Affordable Housing Alliance receives $35,000 in grants for Home Starts Here
The Affordable Housing Alliance of Midland County Non-Profit Housing Corporation (AHA) has received two grants totaling $35,000 from funds held at the Midland Area Community Foundation to support Home Starts Here, AHA’s campaign to preserve and expand affordable rental housing in Midland County.
The grants include $30,000 from the Orrin H. and Eleanor L. Barrett Endowment Fund and $5,000 from the Hemlock Semiconductor Donor-Advised Fund. Both grants were awarded through the Community Foundation’s Caring for Our People focus area.
Home Starts Here will preserve 69 existing affordable homes and create additional rental homes at AHA properties in Coleman and Midland. The development will also improve the quality and long-term sustainability of these communities through renovations, outdoor gathering areas, playgrounds and community spaces.
“We are grateful for these investments in Home Starts Here and in the families who need safe, stable and affordable places to live,” said Mara Stewart, executive director of AHA. “Support from these funds helps us protect affordable housing that already serves our community while creating more opportunities for individuals and families to build stable futures.”
The grant from the Orrin H. and Eleanor L. Barrett Endowment Fund carries special significance as AHA celebrates more than 30 years of service. Orrin Barrett was one of AHA’s early board members and helped guide the organization during its start-up.
“It is especially meaningful to receive support from a fund bearing the Barrett name as we build upon the vision Orrin helped establish three decades ago,” Stewart said. “That early commitment to quality, dignity and responsible stewardship continues to shape our work today.”
The Midland Area Community Foundation exists to cultivate the power of giving within our community, support long-term transformation, and help ensure all residents thrive.
AHA is a nonprofit affordable housing developer with a portfolio of 93 rental units throughout Midland County. Through Home Starts Here, AHA is working to address the growing shortage of affordable housing while advancing three central pillars: preserving existing affordable homes, expanding new housing opportunities, and strengthening the community through housing.
For a limited time, donations to Home Starts Here will be matched dollar for dollar through a $500,000 matching opportunity provided by The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation, doubling the impact of each gift. To learn more or support the campaign, visit www.ahamidland.org/homestartshere.
About the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA)
Founded in 1995, the Affordable Housing Alliance of Midland County Non-Profit Housing Corporation provides below-market rental housing for income-qualified households. Its mission is to ensure that all Midland County residents have safe, affordable housing as they improve their quality of life and continue working toward their fullest potential.
Learn more at https://ahamidland.org.