A local nonprofit dedicated to helping people repair their homes in Alexandria just received a $200,000 sustainability grant from the Wells Fargo Foundation.
Rebuilding Together DC – Alexandria says that the funds will allow it to improve “climate resiliency for marginalized populations by addressing home improvements and energy-efficient retrofits.”
“This $200,000 sustainability grant from Wells Fargo will enable Rebuilding Together to advance housing affordability and racial equity in our underserved communities in Washington DC and Alexandria VA by providing sustainable housing upgrades,” said Katharine Dixon, President & CEO of Rebuilding DC – Alexandria. “We are excited to get started on new programs that directly address energy efficiency in the homes of our neediest clients.”
Last year, Wells Fargo donated $1.45 million to the nonprofit.
“Climate-friendly housing helps the environment and contributes to better community wellbeing, yet far too many households in the D.C. area have the least access to renewable energy,” said Victor Burrola, Vice President of Philanthropy & Community Impact for Washington, D.C. at Wells Fargo. “Through our support of Rebuilding Together, this important climate resiliency initiative aligns with our ongoing efforts to help individuals and families increase energy-efficiency, save money, and reduce their carbon footprint in their homes.”
RTDCA was founded in 1986, and is among the 130+ Rebuilding Together affiliates. The nonprofit has dedicated $8.8 million toward local revitalization efforts to homeowners in need, and more than 30,000 volunteers have donated their time and energy on more than 3,000 projects.
The nonprofit provides year-round repair services, but much of its effort is focused on National Rebuilding Day on April 27.
RTDCA said the funds will be used to create the following:
RTDCA will utilize Wells Fargo’s grant funds to create quality, sustainable home environments and reduce potential negative health impacts. The expanded holistic work will include improved energy-efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions in their income-qualifying clients’ homes.
Such work may include whole house audits for each family/individual served and a combination of the following climate resiliency retrofits:
- Insulated doors/windows
- Efficient/electric HVAC/hot water units
- Algae-based air filters/purifiers
- Ventilation (including fireplaces)
- LEDs, light sensors
- Energy Star appliances
- Sealing/insulation of attics/ducts/holes
- Weatherization
- Smart/programmable thermostat
- Gas stove to electric and/or battery/induction conversion
- Low-flow toilet/showerheads
- Cellular shades, ceiling fans
- Smart power strips
- Planting of shade trees, drought resistant plants, indoor plants
- Funds will likely also be used for some community revitalization projects such as tree plantings, to increase and improve community health and neighborhood pride.