Action In Community Through Service of Prince William County

Results: In 1969, 13 local churches came together with the purpose of preventing and alleviating human suffering. Their inspiration came through their collaboration in helping a family whose home was destroyed by fire. They decided that an organization that brought all their resources together to provide assistance to people without regard to their religious affiliation and that would be run by lay people would be an asset to the community. ACTS’ founders began by addressing the most basic human needs of food and shelter. They established Prince William County’s first food bank, set up a used furniture distribution system, and developed a homeless shelter in local churches. As the community grew, ACTS’ services expanded to meet other needs of the residents. Hunger and homelessness are still issues today. Services now also include a comprehensive domestic violence prevention and intervention program to include the whole family—women, men and children. In addition, Helpline provides an anonymous crisis telephone service as well as resource referrals. The support groups sponsored by Helpline are essential to people who have lost a loved one to suicide or who have attempted suicide. Most recently, SAVAS joined the ACTS family of services in 2012 and is the only sexual assault crisis center serving Prince William County and the cities of Manassas and Manassas Park. Today, each of the programs addresses the mission of ACTS: to alleviate hunger, homelessness and interpersonal violence in order to help individuals achieve self-sufficiency. In 2016: Provided over $95,000 to 1,243 households requesting utility assistance. Provided food for 25,051 individuals (13,893 adults and 11,158 children). Placed 54 families in permanent housing. Made over $266,000 from the thrift store, and these proceeds went to client support programs. Answered 51,240 Helpline calls. 9,840 of these calls were associated with attempted suicide. Helped provide relief to 3,797 domestic violence victims. Handled 636 cases of sexual assault. 318 people donated 6,696 hours of their time.

Target demographics: our neighbors in need

Direct beneficiaries per year: more than 80,000 individuals in need

Geographic areas served: Prince William County, VA

Programs: Utility Assistance (for individuals living in Eastern Prince William County) Food Assistance Emergency Shelter Sustainable Housing Program Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Services Suicide Helpline Thrift Store Domestic Violence Shelter