About Us

True Ground Housing Partners (formerly APAH) was founded in 1989 by four families whose faith motivated them to address affordable housing in Arlington, VA. Thirty-five years later, we have grown into one of the country’s leading nonprofit affordable housing developers. Our rental communities provide safe, attractive housing to nearly 6,000 people in the DC region, offering a mix of mid- and high-rise multifamily apartments for neighbors earning between 30% and 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).

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Our
Mission

We exist to provide quality affordable housing and resident-centered programming to help our residents make the most of their home.

Our
Vision

Everyone deserves a place to call home — a foundation to live their dreams.

Values
Statement

As nonprofit real estate developers, service providers, and affordable housing champions, we strive to create welcoming communities. We approach our work with an unwavering commitment to ensuring that everyone has access to a safe place to call home. We believe that housing is not only a basic right but a platform for stability, community connection, and economic opportunity.

True Ground:
At a Glance

Mission-driven, innovative housing developer

Owns more than 2,900 homes with 1,100+ under construction and 1,000 units in active pre-development

Focused on serving households earning 30% to 60% of the area median income (AMI), including 10% Permanent Supportive Housing

Promotes opportunity and stability for residents

Operates throughout the DC region with projects in 5 jurisdictions

A group of children, holding colorful baskets, excitedly participate in an outdoor event, likely an egg hunt or similar activity.

Our Why

The DC region’s rapid growth has made affordable housing scarce for many of our lower-income neighbors. According to the Metropolitan Council of Governments 2019 report, the region needs more than 250,000 affordable housing units by 2030. We, along with many partners in the housing community, are working urgently to meet this growing need and help residents across the region thrive.

50%

of all renters are cost-burdened

30%

of their average income is spent on housing costs

Our Impact

To meet the growing need, True Ground owns, develops and preserves quality affordable housing communities for individuals and families, while helping to increase their personal and financial stability. The impact of our work can only be told through the success of our residents.

Meet Monica

Monica returned to Arlington to care for her ailing parents and later overcame significant health challenges by moving into an accessible apartment at The Springs. Now thriving with improved mobility, she enjoys a fulfilling job, reconnects with her community, and finds joy in her cozy, accessible home.

Read Monica’s Story View All Stories

Strategic Plan

Our 2023-2027 strategic planning began with extensive stakeholder consultations through focus groups, interviews, and surveys involving residents, staff, and board members. We examined our strengths, weaknesses, growth opportunities, and ways to better serve our communities.

Read Our Strategic Plan