Former residents, current residents, and friends of Anne Montgomery House gathered for a traditional Greek dance at the farewell celebration in Washington, D.C., on July 31, 2026. This community house, managed by the Society of the Sacred Heart for ten years, has reached its closure. Sister Diane Roche, sitting on the front porch, reminisces about the beginning of this home, which offered young women affordable living while studying, completing fellowships, or starting careers in one of the nation’s priciest cities. By the evening, its doors would close forever.
I’m 76 years old and running a house like this takes a lot of energy,
said Roche. Something inside me just said this is it.
She shares that she will miss daily rituals with the young residents, who, she claims, kept her young by forming a close-knit community.
Anne Montgomery House joins a list of homes across the U.S. created by the Society of the Sacred Heart. Sister Roche was involved in similar projects in places like Haiti and the Democratic Republic of Congo and has worked locally with Catholic Charities to assist refugee resettlement in the U.S. These living communities provide more than affordable rent; they offer a sense of belonging, friendship, and support. Residents like Abigail Bulman discovered a family-like environment beyond their expectations. She arrived expecting only affordable housing but found lifelong friendships and community.
The affordability of Anne Montgomery House allowed young women to live in Washington, where average rents could have otherwise been prohibitive. Residents paid $500 monthly for shared rooms or $700 for private ones. The building’s ownership by the Sacred Heart order helped keep costs low. Roche pointed out that even a Ph.D. stipend often doesn’t cover standard Washington rent fees, making the house an essential sanctuary for career growth and education. But affordability wasn’t the sole focus; Roche also wanted to foster a diverse community that shared meals, reflections, and service commitments.
Named after Sister Anne Montgomery, a dedicated peace activist, the house was a place Roche treasured, bringing her joy and youthful energy. Residents introduced her to new perspectives and life experiences, adding to the richness of communal living.
For residents like Mary Gardner, the house was a refuge from the emotionally charged environment of Capitol Hill, providing comfort and understanding from the sisters, such as Sister Clare Pratt. Such intentional living models, while increasingly rare, are sorely needed as young people face expensive city housing markets. According to Professor Ingrid Gould Ellen from NYU, these communities offer stability and mentorship but can’t replace the need for broader affordable housing solutions.
On its last night, Anne Montgomery House celebrated its legacy with music, dance, and heartfelt farewells. Funmilayo Erinfolami and others reflected on the welcoming sanctuary they called home. Roche anticipates missing community activities but sees the next phase of her life involving work with refugees and perhaps serving in Mexico. The end of Anne Montgomery House signifies more than closing a home; it marks the end of a vibrant, supportive community where home always included shared lives and experiences.
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