In an effort to ensure the most vulnerable families in the community have access to food, the Prince William Board of County Supervisors made donations totaling $30,000 to the local food banks, who have seen a decline in donations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The local state of emergency declared by County Executive Chris Martino earlier this week allowed the administrative action to direct funds to provide vital services to those most in need in our community.
“There is nothing more important than helping our neighbors, especially those who rely on our local food banks for survival,” said chair Ann Wheeler. “With children home from school and many working from home, the need is even greater. I urge all of our residents to help their neighbors and provide support as they are able during this trying time.”
Each of the food banks – Action In Community Through Service (ACTS), Northern Virginia Family Service’s SERVE Campus and the Haymarket Food Pantry – are receiving $10,000.
When considering donating non-perishables to a food pantry, also consider giving the cash equivalent which will usually go much further in providing assistance. Steven Liga, Executive Director for ACTS, explained, “If you donate $50 or $100, your money will actually go further because it will go to purchasing a bulk order.” Liga further explained that food pantries don’t buy in bulk like consumers do. Pantries have access to other resources, such as the Capital Area Food Bank, that are much less expensive. “We will also purchase food that most people aren’t able to donate. For example, we’ll buy perishables like fresh eggs. We know how much to purchase to make sure they won’t go to waste. And where an individual could donate a dozen eggs, we can get bulk order 60 dozen eggs.” Liga emphasized that non-perishable donations are still very much welcomed and are always needed.
Those who wish to donate cash or food should contact one of these organizations or the organization of their choice directly on how to make a contribution.
- Action In Community Through Service (ACTS): www.actspwc.org
- Northern Virginia Family Service’s SERVE Campus: www.nvfs.org
- Haymarket Food Pantry: haymarketfoodpantry.org
For more information about COVID-19 and Prince William County, please visit pwcgov.org/emergency.