NEWS!

Veridian Capital Partners Brightens Weinberg House with Hands-On Volunteer Work On Friday February 20, 2026, the team from Veridian Capital Partners, led by founding partners Brian Runkles, CFP, Chandru Ramachandran, CFP, and Brian Williamson, CFP, brought a splash of color—and a lot of heart—to Weinberg House. The group dedicated their time and resources to repaint the hallway rails and residents’ doors, transforming the spaces leading into each apartment. Built in 1995, Weinberg House has long been a warm and supportive home for its residents. The recent makeover not only lifted the spirits of the IHA staff and residents, but also gave the building a refreshed, welcoming appearance that reflects the care and community within its walls. “It’s incredible to see the space come alive with new color, and the joy it brings to our residents is priceless,” said a member of the Weinberg House staff. Thanks to the generosity and hands-on effort of Veridian Capital Partners, Weinberg House is now brighter, more inviting, and a testament to the power of community collaboration.

Stronger Credit. Stronger Families. Stronger Frederick. The 2026 Unity Campaign & IHA’s Credit Café Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is proud to participate in the 2026 Unity Campaign for Frederick County. What is the Unity Campaign? The Unity Campaign is Frederick County’s annual, fully online giving event that brings together local nonprofits, sponsors, and community members for one powerful purpose: strengthening our community together. Every dollar you donate goes directly to the nonprofit of your choice — and we hope you’ll choose Interfaith Housing Alliance. Why Your Support Matters All nonprofits participating in the Unity Campaign serve ALICE households. ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families earn above the Federal Poverty Level, yet still struggle to afford basic necessities like housing, childcare, transportation, food, and healthcare. In Frederick County, 36% of households fall into the ALICE category. That means more than one in three families in our community are working hard — but still living on the financial edge. It could be your neighbor. Your coworker. Your child’s coach. Your family member. Your donation helps create stability where it’s needed most. Where Your Donation Goes: The Credit Café Workshop Unity Campaign donations directly support IHA’s Credit Café Workshop — a completely free program designed to help individuals build stronger credit and greater financial confidence. Just $94.10 covers the cost of two credit reports for one participant. That one step can open the door to: Safer housing Lower interest rates Reliable transportation Better employment opportunities Credit impacts nearly every major financial decision — from renting an apartment to turning on utilities. When someone improves their credit, they improve their future. How the Credit Café Works The program combines education, personalized strategy, and continued support. Step 1: Group Education Participants attend a one-hour virtual workshop offered multiple times each month. They learn: How credit scores work What impacts their score How to build or repair credit Smart financial habits for long-term stability Step 2: One-on-One Advising Within one week, participants meet virtually with an advisor for a personalized 30-minute session. They receive: A free tri-merged credit report (pulled the day of the session) Help understanding their report A customized action plan with realistic credit goals Step 3: Continued Support Participants don’t navigate the process alone. Advisors follow up at 3 and 6 months (by text, email, or phone — participant’s choice) to check progress and provide guidance. They’re also invited back for: A second advising session An updated credit report The program is currently 100% virtual, with expanding hybrid options. Interpretation services are available at no cost in more than 240 languages. How to Donate There are two easy ways to support IHA through the 2026 Unity Campaign: Visit the campaign donation page and select Interfaith Housing Alliance: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/UnityFC26/team/InterfaithHousing 2. Text the campaign code to donate directly: UnityFC2661 to 71777  Every gift makes a measurable impact. Not Able to Donate? You can still make a difference. Share this campaign. Talk about it. Spread the word. Community awareness fuels community change. Interested in the Credit Café Workshop? Contact Lacy Allen Email: lames@interfaithhousing.org Text: 301-818-5606 Together, we can build stronger credit, stronger families, and a stronger Frederick.

Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is proud to announce 12 funding awards totaling more than $333k during the last two quarters from our community partners. In September 2025, IHA was awarded two grants that will support the organization’s Financial Dignity and Empowerment Services. IHA received a $30,000 grant from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) Maryland Housing Counseling Fund (MHCF). IHA also received a $10,000 grant from Truist Financial Corporation. These grants will support the full spectrum of community programming we offer, including: group educational workshops on financial health; individualized financial coaching and housing counseling; and pathways to homeownership. In October 2025, IHA received a $125,000 grant from Morgan Stanley. This grant supports IHA in its ongoing quest to create and provide affordable housing opportunities for LMI community members. It also allows IHA to continue supporting community members through our Financial Dignity and Empowerment Services.. IHA was also awarded a grant by the Ausherman Family Foundation. This 2:1 matching grant will match up to $30,000 in donations raised from community members and IHA’s Board of Directors during the organization's 2025-2026 annual appeal. Funds will support the full range of IHA’s services and programming. In November 2025 and January 2026, IHA was awarded a total allocation of $45,000 in State tax credits through the Community Investment Tax Credit (CITC) Program of Maryland’s DHCD. Donors who make contributions of $500 or more to IHA in support of our mission are eligible to earn tax credits equal to 50% of the value of the money, goods, or real property contribution. These tax credits are in addition to the deductions on both Federal and State taxes as a result of the charitable contribution. In November 2025, IHA was awarded a $20,000 grant from Delaplaine Foundation, Inc. This grant supports three of IHA’s programs: Credit Café; Financial Freedom Bootcamp; and the Frederick Affordable Homeownership Incubator (FAHI). Credit Café participants work specifically on improving their credit. Financial Freedom Bootcamp builds critical foundational skills for financial success. FAHI is a new program in the planning phase that takes a multisectoral approach to affordable housing. IHA also received two funding awards in support of its Credit Café program. IHA’s $10,000 application to participate in United Way of Frederick County’s Annual Unity Campaign was approved. This approval enables IHA to participate in the Spring 2026 Unity Campaign alongside other local nonprofit organizations to collectively raise funds in the Frederick County community. IHA also received a $1,500 Community Grant from the Rotary Club of Carroll Creek (RCCC). Credit Café promotes financial stability among LMI households through group credit education and free, individualized credit advising. Participants partner with a financial coach to create a strategic plan to either build, boost, or improve their report. In addition, IHA received a $1,518.91 designated grant from The PNC Homeownership Fund of The Community Foundation of Frederick County. These pass-through funds will directly support low- to moderate-income (LMI) households in achieving homeownership in Frederick County. In December 2025, IHA was awarded a $55,676 grant from the Maryland Affordable Housing Trust (MAHT). This grant supports the rehabilitation of IHA’s Weinberg House. This 23-unit affordable rental community in Frederick, MD was originally built in 1994 and houses senior members of our community ages 62 and older with very low to moderate income. The rehabilitation project includes upgrades to heating, appliances, plumbing, drywall, flooring, lighting, cabinets, and countertops. IHA also received a $5,000 donor-advised grant from The Nicholson Family Fund of Morgan Stanley. These unrestricted funds will support all of IHA’s endeavors in strengthening the communities we serve.

Cheers to 35 Years of IHA! This year, Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) proudly celebrates 35 years of building homes and strengthening communities across Western and Central Maryland and south-central Pennsylvania. What began in Western Maryland in 1990 with a small group of faith and community leaders has grown into one of the region’s most trusted nonprofit housing organizations. Since those early days, IHA has produced 1,681 units of affordable housing and invested over $413 million in the communities we serve. Guided by our mission to build homes that build community , we work every day to help families, seniors, and individuals find not just a place to live—but a place to thrive. Our Programs: Supporting Stability and Growth At IHA, we know that a home is just the beginning—true stability is built when people have the knowledge, tools, and support they need to succeed. That’s why we offer free programs for anyone in the community who wants to enhance their financial wellbeing and housing stability.  Credit Café: A free three-part series that includes group workshops and one-on-one credit report reviews to help participants understand, build, or rebuild their credit. Financial Freedom Bootcamp: Two interactive workshops that cover budgeting, saving, debt reduction, credit management, and setting achievable financial goals. Purchase-Repair Homeownership Program: Serving Carroll, Frederick, and Washington counties, this program offers free technical assistance through every step of the homebuying or home-repair process—from budgeting and credit counseling to post-purchase support. Resident Supportive Services: Across our affordable rental communities, IHA provides on-site programs such as life skills training, youth development, health and wellness resources, job readiness support, and community-building events. These initiatives reflect our belief that housing is the foundation—but thriving communities are built through connection, opportunity, and care. Our Housing Communities Together, we’ve built and continue to manage welcoming communities, including: Oakwood Family Homes – 22 single-family lease-to-own homes in Glen Burnie, MD Penn Avenue Townhomes – 25 townhomes in Cumberland, MD Washington Ridge – 28 family apartments in Frostburg, MD Weinberg House – 23 senior apartments in Frederick, MD 520 North Market – 59 family apartments in Frederick, MD The Residences at Railroad Square – 45 family apartments in Brunswick, MD Each of these communities represents more than bricks and mortar—they represent dreams realized, families supported, and neighbors who care for one another. As we mark this milestone, we’re filled with gratitude for the residents, partners, staff, and supporters who have shared in this journey. Together, we’ve built more than homes—we’ve built community, connection, and a brighter future. Here’s to the next 35 years of Building Homes to Build Community.

Maryland and Frederick County: A Growing Housing Affordability Crisis Each year around this time, I share data that highlights the growing challenge of housing affordability in Maryland—and this year is no exception. Maryland now ranks as the 8th most expensive state in terms of wages needed to afford a modest two-bedroom apartment. A worker must earn $39.15 per hour —or nearly $81,450 annually —just to meet that threshold. Unfortunately, the situation in Frederick County is even more severe. Alongside Calvert and Charles counties, Frederick tops the list, requiring a staggering $44.50 per hour —equivalent to $92,560 annually —to afford a two-bedroom apartment.  Meanwhile, the average renter in Frederick earns just $18.25 per hour , which translates to an affordable rent of only $949 per month —far below what the market demands. This stark disparity is exactly why the mission of Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is so critical. We are committed to addressing these inequities and advocating for solutions that make safe, stable housing accessible to all. Below, you’ll find the 2025 data from the National Low Income Housing Coalition , detailing housing affordability across Maryland and its counties.

Interfaith Housing Alliance (IHA) is proud to announce two funding awards received this quarter from community partners. In July 2025, IHA received a $3,500 grant from The Croteau Family Charitable Gift Fund, which is a donor-advised fund (DAF) held at T. Rowe Price Charitable. IHA also received a $5,000 grant from The Natelli Communities Charitable Fund of The Community Foundation of Frederick County. These unrestricted funds will support all of IHA’s endeavors in strengthening the many communities we serve.

Money can sometimes feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to! This October, Interfaith Housing Alliance is offering our next Financial Freedom Bootcamp, a free, two-part workshop designed to help you take positive steps toward financial stability and confidence.  The bootcamp kicks off with an in-person workshop on October 15th from 5:30–7:00pm, where participants will explore the building blocks of financial health. You’ll learn how to create a budget that actually works for your lifestyle, discover the best practices for saving, and walk away with strategies for reducing debt in realistic and manageable ways. After the first session, participants are invited to take part in an optional virtual Credit Café, a supportive space to dive deeper into questions about credit and money management. This extra resource helps reinforce what you’ve learned and gives you the chance to connect with others working toward similar goals. The second workshop will be held virtually on October 29th from 5:30–7:00pm, making it convenient to join from home. This session will focus on building confidence when communicating with creditors, understanding your credit, and setting SMART goals to stay on track for the future. Together, these two sessions provide practical, easy-to-use tools to support your financial journey. No matter where you are starting from—whether you’re new to budgeting, trying to rebuild your credit, or just looking for ways to feel more in control—Financial Freedom Bootcamp is a welcoming and encouraging place to begin. At a Glance What : Financial Freedom Bootcamp – free, two-part workshop series When: October 15th (in-person) & October 29th (virtual), both 5:30–7:00pm Topics: Budgeting, saving, debt reduction, credit confidence, SMART goal setting Extras: Optional virtual Credit Café between sessions Register: Contact Lacy Allen at lames@interfaithhousing.org or 301-662-4425 ext. 1203

December 20, 2024, marked one of the happiest days of Nicole’s life—it was the day she and her three children finally had a place to call home. After facing difficult times, being approved as a tenant at the Residence at Railroad Square meant more than just a roof over their heads; it was a second chance at stability and safety. That Christmas, Nicole and her children celebrated the holiday together in their new home. The joy and comfort of that season symbolized a fresh start. As the new year began, life started looking up for Nicole and her family. However , in April 2025, unexpected health issues forced Nicole to miss work, which quickly affected her ability to keep up with rent. Falling behind financially led to an eviction filing—a terrifying prospect that reminded Nicole of the instability she had worked so hard to overcome. “ When I had to be taken to court, it scared me to the point that I immediately reached out to Support Services and other resources to get this fixed ,” Nicole shared. “ My fear was that I would end up back in hotels, homeless again. In Frederick, once you leave the shelter, you have to wait a year just to get on the waitlist again. Then you wait even longer for your turn to get back in. ” At her first court appearance, the property manager requested a two-week continuance so that Nicole could work with the property’s Support Service Coordinator, Sandi. That small window became a turning point. Nicole took immediate action. She met with Sandi to complete a budget plan and connected with resources for rental assistance and food support. She arranged with her property manager to begin making bi-weekly rent payments, making it easier to manage her finances. Most importantly, she made tough but necessary decisions for the wellbeing of her family—like no longer giving her children extra spending money out of guilt for their past struggles. “ I’ve worked hard to get back on track. Sandi guided me to resources that really helped—rent support, food banks, and more. Since the eviction was lifted, I’ve been working closely with Support Services to stay stable ,” Nicole shared. Nicole’s story is one of determination, and the impact of supportive housing and compassionate services. Her journey reflects the importance of second chances—and how a little support at the right time can change everything.

For 35 years, IHA has remained steadfast in its mission. Through obstacles, frustration, pain, tears, a global pandemic, and uncertain times—we persevered. Because that’s what it takes to create affordable housing. That’s the raw truth. As you read this, maybe you’re smiling—because you’re one of the 1,685 households IHA has helped find a home you can afford. You are the reason we exist. We celebrate you. Or perhaps you’re a current or former staff member who helped make this mission a reality. Maybe you held someone’s hand as they shared their struggles and dreams. You might have helped improve a credit score, written a grant, paid the bills, managed a property, or even launched IHA itself. We salute you. You made it happen. Maybe you’re a funder, donor, or investor who believed in our work. You did it. Your dollars created impact and changed lives. Words can’t fully express our gratitude—or the gratitude of those whose lives were transformed by your support.  Or perhaps you’re a current or former board member who believed deeply in IHA’s mission and generously gave your time to serve. You helped shape programs, raise funds, guide the CEO, serve on committees, and plan for both challenges and triumphs. You stood with us through it all—and rejoiced in our successes. Well done. We are grateful. As we reflect on 35 years of impact, we are filled with gratitude—for every household housed, every hand extended, every dollar invested, and every moment of belief in our mission. IHA’s story is not just one of perseverance—it’s a story of people. People who dared to dream, who worked tirelessly, who gave generously, and who stood together to make affordable housing a reality. As we look ahead, we carry this legacy forward with renewed commitment and hope. Thank you for being part of our journey. Now, we invite you to be part of the mission. Our year-end campaign will kick off on November 1st, and this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact. Thanks to generous sponsors, every dollar you give will be matched with $2 , tripling your contribution. We’ve already secured $60,000 in matching sponsorships , and we’re aiming to raise $30,000 more to continue this vital work. Your support helps families find stability, dignity, and hope through affordable housing. Please consider joining us—because together, we build more than homes. We build futures. With gratitude and hope, Jodie Ostoich President & CEO P.S. Every dollar you give will be matched with $2 , tripling your impact. Help us reach our goal and continue building futures through affordable housing. 👉 Click here to donate now