Annual Back2School drive is back, Fabulous Finds at the Thrift Shop, virtual volunteer opportunitites, and more...

Monthly Newsletter of Northern Virginia Family Service

Fabulous Finds at the Clock Tower Thrift Shop in Falls Church

The Clock Tower Thrift Shop in Falls Church re-opened its doors last month. In consideration of the health and safety of others, we will observe 6 feet of social distancing for inside and outside the store property and require ALL shoppers to wear facial coverings while in the store. In accordance with retail guidelines and safety standards, we will be limiting the number of customers inside the store to 10 shoppers at a time. For our updated hours and schedule, please click here.

If you're trying to donate your items, please click here for our updated guidelines.

Virginia Rent and Mortgage Relief Program

The Virginia Rent and Mortgage Relief Program (RMRP) ensures housing stability across the commonwealth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Depending on the availability of funds and eligibility, financial assistance may be awarded with the opportunity for renewal.

Through July 20, 2020, the following households will have priority:

• households with current gross income at or below 50% Area Median Income
• households with a pay or quit notice from their landlord
• households with a summons for unlawful detainer dated before June 8, 2020

For more information, please click here.

Vehicles for Change Goes Digital

Vehicles for Change, a program of NVFS, is excited to share that we now have an online application form. This program provides qualifying, low-income families with reliable transportation so they may readily access more job and school opportunities. The availability of a digital application option improves the accessibility for families who need it. For any questions, please email Tim Pracher.

Virtual and In-Person Volunteer Opportunities

1) Back2School Drive - Volunteers will help with sorting and organize supplies, assemble and pack backpacks, and help with distribution. New health and safety measures are being taken at our collection and distribution sites to minize the risk to volunteers and staff. Everyone will need to complete a health checklist and temperature check upon arrival. Face coverings must be worn at all times while inside. If you're a group leader interested in multiple slots or shifts or if you have questions, please contact Karen Horowitz directly.

2) DIY Protective Face Masks - In an effort to preserve commercial face masks for medical facilities, we're asking for home-made face masks for our staff who continue to deliver services to local families and for guests staying at our family shelter. Contact Julie Martinez for questions.

3) Movement Matters - Stay-at-home orders are tricky for energetic young bodies. You can help keep them moving. Experienced yoga instructors, dance teachers, personal trainers, and preschool and PE teachers are encouraged to record and submit kid-friendly activity videos to keep children moving throughout the day. The best videos will be posted to our YouTube Channel. Contact Navara Cannon for questions.

4) Social Media Ambassador - Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter. Then repost or retweet our messages to your network of followers.

If you're able, please consider the following ways to help your neighbor in need.

• Purchase these high need items from our regular Amazon Wish List for a family in need.
  
  
• Donate online or send a check to 10455 White Granite Drive, Suite 100, Oakton, VA, 22124.
  
  
• Purchase these high need shelf-stable items from our Amazon Food Wish List: canned beans, cereal, boxed mac and cheese, pasta sauce, canned soups, rice, baked beans, kidney beans, pasta noodles. Items will be shipped directly to the Hunger Resource Center in Manassas.
  
  
• The Clock Tower Thrift Shop in Falls Church is open with limited hours. Face masks will be required upon entry. For the latest information or questions about donation drop-offs, please click here.

Upcoming Events

Now thru August 14: NVFS Back2School Drive

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