ALEXANDRIA, Va (7News) — Mayor Alyia Gaskins launched the Fresh Start Initiative on Thursday, thanks to a $1 million donation from Alfred Street Baptist Church to prevent evictions and strengthen long-term financial stability for families living in public housing, according to a statement on Thursday.
This comes after the Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority (ARHA) revealed that they have lost $1 million in unpaid rent over their 445 public housing units due to increased cost of living, challenges in the DMV regional job market, and lingering economic effects of the recent global pandemic.
“This is about more than clearing balances — it’s about creating pathways to stability,” said Mayor Gaskins in a statement. “Housing affordability continues to be one of the most pressing challenges facing our city. Through the Interfaith Council, we are harnessing the moral leadership and generosity of our faith community to prevent displacement while also investing in financial literacy and long-term economic security.”…