What is Pathway to Stability™?
A flexible, community-centered housing support system designed to help families overcome barriers to stability — both financial and locational.
- Relocation Assistance
- Rental Gap Support
- Wraparound Navigation
- Mapping the Right Place
- Community Partnerships
"Where a child grows up can predict their income, health, and life expectancy.”
Urban Institute, 2023
Why "The Right Place" Matters
Right Place Principle™
At MPHI, we believe that where you live matters just as much as how you live.
The Right Place Principle™ is our core belief that housing stability and generational wealth begin with location. Too many families are stuck in cycles of poverty not because of personal failure — but because they are disconnected from opportunity-rich communities.
We define the "right place" as a location that offers safety, dignity, access to good schools and jobs, affordable services, and the ability to thrive long-term.
Through our Pathway to Stability™ program, we help individuals and families relocate, connect with local support networks, and access housing in areas aligned with their long-term goals.
Accessing Opportunity
- Proximity to jobs, schools, healthcare, food
- Neighborhood safety and stability
- Community dignity and inclusion
Because access to opportunity isn’t just about what families can afford — it’s about where affordability exists.
How It Works
Our Clients Are:
How It Works
- Connect – Families are referred by partners or apply directly.
- Navigate – We assess their needs and map opportunity-rich housing nearby.
- Support – We provide short-term rental help by connecting them to trusted partners and services.
We’re building something different.
The Pathway to Stability™ Program is not open to families just yet — but we’re actively gathering the right partners, builders, and community leaders to make this program possible.
Want to be the first to know when it launches?
Join our interest list below.
Who We Serve
Our Clients Are:
How It Works
At MPHI, we serve individuals and families who are ready to move from instability to sustainability. Our ideal clients are those who desire stable housing, access to better opportunities, and long-term growth—but may be limited by financial, geographic, or systemic barriers.
Our Clients Are:
Our Clients Are:
Our Clients Are:
- Families experiencing housing instability or displacement
- Low- to moderate-income households seeking safe, affordable homeownership or rental options
- Individuals relocating from under-resourced communities to opportunity-rich areas
- Working adults or parents who want to raise children in thriving environments
- Community members who are ready to build a stable foundation, but need support finding the right place
Eligibility
MPHI’s Pathway to Stability™ program is designed for households that:
- Earn between 30%–120% of the Area Median Income (AMI)
- Are actively seeking housing stability or relocation support
- Are willing to participate in a screening process to determine the best pathway forward
- Demonstrate a clear need for affordability, location-based support, or wraparound services
✅ You may qualify if:
- You are a U.S. resident, 18 years or older
- Your household income is at or below 80% of your area’s median income
- You’re experiencing housing instability, overcrowding, or unaffordable rent
- You’re committed to relocating or stabilizing in a qualified opportunity area
- You are not currently a homeowner (or are at risk of losing your current housing)
- You’re willing to participate in support services or planning
- You have a desire to improve long-term housing security
Eligibility Disclaimer
Marcell Project Housing Initiative applies income eligibility requirements based on Area Median Income (AMI) guidelines set by HUD and local housing authorities. These criteria help ensure affordable housing resources are directed to those who qualify financially.
MPHI is committed to providing equal housing opportunity to all applicants. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, familial status, national origin, or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.
All applicants who meet the income eligibility criteria will be considered fairly and without bias.
Final eligibility is determined through our intake and screening process, which considers income, location, and family goals.
Reassurance Statement
We Want To Help
We know every family’s situation is unique. If you're unsure about your eligibility or want to speak with someone directly, please Contact Us or email us at
Partner With Us
For developers, landlords, and service providers:
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Equal Housing Opportunity | Virginia Fair Housing Compliant