a vibrant location. It’s under construction and opening this fall! Visit the property website to learn more and add your email: here.
Celebrating $1M in Congressional Funds for Amherst
MHP was selected to receive $1 million for Amherst Affordable Housing Redevelopment through Fiscal Year 2026 Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS). Through the larger Amherst Wheaton Arts Project, MHP plans to redevelop its existing Amherst property in conjunction with a neighboring parcel. MHP will transform an older 125-unit 3-story garden apartment community with obsolete units and out-of-date systems into a modern mixed-use affordable project. The new development will feature 272 rental units, 39 for-sale townhomes, and a cultural arts center, within walking distance of Metro. Learn more here.
Empowering Families
Honoring Local Teachers
Teachers leave an indelible mark on so many lives and they must be treasured. This Women’s History Month, we paid special tribute to all the teachers making a difference, especially since women make up about 77% of the teaching profession. MHP staff created thank you bags for teachers in our community who serve low-income students. Colleagues joined together to stuff the bags with useful and inspirational items. They also wrote personalized notes for each teacher. Thank you to all the teachers out there who are building our society’s future.
Fun in the Sun Hunting for Eggs
With more than 2,000 eggs to find and lots of open green space to explore, GATOR Club students were all smiles at our recent egg hunt. Play and Learn preschool students also joined the excitement at their community centers. The sun was truly shining on our program. Parents were invited to join the fun and engage in their children’s learning. It’s always rewarding to bring families together and celebrate spring in the great outdoors.
Strengthening Neighborhoods
Residents Testify at County Council Hearing
Advocacy matters! With many competing priorities in our state and county budgets, we need to raise our voices and demand that affordable housing gets the support it deserves! MHP is engaging in advocacy in a variety of ways. Recently, a group of residents attended the Montgomery County Council session and testified in favor of affordable housing. MHP also sent out an email action alert to build support for the Housing Initiative Fund. Staff have visited Annapolis several times a week recently, to advocate for keeping affordable housing a priority. When we lift our voices together, we are louder, stronger, and more impactful.
Fair Housing Month Recognition
National Fair Housing Month is observed every April to commemorate the 1968 Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability. It serves as a time for education, action, and reflection to ensure equitable housing opportunities for all, as millions of people experience housing discrimination in this country each year. Thank you to the Montgomery County Council and the City of Rockville for honoring MHP with a Fair Housing Month proclamation!
Long Branch Spring Events
So much is happening in Long Branch this spring! From planting flowers at Earth Day to Latin faire at Cinco de Mayo to getting artsy at the new Long Branch Busker Series, there’s something for everyone at this vibrant locale. Visit https://discoverlongbranch.com/ to learn more about upcoming events.
In Other News
Women’s History Month at MHP HQ
For the past few years, MHP has partnered with Runway for a Cause Foundation to provide personal and household items for our residents. Founder Lara Akinsanya recently spoke to our staff and shared the story of how she started this organization, what motivated her decision, and how she balances it all as a single mom. Thank you to Lara for generously volunteering her time to speak with our team and for the amazing work she is doing to support underserved communities throughout the DMV region.
Sponsor the Christeller Golf Classic!
Our annual Norman Christeller Golf Classic is happening on June 15. We’re seeking sponsors to support this worthy cause! Sponsorships come at a variety of levels to meet the needs of your business or organization. It’s the perfect way to network with industry professionals and gain valuable marketing exposure. Help us put the FUN in fundraiser – become a golf sponsor today! Learn more on our website.
Employee Milestones
Rob Goldman – 25 Years of Leadership
This month, we’re celebrating our fearless leader Robert A. Goldman, who has achieved an amazing professional milestone: president of MHP for 25 years!
Thanks to Rob’s effective leadership, MHP has scaled up to meet the intense demand for affordable housing for low- and moderate-income earners. Since the beginning of his tenure, MHP’s real estate portfolio has increased by almost 600%, totaling 3,250 apartment homes today. Beyond growth measured in square footage, programs have also grown and evolved to meet the latest community needs.
We’ll be recognizing this achievement in a variety of ways, so stay tuned in to our social media platforms, website, and even some public announcements.
Celebrating Rosa’s 20th Anniversary
This month, we are also celebrating an employee who has been with MHP for an impressive 20 years! Not only do we recognize Rosa Aleman for her major work anniversary, but she was also selected as this quarter’s Spirit of MHP award winner.
Rosa, a senior accountant, truly embodies the values of MHP through integrity, accountability, teamwork, and outstanding communication. She is someone who can always be counted on—responsive, thoughtful, and willing to help no matter what the situation. Whether she is handling sensitive topics with care or stepping in to support a colleague, Rosa does it all with professionalism and kindness. Congrats to Rosa on this achievement!
Seeking Pembridge Food Pantry Donations
Did you know that our resident outreach team runs a food pantry attached to our Pembridge Community Center? This small but mighty storage location can hold many nonperishable food items for residents in need. We’re seeking donations of canned goods on an ongoing basis. Please contact Fatima (fcoreas@mhpartners.org) to schedule a drop-off at the Pembridge Community Center. Thanks for helping us provide food for the community!
Combatting Food Insecurity with Fatima
Discover Fatima’s perspective on her work helping residents with SNAP benefits and combatting food insecurity in the latest MHP on Mic.
Building Dreams Tour
MHP’s Building Dreams tours provide a one-hour opportunity to see our work first-hand. Join Rob Goldman, Jaimee Goodman and other staff members for a deeper drive into our holistic approach and mission to expand and preserve affordable housing. RSVP and learn more by emailing Jaimee: jgoodman@mhpartners.org.
DC News Now covered MHP’s media engagement on its upcoming Amherst Affordable Housing Redevelopment and Arts Project. Through this project, MHP plans to redevelop its existing Amherst property in conjunction with a neighboring parcel.
MHP will transform an older 125-unit 3-story garden apartment community with obsolete units and out-of-date-systems into a modern mixed-use affordable project. The new development will feature 272 rental units, 39 for-sale townhomes, and a cultural arts center. In total, MHP will create 311 affordable homes with a focus on deeply affordable housing. Read our latest press release for more details on recent funding.
The Neighborhood Monthly eNewsletter – March 2026
Housing People
Staff and Supporters Tour The Chimes at North Bethesda
On our latest Building Dreams tour, the group donned hard hats, vests, and boots and enjoyed a firsthand look at construction in progress at The Chimes at North Bethesda. Rob Goldman, Stephanie Roodman, Nate Robbins, and Jaimee Goodman shared how the property’s design enables MHP to incorporate sustainability, maximize space, and accommodate our signature Community Life programs. We viewed the ground layer of the public nature overlook deck and stream restoration area, a unique feature of this property. The Chimes at North Bethesda will contain 163 affordable apartment homes all within walking distance of the Metro. Thank you to everyone who joined our tour and showed their support for this exciting project.
Looking for an apartment and interested in joining the interest list? Visit the website here.
Unity Place Apartments are Ribbon Ready
Unity Place apartments are almost completed and ready for an upcoming ribbon cutting ceremony on April 29! The snow is melted, the community center furniture is on the way, and finishing touches are making the property sparkle. Tameka Webb and Beth Seward gave us the scoop on how this project fulfills MHP’s mission. RSVP to the event and watch the video here.
Looking for an affordable home in DC? Visit the Unity Place website to learn more about renting an apartment there. There are still a few units available!
Empowering Families
FLOW Takes on Annapolis
Kids are the future and because of this, youth voices have a special power. Our FLOW teen students recently visited Annapolis and spent time at the offices of our State of Maryland elected officials. While their peers enjoyed a day off, our Community Life students were actively engaging with decision makers and learning how government functions. They also provided a perspective on the importance of affordable housing for their families, taking part in advocacy for MHP’s mission. We sincerely thank Delegate Jared Solomon for extending this invitation to our students and to our staff for making this impactful trip a reality.
Intergen Game Day at Franklin Unites Teens and Seniors
As part of our work to strengthen neighborhoods, MHP brought teen volunteers together with our residents for a day of board games, snacks, and discussion. It was a fun and relaxed way to connect and build community. Watch a video featuring some of our residents and volunteers here.
Strengthening Neighborhoods
Magical Storytime Soirée
MHP recently held our first magical story time soirée event at Parkview Towers. Local author Chakayla Absalom visited the property, read her book to families, and gave each child a signed copy! Chakayla’s book entitled, Understanding Archie’s Autism: A Sibling’s Guide, promotes understanding of autism and neurodiversity. Millions of people around the world have autism and there are many within our own community. Knowledge is power and through greater understanding of one another, we can build a more unified world. Thank you to Chakayla for sharing her book with our residents! It meant so much to them.
Pembridge Diaper Bank
Diapers for a single baby can cost $70 or more per month. With costs for other changing supplies added, parents typically spend a minimum of $10k during a baby’s first year. This excludes other costs such as childcare, clothing, bottles, furniture, gear, food, and more. For families making less than the median income, the financial burden is all too real. Fortunately, MHP is distributing diapers, wipes, and feminine hygiene products at our Pembridge pantry in Wheaton, MD. To keep our pantry stocked, we need your support. Please contact Fatima if you would like to donate supplies: fcoreas@mhpartners.org. We will find a drop-off time that works for your schedule! Thank you in advance for your consideration.
In Other News
Governor Moore Visits Long Branch
“Storefront improvements strengthen entire commercial corridors. They signal to residents that investment is happening right now, on their block, in their neighborhood. And the momentum is there in Long Branch – thanks to partnerships with local and federal officials – and along the whole Purple Line corridor.” – Governor Wes Moore
MHP was elated to host Governor Moore on a recent visit to Long Branch. In front of the Flower Theatre, joined onstage by MHP’s Chris Gillis in addition to numerous other elected officials, including Congressman Jamie Raskin, he discussed new funding to support local businesses through façade improvements. Watch the video on Instagram here
Black History Month at MHP HQ
At our recent office Black History Month event, we welcomed guest speaker Tuesday Barnes, an Applied Sociology and Social Justice PhD student at Morgan State University. Tuesday guided our staff through a discussion around the topic, “Reimagining Home and History.” Together, we explored how the Black community has created belonging, preserved legacy, and shaped the future. Team members connected on thought-provoking topics including the importance of making time to dream. Many staff shared artifacts from their personal cultures and histories. And of course, we enjoyed food from around the globe, including African dishes and American soul food. Thank you to our staff committee who put this event together and to Tuesday for the engaging presentation!
Save the Date for the Golf Classic
Our annual Norman Christeller Golf Classic is happening on June 15. Help us put the FUN in fundraiser – sign up for your foursome or become a sponsor today! Learn more on our website.
Seeking Pembridge Food Pantry Donations
Did you know that our resident outreach team runs a food pantry attached to our Pembridge Community Center? This small but mighty storage location can hold many nonperishable food items for residents in need. We’re seeking donations of canned goods on an ongoing basis. Please contact Fatima (fcoreas@mhpartners.org) to schedule a drop-off at the Pembridge Community Center. Thanks for helping us provide food for the community!
Combatting Food Insecurity with Fatima
Discover Fatima’s perspective on her work helping residents with SNAP benefits and combatting food insecurity in the latest MHP on Mic.
Building Dreams Tour
MHP’s Building Dreams tours provide a one-hour opportunity to see our work first-hand. Join Rob Goldman, Jaimee Goodman and other staff members for a deeper drive into our holistic approach and mission to expand and preserve affordable housing. RSVP and learn more by emailing Jaimee: jgoodman@mhpartners.org.
The Neighborhood Monthly eNewsletter – February 2026
Housing People
Safety Tips for Seniors at The Bonifant
Fire safety is essential for everyone. Emergencies such as fires pose a greater risk for seniors, especially those with mobility challenges, oxygen support, hearing impairments , and more. Residents of The Bonifant at Silver Spring recently participated in a fire safety training with James Resnick. James develops and provides fire safety and injury prevention education and outreach programs and support for senior citizens in Montgomery County, Maryland, in partnership with Fire and Rescue Services.
What’s New at The Chimes at North Bethesda
What’s new at The Chimes at North Bethesda? Short answer: a lot! This ground-up construction property is making excellent progress and if things keep moving along as expected, MHP will hold a ribbon cutting in fall of 2026. Wondering about the name? The Chimes has a subtle musical theme with interactive playground and community elements that make sounds. It is walking distance from the North Bethesda Metro station, offering residents easy access to public transportation, which in turn supports access to jobs, groceries, shops, education, medical care, and more.
Empowering Families
Week of Love
Love is in the air! Community Life students celebrated Valentine’s Day with crafts, snacks, games, music and more! It’s important to promote respect, empathy, and consideration of others in the classroom. When children work on these social skills at a young age, it sets them up for successful relationships in the future. Valentine’s Day is an opportunity for students to spread love.
Centering Student Choice
Sharp, our independent evaluator, recently observed MHP’s Great Achievers Towards Outstanding Results (GATOR) Club at Pembridge Community Center.
According to the Weikart Center, “giving youth opportunities to make decisions encourages them to explore their interests, participate as group members and leaders, and ultimately become stronger decision makers in life.”
We’re proud to share that MHP Community Life staff were observed to be particularly adept at providing numerous opportunities for all students to make both content and process choices. Students appeared familiar with pre-established guidelines to suggest content choices to staff (e.g., “let’s make slime” or “let’s make glow stick jewelry”), and were observed selecting new activities supplied around the room at the beginning the session (e.g., “I wanna try these new foam animals!”). Students were also observed making numerous process choices (e.g., how to design their artwork, how to build Legos), and were encouraged by staff to try new processes (e.g., “I calculate area like this, show me how you would do it”).
Student choice makes learning more fun and effective!
Strengthening Neighborhoods
Adventist Healthcare Partnership
New year, new partnership! MHP runs a unique Community Health Worker (CHW) program that serves more than 250 of our residents in Wheaton, MD. Nearly a quarter of households lack health insurance, many live with chronic conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and asthma, and almost half experience food insecurity. CHWs are trusted, culturally sensitive members of the community who provide health education, connect residents to resources, and serve as liaisons with healthcare systems. Through place-based outreach, navigation support, and coordination with providers, the program seeks to reduce disparities for low-income families. We’re excited to announce a new partnership with the Adventist HealthCare Community Partnership Fund that will help our CHWs improve health access, reduce preventable illness, and eliminate barriers for underserved populations, while establishing a replicable model for other high-need communities.
Winter Coats Bring Warmth in Wheaton
Temps in Montgomery County dropped into single digits this month. Fortunately, MHP was able to provide winter coats for 100 residents in Wheaton thanks to the support of a donor and the organizing efforts of our Neighborhoods team and Community Health Workers. When we work together as a community, we can look out for vulnerable neighbors, especially during inclement weather.
Seeking Pembridge Food Pantry Donations
Did you know that our resident outreach team runs a food pantry attached to our Pembridge Community Center? This small but mighty storage location can hold many nonperishable food items for residents in need. We’re seeking donations of canned goods on an ongoing basis. Please contact Fatima (fcoreas@mhpartners.org) to schedule a drop-off at the Pembridge Community Center. Thanks for helping us provide food for the community!
Combatting Food Insecurity with Fatima
Discover Fatima’s perspective on her work helping residents with SNAP benefits and combatting food insecurity in the latest MHP on Mic.
Building Dreams Tour
MHP’s Building Dreams tours provide a one-hour opportunity to see our work first-hand. Join Rob Goldman, Jaimee Goodman and other staff members for a deeper drive into our holistic approach and mission to expand and preserve affordable housing. RSVP and learn more by emailing Jaimee: jgoodman@mhpartners.org.