A Virginia megachurch has paid off more than $1 million in rent debt, saving 338 families from eviction in one of the largest faith-led housing relief efforts in recent years.
The donation, totaling $1,049,000, was made by Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria and directed toward families living in public housing who were at risk of losing their homes.
The announcement came during an Easter Sunday service, when Rev. Howard-John Wesley revealed how the church’s annual SEEK initiative – a period of fasting, prayer, and giving – had translated into life-changing support for hundreds of households.
“We pray that the Lord would not only change our lives,” Wesley told the congregation, “but that God will also change our land.”
That prayer became action through the Fresh Start Initiative, a local effort focused on supporting residents struggling with housing costs. After auditing and verifying cases, the church committed its SEEK offering to clear outstanding debts for families facing eviction.
“It is my joy to share with you that… you have helped stop the eviction of 338 families to the cost of $1,049,000,” Wesley said.
The scale of the donation has drawn praise, including from Alexandria Mayor Alyia Gaskins, who highlighted the urgent need for solutions to the city’s housing challenges.
“This is about more than clearing balances – it’s about creating pathways to stability,” she said. “Housing affordability continues to be one of the most pressing challenges facing our city.”
A recent report from the Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority found roughly $1 million in unpaid rent across public housing units, driven by rising living costs and job market pressures.
Through partnerships with local faith organizations, including Alfred Street Baptist, city leaders hope to prevent displacement while also investing in long-term financial stability for residents.
