Partnering with congregations

Our congregational partnership model of housing development is unique.

By creating a collaborative model that empowers a congregation to create the mission of an affordable housing development, the congregation becomes the “owners” of the project and invests not just its money but its leadership and its reputation in the success of the project.  It is this commitment more than the money that will truly transform our society.

Our roots at Plymouth Church

Plymouth Church Neighborhood Foundation was launched by a committed group of members and clergy of Plymouth Congregational Church in 1999.  From the congregation's faith values grew a desire to serve the homeless population right on their doorstep in the downtown neighborhood where the church is located.

Our first major housing initiative was to develop a vacant nursing home across the street from Plymouth Church into apartments for formerly homeless adults. The result was Lydia Apartments, the property that launched us as a "name" in affordable housing in the Twin Cities.

We have since formed collaborative partnerships with 10 congregations to develop housing for families, youth and seniors, and we work closely with 42 congregations to provide emergency overnight shelter and supportive services to families experiencing homelessness.