More people are being priced out of the housing market. These non-profit groups are trying to help

are affordable, with rents ranging from $750 to $1,200 a month. The remaining 30 per cent are rented at market rates, which helps subsidize the affordable units. 

Bishop said the Housing Trust aims for a 50-50 split between affordable and market rent units in the long run. 

\”We’re trying to balance having a mix of incomes in the building, so it’s not just low-income tenants living in the building,\” she said. \”It really helps create a sense of community and also helps us financially.\” 

The Trust also relies on fundraising and grants to cover operational costs, which can be challenging. 

\”The cost of managing these properties is high, and it’s not something that a lot of people think about,\” Bishop said. 

Despite the financial challenges, Bishop said the work is rewarding. 

\”We’re providing people with a safe, stable, affordable place to live, and that’s so important,\” she said. 

Back in Boylston, O’Regan is preparing for the next renovation project at the Community First building. She knows that the organization will have to make some tough decisions in the near future, but she’s determined to keep moving forward. 

\”We’re all in this together,\” she said. \”We’re going to figure it out and continue to provide affordable housing for the people in our community.\”