LANCASTER, PA — Lancaster Housing Works has acquired its first property as it launches a long-term effort to expand affordable workforce housing across Lancaster County, a region facing one of the tightest rental markets in the nation.
The newly formed nonprofit closed on Stonecreek Court Apartments in Ephrata at the end of December, marking the first deployment of a $10 million philanthropic commitment from High Foundation. Over the next five years, Lancaster Housing Works plans to create between 325 and 360 affordable rental units aimed at workers earning 50 to 80 percent of the area median income.
Lancaster County’s persistently low vacancy rate has pushed housing costs higher, putting pressure on teachers, nurses, tradespeople, and other essential workers. High Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer Robin Stauffer said housing has emerged as the most urgent challenge facing the county, prompting the foundation to move beyond traditional grantmaking and help launch a dedicated housing organization.
Stonecreek Court, a 60-unit apartment community offering one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, was identified as “naturally occurring affordable housing,” meaning rents were already accessible to moderate-income households but were at risk of rising after the property was put up for sale. The acquisition was financed through $4.5 million in philanthropic funding from the High Foundation and a $2.3 million social impact loan from the Lancaster County Community Foundation.
Executive Director Diana Martin said the purchase was a critical early milestone, designed to preserve affordability while building momentum for future acquisitions. Martin also serves as director of high impact for the High Foundation and executive director of Partners for Environmental Stewardship.
Unlike many affordable housing initiatives, Lancaster Housing Works plans to grow its portfolio without relying on Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, a commonly used but often complex and capacity-constrained federal financing tool. Instead, the organization will partner closely with the High companies, drawing on their real estate development, property management, and acquisition expertise at or below market cost.
Mike Shirk, chief executive officer of the High companies, said the approach allows private-sector capabilities to be applied directly to a community need, complementing the foundation’s broader philanthropic work. S. Dale High, chair of the High Foundation, said the initiative reflects a belief that stable, affordable housing is essential to sustaining Lancaster County’s workforce and economic vitality.
Lancaster Housing Works is governed by a board that includes leaders from regional businesses, housing organizations, and the High family, with Tom Baldrige serving as board chair. The organization said additional acquisitions are expected as it works to stabilize existing affordable units and expand supply in communities across the county.
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