An Affordable Housing Solution That Delivers Meaningful, Measurable Impact

by Multifamily Impact Council featuring POAH's Vice President of Community Impact, Julianna Stuart-Lomax and POAH Communities Vice President of Community Partnerships, Felicia Dawson.

POAH’s POWER Initiative has clearly had a profound impact on residents in the multifamily sector. What stands out for you as the most significant among the many data points? 
Julianna Stuart-Lomax and Felicia Dawson: The outcomes from our Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program are undeniably powerful—over 1,000 households have participated since 2016, saving an average of $10,000, with some saving more than $25,000. We’ve seen a 110% increase in earnings, a 28% drop in unemployment, and meaningful improvements in credit and debt. These aren’t just participation metrics—they’re indicators of real financial progress—demonstrating what’s possible when residents have access to structured, goal-oriented financial tools.

But what’s most exciting is how we’re building on that success to reach all households, not just those eligible for FSS. POWER is a broader, scalable platform that includes financial coaching, rent reporting, downpayment assistance and place-based wraparound supportive services in key geographies. Plus, we’re launching a new asset-building pilot to apply our learnings from FSS to help unassisted renters in LIHTC properties build wealth. POWER is helping residents move from stability to mobility, and we’re committed to making those outcomes accessible to every renter we serve.

You recently implemented this initiative fully at scale across your entire portfolio. Why was now the right time for this, and how does it impact investors? 
Stuart-Lomax and Dawson: POWER is now active across all eligible POAH properties, and we’re expanding its reach through new pilots—like our initiative in LIHTC properties—to support unassisted renters. But what makes this moment especially urgent is the increasing pressure on the affordable housing system. With fewer federal resources and rising costs, investors and housing providers are being asked to do more with less—and to prioritize solutions that deliver meaningful, measurable impact.

POWER offers exactly that. It’s a platform that strengthens resident financial stability, which in turn supports property performance—fewer evictions, lower arrears, better retention, and more resilient communities. For investors, this means their capital is supporting both social outcomes and long-term asset health. As the sector looks for scalable, data-driven strategies to stabilize properties and support residents, POWER stands out as a proven, adaptable model that delivers on both fronts.

What should multifamily owners and operators know about how they can make a difference in residents’ lives with programs like POWER? 
Stuart-Lomax and Dawson: They should know that meaningful change is possible—and measurable. Traditional resident services often focus on outputs like attendance or referrals. POWER focuses on outcomes: increased income, improved credit scores, reduced debt, and real savings. It’s built on trust, technology, and personalization. Owners already have a unique relationship with residents; POWER shows how to leverage that trust to deliver scalable, cost-effective financial health services that truly move the needle. And it’s adaptable—whether you’re serving HUD-assisted households or unassisted renters in LIHTC properties.

It’s also important to note that while there’s growing interest in fully virtual resident services, we believe that approach is limited. POWER leverages technology not to replace human connection, but to enhance it—enabling personalized, trust-based relationships between residents and coaches. That human-to-human engagement is what drives lasting change.

Anything else to add? 
Stuart-Lomax and Dawson: POWER is more than a program—it’s a paradigm shift. It reimagines affordable housing as a foundation for financial stability and wealth building. We’re proud to be leading this work, but we know we’re not alone. We’re excited to work with other housing providers, funders, and innovators to expand this model. Together, we can ensure that every renter—regardless of income or background—has the opportunity to build a better financial future.

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Thank you to Multifamily Impact Council for featuring our work. Visit their website to learn more.