Prince William County is looking for help with a local homeless shelter.
Officials are seeking volunteers who have various skills, such as tutoring and resume writing.
The strengths will be put to use at the Hilda Barg Homeless Shelter in Woodbridge, according to a release from the county.
“We’re really looking for people to donate any particular skill that may help somebody improve their current situation,” Tony Turnage, Prince William Department of Social Services’ Homeless Services Division chief, said in a release.
The department is now running the shelter.
Northern Virginia Family Service, the previous operator, announced its plan to step down earlier this year.
“We’re working diligently to make sure there’s no disruption to the clients,” Turnage said. “We’re quickly working to get the necessary staff in place with the aim of housing people as quickly as possible and make homelessness a brief and rare time in their lives.”
Staff members work with families to help them find a secure place to stay.
“We’re using what we call the housing first model. If you don’t have a job, if you have an eviction; whatever the circumstance, we’re going to help the person figure out a way to get into housing,” Turnage said. “That is our first priority. If housing can be secured, all the other challenges and obstacles to economic stability become far more manageable.”
In addition to volunteers, the shelter is seeking sponsors who can buy gifts for children in need.
“Because they’re in the shelter, we want people to save their money, but we still want to try to make the holiday season special for the kids,” Turnage said.
To learn more information about volunteering, contact Duan Chy Cayepano at 703-792-8810.
Individuals interested in donating meals can reach out to the Cooperative Council of Ministries by emailing hildabarg.meals@gmail.com.
Those needing emergency shelter can call the Coordinated Entry System at 703-792-3366.
