Revitalizing Our Community, One Home at a Time
Rebuilding Homes and Lives in Harrisburg
Since 1989, Brethren Housing Association has been dedicated to transforming the South Allison Hill neighborhood of Harrisburg through strategic housing rehabilitation. By purchasing distressed and abandoned properties and converting them into safe, welcoming apartments, we provide stable housing for single mothers and their children enrolled in our Transitions Program.
Millions Invested in Our Community
Over the years, BHA has invested more than $2 million into revitalizing Hummel and Mulberry Streets, serving as a catalyst for positive change in the community. Our commitment has inspired additional improvements in the neighborhood, creating a ripple effect of renewal and hope.
Our journey began with a single donation in 1989. Harrisburg First Church of the Brethren gifted 207 Hummel Street to the newly formed BHA. This generous act laid the groundwork for our mission, and within a few years, we were managing multiple apartment buildings on the corner of Hummel and Mulberry Streets.
Creating Lasting Change Through Homes on Allison Hill
We continue to build on our legacy with recent efforts that enhance the quality of housing for the families we serve. These projects are a testament to our commitment to creating safe, supportive spaces where families can heal, grow, and thrive.
The Ray Diener House: We acquired a house that had been used for drug-related activities at 203 1/2 Hummel Street for $3,000. We then stripped the inside of the building down to studs and rehabilitated the entire building including removal and rebuilding of the rear addition; new plumbing, electrical and HVAC systems; new drywall, kitchens, baths and flooring. In September 2013, we cut the ribbon on the Ray Diener House, rehabilitated with the help of the Diener Family and many other community partners.
Ellie’s Garden: On a site where six blighted buildings once stood, we now have three townhouses and a beautiful greenspace which has been turned into a flower garden, playground, and picnic area in memory of Ellie Miller.
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Hummel Street Townhouses: Through a collaboration with PinnacleHealth Systems (now UPMC Pinnacle), we demolished six blighted buildings and built three brand new townhouses. The project was funded through partnerships with local community organizations, foundations, and donors.
Gerri Royer House: 203 Hummel Street was acquired in 2014. This building had been a problem property in our neighborhood and was the only building on the northeast corner of Hummel and Mulberry Streets that we did not own. It was rehabbed in memory of Gerri Royer, a long-time BHA supporter, with the help of her family and many community partners. With the completion of this project, we are also able to expand our existing community yard space to connect four other BHA properties.
We need your help to support our work!