Rice Real Estate Co. announced today it has entered into an agreement with Brinshore Development, a leader in mixed-income housing and community revitalization, and Family Scholar House , a nonprofit dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty through its proven two-generation model, to support a new housing development in Houston’s Third Ward. This innovative development, named Manson Place for Parent Scholars, aims to combine affordable housing with educational opportunities to empower families.
The project currently under construction will feature 76 affordable housing units designed to cater to a diverse range of income levels. These units will accommodate households earning between 30% and 80% of the area median income (AMI) with a primary focus on those at or below 50% AMI. The development is specifically designed to support single parents pursuing higher education by providing both affordable housing and comprehensive family support services. The financial support for this project comes through a collaboration between Amegy Bank, Rice University and Memorial Hermann Health System.
“Rice Real Estate is pleased to support this development that will expand access to quality affordable housing,” said Sam Dike, senior manager for real estate and asset management at the Rice Real Estate Co. “Experienced developers like Brinshore, working with innovative service providers like Family Scholar House, have the ability to expand economic opportunities for families.”
Manson Place will feature apartments specifically designed for single-parent families pursuing postsecondary education, including technical and trade schools, community colleges, universities and certification programs. Residents will have access to academic coaches, family counselors, financial literacy programs, career coaching and other services to help both parents and children achieve educational success. The community will also feature amenities designed to create a comfortable and supportive living environment for Manson Place families.
The project leverages competitive 9% federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, HOME-ARPA funding from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, Harris County ARPA funding and an operating subsidy from the Houston Housing Authority. Rice Real Estate Co. and Memorial Hermann Health System are providing a low-interest loan to close the remaining financing gap.
“Scholar House is a proven program that promotes self-sufficiency and represents our commitment to creating inclusive communities that lift families up out of the generational cycle of poverty,” said Richard J. Sciortino, founding principal of Brinshore Development. “By combining affordable housing with educational support, we are not only addressing their immediate housing needs but also investing in their future and the future of their children.”
Family Scholar House will provide the wraparound family services replicating their award-winning and proven model that started in Louisville, Kentucky, over 20 years ago.
“At Family Scholar House, we believe in the transformative power of education, and we value the community partners who share our vision,” said Cathe Dykstra, CEO of Family Scholar House. “Our collaboration with Brinshore Development, Rice Real Estate Co., Memorial Hermann Health System and the Houston Housing Authority is a testament to the impact innovative partnerships have in empowering families to create brighter futures. Manson Place for Parent Scholars will provide student parents with affordable housing and comprehensive programs and services to support them as they prepare for and enter careers in their community.”
Rice’s financial support for Manson Place comes from funding allocated for its commitments to the Ion District Community Benefit Agreement. Construction has begun and completion is anticipated in late 2025. Community members interested in learning more about the Houston development and programming are encouraged to contact Felicia Young, Family Scholar House’s regional outreach coordinator, at fyoung@familyscholarhouse.org for more information.