FY 27 Budget Q&A #070: Please provide an update on grant funded programs in the Alexandria Health Dept that will end in FY26.

Page updated on April 8, 2026 at 10:27 AM
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Question: Please provide an update on grant funded programs in the Alexandria Health Dept that will end in FY26. (Councilwoman Greene)

Response: 

  1. HIV/STI Prevention. Historically, HIV/STI prevention funds have been awarded on an annual renewal cycle. VDH did not receive full funding for FY26 and removed one of two grant funded FTEs providing HIV/STI disease prevention services as a result. The Health Department has been informed that grant funding for the remaining position will be reduced by at least 50% in FY27. 
  2. ARPA Programs. AHD has been utilizing ARPA funds, which end by September 2026, for several years to support community engagement, the Healthy Homes Program, and the development of the Community Health Improvement Plan. ARPA grant funding covered the following personnel and activities in FY26: 
    • Community Engagement Manager (CEM): Currently oversees the ALX Breathes and health literacy programs, including staff and volunteer supervision, and partner technical assistance. Remaining grant funds will reimburse the City for this position until September 2026. The FY27 proposed budget includes ongoing funding for this position after grant support ends.
    • Community Health Epidemiologist: Analyzed community health and healthy homes data and conducted program evaluation. Most recent employee separated due to lack of funding 8/29/2025.
    • Program Coordinator: Developed community engagement best practices for AHD, built partnerships with immigrant-serving organizations, and oversaw outreach to drive diverse participation in Community Health Assessment and Improvement Plan work. This position is currently vacant following the most recent contractor’s resignation in February 2026. There is no plan to fill due to budget and time limitations, and remaining funds are being redistributed to maintain the Community Bridges and Graphic Designer.
    • Community Bridges Outreach Workers (Four part-time positions, 10 hours/week each): Conduct bilingual outreach across Alexandria, particularly in the West End, to get resident feedback on AHD programs and initiatives, and provide resources as needed. Two out of four contractors resigned in FY26 for full-time opportunities. Utilizing remaining funds to extend the 2 remaining contracts until the end of September 2026.
    • Graphic Designer (Part-time, 20 hours/week): Developed easy to understand materials and engagement tools, ensuring that staff can communicate effectively with residents on complex health topics. The Health Department is in the process of requesting additional State funding to retain contractor through the end of September 2026.

 

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