SERVE in Stafford, Virginia has been around for almost 45 years! We are a local organization that provides help to those who need it the most. Whether you are struggling to make ends meet or are dealing with a difficult situation, our team is here to provide support. In this blog post, we will discuss the different ways that you can get help in Stafford, Virginia. We hope that this information will be helpful and encourage those who need assistance to reach out for help!
The History of SERVE
In 1979 social worker Jeri Dulin Redman noticed the Stafford and Fredericksburg communities’ need for emergency help was rising. While churches did what they could, resources were limited and Redman knew that there needed to be an organized effort to have a greater impact on the lives of families in need.
Redman then joined forces with three local pastors to form the Stafford Emergency Relief through Volunteer Efforts, also known as SERVE. SERVE quickly became the place for people in need to get help in Stafford, Virginia.
Things to Know About Food Insecurity in Virginia
COVID-19 has had an extremely devastating impact on food security throughout the world and in Virginia. Food security is defined as having, access at all times to enough food to sustain an active and healthy life. At minimum food security means having food that is safe and nutritionally adequate readily available and the ability to acquire food in acceptable ways that do not include scavenging and other similar activities.
While food insecurity is defined as the limited or uncertain availability of enough food to live an active and healthy life. It is important to note that hunger and food insecurity are not the same things. Hunger is only one symptom of food insecurity and can often be accompanied by other health problems.
The Impact of Food Insecurity
While food insecurity and hunger often go hand in hand, they have different and long-lasting effects. Hunger is a physical sensation that occurs when the stomach is empty and begins to contract. This feeling can be mild or severe, but it will always pass once the food is consumed. On the other hand, food insecurity is a long-term problem that can have serious consequences for those who experience it.
People who are food insecure are more likely to experience:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Lower academic achievement
- Chronic health problems
- Social isolation
These are just a few of the many reasons that SERVE was established so that those suffering from food insecurity can get help in Stafford, Virginia.
Ways to Get Help in Stafford, Virginia with SERVE
It is also important to know that at SERVE we offer more than just food pantry services when you are looking to get help in Stafford, Virginia. While a huge part of what we do is helping to stop hunger in the Stafford and Fredericksburg areas we also offer prescription assistance and utility assistance services.
Get Help in Stafford, Virginia with Prescription Assistance
One way to get help in Stafford, Virginia is through our Prescription Assistance Program. This program helps those who are struggling to afford their prescription medications. We partner with Moss Clinic in order to help the residents of Stafford and Fredericksburg receive their prescriptions. To be eligible for this program you must meet the following criteria:
- You must reside in either Stafford or Fredericksburg city limits.
- Your total household income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.
- You must have a valid photo ID.
- You must have proof of all income for every member of your household.
- You must have proof of residency such as a lease, mortgage statement, or utility bill.
- You must provide a list of all prescription medications you are currently taking, as well as the dosage and how often they are taken.
Get Help in Stafford, Virginia with our Utility Assistance
Another way to get help in Stafford, Virginia is through our Utility Assistance Program. This program helps those who are struggling to pay their utility bills. We partner with Rappahannock Electric Cooperative (REC) and Fredericksburg Area Service Authority (FASA) in order to help the residents of Stafford and Fredericksburg receive assistance with their utility bills. To be eligible for this program you must meet the following criteria:
- You must reside in either Stafford or Fredericksburg city limits.
- Your total household income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.
- You must have a valid photo ID.
- You must have proof of all income for every member of your household.
- You must have a current utility bill in your name.
- You must provide a list of all the people living in your home, including their ages and relationship with you.
If You are Looking to Get Help in Stafford Virginia look no Further
If you are looking for help in Stafford, Virginia, SERVE is the place to go. We offer a variety of services that can help those who are struggling with food insecurity and other issues. Our team is dedicated to helping those in need, and we will do everything we can to provide assistance. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you get the help you need.
