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“We used to go out and buy the groceries and come back and pack them,” Davis said.
However, people would end up with food they couldn’t use because of certain ingredients such as salt or sugar.
That’s when the agency decided to offer the gift certificates.
She added that the agency has received more applications this year than previous years.
“Basically I guess we just need to let people know that there are people here in the county who need assistance at some time,” Davis said.
“I don’t know if there are a lot of needy families (in Rappahannock) but there are a lot of families who have a need at some time. I think the economy may have something to do with that,” said Davis.
“The applicants are not always needy but they have emergencies and they can’t meet that emergency need,” Davis said, such as an unpaid electric or gas bill.
The agency can’t pay the entire bill but they will try to match the same amount gathered by the applicant.
Those seeking aid can complete an application provided by the agency, which explains the nine programs offered.
Davis said she believes part of the problem is that some people don’t understand how to properly budget their money.
“I guess they haven’t been taught to budget.”
The agency tries to do just that. Sometimes it refers people to Virginia Cooperative Extension, which offers a seminar on money management.
Getting involved
Regardless of the season, the agency welcomes donations from the public to benefit people year-round. It also operates a food closet throughout the year.
“We take money donations year-round because people always have emergencies,” Davis said.
Benefactors also have an option when donating, whether it’s to help someone pay their electric bill or provide food to needy residents.
Monetary donations may be taken to the office at 349 Gay Street, or mailed to P.O. Box 57, Washington, VA 22747.
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