The Whitelaw Hotel, named after its builder John Whitelaw Lewis, opened in 1919 in the predominantly African American U street neighborhood in Washington DC. The hotel was unique for its time because not only did it serve as the first luxury hotel for African Americans, but it was completely financed and built by African Americans as well. Throughout the early part the 20th century, the hotel thrived and became an important social center. The hotel endured many years of neglect due to economic decline, and it was closed down by the city after a four alarm fire in 1977.

Manna purchased the building in 1991, renovated it, and re-opened it in 1992. In December 2012, Manna began a new renovation with the hotel. Utilizing low-income tax credits, Manna undertook a $9 million project. Renovations were done on individual apartments and common areas. Old wooden windows were replaced with energy efficient ones, light fixtures were brought up-to-date, the elevator was modernized, and the kitchen and bathrooms were remodeled. The five-story building, comprised of 35 units, will continue to provide affordable housing for households earning up to 60 percent of the area median income for at least another 15 years.

Manna, Inc. will be celebrating the grand re-opening of the newly renovated Whitelaw Hotel on March 28th. This event serves as a symbol of Manna's commitment to providing low to moderate income people affordable housing options in Washington, DC.

Lace your sneakers and join us for the 16th Annual Manna 5K Fun Run/Walk will be taking place on May 3, 2014. This year the Fun Run will be held at Hains Point Park. Metro, parking directions, and registration information will be available on Manna's Fun Run website soon!

Don't forget the Manna Team Challenge continues this year! Teams need a minimum of 5 members to compete for prizes and the registration fee will be discounted to $25 when participants register with a team. The Manna Team Challenge information and registration link will be available soon on Manna's website.