They came from all corners of D.C. and all walks of life—from different cultures and socio-economic backgrounds. Their common bond transcended those distinctions. They gathered to raise awareness and funds for justice housing.
Jubilee’s Justice Housing Celebration brought together Jubilee residents and neighbors, non-profit colleagues and city government partners, newcomers and decades-long supporters, board members and staff.
The evening featured gourmet cuisine, signature cocktails, and good cheer—all at the new District Winery, a boutique winery in The Yards. The venue’s breathtaking river views provided an appropriate backdrop for the festivity as well as the importance of the occasion.
“It’s ridiculous how expensive D.C. has become,” said Khulud Khudur, a Jubilee resident and board member during the brief program. “If it weren’t for Jubilee, I’d be worried about being pushed out of my home and neighborhood,” she said. “Families in buildings around mine are having to relocate to Virginia or Maryland because there’s no place left in D.C. that they can afford.”
“Jubilee redevelops properties in high-cost neighborhoods, allowing long-time residents who face gentrification to remain in their homes and benefit from the positive changes in their communities,” said Jubilee Board Chair Myra Peabody Gossens.
She added that in recent years Jubilee has broadened its mission “to couple affordable housing with opportunities we all need to thrive, as a way to foster greater equity throughout the city. We have focused on creating not simply affordable housing but what we call justice housing.”
Jim Knight, Jubilee executive director, told the audience, “Hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of D.C. citizens need quality housing and supportive opportunities in neighborhoods where resources such as good schools, transportation, and food choices are readily accessible. That’s what we mean by justice housing,” he said.
Tim Bakos, Jubilee Support Alliance (JSA) board chair, paid tribute to JSA members and noted that JSA is transitioning to the next phase of its work—integrating with the work of Jubilee’s board. He encouraged everyone to “become part of the energetic, diverse, and dedicated Jubilee family. We’re ready to put your talents to good use,” he said.
More than 150 individuals attended the celebration, which raised more than $90,000 for justice housing.