We’ve all heard the saying that it takes a village to raise a child. As this story shows, the same is true when it comes to supporting someone impacted by interpersonal violence. When a client was referred to DSVS after experiencing violence in their relationship, Advocacy Services provided safety planning and connected them to resources that helped the client obtain a protective order, housing and food assistance, counseling. This comprehensive care ensured the client's immediate and long-term needs were addressed effectively, providing them with the resources and support necessary to navigate their situation and work toward stability and safety. Learn more about this success story.

Virginia Career Works - Northern Region is hosting a workshop on Thursday, September 4 to provide a way for job seekers to gain insight, build confidence, and develop career-ready skills for today’s job market and the workplace.  Learning the art of interviewing and utilizing LinkedIn provides an invaluable perspective on how to leverage today’s professional digital tools and authentic connections to navigate the hiring landscape. Participants will gain skills through interactive presentations, hands-on engagement, and Q&A sessions. Learn more and register. 

People with hoarding disorder have a hard time letting go of things, even if they don’t need them or the items don’t have much value. Over time, their belongings pile up, making their home difficult to use and even unsafe to live in. The first step to getting better is for the person to recognize the problem and ask for help. Learn about resources and services that can help support people with hoarding disorder on their journey to recovery.

One of the important steps in becoming a foster parent is the Mutual Family Assessment, sometimes referred to as a “home study,” in which the Department of Family Services gets to know potential foster parents, provides training to prepare them for the role of foster parenting, and evaluates the safety of their home environment. Learn more about this process in our new video featuring Fairfax County resource parent Darlene Alvarez!

Sexual harassment is unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical behavior of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment is not always physical or directed at a specific person. For example, making negative comments about a specific gender identity or displaying sexual images may be a form of sexual harassment. This can occur in the workplace or with a landlord or roommate involved. Learn more about resources available to handle sexual harassment.

Scammers are targeting the EBT cards used by SNAP recipients to purchase essential groceries. There are a few simple steps SNAP recipients can take to protect their funds and lower the chance that scammers can steal their money. The newest feature is being able to lock and unlock an EBT card through the ConnectEBT app. SNAP participants can keep their card locked until it’s time to use it to make a purchase and lock it immediately after the purchase is completed. Learn more simple ways to stay safe.