October 2026 Monthly Newsletter
MHPLetter from Rob
Dear MHP Community,
As we reflect on the month of September, I am filled with gratitude and pride for all that we have accomplished together. Across our communities, teams, partners, and residents continued to demonstrate the power of connection, compassion, and service. From improving sustainability at our properties, to partnering with AmeriCorps for student success, to celebrating our cultures, MHP showcased what is possible when we work together toward a shared mission. Every achievement, large and small, reflects our commitment to helping families thrive. Together, we will continue building pathways to stability, opportunity, and belonging for the families we serve.
With appreciation,
Robert A. Goldman
Housing People
The Chimes at North Bethesda: Jack and Freda’s Story
Jack and Freda White are still unpacking at The Chimes at North Bethesda, deciding where each piece of artwork will go, because that’s how a new home becomes their home. Jack, who just turned 90, grew up in St. Louis as the son of entrepreneurs, served as an Army paratrooper, joined the Peace Corps in Afghanistan, and built a consulting career that landed him on Ebony magazine’s list of most eligible bachelors at 34, until he met Freda. She grew up in Clarksville, Virginia, one of 13 children, and graduated from Virginia Union University. They married within a year, settled in Washington, raised two daughters, and now have grandchildren and great-grandchildren. This November they’ll celebrate 56 years of marriage.
Affordable housing at The Chimes has provided a sense of relief for Jack and Freda. Their previous home cost about $3,500 a month on a fixed income, and they felt their lives shrinking around the cost of housing. At The Chimes, they’ve found an affordable home near Metro, shopping, and their doctors, with a management team that listens. Jack is still consulting on technology, now including AI, and Freda, at 80, is ready for fun, family, and travel. As Jack says, affordable housing “is about having enough left to live on.” And Freda has decided this is their final move.
Thank you to Jack and Freda for inspiring our event guests and supporting our mission.
Watch Jack and Freda speak at The Chimes ribbon cutting here.
The Chimes Featured in Reuters Business
Thanks to our partnership with TD, MHP President Robert A. Goldman sat down with the Reuters team and provided insights about how The Chimes at North Bethesda fulfills our mission. He also connected with Jack and Freda White and listened to their thoughts on affordable housing. Thank you to TD and Reuters for this news coverage. We appreciate the opportunity to share our impact with the world.
Read the article here.
Empowering Families
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in Wheaton
At Pembridge Square Apartments in Wheaton, Hispanic Heritage Month was a celebration of the students and families who help make this community such a vibrant and welcoming place. Students recently shared their unique talents, perspectives, traditions, and dreams at a celebratory event featuring Play and Learn, GATOR, Homework Club, and FLOW students. This month, we proudly recognize the cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities while celebrating the achievements and cultural perspectives of all our students.
Americorps Members Support Student Success – scheduled Nov 2
MHP is fortunate to have three Community Life Americorps members this year. Notably, we have our first third year Americorps member, Ellen! Ellen grew up in an MHP property, and her family still resides there. She brings an amazing level of patience and dedication to our students at Great Hope Homes. Gladys is joining us as an Americorps for her second year, and we are thrilled to be working with her again. Camila is spending her first year with us as an Americorps member, but she is not new to MHP. She and her brother were both part of our Community Life programs as children.
Thank you to our wonderful staff for paying it forward and supporting our students. We are also grateful for our partnership with Americorps!
Strengthening Neighborhoods
Long Branch Festival Brings the Neighborhood to Life
The streets came alive at the Long Branch Festival, a vibrant celebration of neighborhood culture, community, and connection. This free outdoor block party transformed the Flower Avenue corridor into a lively cultural marketplace, welcoming residents and visitors alike to enjoy an exciting mix of international flavors, local artisan vendors, and live music.
From delicious food and unique handmade goods to the sounds of live performances filling the streets, the festival showcased the energy and diversity that make Long Branch such a special community. It was a day filled with discovery, celebration, and plenty of opportunities for neighbors to come together.
Be sure to join us for our Long Branch 5k Fun Run on November 8, 2026!
Improving Sustainability at Sligo
At MHP’s Sligo View Apartments in Takoma Park, Ali Khademian, Sustainability Program Manager, is leading efforts to make affordable housing more energy efficient and environmentally sustainable. Through the City of Takoma Park’s Multifamily Building Improvement Grant, Sligo View is receiving upgrades including LED lighting, new refrigerators for residents, and other electrification improvements that will lower energy costs, improve resident comfort, and reduce the property’s carbon footprint. The project demonstrates how investments in aging affordable housing can benefit both residents and the environment while supporting local climate goals.
In Other News
La Finca Coffee Featured in Washingtonian
La Finca Coffee, located at MHP’s commercial property in Long Branch, was recently featured in the September issue of Washingtonian.
The article highlights the Barahonas and their connection to Silver Spring’s Long Branch neighborhood, where they plan to open a café next year. We’re excited to see La Finca and its story recognized by Washingtonian and look forward to what’s ahead for this local favorite.
MHP