Supporting accessible, sustainable housing solutions for our community members in need.
Accessible housing options for low and moderate-income families and individuals in Bethlehem.
Existing affordable housing stock through strategic investments and partnerships.
New affordable housing opportunities that serve the needs of our community.
Assisting homeowners with critical repairs to maintain safe, habitable housing.
View DetailsProviding emergency rental assistance to prevent homelessness in our community.
View DetailsJune 15, 2026
The Town of Bethlehem has approved funding for 12 new affordable housing units on Main Street.
July 1, 2026
Join us for a community discussion about housing needs and upcoming initiatives.
May 1, 2026
Our 2025 Annual Report is now available, highlighting our achievements and future goals.
July 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Monthly board meeting open to the public. Town Hall, 40 Peck Road, Bethlehem, CT.
August 5, 2026 at 6:30 PM
Information session for first-time homebuyers. Bethlehem Public Library.
Help us reach our goal of $50,000 to support affordable housing initiatives.
$32,500 raised of $50,000 goal
The Bethlehem Housing Trust is a nonprofit corporation seeking 501(c)(3) status that develops housing affordable to seniors and young families on fixed or modest incomes in Bethlehem, Connecticut. We work with care for the general welfare of the community while preserving the town's rural character.
Bethlehem's population is aging (18% over 65, 32%+ over 60) and young families are leaving due to lack of suitable housing. Only 2.1% of our 1,600 housing units qualify as statutory affordable housing. Additionally, 20% of households are severely burdened, spending over 50% of income on housing costs.
Affordable housing in Bethlehem serves households earning 80% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI). For a 4-person household in 2024, 80% AMI is $78,240 annually. Residents should spend no more than 30% of their income on rent/mortgage, taxes, and utilities.
We focus on small-scale, thoughtful development including rehabilitation of existing homes, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), starter homes for young families, and senior housing opportunities. This approach preserves Bethlehem's rural character while meeting community needs.
Connecticut law defines affordable housing as units where occupants pay 30% or less of their monthly income on housing costs (rent/mortgage, taxes, utilities), and have incomes at or below 80% of the regional median income. Bethlehem currently has only 33 such units.
Our 2021 community survey showed strong support: 70.9% supported expanded senior living options and 71.8% supported housing for young families and young professionals. Overall, 61% of respondents were supportive or neutral toward affordable housing initiatives.
You can support us by making a donation to our 2026 Housing Fund, subscribing to our newsletter for updates, volunteering your time and skills, or helping identify potential properties or land opportunities for affordable housing development.
Key challenges include limited housing inventory (only ~10% rental units), high development costs due to lack of municipal water/sewer services (each property needs individual wells and septic systems adding up to $25,000+), and rising housing prices outpacing local wages.