The Whidbey Community Foundation (WCF) is excited to announce the launch of the Whidbey Affordable Housing Fund (WAHF), a new funding initiative aimed at addressing the ongoing affordable housing crisis on Whidbey Island. The fund, established by JADE Craftsman Builders with contributions from JADE and their clients, is now accepting applications from nonprofit organizations focused on creating perpetually affordable housing on the island.
The WAHF was created to connect donor dollars with nonprofit organizations working to develop more affordable housing options for individuals and families across Whidbey Island. By providing bridge loans, WAHF seeks to support projects that are near shovel-ready, currently under construction, or close to completion.
Funding Priorities
In this first phase of funding, the WAHF will offer short-term bridge loans, enabling local nonprofits to expedite their affordable housing initiatives. Projects that are well-developed, with a robust business plan and multiple funding sources, are highly encouraged to apply. While loans are prioritized, organizations with longer-term needs are still welcome to submit a Letter of Interest (LOI) to be considered for funding.
“Whidbey Island faces an urgent need for affordable housing options, and the Whidbey Affordable Housing Fund aims to address this challenge by providing critical financial support to nonprofits working on sustainable housing solutions,” said Jessie Gunn, Executive Director of the Whidbey Community Foundation.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, schools, faith-based organizations, tribal entities, or government agencies, with a project based on Whidbey Island. Projects should aim to create or preserve perpetually affordable housing, with an emphasis on equity and serving historically marginalized communities. The fund offers support to a range of housing projects, including new construction, renovations, and conversions.
Applicants will be asked to define affordability within the context of their project and demonstrate a commitment to maintaining long-term affordability for Whidbey residents.
Application Process
The Whidbey Affordable Housing Fund accepts applications on a rolling basis. Nonprofit organizations and eligible entities interested in applying for funding should begin by submitting a Letter of Interest via the WCF website. Following a review by the WAHF Advisory Committee, selected applicants will be invited to submit a full application and may participate in an interview. Funding decisions will be made within approximately one month of the full application submission.
How to Apply
Interested organizations can visit Whidbey Community Foundation’s website to view the complete eligibility guidelines and to access the online application form. For more information about the Whidbey Affordable Housing Fund, please contact WCF at info@whidbeycommunityfoundation.org.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Jessie Gunn
Executive Director
Whidbey Community Foundation
Phone: (360) 660 – 5041
Email: info@whidbeycommunityfoundation.org
About Whidbey Community Foundation
Whidbey Community Foundation (WCF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life on Whidbey Island by promoting and supporting local charitable giving. WCF works to build a stronger, more equitable community through strategic grantmaking and partnerships with local organizations.
WCF’s mission is to improve the quality of life on Whidbey Island by providing support for the nonprofit sector, assisting donors to build and preserve enduring assets for charitable purposes, and meeting community needs through financial awards. Since 2016, WCF has opened 35+ funds and made over 440 grants totaling over $2.5 million for various causes.