East Baltimore is witnessing a new chapter in its history as Gov. Wes Moore launches an initiative aimed at reviving neighborhoods long plagued by underinvestment. The governor announced the UPLIFT program – a $10 million effort to raise property values and expand home ownership in areas like the Orchard Ridge community.

UPLIFT, short for Utilizing Progressive Lending Investments to Finance Transformation, will convert vacant lots, and abandoned properties into quality, affordable housing. Moore underscored the importance of this initiative, "It's important to build opportunity in places that oftentimes have been robbed of it," as revealed in a WYPR interview. The approach also includes new infrastructure and public amenities like parks and recreational facilities to enhance community life.

According to WBALTV , with this financial impetus, Habitat for Humanity of the Chesapeake received the nod as the first recipient of the UPLIFT grant, aiming to build 27 new houses in a section of the city historically affected by redlining. This aligns with the governor's vision of lifting the property values to their true level, fostering a healthier, more equitable housing market in disadvantaged locales. A completed 1.5 bath three-bedroom home, still under construction, was toured to mark the occasion.

Habitat for Humanity of the Chesapeake CEO Mike Posko noted, "The houses are valued at more than $200,000 and will be sold to qualified buyers for $150,000-$175,000 giving first-time home owners instant equity," as per WYPR's coverage . Prospective homeowners have also completed a year-long financial education course and will reap the benefits of 0% interest mortgages, a gesture aiming for lasting financial stability.

For more details on the UPLIFT program or information on purchasing one of these Habitat homes, locals are encouraged to explore further online.