Investing in Housing Solutions Across South Central Pennsylvania

Housing shapes every part of community life.

When people have a safe and stable place to live, families are stronger, health improves and communities are better positioned to grow. That is why The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) has committed to supporting safe, stable housing for all. Through its Equitable Access to Housing initiative, TFEC is working to expand options for affordable and accessible housing across its footprint. The effort is focused on building long-term community stability. At the same time, it supports environmental health and works to ensure fair access to housing that meets people's needs.

"This work reflects TFEC's commitment to investing in the long-term strength of our communities," said Jennifer Doyle, president and CEO of TFEC. "Our hope is to support local solutions that meet real needs and help more people across our region build a stable future."

The Need is Clear in South Central PA

The housing challenges facing our region do not look the same across communities, but the need is clear in each one. Local needs assessments point to rising costs, limited housing options and growing financial pressure on households across the footprint.

Cumberland County: Basic needs continue to outpace wages. More households are also facing housing cost burden, especially older adults and lower-income renters.

Dauphin County: Homelessness remains a major issue. More households are also spending too much of their income on housing and related costs.

Franklin County: Housing affordability is becoming a greater concern. Home prices and rents are rising faster than income, making housing harder to afford.

Lebanon County: Housing supply remains tight. Rental options are limited, homes for sale are scarce and many households are already housing cost burdened.

Perry County: Housing costs are putting more pressure on local households. That strain is contributing to broader economic hardship across the county.

TFEC's response is rooted in the belief that housing challenges are complex and require community-wide action. No one investment will solve the issue. Real progress takes strong local partners working together. It also requires listening to community needs and supporting solutions that can make a lasting difference.

"We know there is no single answer to housing challenges," said Stefani McAuliffe, vice president of community impact at TFEC. "Meaningful progress takes strong local partnerships. It also depends on thoughtful investment and a clear understanding of what each community needs most."

Investing in Local Housing Solutions

TFEC is putting this commitment into action by investing in community-based housing efforts across the region. That includes a $25,000 grant to the AMiracle4Sure Community, which serves people experiencing homelessness in the greater Harrisburg area. The organization is creating a space where vulnerable neighbors can find hope, stability and support.

"It is so important that we as the community, collectively support the needs of the most vulnerable," said Marsha Curry, founder and executive director of AMiracle4Sure. "The dynamics of homelessness are so complex that it cannot be solved by one person or one entity. It requires us all to do our part and I believe when we do, those we serve have a sense of hope. This grant speaks to the hearts of those who trust TFEC to ensure their donations have a direct impact on the critical needs of the greater Harrisburg area. Many thanks to the community for all they have done."

According to Curry, local residents can support the AMiracle4Sure Community in several ways. By following the organization on social media and sharing updates with others, individuals can help keep the spotlight on those in need. They can also collect needed items listed on the organization's website at www.amiracle4sure.com, helping to ensure needs are not left unmet. Curry also noted that volunteers are needed in the community. Support may include helping with cleaning, assisting with laundry or preparing a meal. Those who want to be involved more actively may also consider joining the board and contributing to future planning. Financial support of the Amiracle4Sure community is also welcome. Donations help cover utility costs and support the development of a pavilion over the housing units.

Because housing challenges take different forms across the region, TFEC is expanding its response to allow for local flexibility. In 2026, TFEC will offer five new competitive grant opportunities, providing $10,000 per community in Cumberland, Franklin, Lebanon and Perry counties, as well as Mechanicsburg, to support housing-related work. Nonprofits interested in applying for these grants can email [email protected] to learn more. Community members who want to support this work can email [email protected] to learn how to begin their own philanthropic journey and invest in solutions that strengthen their community.

"This work is about more than housing units," said Jennifer Doyle, president and CEO of TFEC. "It is about people. It is about helping families build a stronger foundation and making sure more of our neighbors have a fair chance to find a safe place to call home."

Housing challenges affect every county in different ways, but the goal is shared. TFEC is committed to working with donors, nonprofit partners and community leaders to move this work forward and create stronger communities across the region.