The Lower 9th Ward is a historic community built on strength, self-determination, and mutual aid. Founded by free people of color and working-class immigrants in the 1800s, our neighborhood has long been a place where families support each other. Together, we build community and pass along generational wealth through homeownership.
Today, we continue that legacy. Despite systemic challenges, the Lower 9th Ward has one of the highest rates of African American homeownership in the nation. The Lower 9th Ward Homeownership Association (L9WHA) exists to preserve that legacy, expand access to homeownership, and support the resident-driven revitalization of our neighborhood.
The Lower 9th Ward Homeownership Association’s Mission is to promote the preservation and creation of homeownership and the resident-driven revitalization of our historic community.
Our community’s roots go deep. Many residents are descended from the historically Black town of Fazendeville, which was forcibly displaced in the 1960s. Families from Fazendeville relocated to the Lower 9th Ward, bringing with them a strong sense of identity and family-centered values that continue to shape our mission today.
L9WHA began with the passion and leadership of longtime resident Linda Jackson. A fierce advocate and community organizer, Linda helped protect our neighborhood when outside developers sought to buy up large amounts of land. She opened her own living room to neighbors, helping them navigate rebuilding challenges and advocate for their rights. Linda was instrumental in assisting residents with Road Home compliance after Hurricane Katrina.
As more people joined the movement, the organization grew, from Linda’s home to the local Walgreens, and eventually to a formal office space at Trinity Lutheran Church. In 2009, the L9WHA officially became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Under Linda’s leadership as Board President and with the support of Executive Director MA Sheehan, L9WHA became a trusted source of support and empowerment in the Lower 9th Ward. Linda served as President of the L9WHA Board until her passing in 2020. The Linda Jackson Good Neighbor Award is given annually in her honor.
We take a grassroots, holistic approach to neighborhood revitalization. Our programs help hundreds of families each year protect and grow their investment in the Lower 9th Ward.
Core Programs Include:
Events That Empower
Our annual and monthly events bring people together to learn, connect, and grow. From resource fairs to gardening classes, every event is designed to uplift residents and keep our community thriving. These professional, accessible gatherings provide education that residents wouldn’t otherwise be able to access.
We are grateful for the generous support of our funding partners:
Enterprise Community Organization, and Water Wise Gulf South,
Support the Lower 9th Ward by helping rebuild homes, respond to disasters, and uplift community health.
Your organization will be recognized in events that reach hundreds of families citywide.
