Preserving Heritage and Building Futures
Permitting work has begun for two new single-family homes in the Butlertown community of Worton.
Workforce Housing in Historic Butlertown
Butlertown is a historically significant, predominantly African American community in Kent County established in the 1850’s by free Black families who settled and farmed the region, eventually building their own homes as a testament to Black economic mobility and resilience. It remains a tight-knit community, intrinsically tied to the Mount Olive AME Church where local families have gathered and worshiped together since the congregation was established in 1893.
KAH will construct two, three-bedroom homes on vacant lots near Mount Olive Church in Butlertown, building on the first home the organization completed in Butlertown in 2022. The homes will be sold to income-qualified, first-time buyers who complete KAH’s financial literacy and homebuyer education programs.
Butlertown New Housing: Floor plan provided by Phillips & Donovan Architects, LLC
Funding for this project comes through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): Community Project Funding (CPF) FY24 Appropriations, local donors, and the Commissioners of Kent County, who donated funds to offset the cost of water and sewer allocations.
By pairing new construction with education and long-term support, this project will help two families achieve sustainable homeownership and build household wealth and will encourage continued reinvestment in this historically underserved community. The project advances KAH’s vision of thriving, lovable communities where stable, affordable housing empowers families to build brighter futures.
Butlertown Concept Site Plan provided by our partner ShoreRivers.
Overview
Kent Attainable Housing (KAH) is committed to preserving the rich history of the Butlertown community while addressing housing affordability and financial stability. Through thoughtful construction projects and tailored initiatives, KAH is ensuring that this historic community remains vibrant for generations to come.
Key Objectives
Preserve Historic Heritage: Honor the cultural significance of the Butlertown community.
Promote Financial Security: Empower marginalized communities through affordable housing and economic opportunities.
Build for the Future: Provide energy-efficient housing solutions that respect the past while creating pathways to a sustainable future.
Local Impact
KAH’s work in Butlertown and beyond is not only creating affordable housing but also protecting the shared heritage of the community. These efforts are pivotal in promoting equity and providing communities access to the tools they may need to thrive.