St. Mary’s Court is a non-profit corporation operating a residential living facility for seniors 62 years of age or older or individuals with accessibility needs.  Sponsored by the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, it is financed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).  Persons of all racial, ethnic, social, political and religious backgrounds are welcome.  It consists of 140 units in a nine-story high-rise apartment building in NW Washington, having 123 unfurnished efficiencies and 17 one-bedroom apartments.  Each apartment contains ample closet space, kitchenette with cabinets, electric range and refrigerator, and a full bath with linen closet.  All units include carpeting and draperies.  Utilities are included in the rent.

The facility uses federal assistance for low and moderate-income households.   Annual incomes must not exceed limits set by HUD.  Residents pay thirty percent of their monthly income for rent.

A secondary purpose of St. Mary’s Court is to provide for community involvement and program activities.  It is a community center for persons living in the surrounding neighborhood who are encouraged to participate in the activities of the Court and to involve residents of the Court in outside community activities.  The Court promotes community involvement by being a Nutrition Site for the D.C. Office on Aging’s citywide Title 111 C Lunch Program that provides meals for older persons for a voluntary contribution.  Lunches are served at the Court Monday through Friday and are available to persons 55 years of age or older.  In addition to hot lunches, a senior service organization arranges programs and activities on subject matters that are of interest to seniors.

Residents also anticipate in operational activities.  For example, through the Residents’ Association, a Resident Food Committee works with management and the Food Director and assists in planning the menu. Resident involvement in an active and constructive life in the community is perhaps best exemplified by their volunteer services as campaign workers at the polls for local and national elections.  St. Mary’s Court is a voting precinct and through their presence and participation, they become a reality to the political realm.