Virginia SUN Bucks helps eligible families with the cost of groceries during summer break when most schools are not in session. In 2025, each school-age child that meets the program requirements receives a one-time payment of $120. Benefits will be issued either on a family's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card or a pre-loaded Virginia SUN Bucks card that looks like a debit card. Many families automatically qualify for Virginia SUN Bucks and will not need to apply to receive this benefit. Learn more!

Kids who witness domestic violence are more likely to use drugs and alcohol, run away from home, act out in school, or come into contact with law enforcement. Caring adults can interrupt this cycle and help these children heal by letting them know you are there for them and you are listening. Learn more about how you can Step Up 4 Kids.

On a quiet summer morning, the life of a 19-month-old boy hung by a thread as his mother, frantically dialed 911. Sadly, those closest to him had left him in danger, but loving family members were willing to step in and change his life for the better. Learn more.

One of our DFS community business partners is hosting an information session in July about a marketing internship position they have available. Learn more about this upcoming event, additional career resources, and job leads on our Career Resources webpage! Are you an employer with open positions and opportunities to share? Contact EmployerEngagement@fairfaxcounty.gov to learn how we can help you!

Animal hoarding usually starts with good intentions. Someone takes in animals they think are unwanted and need care, but if the animals aren't spayed or neutered, they will begin breeding. As the number of animals grows, living conditions and the animals' health can get worse. This can create a dangerous situation for the people and animals in the home. However, even as things get worse, the person continues to believe that they are helping the animals and doesn't see that the animals are actually suffering. Learn the signs of animal hoarding and how to report it in the June issue of the Golden Gazette.

Are you available on weekdays during school hours and enjoy working with kids? If so, this opportunity is for you! The Department of Family Services’ Body Safety Program needs volunteer classroom instructors to help empower elementary students with the tools they need to prevent or interrupt child abuse. Apply online or contact the Body Safety staff by email or phone at 703-324-7459. We are continuously onboarding volunteers throughout the school year, and now we are planning for the 2025-2026 school year. Help us reach our goal of 30 new volunteers before our next training on Friday, August 8!

A series of free workshops offered by The Department of Family Services’ Adult and Aging Division aims to bring families of all ages and generations together to enjoy new experiences and learn new activities. Each virtual workshop provides unique opportunities for everyone to interact while learning, including Zumba, cooking class, a drum circle, and hands-on art.  Check out upcoming intergenerational workshops. Learn more about resources for family caregivers.