Foundations for the Future:
Establishing Homes, Wealth, and Lasting Legacies in DC

A Pathway to Sustainable Homeownership & Generational Wealth in DC

Are you a DC resident working hard to reach the next level of financial stability? We are here to bridge the gap. Foundations for the Future is a collaborative program designed by birdSEED, DCALF, Tzedek DC and Yachad to help you buy a home, protect your assets, and build a lasting legacy for your family.

What the Program Offers

We provide a comprehensive, 5-step journey to ensure you don’t just buy a home—you keep it and grow your wealth.

Financial & Legal Advising: Expert training on budgeting, credit, and debt management, plus legal help to secure clear titles for inherited family homes.
Direct Homebuyer Grants: Opportunity to apply for "no-strings" awards of up to $30,000 toward your home purchase in the District.
Investment & Emergency Funds: Upon completion, you’ll receive a $1,500 seeded investment account and a $5,000 emergency fund to ensure long-term stability.
Healthy Home Remediation: Access to a dedicated fund for critical repairs to keep your home safe and protect your equity.
Legacy Planning: Free estate and "health and wealth" planning to ensure your assets stay in your family for generations.

How It Works: Your 5-Step Journey

Step 1: Wealth Advising:

Complete financial education and financial counseling and receive a $1,500 investment account.

Step 2: Home Purchase:

Receive a home inspection and a no-strings down payment assistance grant of up to $30,000 for a first-time home purchase.

Step 3: Estate Planning:

Work with DCALF legal experts to protect your new asset and plan your legacy.

Step 4: Emergency Fund:

Receive a $5,000 emergency fund once your estate planning is complete.

Step 5: Healthy Home Remediation:

Access support for early detection and repair of health related housing issues.

Are You Eligible?

We are looking for DC residents who are:

Employed but finding the dream of homeownership just out of reach.
Committed to building long-term financial resilience and generational wealth in Washington DC
Part of the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) community*

Foundations for the Future is a demonstration project for Greater Washington Community Foundation's Health Equity Fund.

Apply Now

ALICE Tool