In the midst of the coronavirus outbreak, a local non-profit is making sure that those in need aren’t going hungry.
Action in Community Through Service (ACTS) remains open and continues to run its services.
The Dumfries-based organization, which is still accepting monetary and food donations, needs some extra hands.
Several volunteer opportunities are available for community members, according to ACTS CEO Steve Liga.
They include helping with Senior Link.
“We have a free call service where people receive reassurance messages and just check in – just some personal contact,” Liga explained to What’s Up Prince William. “The number of people who are receiving that service has gone up, and we need volunteers who can make those phone calls.”
Volunteers are needed to bag food at the Hunger Prevention Center, as well.
Many of the volunteers are older adults who are staying home.
ACTS has extended the hours of its Hunger Prevention Center to Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. It’s closed for lunch between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
The food distribution has become nearly drive-thru.
“People just need to come, have their ID, and we load up the food into their car,” Liga said. “It’s quick, it’s easy. We know people need it, and there’s no hassle and there’s no in-depth process — we just want people to get what they need.”
Drivers are also being sought for the grocery home delivery program, which brings food to shut-in seniors.
A background check is required for volunteer drivers.
Those interested in becoming a volunteer can learn more information and fill out an application on the ACTS website.
To sign up for Senior Link, call the HELPLINE at 703-368-4141.
Signing up for food rescues through the Prince William Food Rescue program is another way county residents can get involved.
Read about how the Prince William Food Rescue program works.
