Dear Ward 8 Residents,

The District of Columbia is doing reasonably well financially. Still, the sad reality is that there are residents in the District who do not feel the city's growth and prosperity. We have to do more to change that narrative. 

During budget season, I host a series of community conversations that offer residents an opportunity to collaborate. While our city grows, I will work with my council colleagues and government agencies to tap into resources that create equality and equity for our residents.

Last week's community budget conversation focused on Non-profit opportunities. Many residents in Ward 8 requested more in-depth discussions to understand how to start a non-profit or apply for funding with their existing non-profit.  That discussion is scheduled for Thursday, February 11th at 7:30 p.m. Register to attend at: https://tinyurl.com/allthingsnonprofit

I encourage residents who may have missed the meeting to watch the recap video.  I look forward to serving the residents of Ward 8, please continue to stay safe.

Regards,



Trayon White, Sr.

Emergency Relief

ALERT: Under the leadership of Mayor Muriel Bowser, the Council for the District of Columbia and the District Government, have authorized financial assistance to provide emergency relief to District residents struggling with unpaid DC Water bills during the coronavirus (COVID-19) public health emergency and 105 days thereafter. Eligible households may receive bill assistance up to $2,000 as a one-time emergency benefit.

In addition to this benefit, eligible households will receive one of the following discounts:

• Customer Assistance Program (CAP) provides a discount on the first 400 cubic feet (3,000 gallons) of water and sewer services used each month. Eligible households will receive a 75 percent reduction in the monthly CRIAC fee and a Water Service Replacement Fee waiver. The monthly discount is approximately $77 a month.
   
•  Customer Assistance Program II (CAP2) provides a discount on the first 300 cubic feet (2,250 gallons) of water and sewer services used each month (with the exception of PILOT and ROW fees) and a 50 percent reduction in the monthly CRIAC fee. The monthly discount is approximately $50 a month.
   
• Customer Assistance Program III (CAP3) provides a discount of 75 percent off of the monthly CRIAC. The monthly discount is approximately $15 a month.

On the first day of Black History Month, a time that calls for reflecting on the past, a well-known D.C. developer, a longtime city activist and three local lawmakers stood together on an outdoor stage in Southeast Washington and talked about the future.

For Black families in Anacostia.

For Black residents across the District.

For Black business owners who are tired of being pushed out of the city.

“This is about equity, y’all,” activist Ronald Moten said. “If we don’t own nothing, we ain’t nothing.