Highlighting Faith-Based Partnerships at Milner Commons
On Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 11:00 AM, DHIC will host a special gathering of community members, housing developers, regional leaders, and faith partners to celebrate the dedication of Milner Commons, a 156-unit affordable housing development for adults ages 55+ of modest means at the site of the former Milner Memorial Presbyterian Church. Confirmed speakers for the event include representatives from: The Presbytery of New Hope, DHIC, Kintura, the Office of US Representative Deborah Ross, NeighborWorks America, Raleigh City Council, the North Carolina Housing Agency and the Milner Commons’ resident community.
Milner Commons is one example of the increasing number of faith-based partnerships reshaping the future of affordable housing in North Carolina. The development is emblematic of a growing national movement - often called “Yes In God’s Backyard” (YIGBY) - that encourages congregations to reimagine underutilized property as an extension of their mission to serve community needs.
“Across the country, faith institutions are asking how their legacy can live on in new ways. This event brings together partners who are turning shared values into tangible housing solutions - not just for today, but for the long-term health of our region.” - Yolanda Winstead, President & CEO, DHIC
Located along Raleigh’s first planned bus rapid transit corridor, Milner Commons offers a mix of efficiency, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments for residents earning up to 60% of Area Median Income. Designed to support neighbors aging in place, the community includes gathering spaces, supportive services, and preserved natural features that reflect feedback from neighbors and long-time community members. Milner Commons also includes design elements that honor the church’s sanctuary designed by Raleigh architect F. Carter Williams, including repurposed brick, pews, and stained-glass windows.
Milner Commons reflects a collaborative effort between DHIC, Glenaire, a Kintura community, and the Presbytery of New Hope to transform the former Milner Memorial Presbyterian Church land into housing that continues Henry H. Milner and the congregation’s longstanding commitment to serving the community. As faith communities nationwide consider new ways to steward their assets, partnerships like this one are gaining attention as part of the broader YIGBY movement.
“There are people out there, people of modest means, who need and deserve a home in a place such as Milner Commons. Together, our partners are providing amazing, affordable options for many people who might otherwise not get such an opportunity.” - Tim Webster, CEO, Kintura
Milner Commons was made possible through key partnerships with the Presbytery of New Hope, Kintura, the City of Raleigh, the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency, Banc of California, and Enterprise. The design team included Cline Design Associates, Kimley-Horn, and Blum Construction.
--------
About DHIC: Established in 1974, DHIC is the Research Triangle’s market leader in affordable housing development. Since its founding 52 years ago, DHIC has developed over 3,700 affordable apartments in 54 communities across 9 counties, providing homes for more than 5,400 individuals, children, and seniors. DHIC’s Homeownership Center has helped more than 2,400 families purchase their first homes. DHIC has received numerous awards in recognition of its excellence in design, community service, and management. DHIC is one of four NeighborWorks America organizations in North Carolina; a HUD-approved counseling agency; a member of the Housing Partnership Network; and a CORES Certified organization. For more information about DHIC, visit dhic.org or follow them on LinkedIn.
About Kintura: Formed in 2024 through the merger of the former Brightspire and the former Well-Spring Group, Kintura is a nonprofit organization dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of older adults across North Carolina. Anchored by a family of distinctive life plan communities, Kintura offers independent living options alongside a full continuum of care, including assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory support. Beyond its communities - including Glenaire in Cary -, Kintura extends its mission through Well-Spring Solutions, PACE of the Triad, caregiver support programs, and affordable housing initiatives - advancing dignity, choice, and well-being for older adults while strengthening the communities they call home.
About The Presbytery of New Hope: The Presbytery of New Hope is a mid-council of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) serving 111 congregations across 34 counties in eastern North Carolina, from Efland to the Outer Banks. Guided by a mission to build relationships, equip congregations, and serve alongside communities, the Presbytery works to advance God’s vision of love, justice, hope, and peace. As a Matthew 25 Presbytery, New Hope is committed to strengthening congregational vitality, dismantling structural racism, and eradicating systemic poverty - bringing faith into action through partnerships that create lasting community impact, including initiatives that expand access to affordable housing.
