Creating Holiday Joy: Pensam and BH Management’s Rent-Free Holidays Program Changes Lives
In the spirit of giving, Pensam and BH Management Services came together in 2023 to launch a heartfelt initiative aimed at spreading joy and relief to residents during the holiday season. The Rent-Free Holidays program, which began as a pilot, has blossomed into a powerful, large-scale effort to create positive change across our property communities.
What began as a simple idea to help families facing tough times has grown into a story of hope, generosity, and community impact.
A Growing Initiative with a Lasting Impact
The Rent-Free Holidays program encourages on-site property teams to nominate residents who have been in good standing for over a year but have encountered personal hardships and who are in need of a helping hand.
In its inaugural year, Pensam and BH supported eight families, covering their December rent and utility expenses. The feedback was overwhelming – residents expressed deep gratitude, and our community teams experienced firsthand the joy of giving back.
This year, the program’s reach expanded dramatically. Together, Pensam and BH, along with other partners, were able to award 138 deserving families across multiple regions with a Rent-Free Holiday, covering a total of $284,000 in rent and expenses for December.
The scale of this program reflects our shared commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of residents during a season that should be filled with happiness and hope.
Moments That Matter
While the impact can be measured in numbers, it is the human stories behind this program that truly resonate. Our on-site teams submitted heartwarming nominations, sharing moments of resilience and gratitude from residents in their communities.
One of our nominated residents this year exemplified extraordinary bravery and selflessness. In April 2024, during a fire that broke out in one of our communities, this individual risked their own safety to rescue animals trapped in the building. Despite the intense heat and dangerous conditions, they entered the scene without hesitation, acting quickly and decisively to ensure the safety of those in need.
Their courageous actions prevented what could have been a devastating loss, showcasing both remarkable bravery and a deep compassion for others. This inspiring act of heroism highlights the strength of character within our community and is a fitting example of why the Rent-Free Holidays program exists – to honor and support individuals who make a difference.
To mark the occasion, our teams went the extra mile to celebrate the residents chosen for the award. Oversized checks, celebratory moments, and heartfelt conversations turned the Rent-Free Holidays initiative into a memorable event—one that residents and team members alike will carry with them.
Words from Our Leadership
Katie Vanderveen, Vice President of Asset Management at Pensam, shared her thoughts on the program:
“This initiative is such a powerful example of the impact Pensam and BH are making in the lives of residents. It’s not just about covering rent; it’s about giving families peace of mind, hope, and a chance to truly enjoy the holiday season.”
Joanna Zabriskie, President and CEO at BH Management, echoed this sentiment:
“Giving back and making happy moments for our residents are part of the fabric of BH’s culture, and we are truly grateful for Pensam’s partnership in bringing the ‘Rent-Free Holidays’ program to life for the second year in a row.”
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on the success of this year’s program, we are inspired to continue growing the Rent-Free Holidays initiative in the years to come. The overwhelming positive response from residents and teams fuels our commitment to creating even more holiday cheer and meaningful moments in our communities.
At Pensam and BH, we believe in making a difference – one resident, one family, and one community at a time.
We look forward to sharing more stories of hope and impact as we continue to invest in our residents and the communities we serve.