The Fund for Alexandria’s Child (FFAC) is hosting the “Stay at Home Gala” on August 14 at 8 p.m. to help enrich the lives of children in foster care during this critical time in their development.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Fund is hosting the annual gala as a virtual event.
“Adversity often challenges us to find new ways of doing things, and this pandemic is certainly no exception,” said Krystal Fenwick, FFAC Coordinator. “Thanks to my DCHS colleagues, and the remarkable Fund for Alexandria’s Child Advisory Council, we’ve been able to pivot quickly and creatively to produce a virtual gala that not only enables us to continue fundraising, but also advances our mission and brings our community together.”
The free, interactive event will include a raffle, live and silent auctions, a performance by Alexandria’s Poet Laureate KaNikki Jakarta and other activities, including live chat. Those interested can view auction items, register for the event and bid online as well as learn about ways to participate and support the Fund if unable to attend.
With many families experiencing a loss or change of income this year due to the pandemic, the Fund has received an influx of referrals for families with immediate needs. It is more important than ever that children and families within the child welfare system receive support from the community.
All funds raised will directly benefit children in foster care or at risk for abuse and neglect, helping to ensure that each child has their basic needs met and providing life-enhancing and enriching opportunities that many of these children miss out on, like dance, art or karate lessons, summer camping, school field trips, scouting and team sports. The Fund also purchases emergency bedding, back to school supplies, holiday gifts and basic housing needs, such as comforters or kitchenware for youth aging out of the foster care system.
Children throughout Alexandria are working to adjust to the changes and stress associated with the COVID-19 crisis. For children in foster care this is a particularly challenging time. In addition to the challenges faced by other children, such as distance learning and dealing with the stress and fears related to COVID-19 crisis, children in foster care are also dealing with past trauma and neglect as well as disrupted relationships and separation from their birth parents and siblings
The Fund is made up of volunteers from all walks of life who want to make a difference in the lives of some of the most vulnerable children in Alexandria, who are identified by Department of Community and Human Services family service specialists. In addition to the Gala, the Fund plans other fundraising events and helps with the collection and distribution of gifts and other items for children. Learn more about the Fund and how to support children in foster care or at risk of abuse and neglect at alexandriava.gov/TheFundforAlexChild.