The Closure of Anne Montgomery House and Its Impact on Affordable Housing

Former residents, current residents, and friends of Anne Montgomery House gathered to perform a traditional Greek dance during a farewell event in Washington, D.C., on July 31, 2026. The house, a community run by the Society of the Sacred Heart, is closing after a decade. Sister Diane Roche, who opened the home ten years ago, reflected on her experiences there. Located in Northeast Washington, D.C., the house provided affordable living for young women pursuing studies, fellowships, or starting careers in one of the costliest cities in the U.S. On this day, its doors will close for the last time.

Sister Roche expressed her feelings about closing the house, citing the energy required to run it at the age of 76. She fondly recalled the daily rituals shared with the younger residents, stating, “They keep me young.” Anne Montgomery House is one among several U.S. homes overseen by the Society of the Sacred Heart. As part of this religious order, Roche has worked in places like Haiti and the Democratic Republic of Congo, developed similar living communities in cities such as St. Louis and New Orleans, and currently assists refugees resettling in the U.S.

This house embodied a continuation of her calling to build communities. It formed part of a broader trend where young professionals in expensive cities are choosing Catholic-run homes that offer affordable rent. For many residents, such as Abigail Bulman, the experience transcended low-cost housing. They found a supportive and bonded community, something increasingly hard to find in today’s rental market. Bulman, who lived there while on a fellowship, emphasized the affordability and unexpected friendships she formed, noting the transformation from strangers to family.

The Society of the Sacred Heart kept rents below market rates as it owned the building. This made living in D.C. feasible for young women who might otherwise find it challenging, given the high rental costs relative to their income. Sister Roche elaborated that intentional living communities offer stability, mentorship, and community beyond affordable housing. Anne Montgomery House echoed a model from the past when young adults commonly resided in boarding houses that provided low-cost living and communal environments.

Two of its former residents, Mary Gardner and Funmilayo Erinfolami, shared their personal experiences. Gardner, who joined while interning on Capitol Hill, found solace in the house’s environment, particularly during challenging political times. Erinfolami, studying space physics and aspiring to work at NASA, appreciated the home’s welcoming atmosphere and supportive community.

As the house celebrated its final night, Sister Roche and Guiding residents engaged in cultural activities like Greek dancing. Despite the closure, Roche aimed to continue her work, though in a separate apartment, maintaining the spirit of community she fostered at Anne Montgomery House elsewhere.