Fairfax County Community Resources for Free Goods and Services

Fairfax County provides a variety of resources for residents seeking free goods, services, and financial assistance. These programs are designed to support different segments of the community, including federal workers facing income disruption, homeowners interested in environmental conservation, and individuals seeking to declutter while supporting local charities. The available options range from direct financial aid and discounted services to opportunities to obtain free plants and household items.

Support for Federal Workers During Government Shutdowns

Local businesses and county agencies offer specific assistance to federal employees affected by government shutdowns. These initiatives aim to mitigate the financial impact of furloughs or work without pay.

Restaurant Discounts

A chain of fast-casual restaurants, honeygrow, offers a 20 percent discount to federal workers impacted by a government shutdown. This offer is valid at all 20 honeygrow locations in Virginia and Maryland, including specific locations in Fairfax such as Fairfax City Mall and Fair Lakes. To redeem the discount, federal employees must select "pay at register" at checkout on the kiosk and present a valid government-issued ID at the register. The promotion emphasizes that there are no complicated forms or red tape involved in the process.

Meal Assistance for Families

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) provides free and reduced-price meals to families who experience a loss or disruption of income. Families can apply for these meal benefits at any point during the school year. If approved, students continue receiving meal benefits for the remainder of the school year and up to 30 days into the following year, even if family income improves. This support is intended to ensure students maintain access to nutrition during financial hardships, such as those caused by federal shutdowns.

County Resource Navigation

The Coordinated Services Planning hotline (703-222-0880) helps connect residents with community resources. The Department of Family Services assists eligible residents in enrolling in programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and Medicaid.

Environmental Grants and Free Plants

Fairfax County and surrounding areas offer financial incentives and free materials for environmental projects, particularly those involving native plants and stormwater management.

Native Plant Grants and Discounts

Funding is available for homeowners, faith communities, Homeowner Associations (HOAs), civic groups, and other institutions to support native planting initiatives. Specific programs include: * Fairfax County: Applications are available during a summer application period for individual homeowners, with rolling applications for institutions such as HOAs and faith communities. * Loudoun County and Prince William County: Similar programs are available in these neighboring jurisdictions. * City of Alexandria: Residents can contact Melanie Mason in Stormwater Management for information.

Specialized Plant Programs

Several organizations provide free plants for specific restoration projects: * Earth Sangha Plant Grants: This program targets grassroots restoration projects with no or limited funds. Awardees are eligible to visit the Wild Plant Nursery for a seasonal, one-day Plant Grant Donation Day. * Free Milkweed: Free milkweed is available for large-scale restoration projects (two acres or more) to Parks, Federal, State, County, or City agencies, Businesses, Schools, Scout groups, Private organizations, and individuals. Grants are awarded by Monarch Watch and partner nurseries in February and March. * Occoquan Reservoir Shoreline Stabilization Grants: These grants are available to individual property owners and HOAs with properties immediately contiguous to the Occoquan. * School/Scout Pollinator Plant Kits: Watermark Woods offers these kits for educational and community projects.

Free Tax Preparation Services

The Fairfax County Department of Family Services supports free tax preparation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) coalition. In-person services are available at various sites in Alexandria, Falls Church, Herndon, Reston, and Annandale through April. Walk-ins are generally welcome, and appointments are not required.

What to Bring to an Appointment

Participants should bring specific documentation to ensure their taxes are prepared accurately: * Photo ID for the taxpayer (and spouse if filing jointly) * All income statements (W-2, W-2G, 1099, etc.) * Income statements for each working dependent * Social Security card or ITIN letter for all family members * Voided check for direct deposit * Expense documents (dependent care, education-related expenses, home mortgage interest payments) * Forms 1095-A from the Marketplace for those claiming the Premium Tax Credit

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a refundable tax credit designed to support working individuals and families with low to moderate income, particularly those with children. The IRS provides detailed information on eligibility and benefits.

Self-Preparation Options

Individuals who prefer to do their taxes themselves can access free online tax preparation and filing services offered by federal and state governments, provided they meet certain income limits.

Volunteer Opportunities with Benefits

Fairfax County Retirement Systems offers a unique opportunity for county employees to volunteer with the Retirement Systems Outreach Team. This program is open to employees in specific roles, including Transportation, Food Service, PT Teachers, Custodial, and Trades/Maintenance.

Volunteer Benefits

Volunteers receive several benefits, including: * Paid training and lunch * Freebies (swag) * General details about the retirement system and how it works * A wealth of resources to provide co-workers * Updates on retirement current events

The goal of the program is to train volunteers to answer co-workers' questions about retirement benefits. The county looks for up to two volunteers per school or team.

Donation and Recycling Resources

For residents looking to declutter, Fairfax County provides multiple options for donating or recycling unwanted items. These options allow residents to support local charities and ensure proper disposal of goods.

Thrift Shops and Donation Centers

Several thrift shops and organizations accept donations of used goods, with proceeds benefiting local hospitals, animal shelters, and social service agencies: * Inova Fair Oaks Hospital Thrift Shop: Accepts donations of art and craft supplies, containers, fabric, sewing and fiber art supplies, jewelry supplies, and metal items. * Second Chance Thrift and Gift Store: Benefits the Humane Society of Fairfax County. * Clock Tower Thrift Shop: A program of Northern Virginia Family Services that sells donated items at low cost to the community. * Ecumenical Community Helping Other (ECHO): Provides assistance to individuals and families in need; most donated goods go directly to clients. * The Closet: Operated by faith-based congregations, offering good quality used clothing and household articles at affordable prices, with profits distributed as grants to local non-profits. * Fairfax County Public Library Friends’ Groups: Accept gently used books, CDs, and DVDs for resale to benefit the library. * Fairfax County Animal Shelter: Accepts donations of gently used fleece blankets, bath towels, and hand towels.

Electronics Recycling

Fairfax County residents can recycle unwanted or outdated electronics, such as computers, televisions, monitors, and rechargeable batteries. Residents can drop off 10 items per visit per household at the I-66 Transfer Station or I-95 Landfill Complex.

Conclusion

Fairfax County offers a robust network of resources for residents seeking free goods, services, and financial support. From discounted meals and tax help for federal workers to free plants for environmental projects and donation centers for decluttering, these programs address a wide range of community needs. Residents are encouraged to utilize the provided contact information and application periods to access these benefits.