Building Futures is pleased to announce three grants for Daffodil House, the 30-unit property in Columbia Heights that will provide homes to 30 extremely low-income households living with HIV/AIDS and other disabilities.  Daffodil House’s new supporters include:

• The William S. Abell Foundation provided $100,000 and ongoing technical assistance supporting the permanent financing of the property.  The grant will cover accessibility modifications to the front entrance and first floor apartments, offices, and common areas that will enable persons using wheelchairs to make full use of these areas.
• The District of Columbia’s Neighborhood Investment Fund provided $224,425 to cover predevelopment costs.  The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development coordinates this grant.
• The Enterprise Foundation’s Green Communities program provided $10,000 for green improvements at Daffodil House, to increase energy efficiency, reduce environmental impacts of development, and incorporate sustainable materials.

“These grants demonstrate broad community support for Daffodil House,” stated Steve Seuser, executive director.  “We’re especially grateful for this important financial support during difficult economic times.  It shows our funders understand that extremely low-income people living with HIV/AIDS are at even greater risk now.  Each of these grants funds an important aspect of development at Daffodil House.”

Businesses, individuals, foundations, and other organizations are invited to join us in the important work of developing Daffodil House.

“At least 70 homeless individuals living with HIV/AIDS are lined up to move out of shelters and into completed units at Daffodil House,” noted property manager Maritza Perez-Falero.  We’re working diligently to finish apartments, and we could especially use skilled or semi-skilled volunteers to help us with construction.  We’re also seeking contributions to cover construction materials and labor.  If you think you’d like to help, please contact us.  Over 200 people have volunteered so far.  Or can you join us on Saturday, Nov. 21 for Fannie Mae’s Help the Homeless walk as a walker or sponsor?”

Contact us to find out more about supporting Daffodil House.