News from AHC Inc. l February 2021

The pandemic has underscored the importance of internet connectivity, which can be particularly challenging for low-income families.

Thanks to a new grant from Virginia Housing, AHC is working with Arlington County, Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing (APAH) and CTC Technology & Energy to identify procedures and cost estimates for providing free or low-cost internet connectivity to affordable housing residents in Arlington.

The feasibility study will provide the County with recommendations to leverage public investment to provide free or low-cost high-speed internet to residents of committed affordable housing apartments. The study is part of the Arlington Digital Inclusion initiative and will provide details regarding implementation, technical architecture, customer service, ongoing operations, and the potential for future scalability.

We are immeasurably grateful to the many community partners who work closely with our Resident Services team. Here's a snapshot of how a few of our partners have made a difference in the last few weeks.

As part of the MLK Day of Service coordinated by Volunteer Arlington, we received more than 100 snuggly, warm blankets from Arlington's Rotary Club volunteers. Hundreds of other generous community members also created more than 3,500 snack bags to help our students study, including Harkins Builders team members who created 500 bags.

Long-time partner Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC) opened a food distribution site at AHC's new community, The Apex. AHC residents can now pick up much-needed food onsite at five apartment communities in Arlington. Another partner, Food For Kids, is starting a new program to distribute fresh, nutritious meals once a week at The Serrano.

New partner Operation Warm donated 600 brand new winter coats for children and teens. And, in Baltimore County, long-time partner Art with a Heart is coordinating an eight-week series for middle and high school students that is focusing on goal setting through art work.

It truly takes a village to help families in need, and we are so grateful for our many community partners.

Last weekend, 76 residents were vaccinated at MonteVerde Apartments, one of AHC's senior properties. The opportunity was part of the federal Long Term Care Pharmacy Partnership. CVS staff members administered the vaccines.

To encourage participation (and dispell misinformation and mistrust), Resident Services heavily promoted the program to residents.

Many residents were thrilled to get the vaccine. Comments included:

AHC hopes to offer similar opportunities in our other senior communities.