Dear Ward 8 Residents,
 

I’m excited to invite you to join us for a meeting to discuss the updates on the construction of the Anacostia Senior Wellness Center and the Congress Heights Recreation Center. This will be a Zoom Meeting on October 10th at 6:30 pm. This conversation is an important opportunity for us to gauge the progress of construction and assess any challenges or successes that have emerged during the build.

When we discuss these facilities, we will discuss the work completed thus far, identify areas where things are going well, and address any obstacles that might delay completion. This conversation will not just be about reviewing the planned physical structures but ensuring that the resources and services for these spaces meet the needs of our residents and will have a lasting positive impact on our community for years to come.

These centers are more than just buildings—they represent an investment in our community’s future. Once completed, they will offer safe, accessible spaces for recreation, education, and community engagement, from sports courts and fitness rooms to spaces for youth and senior programs.

This moment has been a long time coming, and we are thrilled to finally see the vision come to life. I look forward to seeing you on the call and hearing your thoughts on what we can do to ensuree these facilities are everything we’ve envisioned and more.

Respectfully, 

Trayon White, Sr.
Councilmember, Ward 8

The ERAP application portal is currently closed, and the program is not yet accepting new applications for FY 2025.

The DC Department of Human Services (DHS) originally planned to re-open the ERAP application portal on October 1, 2024. However, work is currently underway to reform the ERAP program to ensure its limited resources are going to District residents who are eligible for the program and face the most urgent need for rental assistance. As a result, there will be a delay in reopening the ERAP portal for FY25.

DHS is working with urgency and in partnership with Council and community stakeholders to complete this necessary work and make these emergency funds available as quickly as possible. 

During this time, ERAP providers are completing eligibility determination and payments for those applicants who applied in the last quarter of FY24. 

After program reforms are finalized, DHS will be able to announce the re-opening of the portal. DHS will make its announcement at least 15 days before the re-opening date, and additional information will be posted here, including options for residents who need assistance with their ERAP applications. At this time, a re-opening date has not been confirmed. 

Once the ERAP application portal opens, DHS will keep it open continuously until all FY25 funds have been allocated. This is a change from FY24 when the portal opened quarterly.

Residents seeking emergency rental assistance can submit their application when the portal re-opens. Click here to learn more about documents needed to submit a complete application.

If you are experiencing homelessness or at immediate risk of homelessness, please contact the Virginia Williams Family Resource Center (VWFRC), the central intake office for all families in the District seeking assistance with their housing needs. VWFRC is located at 920 Rhode Island Avenue, NE and is open Monday-Thursday from 8:30am-4pm and Friday, 8:30am-12:00pm. The telephone number is 202-526-0017. After business hours, families can call the Shelter Hotline for information about services and resources at 202-399-7093 or 311. 

If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact the DHS/FSA ERAP office at [email protected]. 

Councilmember Trayon White, Sr. is making significant strides in addressing key social issues through four new pieces of legislation aimed at enhancing support for seniors, promoting educational inclusivity, and recognizing community leaders. Each of these initiatives reflects a commitment to improving the quality of life for residents across diverse demographics.

1. Senior SNAP Enhancement Act of 2024

The “Senior SNAP Enhancement Act of 2024” amends the Food Stamp Expansion Act of 2009, introducing increased financial assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) specifically for senior residents of the District. This legislation is crucial as it directly tackles the pressing issue of food insecurity among the aging population.

Food insecurity is a growing concern, particularly for seniors on fixed incomes who may struggle to afford nutritious food. By enhancing SNAP benefits, this legislation will ensure that more senior residents can access healthy meals, ultimately promoting better health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs associated with malnutrition. Increased financial support through SNAP will empower seniors to maintain their independence and dignity while fostering a stronger, healthier community.

2. Senior Programming Protection Act of 2024

The “Senior Programming Protection Act of 2024” mandates that the Mayor evaluate any proposed changes to programs and services for seniors offered by the Department of Parks and Recreation before any closures or relocations occur. This act is a vital step toward ensuring that the needs and preferences of senior citizens are prioritized in community planning.

By requiring a thorough evaluation process, this legislation seeks to protect the essential programs that many seniors rely on for social interaction, physical activity, and mental well-being. This approach not only safeguards current services but also encourages the development of new programs that are responsive to the needs of the aging population, enhancing their overall quality of life in the District.

3. Collective Faith Community Historic Contribution Curriculum Inclusion Amendment Act of 2024

The “Collective Faith Community Historic Contribution Curriculum Inclusion Amendment Act of 2024” aims to enrich the educational landscape by requiring the Office of the State Superintendent of Education to develop a curriculum that includes the historic contributions of various faith communities—including Muslim, Jewish, Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, and others. 

This legislation is pivotal for fostering a more inclusive and diverse understanding of American history among students. By integrating these contributions into the curriculum, the Act promotes cultural competency, respect for diversity, and a deeper understanding of the complex tapestry that makes up American society. This educational approach prepares students to be more empathetic and informed citizens, contributing to a more harmonious community.

4. Calique Barnes Recognition Resolution of 2024

The “Calique Barnes Recognition Resolution of 2024” honors Calique Barnes for his exceptional dedication and achievements as a student advocate, minister, and newly appointed State Board Student Representative to the DC State Board of Education from Ward 8. Recognizing leaders like Barnes is essential for inspiring others and reinforcing the value of community engagement.

This resolution not only acknowledges Barnes' contributions but also highlights the importance of youth leadership in shaping educational policy and community initiatives. By uplifting voices like his, the District emphasizes the critical role that young advocates play in addressing the needs of their peers and driving positive change.

These four pieces of legislation demonstrate Councilmember Trayon White, Sr.’s commitment to addressing food insecurity among seniors, safeguarding essential programs, promoting educational inclusivity, and recognizing local leaders. Each initiative is designed to foster a supportive and inclusive community, ultimately benefiting residents of all ages and backgrounds. As these laws are enacted, they will play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for many and shaping a brighter future for the District of Columbia.

It is with great pleasure that the future opening of the College Success Track program (College Track Southeast DC) is announced, to be located at The Residences at Saint Elizabeth's on the grounds of Saint Elizabeth's. The College Success Track program pairs students with success coaches who assist them in developing academic and career plans. The program serves 89% first-generation students, 85% low-income students, and 95% students of color. College Track has partnered with Anacostia High School, Ballou High School, Bard High School Early College, Thurgood Marshall Academy, and Friendship Tech Prep Academy. For more information, visit https://www.collegetracksusa.org.

This week, the Constituent Services team assisted the United Planning Organization (UPO) in relocating children displaced by the closure of Eagle Academy Public Charter School. UPO has worked diligently to address this unexpected situation and ensure that affected families receive the necessary support during this transition. 

Councilmember White and his Constituent Services staff had the pleasure of attending an exciting football game between two standout middle school teams—Johnson vs. Hart—at Ballou Senior High. Before kickoff, the Councilmember gave a quick pep talk to both teams, showing his support for the Middle School Football SE CUP. It was a hard-fought game on the field, but in the end, the mighty Panthers of Johnson Middle School came out on top with a commanding 28-0 victory. Great effort from both teams.

October 1, 2024

The Nigerian American Cultural Center, the first of its kind for the Nigerian diaspora in the U.S., opened its doors in Ward 8 on Marion Barry Ave SE, providing essential services to the largest Black immigrant group in the country. The center offers resources to help navigate the U.S. immigration system, including legal advice, application assistance, and representation. In honor of this milestone, Mayor Bowser proclaimed October 1st as Nigerian American Day in the District of Columbia. Key figures at the event included Dr. Gina Paige, President and co-founder of African Ancestry Inc., and Gbenga Ogunjimi, Executive Director of the Nigerian Center.