June 10, 2026

Just over a year ago, HEARTH began a partnership with the Allegheny County Housing Authority (ACHA) with a shared vision: help mothers and children build safe, stable lives after experiencing homelessness and domestic violence.

Today, as the ninth HEARTH family moves into a home through this partnership, I’m reflecting on the new beginnings this collaboration has helped make possible.

Nine HEARTH families have now moved from our campus into single-family homes throughout Allegheny County through this program. Each move represents more than a new address. It represents a mother who worked hard to achieve her goals, children who have stability, and a family taking the next step toward a brighter future. But moving into a home is only part of the journey.

One of the greatest strengths of our partnership with ACHA is that the support doesn’t end when a family leaves HEARTH. Every two weeks, Janine Wytovich, Pam Turner, Danny Mohr, Jenny Shahinian, and Mary Amrhein from HEARTH meet with Jennifer Helt, Ellen Parker, Jennie Zeman, and Kim Longwell from ACHA to review progress and updates.

If a family experiences a setback—whether it’s falling behind on rent or navigating an unexpected challenge—HEARTH can offer the family resources, develop a plan, and provide support before a temporary obstacle becomes a larger problem.

HEARTH families are also surrounded by an incredible community of supporters. When families move into their own homes, organizations like Your Home and The Blessing Board help provide furniture and household essentials. Since HEARTH fully furnishes apartments during a family’s stay in our program, creating a comfortable and welcoming home environment is a top priority for us.

This support makes a huge difference. Instead of worrying about how to afford a bed, couch, dining table, and household items, families can focus on paying rent, covering utilities, building savings, and creating stability for their children. Removing those upfront costs helps reduce stress and gives families a stronger start from day one.

Over the past year, HEARTH has also incorporated enrollment into ACHA’s Family Self- Sufficiency Program into our services. As participants increase their income through work, education, or career advancement, money is set aside in a dedicated savings account for their future. Over time, those savings can grow into a meaningful resource that can be used for a down payment on a home, emergency savings, education expenses, or other important life goals. For many families, this program provides both peace of mind and a pathway toward long- term financial security.

The partnership with ACHA has also strengthened HEARTH’s ability to plan for the future. ACHA’s long-term commitment provides stability, allowing us to invest confidently in our properties, services, and the families we serve.

HEARTH is especially grateful to Rich Stephenson and the entire ACHA team for their partnership and commitment to helping families thrive throughout Allegheny County. Thank you, ACHA, for an incredible first year.

Christy Pietryga
CEO, HEARTH