The Mulford Corporation in Yonkers has been named one of eight housing providers across the country to receive a $25,000 grant and technical support for its innovative programs to create more affordable housing.
Module, a Pittsburgh-based modular housing company, has announced the first inaugural members of its Mission-Driven Developer Program (MDDP). The eight housing providers – including the Mulford Corp – across five states were chosen because they are pursuing innovative approaches to increasing the housing supply and expanding access to homeownership in their communities.
In addition to the grant money, Module will offer discounted design services and technical assistance. Developers will have access to office hours with experienced mentors and free access to Module’s design, construction, and development playbooks.
Additionally, developers in the program will receive priority on Module’s manufacturing line, significantly reducing cycle times for projects that deliver affordable housing where they are needed most.
“Engaging with our MDDP applicants was energizing. We connected with passionate developers from across the U.S., each doing important work in their communities. This first cohort of awardees will expand Module’s impact even further,’’ said Marquis Cofer, chief operating officer, Module.
Wilson Kimball, president of the Mulford Corporation and CEO and president of the Yonkers Housing Authority (YHA), said that the Module designation was a shot in the arm for Mulford’s continuing efforts to develop creative solutions to the affordable housing crisis.
“The technical assistance and manufacturing benefits will be invaluable to any projects we pursue in the future,’’ said Kimball. “To be recognized as a leader in innovative housing solutions is a sign that we are moving in the right direction.’’
Mulford and the YHA are in the process of developing a homeownership program that will build two-family homes allowing the ownership family to live in one part, while the second half would be rented to a Section 8 tenant to help cover the mortgage.
Mayor Mike Spano said that the city is working closely with YHA and Mulford to iron out the final details of the homeownership program, which will provide creative solutions to the housing crisis.
“The city of Yonkers is forging ahead with innovative solutions in providing quality, affordable housing. We continue to lead by example, not just in New York state, but nationally. This latest recognition by MDDP is further proof of that,’’ said Spano.
Just last week Mulford opened the La Mora Senior Housing, a $44 million development of 60 energy-efficient and affordable apartments for seniors in south Yonkers. It is one of the first modular affordable passive house senior housing developments in New York state. The Willow, a $70 million development creating 92 energy efficient and affordable homes for seniors, is currently in design.
The MDDP program is funded in part through the Housing Affordability Breakthrough Challenge, led by Enterprise Community Partners with generous support from the Wells Fargo Foundation. Module was one of six winners of the Breakthrough Challenge’s 2023 cycle and the MDDP is a key component of its modular innovation. Additional support comes from the Richard King Mellon Foundation.
The Mulford Corporation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation that was formed to develop, manage and facilitate affordable housing in Yonkers. Since its establishment Mulford has either developed or co-developed over 2,200 units of low-income housing and has actively participated in the operation of over 19 low- income properties. In addition to its development related activities, Mulford works with local organizations to provide education, arts, and supportive services to the community.
Module is a Pittsburgh-based homebuilding company whose products and processes enable housing providers to deliver design-forward, high-quality, energy-efficient housing faster than traditional means. Module builds to the Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready standards, which puts them into the top 1% of energy efficient homes in the country.
