No one can do this work alone. Here we share the information and connections to organizations, publications and more which help frame, influence and inform our housing mission and strategies.
These partners guide and strengthen affordable housing efforts across Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Association of Community Development Corporations (MACDC)
The statewide network of community development corporations working to create affordable housing, economic opportunity, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Citizens’ Housing and Planning Association (CHAPA)
Massachusetts’ leading advocate for affordable housing and inclusive communities through research, education, and policy initiatives.
Massachusetts Housing Partnership (MHP)
A public nonprofit supporting communities and developers through financing programs, data tools, and technical assistance that expand affordable housing.
Massachusetts Housing Investment Corporation (MHIC)
Finances affordable housing and community development projects through private investment and strategic partnerships.
Community Economic Development Assistance Corporation (CEDAC)
Provides early-stage financing and expertise to nonprofits developing affordable housing and community facilities.
MassHousing
An independent public agency offering financing and resources to build and sustain affordable rental and homeownership housing across Massachusetts.
MA Smart Growth Alliance
Advocates for development that supports livable, walkable, and equitable communities through smart land use and housing policy.
Community Preservation Coalition (CPC)
Helps cities and towns use Community Preservation Act funds to support affordable housing, open space, and historic preservation projects.
Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) – Boston
Local Initiatives Support Corporation—partners with residents and organizations to invest in housing, economic mobility, and neighborhood revitalization.
Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC)
Regional planning agency promoting smart growth, equity, and sustainable housing across Greater Boston.
Publications and data that inform Harborlight’s mission and housing advocacy:
Early-Life Health Impacts of Affordable Housing in Higher-Income Areas: Evidence from Massachusetts Chapter 40B
Study linking access to affordable homes in higher-income areas with improved early-life health outcomes.
RWJ Foundation: Our Homes Are Key to Our Health
Explores how stable housing contributes to healthier families and stronger communities.
National Low Income Housing Coalition: The GAP: A Shortage of Low Income Rental Housing
Annual national report detailing the shortage of affordable rental housing for extremely low-income households.
The 2024 Greater Boston Housing Report Card
Comprehensive analysis of housing supply, affordability, and policy trends across Greater Boston.
MA Housing Partnership: Unlocking Housing Production Commission
Examines barriers to housing creation in Massachusetts and recommends statewide solutions.
Harvard University: Joint Center for Housing Studies
National research center analyzing housing markets, policy, and demographic trends.
Housing America’s Older Adults 2023
A Harvard JCHS report highlighting housing challenges and opportunities for an aging population.
Affordable Homes Act 2024: Smart Housing, Livable Communities
Statewide legislation aiming to increase affordable housing supply and promote sustainable community growth.
ShelterForce
A trusted publication covering housing policy, community development, and social equity nationwide.
Impact Essex County: A Community Indicator Project for Regional Action
Tracks regional data on housing, health, and economic stability to guide collaborative community solutions.
We offer some resources to assist local housing advocates learn best practices as well as information on how to move the issue of housing production forward in your city or town.
Resources to help local housing advocates and officials move from vision to action.
State of MA Housing Production Plan Information
Outlines state requirements for developing and updating local Housing Production Plans (HPPs).
MAPC: What Is a Housing Production Plan?
Explains how HPPs help cities and towns plan for affordable housing and meet community needs.
MHP’s Center for Housing Data
Analyzes housing trends across Massachusetts to support data-informed decision-making.
MHP’s DATATOWN
Interactive tool offering demographic, economic, and housing data for every Massachusetts community.
Community Preservation Coalition
Guidance on using CPA funds for affordable housing and community development initiatives.
MAPC Fair Housing Toolkit
Helps communities identify and address barriers to fair and equitable housing opportunities.
MHP’s Housing Toolbox for MA Communities
Provides municipal officials and advocates with practical guidance on zoning, financing, and production.
Great Neighborhoods Toolkit
Resources and success stories that illustrate how smart, inclusive development benefits communities statewide.