AHP Helps Moorefield, West Virginia, Support Population Growth
In the rural town of Moorefield, West Virginia, agriculture is the largest industry, with two major poultry facilities in the area. In recent years, Moorefield’s population has been growing with increasing availability of agriculture jobs contributing to a greater demand for housing. Eastern Action identified this need and planned the construction of Maplewood Gardens in 2020, completing it in 2024. This 14-unit development offers two- and three-bedroom units specifically for those employed in the agriculture industry.
Maplewood Gardens is the first United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) farm labor housing project developed in West Virginia. The USDA provided a $3.1 million grant and a $1.5 million loan for the project. With the support of Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (FHLBank) member institution Pendelton Community Bank, Maplewood Gardens also was awarded $750,000 through FHLBank’s Affordable Housing Program (AHP).
While some employers provide housing opportunities to their current employees, Maplewood Gardens ensures that individuals who remain within the agricultural industry will have stable housing, even if they change employers.
Maplewood Gardens is conveniently located within walking distance of numerous amenities in Moorefield, including Moorefield High School, Moorefield Elementary School, and the Love Memorial Clinic. Additionally, the Walmart Supercenter and Moorefield Middle School are located within 1.5 miles.
