This Giving Tuesday, we have set an ambitious goal for our fundraising campaign, driven by the urgent need in Northern Virginia.  As the landscape of support shifts, the families in our community need us now more than ever.  Many are struggling to provide the essentials for their children, and our ability to assist them has also been challenged.

In Fairfax County, about 35% of students qualify for free or reduced-price meals.  At the schools we support, more than 90% of students receive FREE meals.  Through our Weekend Food For Kids program, we deliver 1,840 bags of food each month to 6 schools, so that students have food on weekends when they don’t receive school meals.  This crucial initiative costs us more than $9,000 each month, and we’re helping only a small percentage of the students who need meals on weekends.  Because hunger is a year-round condition for many families, we also provide grocery gift cards over the summer, during holidays, and for emergencies, at an annual cost of more than $51,000.  In addition, we provide new clothing, shoes, winter jackets, toiletries, and books, addressing the holistic needs of the students we serve.  We estimate that providing these essentials costs more than $375 per child annually.

We have big aspirations.  We want to reach even more students who are in need.  Our resources are stretched relative to these unmet needs, but with community support, we can make a real difference.  This is where your generosity can shine.  Besides individual donations, we seek generous supporters who will match donations from others.  When you pledge any amount, large or small, you double the impact of your contribution and inspire others to join our mission. Your kindness uplifts not just you, but also the students and families who will benefit from your support.

Contact ResourceDevelopment@ALNV.org if you’re interested in donor matching, and let’s amplify our impact together! Thank you for your support!