The Chalet

Advanced Living’s Biblical Theological Seminary Project involved the acquisition and light rehabilitation of a 15-unit former dormitory in Hatfield, PA, to be repurposed as permanent supportive housing for formerly homeless individuals, including those with mental health needs. The property, previously owned by the seminary and situated on seven acres, was converted into a mix of seven efficiency and eight one-bedroom apartments.

The project was supported by a PHARE (Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement) application toward acquisition and rehabilitation costs. Montgomery County submitted a companion application for Rapid Rehousing funds through the Your Way Home (YWH) program to provide tenant-based rental assistance for up to two years, targeting this specific site.

Renovations included new kitchens, updated finishes, possible bathroom upgrades, and the addition of an accessible unit. Common areas, including a large community room and adjacent kitchen, were evaluated for flexible use as shared space and “touch down” offices for rotating service providers—addressing County concerns about funding permanent office leases. The building remained in excellent condition, requiring only moderate updates to become livable and compliant.

Stone Sherick played a key role in navigating project planning, stakeholder engagement, and funding strategy, helping to evaluate service delivery options, shape the rehabilitation scope, and refine the development model to ensure sustainability without relying on long-term project-based subsidy. Their contribution was instrumental in shaping the flexible space strategy, aligning with County funding priorities, and balancing community needs with operational feasibility.

Stakeholders included Advanced Living (led by CEO Bill Brown and COO Kim Krauter), Montgomery County officials from Housing and Behavioral Health departments, and partners within the YWH network. Though Keystone Opportunity Center was the existing HRC provider, no on-site provider was named due to leadership transitions, with services expected to be delivered through off-site visits and potential master leasing arrangements.
The project addressed a pressing regional need for permanent supportive housing and served as a model for creative reuse of existing properties with a trauma-informed, client-centered approach.