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Dear Neighbor,
There are still important dates ahead pertaining to the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget process. The Council will take its first vote on the Local Budget Act and the Budget Support Act on Monday, July 14 and second vote on the LBA on Monday, July 28. With first vote occurring on Monday, this edition of the newsletter is lighter as we prepare to keep you informed in the coming week.
As the work continues on the budget front, so does the other policy work in my office. The Committee on Health’s office calendar has been full learning how we can better address public health risks in the District. This week in particular, staff from theCommittee on Health attended the annual DC RAT Academy (yes, that’s its name!), a two-day conference hosted by DC Health about effective rodent management. One noteworthy tidbit shared was that the key to rodent management is not rodenticides or traps. It’s decreasing the amount of food waste in your trash, particularly in plastic bags or not rat-proof containers. Improper use of rodenticides also poses danger for children, pets, and wildlife when the poison is washed into fields and backyards. To help combat rodents and aid in creating a cleaner and healthier community, residents can sign up for the District’s food waste collection program or drop off food waste to be composted at designated events and our 24/7 “smart bins” located citywide.
Another event the team attended included the DC Cancer Coalition’s annual meeting, where leaders from the Coalition's three workgroups (patient navigation, early detection, and data collection) shared updates from the past year and outlined plans for continued alignment with the DC Cancer Control Plan. Lung, colorectal, prostate, and female breast cancers are the most common types of cancers in the District. While cancer incidence and mortality rates in the District are near the national average and declining, significant disparities remain—especially in Wards 7 and 8. At this year’s meeting the Coalition highlighted three key developments. First, the District now requires insurance coverage for prostate cancer screening and treatment (rulemaking is underway). Second, DC received high marks from the American Lung Association for Tobacco Control. Third, the JUUL settlement secured by the Office of the Attorney General provided the District with $853,000 in funding to invest in smoking cessation assistance for residents under age 21.
Temperatures in the District are still high, and I want to remind everyone to stay hydrated and to visit your local cooling station if you need to escape the heat and potential heat-related illnesses. I’ll be working this weekend preparing for Monday’s votes, but there are some fun events going on around town. We’ve highlighted some below.
In Service,
Christina Henderson
Councilmember, At-Large
ChristinaHendersonDC.com
On Wednesday, July 2, and Tuesday, July 8, Councilmembers met for part one and two of the DC Council’s Budget Work Sessions for the Fiscal Year 2026. The work session discussions covered an array of topics including: the June 30 revenue estimates, new Fiscal Year 2025 spending pressures, the Budget Support Act subtitles, not yet funded Councilwide priorities, and Committee actions – including details on each Committee’s recommendations for the Fiscal Year 2026 Local Budget Act (LBA).
As a reminder, you can view the Committee on Health’s recommendations for theFiscal Year (FY) 2026 Local Budget Act, here, and the Committee Budget report, here.
On Monday, July 14, the Council will hold its first vote on the Local Budget Act and the Budget Support Act. The second vote on the LBA will be Monday, July 28.
The University of Texas at Austin Meets DC
On Friday, June 27, Councilmember Henderson met with Master of Public Affairs and Master of Global Policy Studies students from the LBJ Washington Center of theUniversity of Texas at Austin. Students in the program spend their first year in Austin, Texas and spend their final two semesters in DC to complete their coursework and a six-month policy apprenticeship before graduating. Councilmember Henderson’s talk with the students included an overview of her experience working in government, theuniqueness of the District’s local government structure, and advice as they pursue careers in the policy space.
DC Power Football Club
On Monday, June 30, Councilmember Henderson met with Jan Adams, a business owner and part of the founding ownership group of the DC Power FC, DC’s women’ssoccer team that plays in the USL Super League. They discussed the growth of thesport in the District and improvements at Audi Field.
The Black Maternal Health Flag
Afterwards, the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities installed the Black Maternal Health Flag, 2024, by artist Lex Marie in the Committee on Health’s office.Since Councilmember Henderson’s first day in office, she has pushed legislation in an effort to combat the District's maternal mortality rate. Her very first bill, the Maternal Health Resources and Access Act of 2021, focused on improving maternal health outcomes through establishing Medicaid reimbursements for doula services and providing transportation subsidies for rides to maternal health appointments for increased access to maternal health resources. The Committee on Health’s display of the Black Maternal Health Flag, 2024, serves as a reminder of the Committee’slegislative endeavors regarding maternal health.
“Crafted from hospital receiving blankets, black fabric, and a deconstructed American flag, the Black Maternal Health Flag transforms a national emblem into a powerful statement on the Black maternal health crisis. The receiving blankets, typically used for newborns, replace the red stripes, symbolizing both life and loss. Black fabric replaces the white stripes, representing the disparities and systemic challenges Black mothers face. The original blue field with white stars remains, tying the piece to thecountry’s identity while calling for urgent change. Through the act of sewing these materials together, the artwork stitches together narratives of care, struggle, and resilience, urging recognition and action. This flag is not just an artwork, it is a symbol of advocacy, demanding that Black maternal health be seen, valued, and protected.”
-Lex Marie
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 2E Public Meeting
To finish the day, Councilmember Henderson joined the ANC 2E public meeting at Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School. Councilmember Henderson providedupdates on key upcoming dates for the FY 2026 Budget, RFK Stadium, and other budget priorities. You can view the full agenda, here.
4th of July in the District
In celebration of Independence Day, on Friday, July 4, Councilmember Hendersonclosed out the week by walking in the Palisades 4th of July Parade with several of her fellow Council colleagues.
DC Hospital Association Annual Breakfast Reception
On Tuesday, July 8, the DC Hospital Association held their annual breakfast reception in the atrium of the John A. Wilson building. The breakfast allowed time for members of the association to share annual reports and upcoming plans for their respective organizations with DC Council staff.
Visiting C3 Cares
The same day Committee on Health Senior Policy Advisor, Marcia Huff, visited C3 Cares (Community Concierge Cares) facilities at Langston Terrace. C3 Cares is a nurse-led, primary care organization embedded in D.C.'s public housing communities that operates 4 mini-clinics in Wards 5, 6, 7 and 8. During her visit, Huff learned about their relationship with three Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) that they are working closely with to provide primary care services to residents, leading with a “let’s get healthy together” approach.
DC Cancer Coalition Meeting
On Wednesday, July 9, Health Policy Advisor for the Committee on Health, Rebecca Cooper, joined the DC Cancer Coalition for their annual Coalition meeting. The event provided updates on best practices for patient navigation, early detection and data collection.
DC Health's RAT Academy
The same day, Committee Director for the Committee on Health, Ona Balkus, attended the annual DC RAT Academy, the two day conference is hosted by DC Health on effective rodent management.
Modernizing John Phillips Sousa Middle School
To close out the day, Councilmember Henderson visited John Phillips Sousa Middle School located in Ward 7 with her Council colleague, Wendell Felder. The tour,sponsored by DC Public Schools (DCPS) and Department of General Services (DGS) allowed an opportunity for, Principal Green-Pascal to identify work orders –including roofing and HVAC repairs, door latch installation, and electronic security replacements submitted to DGS for completion before the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year. Councilmember Henderson will remain in contact with DCPS and DGS to ensure that all necessary work orders are complete by the end of the six-month summer readiness timeline. During her time as the Committee Director for theCommittee on Education for Councilmember David Grosso, Councilmember Henderson aided in the construction of the “Planning Actively for Comprehensive Education Facilities Amendment Act of 2016” which creates a more equitable approach in determining when schools are eligible for modernization.
Through the PACE Prioritization Model, you can find more information about when your local school will be eligible for modernization.
Mt. Pleasant Library Re-opens!
Join Mt. Pleasant Library (3160 16th St NW) from 12:00pm to 2:00pm on thehistoric library steps for ice cream and music to celebrate the return of the library.
West Porch Fridays
Union Station is proud to introduce West Porch Fridays, taking place every Fridaythis summer (June 27th – September 26th) from 11:30am – 3:30pm. West Porch Fridays is a curated farmer’s market, featuring local makers and growers, a variety of music and more! Each week will bring something new and different to this historic venue.
Late Night Drip
Late Night Drip is the poolside edition of DPR’s popular Late Night Hype series where young people can cool off, vibe out, and make a splash during extended pool hours. With music, games, and good energy, it’s a party with a purpose: teaching DC youth the importance of water safety in a fun and welcoming environment. You can find more information, here.
Event Dates
Saturdays in July from 6:00pm to 10:00pm
Magic Wednesdays
Join Majic 102.3’s Vic Jagger, DJ Rico, DJ Face and the best local R&B, Go-Go and Jazz bands for a free summer concert series in DC. Bring your friends, family, and good energy to Sycamore & Oak (1110 Oak Dr. SE) every Wednesday starting at 6:30pm to 8:30pm from June 11 to August 13, 2025, and let’s make this season unforgettable with great music and community spirit!
Please note that seating is limited, and for safety and comfort, lawn chairs are NOT permitted.
Memory in Texture: Ward 5 Community Design Workshop
The DC Office of Planning is honoring Sterling A. Brown, professor, poet, and former Brookland resident, through commemorative public art. Join Commemorate DC onThursday, July 24, for a vibrant evening of art, community, and fun at Bryant Street Market! In partnership with DCSquared’s Summer Nights Series at Bryant Street Market (670 Rhode Island Ave NE) from 5:30pm to 7:00pm. Stick around for a free outdoor movie under the stars starting at 7:00pm.
2025 Chinatown Park Festival
The Mayor’s Office on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs (MOAPIA) is proud to host their annual Chinatown Park Festival, a flagship event that consistently draws significant community engagement and supports Mayor's initiatives for cultural preservation and community vitality. This year, the office will introduce a dynamic night market experience. This new element will feature five Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) food vendors and five AANHPI arts and crafts vendors, directly supporting local AANHPI businesses and showcasing their entrepreneurial spirit. Offerings include practical bike clinics, essential resource tabling, book and clothes exchange, table tennis tournaments, cultural performances and more.
The 2025 Chinatown Park Festival is scheduled for Saturday, July 26, from 4:00pm to 9:00pm, at Chinatown Park and Lotus Plaza (I St NW, Between 5th and 6th St NW).
Have a constituent service need related to the Health Committee or any of the other agencies in DC Government? Want Councilmember Henderson to come to your community event or meeting? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our Constituent Services Director Ana Berrios-Vazquez during regular business hours (9:00am - 5:30pm) at 202-724-8105, or ABerriosVazquez@dccouncil.gov.
DC Youth Meals Program
Hunger doesn’t take a summer break. This summer, youth 18 and younger have access to no-cost meals at over 100 sites across the city. No application or ID required. When school is out, the meals served as a part of the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program are not available to all students, and due to families' limited budgets, or other circumstances, children will often miss wholesome meals. The DC Youth Meals Program was established to fill this hunger gap and ensure that children continue to receive nutritious meals when school is not in session.
You can find no cost meals for youth 18 and younger across the city. Find a site near you at one of the links below.
Ward 1 Ward 2 Ward 4 Ward 5 Ward 6 Ward 7 Ward 8
Maternal Health and Equity Program
The Women’s Foundation is now accepting applications for its Maternal Health and Birth Equity Program. If your organization supports maternal health and birth equity on DC or Prince George’s County, this is your chance to access funding to advance your work. The deadline to apply is July 14.
Interested parties may apply, here.
Plan Ahead with DC Metro
On June 29, 2025, Metro implemented its all-new bus network. The new bus network contains all new bus routes and names. You can use Metros updated Trip Planner to help you plan your trip ahead of time.
Keep Cool at DC Cooling Centers
When the temperature or heat index in the District reaches 95 degrees, District Government, through the Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA), will implement the Heat Emergency Plan and activate cooling centers for residents to seek relief.
You can find a list of cooling centers, here.
Office of the Attorney General (OAG) Mediation Program
The OAG Mediation program works on behalf of consumers and tenants to try to resolve disputes with businesses and landlords without the need to go to court. This is a free service available to tenants and consumers who are DC residents or to address consumer complaints when the business is located or headquartered in DC.
You can contact the OAG hotline at (202)442-9828 or consumer.protection@dc.gov
You can find more information, here.
Consumer Alert: Third-Party Energy Company Scams
Has anyone approached you asking you to switch energy suppliers? The Office of theAttorney General (OAG) has learned of multiple third-party energy companies using sales tactics that we believe are deceptive and illegal, and pressuring or tricking DC residents into signing contracts. These companies also frequently charge customers higher prices for energy than Pepco or Washington Gas.
Here are some tactics to watch out for:
Visit the OAG site submit a consumer protection complaint, here.
Clear the Shelters
The Brandywine Valley SPCA is excited to be teaming up with NBCUniversal for its annual Clear The Shelters adoption event on Saturday, August 2. Join Brandywine at either of their locations — 1201 New York Ave NE or 4 DC Village Lane SW — where adoption fees for all pets (big, small, young, old, and everything in between) will be waived. If you've been thinking about welcoming a furry friend into your family, this will be the perfect time!
You can learn more about Brandywine Valley SPCA and its services atbvspca.org/dc.
To report an animal in distress in the District, please call BVSPCA at (202) 888-PETS.
Student Loan Support, Counseling and Resources
The Office of the Student Loan Ombudsman (OSLO) will be hosting drop-in hours for residents throughout the summer. Remaining sessions are Tuesday, August 12, andTuesday, September 9, from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at the Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking headquarters (1050 First St NE, Suite 801). The Office of the Student Loan Ombudsman recently recorded a webinar addressing loan default and delinquency which can be viewed, here.
Housing Resiliency in Times of Change
Are you feeling the impact from recent budget cuts? Worried about how to secure your housing needs in these challenging times? Join DC’s Department of Insurance, Securities, and Banking on Wednesday, August 13, to learn how to navigate these concerns. Multiple sessions are available on each date.
Registration is open now and can be accessed, here.
Veteran Affairs, Resource Symposium
The Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs invites you to join their monthly Veterans Resource Symposium—a space for DC veterans to connect, share experiences, and explore available resources. Sessions highlight key programs and services offered by the Veteran Affairs office to ensure veterans across the District stay informed, supported, and empowered. Event takes place on the last Thursday of every month at the Marion Barry Building (441 4th St NW) from 12:00pm to 1:00pm.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
The Utility Discount Programs (UDP) assists low-income District residents with reducing utility costs. To qualify, you must meet income guidelines and utility bills must be in the applicant's name. Eligible residents could receive discounts on electric, gas, and water and sewer bills. Applicants can apply by phone by calling 1-800-234-9473 or by creating an account and applying online, here.
You can visit us online at christinahendersondc.com. Or stay connected by following Councilmember Christina Henderson on her socials.
Website: christinahendersondc.com
Twitter (X): @CMCHenderson
Instagram: @christinahendersondc
Facebook: @christinahendersondc
Bluesky: @cmchenderson.bsky.social
Veteran Affairs, Resource Symposium
The Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs invites you to join their monthly Veterans Resource Symposium—a space for DC veterans to connect, share experiences, and explore available resources. Sessions highlight key programs and services offered by the Veteran Affairs office to ensure veterans across the District stay informed, supported, and empowered. Event takes place on the last Thursday of every month at the Marion Barry Building (441 4th St NW) from 12:00pm to 1:00pm.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
The Utility Discount Programs (UDP) assists low-income District residents with reducing utility costs. To qualify, you must meet income guidelines and utility bills must be in the applicant's name. Eligible residents could receive discounts on electric, gas, and water and sewer bills. Applicants can apply by phone by calling 1-800-234-9473 or by creating an account and applying online, here.
You can visit us online at christinahendersondc.com. Or stay connected by following Councilmember Christina Henderson on her socials.
Website: christinahendersondc.com
Twitter (X): @CMCHenderson
Instagram: @christinahendersondc
Facebook: @christinahendersondc
Bluesky: @cmchenderson.bsky.social