Henry County Community Foundation Invests $1 Million in Affordable Housing Solutions

The Henry County Community Foundation (HCCF) has announced its first impact investment.

Through a $1 million impact investment loan, the Henry County Community Foundation is partnering with Affordable Housing Solutions of Henry County and Citizens State Bank to bring more attainable housing options to local families.

Impact Investing

For more than 40 years, HCCF has worked to connect people who care with causes that matter through grants, scholarships, and community initiatives. Now, the Foundation is expanding its approach through impact investing, a model that allows philanthropic capital to generate both social and financial returns while creating tangible community progress.

“Our goal has always been to strengthen Henry County,” said Jennifer Fox, HCCF President and Executive Director. “Impact investing lets us go a step further, investing directly in projects that create opportunity, stability, and growth right here at home.”

About the Investment

Unlike a traditional grant, this impact investment is structured as a loan that will be repaid, allowing the Foundation to reinvest those same dollars into future community projects.

This investment will help AHSHC create more housing opportunities across the county. In collaboration with local landowners and community partners, AHSHC will identify lots for development and target areas most in need of revitalization. The organization focuses on homes that fill the gap between what Habitat for Humanity and private developers provide, helping families achieve the dream of homeownership.

“This is an exciting and meaningful first step,” said Fox. “By investing in this effort, we’re not just supporting a project; we’re investing in stability, opportunity, and the future of Henry County. We appreciate Citizens State Bank’s partnership in managing the loan and their shared commitment to strengthening our community.”

About Affordable Housing Solutions of Henry County

Affordable Housing Solutions of Henry County (AHSHC) is a nonprofit corporation established in November 2024. AHSHC was formed in response to the growing local need for affordable, quality housing options for working families.

AHSHC focuses on filling a crucial gap in the housing market. A 2024 Henry County housing study revealed a need for 1,815 homes priced between $100,000 and $299,000.

Their goal is to construct duplexes and single-family homes priced from $175,000 to $225,000, offering 1,400-1,800 sq. ft. of quality, energy-efficient living space for homebuyers who meet the 80 percent area median income for Henry County ($64,900 for a family of 4). AHSHC is also working to reduce blight across the county by acquiring, rehabbing, or demolishing deteriorating structures throughout the county.

Looking Ahead

“Affordable Housing Solutions was born out of the community’s shared concern for our aging housing stock and limited affordable options,” said Jerry Cash, President of AHSHC. “This investment from the Foundation helps us take a major step forward, turning those concerns into action and building homes families can be proud to own.”

By adding impact investing to its community-building toolbox, HCCF continues to fulfill its mission in new and innovative ways, strengthening local partnerships, improving quality of life, and ensuring that Henry County remains a place where everyone has the chance to thrive.