Springfield, Va. — The Greater Springfield Volunteer Fire Department is partnering with The 25th Project, a small 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated towards “helping the homeless close to home,” for food drives and coat drives. Greater Springfield VFD collects gently used winter coats, gloves, and hats for distribution to local homeless of our community.
The 25th Project prepares and distributes meals each 25th of the month, often more frequently. Even though the National Capital Region encompasses several of the wealthiest counties in the nation, our homeless population is increasing. Winter months are difficult for our neighbors; therefore, support from community members for warm clothing and supplies is essential. The Greater Springfield VFD has set up a collection bin for winter items in the bingo hall.
Several Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department volunteers and career staff also volunteer with The 25th Project. They prepare meals and deliver them throughout the month.
For Thanksgiving 2012, The 25th Project accepted food donations in the hopes of feeding 50 homeless. Overwhelming responses from the community enabled The 25th Project to prepare and distribute over 111 meals throughout Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C.!
Jay Herriott, founder of The 25th Project, friends, family, and community members also made Christmas special by providing 144 warm holiday meals and providing 25 Christmas packages consisting of new tents, sleeping bags, and cold-weather shirts.
For more information about volunteering with the Greater Springfield VFD, visit www.gsvfd.org. To find out more about The 25th Project and helping the homeless close to home, visit www.the25thproject.org or email miriam@the25thproject.org. (1/10/2013)