Our History
50+ Years of Strengthening Baltimore Through Homeownership.From a small neighborhood effort to a citywide impact, NHS Baltimore has helped generations of residents buy, repair, and stay in their homes.
Since 1974, Neighborhood Housing Services of Baltimore (NHS) has worked alongside residents, community leaders, and partners to expand access to homeownership and revitalize neighborhoods across the city. What began as a grassroots effort near Patterson Park has grown into a trusted, community-based organization helping families build stability and invest in their future.
Our history reflects a long-standing commitment to removing barriers, preserving legacy homeowners, and strengthening Baltimore communities block by block.
Honoring 50 Years of Community Impact
In 2024, NHS Baltimore celebrated 50 years of expanding homeownership, preserving homes, and strengthening neighborhoods across Baltimore City. Explore the milestones, stories, and community impact that shaped this important anniversary.
Our Journey Through the Years
1970s: Founding and Early Success
1974: Matilda Koval’s efforts to revitalize a 12-block area north of Patterson Park led to the formation of Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS). NHS operated on a partnership model involving residents, businesses, local government, and state government.
1975: First loan made.
1976: Within the first 16 months, NHS facilitated $1.25 million in mortgages and home improvements.
1978: Expansion of NHS efforts with a second office in Govans-Pen Lucy.
1979: Establishment of Neighborhood Rental Services.
During this decade, NHS helped 245 families buy houses in a 30-block area and aided renovation efforts at 103 other properties. The 1970s were foundational years for NHS, establishing our role as a partner in neighborhood revitalization and community stabilization, setting the stage for future growth and impact.
1980s: Growth and Expansion
1981: Partnership established with the State of Maryland during Mike Braswell’s tenure as Executive Director.
1986: NHS office established in Irvington. More than $3 million was committed for housing rehabilitation and acquisitions in Coppin Heights community of West Baltimore through an initiative led by NHS and 10 area banks.
1986: 300 vacant houses rehabbed, 600 renters became homeowners in Patterson Park neighborhoods.
1989: Establishment of NHS office in Coppin Heights.
The 1980s were a period of expansion for NHS, marked by strategic partnerships and a larger impact on community housing, laying the groundwork for long-term neighborhood transformation.
1990s: Community Focus and Education
1993: Start of the Patterson Park Neighborhood Initiative.
1994: NHS begins management of Patterson Park Initiative campaign.
1999: Launch of the Home Buyers Education curriculum.
1999: Neighborhood Renter Services had a portfolio of 220 rental units with 16 more under construction.
The 1990s emphasized the importance of education and community involvement in achieving homeownership and neighborhood revitalization. Our efforts to educate homebuyers and ensure fair and quality rehabilitation played a critical role in building strong, informed communities.
2000s: Crisis and Recovery
2008: The foreclosure crisis prompted efforts to address foreclosure and provide down payment assistance to homebuyers.
2009: Efforts to mitigate the foreclosure crisis continued.
The 2000s presented significant challenges, especially with the foreclosure crisis. Our measures to support homeowners and reduce the impacts of the foreclosure crisis underscored our commitment to community stability and our capacity to provide essential resources during times of economic hardship.
2010s: Revitalization and Community Engagement
2013: Wells Fargo CityLIFT Program launched, providing $15k in down payment assistance.
2015: Re-engaged in community development projects and stabilization in Greater Rosemont Mondawmin communities.
2015: Partnership begins on the revitalization plans of the Walbrook Mill to address the food desert issue in West Baltimore.
The 2010s highlighted NHS’s commitment to revitalizing neighborhoods without displacing its residents. Through innovative programs and strong community partnerships, we successfully balanced development with inclusivity, reinforcing our mission to foster vibrant communities.
2020 - Present Day: Innovative Financing and Housing Solutions
2022: New Market Tax Credit starts and Acquisition Rehab Program to address abandoned homes in Baltimore City.
2020 to present day marks a period of innovation and strategic action for NHS, addressing housing challenges with new financial tools and programs to ensure continued community revitalization and support for Baltimore residents.
Our Impact Continues
For more than five decades, NHS Baltimore has helped residents build stability through homeownership, financial education, and neighborhood reinvestment. As Baltimore continues to grow and change, our commitment remains the same – creating pathways for families to buy, repair, and stay in their homes.
Our story is still being written. See how NHS Baltimore continues to support homeownership, preserve homes, and strengthen communities across Baltimore City today.
Be Part of the Next Chapter
For more than 50 years, NHS Baltimore has worked alongside residents to expand homeownership, preserve homes, and strengthen neighborhoods across Baltimore City. Our story continues through the families we serve, the homes we help repair, and the communities we help reinvest in.
Whether you’re preparing to buy your first home, need support maintaining your home, or want to help sustain this work for future generations, there is a place for you in NHS Baltimore’s next chapter.