Zion Baptist Church champions affordable senior housing in Ward 4

By Zion Baptist Church

Following the successful Fourth Annual Walter E. Fauntroy Legislative Day, the Washington (DC) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. reaffirms its commitment to addressing critical community issues, with a spotlight on affordable senior housing in Ward 4.

At the heart of this initiative is the proposed development of the Genevieve N. Johnson Senior Residences, a project spearheaded by Zion Community Enterprise (ZCE), the community development arm of Zion Baptist Church. This endeavor aims to transform the existing Family Life Center at 4817 Blagden Ave. NW into affordable, safe, and quality housing for seniors, allowing them to age in place within the community they have long called home.

Zion Baptist Church, a historic institution in Ward 4, has been a pillar of spiritual guidance and community service for decades. The church’s commitment to social justice and community development is exemplified through its active participation in the Enterprise Community Partners’ Faith-Based Development Initiative (FBDI), which provides training and resources to faith-based organizations for affordable housing development.

Rev. Dr. Keith W. Byrd Sr., pastor of Zion Baptist Church, emphasized the importance of this project.

“In the nation’s capital, affordable housing for our seniors should be located in the communities they have lived in and contributed to over their many years of life,” Byrd said.

“Our vision is to repurpose our existing Family Life Center into affordable, safe, and quality housing for seniors in Ward Four,” he added, “ensuring they can continue to thrive in their own neighborhood.”

The proposed development aligns with the District’s broader efforts to increase affordable housing options for seniors. Recently, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced a $100 million investment in the Housing Production Trust Fund, underscoring the city’s commitment to expanding affordable housing. Councilmember Janeese Lewis George agreed that the Housing Projection Trust Fund is the best opportunity for the group to create affordable housing opportunities for seniors in her ward. 

“I think a partnership with a developer who does senior housing, those partnerships go a long way.  A partnership, I think, would help move this project along,” she said, offering a list of people who specialize in working on senior housing projects.

As the project progresses, Zion Baptist Church and Zion Community Enterprise invite community members, stakeholders, and policymakers to support this vital initiative, ensuring that seniors in Ward 4 have access to quality, affordable housing that honors their contributions and preserves the fabric of the community.