Behind every home in Brethren Housing Association’s Permanently Affordable Housing (PAH) program is a story of resilience, determination, and hope. These stories reflect the heart of what BHA is about: offering families the tools and support they need to not only survive but thrive. By breaking down systemic barriers and providing stability, PAH empowers families to rewrite their narratives and create brighter futures.
A Fresh Start in Steelton: A Single Mother's Journey
The first property, located in Steelton, became a beacon of hope for a single mother and her child. After completing BHA’s Transitions Program, she had achieved incredible milestones: securing full-time employment, repairing her credit, and paying off past debts. However, her past housing struggles continued to haunt her, making it nearly impossible to find an affordable, safe home.
Enter BHA’s Permanently Affordable Housing (PAH) program. Recognizing her hard work and potential, BHA offered her the opportunity to move into the Steelton property under a rent-to-own agreement. This unique arrangement not only gave her family a stable and safe place to live but also set her on the path to homeownership — a dream she thought was out of reach.
Today, she and her child are thriving. Her ability to move forward without the fear of housing instability is proof that with the right support, families can overcome even the most daunting challenges.
Overcoming Adversity: A Family’s New Beginning
Another graduate of the Transitions Program found herself in dire circumstances after escaping a domestic violence situation. A mother of five children with special needs, she came to BHA with little more than determination and hope for a better future.
Her time in the Transitions Program allowed her to stabilize her family, connect with critical services, and work toward her goals. When it came time to graduate, the lack of affordable housing in the area presented a significant obstacle. BHA stepped in, purchasing a home tailored to her family’s needs.
In March 2023, she and her children moved into their new home. This safe haven has given her the opportunity to focus on her children’s unique challenges while continuing to build a stable and loving environment. Her journey embodies the resilience of so many families who refuse to give up, despite overwhelming odds.
Building Futures, One Home at a Time
The success of this program doesn’t end with individual families. It ripples out into the community, creating lasting change. In May 2024, BHA celebrated the ribbon-cutting of its third permanently affordable home, designed and built in partnership with students at Dauphin County Technical School. This collaboration not only provided a beautiful, affordable home for a family but also gave students invaluable hands-on experience and a sense of pride in contributing to their community.
These stories are a testament to the importance of creating housing solutions that go beyond just providing shelter. They show how stability, coupled with ongoing support, can empower families to achieve goals they once thought impossible.
Your Role in Transforming Lives
As BHA continues to expand the PAH program, we invite the community to join us in creating more stories of resilience. Whether through donations, volunteering, or advocating for affordable housing, your support helps ensure that families in need can find a place to call home — a place where they can rebuild, grow, and thrive.
Together, we can make these stories the norm, not the exception.