Spring is the season when new life begins to take shape all around us, and spring at Jubilee is no different.
The potential exists, as city officials consider D.C.’s FY 2019 budget, for more homes that District residents with extremely low incomes can afford. So, Jubilee is joining other non-profit developers in calling for a $20 million increase in the base amount of the city’s Housing Production Trust Fund and a $5.5 million increase in Local Rent Supplement Program (LRSP) funding specifically to produce homes affordable to those making 30 percent or less of area median income.
It’s often been said that a budget is a moral document. As the District continues to experience economic growth and large-scale prosperity, it’s imperative that elected officials effectively address the needs of residents who are not experiencing that same prosperity.
Meanwhile, Jubilee will soon launch—with five highly experienced, long-time local nonprofits—a “Platform of Hope” designed to bring a continuum of support to neighbors of Adams Morgan, Columbia Heights, and Mount Pleasant with very and extremely low incomes. Led by our own Sylvia Stokes, the program is preparing to recruit its initial cohort of 20 families from among those currently working with a partner organization. Each participant will set his or her goals for the program’s success.
Another fresh idea will generate electricity savings of up to $500 annually for 100 Jubilee residents. Jubilee is working with New Partners Community Solar to pool solar energy captured by panels being added to the Maycroft’s roof with solar energy captured by other New Partners’ collaborators for the benefit of Jubilee residents and other D.C. families with very low incomes. Savings will be available to households with the greatest need starting this fall, once the Maycroft panels are operational.
You can support these and other Jubilee efforts through our Spring Appeal, which launches this week. Invest now in the early stages of our 2018 work and ensure its momentum over the coming months. Or email me if you are aware of or interested in helping purchase new properties where we can create justice housing.