Bridges doesn’t just advocate for more affordable housing in Howard County. We lead by example. In 2014, Bridges launched the Alliance program to provide affordable rental housing for households that earn low to moderate incomes. Today the program owns or operates 53 rental homes in the County. Tenant leases are for one year and are renewable.
Households in the program pay below-market rents and participate in a “Circle of Support” designed to help them move along the path to self-sufficiency. Tenants in the program include para-educators, certified nursing aides, childcare providers, restaurant servers, commercial drivers, and security guards. Their rent payments are, on average, 40% below market rates. In addition, tenants are offered regular education sessions related to financial literacy, budgeting and saving, credit repair, retirement investing, and home buying.
Bridges Alliance - Infographic Sept 2021
Program Impacts
- Tenants pay an average of only 32% of household income on rent
- 68% of households made progress on housing stability goals in the last year
- 96% of households remain stably housed after 18 months
Want to Apply?
To be eligible for the Bridges Alliance program, a household must earn between 30% and 60% of Area Median Income. Income is measured based on household size, as shown below. For example, a 4-person household must earn between $36,348 and $72,696.
Other eligibility factors:
- Credit scores for leaseholders must be above 520.
- Preference is given to households with income from employment in Howard County.
- Criminal background, debt profile, and rental history are also considered.
To start the application process, download the eligibility form here. Send the completed form to the Program Manager (see contact details below).
Bridges can partner with private real estate investors and institutions who own rental property. Under these arrangements, Bridges leases a home from the owner and then sublets to a household that meets the program’s eligibility requirements. Owners are assured of regular rental income – paid directly by Bridges -- and diligent property management. To learn more, contact the Bridges Deputy Director Dana Sohr via email.
Want to Volunteer?
Bridges Alliance also seeks volunteer allies for the Circle of Support and for ongoing repairs and maintenance to rental units. To learn more contact the Volunteer Coordinator Chrissy Wilson via email.
Contact the Program Manager
To learn more about the Bridges Alliance program, contact Sarai Colon, Program Associate via email.
