Page 1: Understanding the CLT & Your Community
What Is a Community Land Trust (CLT)?
A Community Land Trust (CLT) is a nonprofit organization that owns land to preserve affordability — not just for today, but forever.
- The land is never sold.
- Residents or nonprofits lease the land for 99 years under a renewable agreement.
- The buildings can be rented or owned, but the land stays in community hands.
- This model ensures that housing, businesses, and green spaces remain affordable and community-controlled.
Why it matters:
CLTs are a tool for stopping displacement and giving residents lasting stability. They keep neighborhoods vibrant, rooted, and truly local — not driven by profit or speculation.
“We protect the land for the community. Not for developers. Not for profit.
📌 EHEBCLT at a Glance: Who We Are
East Harlem El Barrio Community Land Trust is a resident-led organization. We organize, protect, and grow permanently affordable housing in East Harlem.
✅ Run by local tenants, advocates & community members
✅ We fight displacement and create resident power
✅ Active since 2014 — and growing
What Is a Mutual Housing Association (MHA)?
A Mutual Housing Association (MHA) is a nonprofit that owns and manages housing — with residents at the center.
- Tenants have a real say in decisions.
- Rents are kept low and predictable.
- There’s no private landlord—just a shared commitment to permanent affordability.
- MHAs work alongside CLTs to ensure housing is not just affordable, but dignified and democratic.
“MHAs put the power back into the hands of the people who live there.”
We are a resident-led organization committed to fighting displacement and building community control in East Harlem.
- Founded in 2014
- Led by local tenants, organizers, and neighbors
- Dedicated to permanent affordability, resident power, and racial equity
Whether we’re organizing buildings, preserving affordable homes, or building coalitions — our mission is rooted in keeping East Harlem for East Harlemites.
“We don’t just live here. We lead here.”
Our Mission & Vision
