Leveraging Public and Private resources to foster community economic development.

LHT is an affordable housing advocate and lender that raises and pools capital from public and private investments to create a revolving loan fund that finances critically needed housing.  Its mission is to build vibrant, sustainable communities by increasing the availability of affordable housing and to act as a catalyst to meet the fundamental needs of underserved neighborhoods. 

By working with local governments, developers, community leaders, non-profits and businesses, LHT addresses the housing crisis facing the local community.  Serving as the model for housing trusts throughout the state, LHT bridges the gap between governments and developers; developers and non-profits; and families and the need for affordable housing. 

Financial and Social Impact on the Local Community:

• Loans made: $12.8 million in community development financing
• Community impact:  $99 million in affordable housing developments
• Affordable housing units created: 750
• Families and individuals served: 1,615
• LHT leverages commitments 4:1

In 2007, LHT became a U.S. Treasury certified Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI).  CDFIs are market-based, private-sector financial intermediaries that exist to create opportunities that benefit communities.  With more than 90 percent of their capital derived from private sources, CDFIs leverage scarce public resources as few, if any, other industries can do.  South Carolina has six CDFIs, but only LHT is dedicated to financing affordable housing.