The Department of Family Services has been notified by the Virginia Department of Social Services that if the federal shutdown continues, November SNAP benefits may not be issued. Learn more about SNAP and where to get help with getting food.

Keeping infants safe and healthy is a priority for parents and caregivers, and a baby’s sleep environment is so important to their overall wellbeing. During Safe Sleep Month, we are taking time to remind you how to set your little one up for the best possible start in life. Check out this video for the Top 5 Tips to make sure that your baby sleeps safe and sound.

As we head into colder weather season, many of us like to stay cozy at home. But staying active and social is the best way to avoid the winter doldrums, keep our minds sharp, and have some fun. It’s also the perfect time to focus on ourselves; to reignite a passion, master a new skill, or simply enjoy the satisfaction of learning again. Learn about the wide range of fun and engaging classes available from Fairfax County Public Schools’ Adult and Community Education program in the October issue of the Golden Gazette.

“In the past five years, due to news stories and the media in general, domestic violence has become a focus. I came to the realization that being safe in home and work environments was nothing to take for granted and was bothered by the fact that so many people did not have that basic comfort,” says Hotline volunteer Lynne Shapiro. “As I was searching one day on the Fairfax County volunteer website, I came upon the DSVS opportunities. It immediately lit up for me as something I needed to look into.” Learn more about Lynne’s volunteer journey. 

Take a look inside your medicine cabinet and make a difference! If you have medications you no longer need, haven't used, or that have expired, bring them to a nearby Take Back Day collection site on Saturday, October 25th, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Find a drop-off location.

“My career has been characterized by a passion for helping people with primarily two areas of focus: helping people attain a job (helping people strive) and helping people maintain a job (helping people thrive).” Andrew Everett sees the positive impact of workforce development programs every day in his role as Supervisor of the Annandale and Alexandria Virginia Career Works Centers. Learn more about Andrew’s work helping people become more confident applying to jobs and find career paths with more upward mobility.

All relationships need healthy boundaries--appropriate behavior that keeps everybody in the relationship safe. This is especially true in intimate partnerships. And, in an age where our lives are increasingly lived online, it is crucial that we set digital boundaries, as well. What do healthy digital boundaries look like? Find out.

The 10^th Annual Kinship Symposium took place on Friday, September 26 in Crystal City. It can only be described as heartwarming and inspiring for everyone in attendance. Participants were captivated by the keynote speaker Terry Harrak. The youth panel shared their blessings and struggles. It was a meaningful day filled with powerful stories, and it lived up to the conference theme of “Promoting kinship bonds for youth; foster care and beyond.” Learn more.