The Neighborhood Monthly eNewsletter – September 2025

Housing People

Thought Leadership at Bisnow 

At a recent Bisnow DC panel, MHP VP of Real Estate Stephanie Roodman shared some important ways that we are leveraging partnerships to expand and preserve affordable housing in Montgomery County. Stephanie discussed tools in place that are helping us build our affordable housing pipeline, which recently grew to 3,250 homes with the acquisition of Bethany House. The deals we put together would not be possible without support from initiatives like the Nonprofit Housing Preservation Fund and partners like Montgomery County Government and DHCA, the State of Maryland and our many donors and supporters. 

Life at The Bonifant 

On our recent Building Dreams tour, we were fortunate to speak with self-described “party girl” Jan Brown. Jan is an incredible champion of our work and has volunteered countless hours as a member of our board. She was also part of helping us raise $21 million! Jan loves to tell her story about how her grandson introduced her to The Bonifant, our senior property in downtown Silver Spring. We are glad she is in our community and excited to read her book whenever it’s completed!

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Empowering Families

Students Go Green

Our annual Green Club was held in August, and we had 15 eco-savvy kids join us for a week of fun, learning and protecting our planet. Each year, MHP’s Green Club gives kids an opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy time with friends and dynamic staff, right in their neighborhood. This year they learned about the three R’s (reduce, reuse, recycle), planted seeds, decorated bird houses, enjoyed s’mores and more! Green Club is made possible thanks to funding from Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs (DHCA).  

Strengthening Neighborhoods

Block Party at Unity Place 

The Unity Place summer block party was a blast! Families enjoyed inflatables, food, face painting, music, free books, crafts, and more. Career Catchers was onsite to provide support with career development and hygiene kits were generously provided by the Woman In Me Initiative. 

Unity Place is our largest property and one of two in Washington, D.C. A transformative renovation is currently underway and we’re getting closer to completing a brand-new onsite community center and large playground. Through community events, MHP staff connect with residents, provide helpful resources and learn more about the needs of our tenants. 

Long Branch Festival Brings Community Magic 

Another successful Long Branch Festival was held this month, and it was incredible! Flower Ave Urban Park came alive with a diverse lineup of free entertainment, including Cubano Groove, Bongo District, Batala Drummers, Proverbs Reggae, Eric Energy, and more. Interactive offerings like Zumba, musical chairs, salsa dancing and Lotería delighted visitors of all ages. Local restaurants and food vendors included El Golfo, El Gavilan, La Casita, Mansa Kunda, Love & Flour Bakery, Koma Coffee and others.  

Each year, MHP’s efforts draw attention to the Long Branch community, highlighting the neighborhood’s culture and enhancing its status as a destination. Long Branch Festival is a collaborative partnership between MHP and the Long Branch Business League, with additional support from Montgomery County Government, Montgomery Parks, Purple Line Transit Partners, Skypoint Federal Credit Union, Maryland Physicians Care and Cafritz Foundation.  

Addressing Food Insecurity in Takoma Park 

According to a recent Associated Press poll, about half of all Americans say the cost of groceries is a “major” source of stress in their lives right now, while 33% say it’s a “minor” source of stress. For community members making far less than the area median income, this anxiety can be even more pronounced. Each month, MHP distributes food in Takoma Park at our Gilbert Highlands property. For our residents, most of whom are low- or moderate-income, food donations play an essential role in nutrition and balancing budgets. Thank you to the City of Takoma Park, MD – Municipal Government for providing funds to support these food distributions and to Chrisma Charities for providing the food. We could not do this important work without your support and resources. 

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! 

Building Dreams Tour

Building Dreams Tours provide an opportunity to view an MHP property, meet with our staff, and gain insights into our work and mission. Want to learn more? Email 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!