Centre County Housing and Land Trust

Overview

The Centre County Housing and Land Trust (CCHLT) is a nonprofit organization based in Centre County, Pennsylvania. Established in 2008, CCHLT aims to strengthen communities by developing and stewarding permanently affordable homes for individuals and families with low- to moderate-income levels. The organization plays a crucial role in ensuring accessibility to housing in a region where affordability is increasingly challenging.

Mission and Vision

CCHLT's mission is to maintain housing affordability and promote inclusive communities through innovative housing strategies. The organization focuses on separating home ownership from land ownership, which enables low- to moderate-income families to purchase homes at lower costs. This approach not only increases access to housing but also strengthens community ties by keeping homes within the locality rather than on the open market.

History

The formation of CCHLT was catalyzed by the closure of a mobile home community in Patton Township. Initially created to manage and develop affordable housing in response to local needs, CCHLT entered into a partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Centre County, leading to the successful development of Thompson Place—a community that includes nine single-family homes and two rehabilitated duplexes.

Programs and Services

• Affordable Housing Development: CCHLT develops housing independently and in collaboration with other organizations to create diverse housing options for low- and moderate-income households. Their model allows the community to benefit from reduced housing costs while ensuring that homes remain affordable in the long term.

• Financial Literacy Program: The Next Steps Financial Literacy program offers education and resources to empower individuals with the skills necessary for making informed financial decisions, managing resources effectively, and achieving long-term financial stability. This program includes pre- and post-home purchase counseling.

• Developer Support: CCHLT provides essential data and guidance to developers, helping them incorporate affordable housing units into their projects. This support facilitates strategic planning and ensures that developers can effectively navigate the complexities of inclusionary housing policies.

• Municipal Support: The organization advises local municipalities on the development and implementation of affordable housing policies, aiming to mitigate housing challenges and promote community inclusivity.

Core Values

CCHLT operates under several core values that guide its mission:

• Permanent Affordability: Commitment to creating and maintaining homes that are permanently affordable for low- and moderate-income residents.

• Housing Security and Mobility: Enhancing the ability of households to secure quality, affordable housing across various types.

• Neighborhood Quality: Fostering the development and rehabilitation of high-quality housing to combat community deterioration.

• Environmental Sustainability: Promoting ecologically sound land use and strategies that enhance energy efficiency while reducing costs.

• Community Control: Ensuring that local residents have a voice in decision-making processes regarding housing and community development.

Impact

Since its inception, CCHLT has made significant strides in addressing the affordable housing crisis in Centre County. Through partnerships and innovative housing solutions, the organization has been instrumental in ensuring that homes remain affordable for future generations, thus contributing to the vibrancy and diversity of local communities.

Conclusion

The Centre County Housing and Land Trust exemplifies a successful model for community-based housing solutions, balancing the need for affordable homes with the preservation of community integrity. Its ongoing efforts reflect a commitment to social welfare and sustainable development, positioning the organization as a leader in affordable housing initiatives in Pennsylvania.