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06.01.2026
Dear Neighbor,
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One of the greatest strengths of the Braddock District is the willingness of community members and organizations to come together to support one another. That spirit was on full display at the recent Annandale Health Fair, where local partners worked together to provide free healthcare services, health screenings, and valuable community resources to residents.
The event was made possible through a partnership between the Mission Center and physicians from Inova, who volunteered their time and expertise to provide free medical care. Attendees also connected with a wide range of organizations and service providers, including the Fairfax County Health Department, dentists offering low-cost dental care, the ENDependence Center of Northern Virginia promoting independent living for people with disabilities, FACETS providing housing and homelessness prevention resources, Opportunity Neighborhoods, and many other community partners dedicated to improving quality of life for Fairfax County residents.
I am especially proud that two of the leaders who helped organize this successful event are graduates of Neighborhood College, Fairfax County’s award-winning civic leadership program. Neighborhood College equips residents with a deeper understanding of local government, community services, and civic engagement opportunities while helping participants build relationships and develop the skills needed to become effective community leaders. Seeing graduates use those skills to identify needs, build partnerships, and deliver meaningful services to our community is exactly what the program is designed to accomplish.
Thank you to everyone who volunteered, participated, and helped make the Annandale Health Fair such a success. Events like these remind us that when we work together, we can make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors.
As a reminder, Fairfax County Public Schools graduation ceremonies begin this week and continue into next week at George Mason University, so please plan ahead and expect heavier traffic on Braddock Road and surrounding roads during graduation events.
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Braddock Bark
Thank you to everyone who joined us for Braddock Bark and helped make this year's event such a wonderful success. It was a joy to see residents, families, and their beloved pets come together for a day of fun, education, and community engagement.
Events like Braddock Bark are only possible because of the incredible partnerships and volunteer spirit that make the Braddock District such a special place. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Fairfax County Park Authority for allowing us to use this beautiful park and for their support in helping create a welcoming environment for everyone who attended.
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We are also grateful to the Fairfax County Animal Shelter and the Friends of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter for their partnership and for their ongoing work connecting animals with loving homes throughout our community. Thank you as well to the nonprofit animal rescue organizations that participated and shared information about pet adoption and animal welfare resources.
Our thanks also go to FLAP for their continued stewardship of the park, support of dog owners through training programs and educational resources, and maintenance of the dog waste stations that help keep the park clean and enjoyable for everyone.
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We greatly appreciate the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) for assisting with traffic control and emergency preparedness, as well as the Public Safety Cadets for helping with parking and crowd management throughout the event.
Finally, thank you to all of our vendors, community organizations, and Fairfax County agencies that spent the day with us sharing information, resources, and services with attendees. Your participation helped make Braddock Bark more than just a fun day in the park, it was a true community event.
Thank you again to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of Braddock Bark. We hope everyone had a tail-wagging good time and left with useful information to support their pets and families!
| | Supervisor Rachna Sizemore Heizer | | |
In this issue:
- Braddock District Office Job Opportunity
- Community Happenings
- Pet Adoption Corner
- Education Updates
- Environment & Parks
- Human Services
- Public Safety
- Resources for Older Adults & Caregivers
- Transportation Updates
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Braddock District Office
Job Opportunity
| Join the Braddock District Team: Staff Aide – Communications and Policy | |
The Braddock District Office is seeking a motivated, creative, and community-focused individual to join our team as a Staff Aide for Communications and Policy. This full-time position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of public policy, constituent services, communications, and local government.
Applications are due by June 12, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their education, experience, and availability to braddock@fairfaxcounty.gov with "Staff Aide – Communications and Policy" in the subject line.
Full details on the Fairfax County Job Page.
| | Lorton Landfill Solar Ribbon Cutting | |
Last week, Fairfax County leaders, partners, and stakeholders gathered for the ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the new solar project at the Lorton Landfill, a landmark initiative that transforms formerly unusable landfill space into clean energy infrastructure.
The site is now ready to power County facilities, cut emissions, and save taxpayers an estimated $12 million over the next 30 years. At five megawatts, it will generate enough electricity to supply five percent of all County operations and stands as our largest solar project to date. Alongside continuous economic and population growth, Fairfax County has already reduced emissions by nearly 30% since 2005.
We are setting a precedent on how dense, built-out communities can creatively expand renewable energy infrastructure that will last for generations to come. Community engagement is essential in building the momentum needed to turn ambitious ideas into lasting results, especially as we work towards our net-zero goals in the coming decades. Ultimately, this project represents an important step toward a future where environmental progress and economic prosperity move forward together.
| Soldiers of Howrey Field Park Day | |
Today, my office will be participating in a very special memorial event in the Braddock District. Soldiers of Howrey Field Park Day honors six soldiers from Fort Belvoir who we lost in an incident during the days of the Vietnam War.
On June 1, 1967, these soldiers from the 77th Engineer Port Construction Company perished while assigned to a community service project. The soldiers were working to provide a baseball field for the local Little League at the Howrey Field athletic complex in Annandale. They died when a flagpole they were erecting was hit by a gust of wind and contacted a high-voltage power line. All the men were under 25 years of age.
Although they did not die in combat, the soldiers gave their lives in service while constructing an amenity that the community continues to enjoy. Today, June 1st at 5:30 p.m., local organizers and representatives will hold a ceremony at Howrey Field (5100 Glen Park Rd). You are welcome to join us to honor the six soldiers. Their names were:
PVT. Paul D. Briggs (Waco, TX)
PVT. Anthony B. Evans (Uniontown, PA)
PFC. Marvin D. Harrison (Jacksonville, FL)
PVT. Charles R. Oliver (Vermillion, OH)
SPC. 4 Kenneth G. Steiner (St. Anne, MO)
| Goins Marker Installation Ceremony | |
You're invited to join me at the Goins Marker Installation Ceremony commemorating and honoring the late Jim Goins on Saturday, June 6th from 10:00-11:00 AM at the David R Pinn Community Center (10225 Zion Dr, Fairfax, VA 22032).
James Milton Goins was a civil rights activist and resident of the historic Sideburn community, an African American settlement that developed along Zion Drive after the Civil War. Goins founded the Sideburn Civic Association and successfully fought to bring water and sewer infrastructure to the community.
He organized development of the David R. Pinn Community Center and acquired funding to build affordable housing for minorities in the Sideburn area. Goins’ activism earned him numerous awards and the nickname “Godfather of Zion Drive.”
| ArtsFairfax Accepting Applications for FY27 Project Support Grant | | |
ArtsFairfax Project Support Grants support projects by Fairfax-based arts organizations that take place in Fairfax County, the City of Fairfax, and the City of Falls Church. Project Support Grants are awarded in four grant subcategories, including Arts in Education, Opportunity, Partnerships, and Arts Access.
Organizations based in Fairfax County, the City of Fairfax, and the City of Falls Church may be eligible to apply. Visit the ArtsFairfax website for details. Please contact grants@artsfairfax.org for additional information.
Application Deadline: July 15, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
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Library Events
Come and partake in the wonderful activities taking place in the Kings Park and Burke Centre Libraries this week.
A full listing of library activities throughout Fairfax County may be found on the Library Calendar.
| | Friends of Burke Centre Library's Summer Book Sale | | |
Looking for your next great read, movie, or music find? Stop by the Friends of Burke Centre Library’s Summer Book Sale on Friday, June 5, and Saturday, June 6, at the Burke Centre Library. Browse a large selection of books, DVDs, CDs, and more for all ages and interests while supporting your local library. The sale runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, making it the perfect opportunity to stock up on summer reading and entertainment for the whole family!
| | Burke Centre Library Stitch Sesh | | |
Calling all crafters and fiber arts enthusiasts! Join the Stitch Sesh at Burke Centre Library on Tuesday, June 2, from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Burke Centre Group Study Room. Whether you’re knitting, crocheting, embroidering, sewing, or working on another creative project, this relaxed gathering is a great opportunity to meet fellow crafters, share ideas, get help with projects, and enjoy a welcoming community atmosphere. All skill levels are welcome for this adults-only program.
| | Kings Park Library Read to the Dog - Asiago | | |
Help your child build confidence and strengthen their reading skills at Burke Centre Library’s “Read to the Dog” program featuring Asiago, a gentle therapy dog who loves listening to stories! On Thursday, June 11, children ages 5–12 are invited to practice reading aloud in a fun, relaxed, and judgment-free environment alongside their caregiver. Readers can bring a favorite book or choose one from the library to share during their session. In-person sign-ups begin at 3:30 p.m. on the day of the event, and sessions are available on a first come, first served basis.
| | Kings Park Library Storytime on the Lawn | | |
Enjoy stories, songs, and outdoor fun with the whole family at “Storytime on the Lawn” at Kings Park Library on Thursday, June 4, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.! This interactive outdoor storytime brings the library experience outside for a lively and engaging morning designed for children and caregivers to enjoy together. Families are encouraged to bring blankets or towels for seating on the lawn behind the main building. Registration is not required, and in the event of inclement weather, the program will move indoors as space allows.
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Brujo is a friendly dog, who can't get enough attention! In our care, Brujo has shown to be a big fan of interaction and will be an amazing trusty companion! Brujo may know some basic commands like "sit", "stand" and funnily enough - "dance!" Though he may benefit from lessons on strengthening his knowledge of these commands. Brujo did fine when meeting a helper dog at the shelter but did seem to make distance at times. Brujo may prefer a similar energy dog to him or he could just be a little selective, but overall, the interaction was positive! It is always recommended that any potential doggy siblings be brought in to meet our available dogs to ensure compatibility!
This pet is eligible for an Adoption Audition! What is an Adoption Audition? It's a five-day, no-strings-attached, trial adoption period. You can take this pet home to try it out! Interested? Come to the shelter any time during open hours and talk to one of our Customer Care staff.
Be sure to check the "shelter information" box on the listing to see if the pet is located at our Michael R. Frey Campus (4500 West Ox Road, Fairfax) or our Lorton Campus (8875 Lorton Road, Lorton). Then, come in during our open hours! Both of our locations are open Tuesdays and Wednesdays 12-5 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays 12-7 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information on our adoption process, including requirements and fees, visit the Animal Shelter Website.
| | FCPS Adult and Community Education Announces Expanded Skilled Trades Scholarship Opportunities for Fall 2026 | |
FCPS Adult and Community Education (ACE) is expanding opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in the skilled trades by offering $40,000 in scholarship funding for Fall 2026 apprenticeship programs in Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC. Supported by the ACE Foundation and private donors, the initiative will provide $1,000 scholarships that are applied directly toward tuition for approved FCPS ACE trade courses. The scholarship application period runs from June 15 through August 15, 2026.
The program reflects Fairfax County’s continued investment in workforce development and increasing access to high-demand career pathways. According to FCPS ACE Administrator Paul Steiner, the scholarships are designed to help students gain valuable, career-focused skills while strengthening the local workforce. Educational Career Counselor Bob Sargent emphasized that financial barriers should not prevent students from pursuing education that can lead to stable, well-paying careers, noting that the scholarship process is intentionally simple, accessible, and based on trust rather than extensive financial documentation.
Historically offered twice each year, the Trade Initiative Scholarships have already helped dozens of students begin or continue their training, with 31 students receiving awards during the previous cycle alone. Scholarships are also repeatable, allowing students to seek additional support as they advance through higher-level coursework. Students interested in applying can learn more at the FCPS ACE scholarship webpage, and community members interested in supporting future students can contribute through the ACE Foundation donation portal.
| George Mason Presents: Meeting Our Challenges, Realizing Our Potential | |
George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government is bringing together regional leaders for an important conversation on the future of the National Capital Region at the upcoming event, “Meeting Our Challenges, Realizing Our Potential,” on Wednesday, June 3, at Fuse 1311 in Mason Square, Arlington. As communities across the region navigate federal job cuts, rising housing costs, transportation concerns, and economic uncertainty, this discussion will focus on collaborative solutions and opportunities for growth.
The event will feature expert perspectives on issues shaping the future of Northern Virginia and the greater Washington region, including business development, attainable housing, Metro funding, and transportation infrastructure such as the American Legion Bridge. Featured speakers include Terry Clower, Director of the Center for Regional Analysis at George Mason University’s Schar School, Ryan McLaughlin, CEO of the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors, and Jason Stanford, Executive Director of the Northern Virginia Transportation Alliance. The discussion will be moderated by Taylor Chess of The Peterson Companies.
The presentation will take place from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m., followed by a reception and casual discussion from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Organizers encourage community members, business leaders, and residents interested in the region’s future to attend and engage in the conversation. Space is limited, and advance registration is encouraged.
| Apply for Congressman Walkinshaw's Youth Leadership Council | |
Applications are now open for Virginia’s 11th District 2026 Youth Leadership Council!
This is an opportunity for high school students in grades 9–12 across VA-11 to join the Congressman and his team for conversations about leadership, public service, and the issues shaping their lives and communities.
For details and to apply by June 30, visit Rep. Walkinshaw's website.
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Youth Summit on Conflict Resolution
Do you know a high school student ready to tackle today’s toughest challenges? Join George Mason for a four-day, overnight Youth Summit where high school students from across the country come together to collaborate, problem-solve, and spark real impact, June 21-24. Together, students will connect over shared interests, engage in meaningful dialogue, and gain fresh perspectives on the issues shaping our world.
This summit is hosted by the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution.
Learn all the details and apply! Space is limited.
| | Forget the Foam: Final Foam Container Phase-Out | |
Beginning July 1, 2026, all Virginia food establishments will be required to eliminate the use of food foam containers, commonly known as Styrofoam, as the Commonwealth’s expanded phase-out takes full effect. The ban will apply to all restaurants, food trucks, cafeterias, caterers, and other food service operations, regardless of size. Larger chains with 20 or more locations were required to comply beginning last year, and this second phase expands the requirement statewide. Clean Fairfax is encouraging residents and businesses alike to prepare now for the transition to reusable, recyclable, or compostable alternatives.
Food foam products pose significant environmental and health concerns. Because the material is lightweight and brittle, it frequently escapes into the environment where it breaks into smaller and smaller pieces but never fully decomposes. In addition, hot foods and beverages served in foam containers may absorb toxic chemicals that can leach from the foam, potentially contributing to hormone disruption and other health risks. Environmental advocates emphasize that reducing single-use plastics and foam products is an important step toward protecting local waterways, wildlife, and public health.
Consumers can support the transition by refusing foam containers and other disposable products when possible, bringing reusable containers, and encouraging local businesses to adopt sustainable alternatives. Businesses are urged to begin planning now to ensure compliance before the July deadline. Clean Fairfax continues to promote environmental stewardship and sustainability throughout Fairfax County through education, outreach, and community programs. Residents can learn more about the foam phase-out and available resources at Clean Fairfax’s foam container information page and through partner organization Litter Free Virginia.
| Fairfax Water and Board of Supervisors Joint Meeting | |
The Board of Supervisors Joint Meeting with the Fairfax Water Board is scheduled to meet at 11 a.m. on June 2, 2026, at the Fairfax County Government Center (Conference Room 11). The board intends to discuss Regulatory Compliance Updates, Water Supply Challenges and Opportunities, and DC Water Initiatives and Potential Impacts on Water Supply.
| Open House on Lake Accotink | |
The Open House on Lake Accotink will be taking place on Saturday June 6th from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Kings Glen Elementary School (5401 Danbury Forest Dr, Springfield, VA 22151). Turgay Dabak & Joni Calmbacher of DPWES, Stormwater Management will share information from the Sedimentation Study, and Alex Burdick of Park Authority will present results of the Dam Study.
| Stay Local: Your 2026 Summer Starts at Fairfax County Parks | |
Summer fun is closer than you think! The Fairfax County Park Authority is encouraging residents to stay local this summer by taking advantage of the incredible experiences available right here in our community. From mini golf, carousel rides, and miniature train rides to kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic outdoor adventures, Fairfax County parks offer something for every age and interest.
Families can explore favorites like Burke Lake Park, Lake Accotink Park, Clemyjontri Park, and Riverbend Park while enjoying affordable, family-friendly activities all season long. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon outdoors or a full day of adventure, our parks are a wonderful way to make lasting summer memories close to home.
| | Building Resilient Communities and Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences | |
The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board invites you to join a presentation on “Building Resilient Communities and Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)” to learn how hope and connection can buffer ACEs.
Our experiences have a profound impact on who we are and who we will become. When children experience traumatic events, it can have lasting effects on their mental health and wellbeing. These events are called Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACEs. Trauma can even increase the likelihood of developing a chronic disease.
There is hope. One stable and caring relationship can mitigate the impacts of trauma. Science tells us that what is predictable is preventable. Studies in brain science, epidemiology and resilience research have helped us to understand how protection, prevention and building resilience can improve health, safety and productivity across our lifespan.
What’s predictable is preventable. This free presentation includes in-depth information about:
- How trauma impacts brain development.
- The impacts of childhood adversity and trauma on population health.
- Resilience and what we can all do to improve health and well-being across the lifespan and within our community.
Together, we can make a difference in creating vibrant, healthy communities.
Please contact the Wellness, Health Promotion & Prevention Team at CSBPrevention@fairfaxcounty.gov if you have questions or need technical assistance.
| Inova Ranked #3 Top Large Health System in the Nation by Modern Healthcare and Premier | |
Inova has been recognized as the third best large health system in the nation in the 2026 "15 Top Health Systems” study conducted by Modern Healthcare and Premier, one of the healthcare industry’s most respected national performance assessments. The study evaluates health systems across key measures including clinical outcomes, operational efficiency, patient experience, readmission rates, and healthcare-associated infections. Out of 336 health systems evaluated nationwide, Inova ranked among the very top performers, reflecting the work and dedication of its more than 26,000 team members across Northern Virginia.
According to the report, the nation’s highest-performing health systems demonstrated lower inpatient mortality rates, fewer patient complications, reduced readmissions, shorter hospital stays, and stronger patient satisfaction scores while maintaining cost-effective care. The assessment is notable for its objectivity and rigor, as participation is not application-based and health systems are neither asked to apply nor pay for inclusion. Instead, the analysis independently evaluates enterprise-wide performance using aggregated hospital data. Leaders at Inova noted that these recognitions reflect the organization’s continued commitment to delivering world-class healthcare and reinvesting in the health and wellbeing of the Northern Virginia community.
| Jordan Scheff Appointed Executive Director of Fairfax-Falls Church CSB | |
I'm pleased to welcome Jordan A. Scheff and I'm excited to work with him as the Chair of the Board's Health and Human Services Committee!
Fairfax County has announced the appointment of Jordan A. Scheff as the new executive director of the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB), effective June 15. Scheff brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in intellectual and developmental disabilities services, nonprofit management, and public administration, including nearly a decade serving as commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services.
During his time in Connecticut, Scheff oversaw statewide operations supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, managing policy, clinical, fiscal, and administrative functions while working closely with families, service providers, advocacy organizations, and community stakeholders. He also played a key leadership role in maintaining and strengthening services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to serving as commissioner, Scheff held several senior leadership positions within the department, including deputy commissioner and regional director, where he managed regional operations, budgets, and service systems.
Scheff also brings nonprofit leadership experience from his tenure as executive director of MARCH Inc., where he oversaw residential and respite programs for children and adults with disabilities and led a workforce of nearly 200 employees. The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board provides critical behavioral health, substance use, developmental disability, crisis intervention, and community-based support services to residents throughout the community. County leaders expressed confidence that Scheff’s extensive experience and collaborative leadership style will help continue the CSB’s mission of delivering compassionate and effective care to those in need.
| Individuals and Families Experiencing Homelessness | |
Fairfax County, in coordination with jurisdictions across the Washington, D.C. metropolitan region, conducted its 2026 Point-in-Time (PIT) count of individuals and families experiencing homelessness on February 4, 2026. This annual, highly coordinated effort provides critical data on the number of residents living in shelters, transitional housing programs, and unsheltered locations throughout the Fairfax-Falls Church community.
The 2026 PIT Count identified 1,365 individuals experiencing homelessness in Fairfax County on the night of the count, representing a three percent increase — 43 additional people — compared to the 2025 count of 1,322 individuals. The data collected through the PIT Count helps guide local and regional efforts to prevent and end homelessness, allocate resources, and better support vulnerable residents in our community.
To view key findings from the 2026 PIT Count and access the Point-in-Time Count & Housing Inventory Count Dashboard, visit the Fairfax County Office to Prevent and End Homelessness webpage at: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/homeless/point-time-count-2026.
Fairfax County’s data also contributes to a broader regional analysis and annual homelessness report prepared by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) Homeless Services Planning and Coordinating Committee. Since 2001, COG has coordinated regional Point-in-Time reporting efforts to better understand and address homelessness across metropolitan Washington. Learn more at mwcog.org/homelessnessreport.
Community members are also invited to attend the virtual Continuum of Care Membership Meeting on June 10, 2026, at 9:30 a.m., during which the Office to Prevent and End Homelessness will present the 2026 PIT Count results.
Meeting Link: https://bit.ly/CoCMembershipMeeting06102026
Dial-In Number: (571) 429-5982
Conference ID: 853 873 711#
| Cooling Assistance Available | |
Several programs are available for residents who need help staying cool during the summer months.
The Senior Cool Care Program provides additional cooling at home by providing air conditioning units, window air conditioning units or fans for eligible older adults, age 60 and older. The program runs May 1 through October 31, 2026. If you are interested in learning more about the program, please call the Aging, Disability & Caregiver Resources Line at (703) 324-7948.
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The Cooling Assistance Program is eligible to households where at least one household member is 60 or older, 5 or younger, or disabled according to Social Security, Medicaid or 100% Veteran’s Administration.
Cooling Assistance can help with payment of electric bills, repair of air conditioning components, purchase of fans, or purchase and installation of window A/C units.
Applications can be submitted online, by phone, by mail, or in-person. Visit the Cooling Assistance Program website for details.
| Affordable Rental Housing Waitlist Applications Open June 1 | |
The Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA) will be accepting waitlist applications for Project-Based Voucher (PBV) units located at The Exchange at Spring Hill Station Monday, June 1, 2026, through Sunday, June 7, 2026.
Households with a Project-Based Voucher typically pay up to 35 percent of their adjusted monthly income towards rent while the FCRHA pays the remaining portion of the rent to the owner.
Learn about how to apply at the FCRHA website.
The FCRHA offers many affordable housing programs, and not all require waitlist applications – in fact, people can apply directly to some properties. Use the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA) search tool to get more information.
| Recent and Upcoming Changes to SNAP and Medicaid Benefits | | |
Several changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) eligibility and requirements went into effect at the end of 2025 and there are changes coming soon to Medicaid. Changes to SNAP include requiring proof of common expenses in order for them to count towards an income deduction, expanding the populations who must meet the work requirement, and more limitations to SNAP eligibility for non-citizens. Medicaid will have a new Community Engagement requirement, as well as eligibility changes for non-citizen adults and six-month renewals for certain adults. Learn more at the County's Department of Family Services website.
If you would like to schedule an information session about these changes, complete the Outreach Request Form.
Learn about free or low-cost healthcare services in Fairfax County for people not eligible for Medicaid.
For complete details about Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) policies visit the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS). This page will be updated as more information becomes available.
If you think you may be eligible for SNAP and/or Medicaid, you can apply online at CommonHelp or contact the Enterprise Call Center at 1-833-522-5582. Language assistance is available. Learn more about how to apply for benefits.
| | Learn, Lead, Explore: FCPD Summer Programs Open for Students and Young Adults | |
Graduation season is here, and for students and young adults, summer is a great time to start thinking about what comes next.
Whether you are exploring career paths, building your resume, looking for leadership experience, or curious about the technology, teamwork, and training behind modern policing, the Fairfax County Police Department offers several summer programs designed to give participants a firsthand look at public safety.
From hands-on activities to conversations with officers across the department, these programs give participants the chance to learn more about law enforcement, public service, and the many career opportunities that exist within FCPD.
| Police Leaders of Tomorrow | |
Police Leaders of Tomorrow is designed for young adults ages 18-24 in the Metro Washington Area who are interested in exploring careers in law enforcement and learning more about the police profession.
Participants will take part in presentations, activities, and opportunities focused on public service, leadership, character, and community. Participants are expected to attend all classes and will also have the opportunity to participate in a ride-along with a sworn police officer.
June 22-26, 2026
9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Open to young adults ages 18-24 in the Metro Washington Area
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The Teen Police Academy gives high school students an opportunity to learn more about the Fairfax County Police Department, understand core police functions, explore careers in law enforcement, and participate in hands-on activities.
This free program is open to Fairfax County students entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade during the 2026-2027 school year, including public, private, and homeschooled students.
July 13-17, 2026
9:0 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Open to eligible Fairfax County high school students entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade
| Future Women Leaders in Law Enforcement | |
Future Women Leaders in Law Enforcement gives high school girls in Northern Virginia the opportunity to explore careers in law enforcement and learn firsthand about core police functions, including patrol, helicopter operations, and crime scene investigation.
Participants will meet women leaders in law enforcement, learn what it takes to become a police officer, and discover the skills developed through police academy training.
July 27-31, 2026
9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Open to high school girls in Northern Virginia entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade
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For young people looking for a longer-term opportunity, the Fairfax County Public Safety Cadets Program provides leadership development, ethical decision-making skills, teamwork, mentorship, and career preparation for those interested in law enforcement or public safety.
The program is open to teens and young adults ages 14-20 and gives them the opportunity to learn about policing, build confidence, and connect with officers and mentors from across the department.
Those interested can complete the Fairfax County Public Safety Cadets Interest Form to receive updates on upcoming program opportunities.
| FCPD Presented at Threat Management Conference | |
Earlier this month, members of the Fairfax County Police Department Threat Assessment & Management Unit attended the Threat Management Conference in Palm Beach County, FL. Detective Martin presented to share insight and collaborate with professionals focused on prevention, safety, and protecting our communities.
| Max Everton Hall of Fame Award | | Resources for Older Adults & Caregivers | | Training Session: Exploring Dimensions of Aging | | |
This unique opportunity allows participants to “see through the eyes” of older adults is available through a new virtual training series called Exploring the Dimensions of Aging through Virtual Reality. The training series was developed by Embodied Labs and simulates what it is like to be an older adult encountering various challenges in everyday situations.
The 75-minute facilitated virtual sessions focus on how social isolation impacts an older adult, learning about the early signs and progression of Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease, how to navigate caregiver burnout, and much more.
Registration is required to attend the training session
Upcoming sessions:
- June 5 - The Dima Lab: Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson's Disease
- June 23 - The Beatriz Lab: Alzheimer's Disease
Have questions? Call (703) 324-5374, TTY 711.
| | Shirley Gate Road Extension Project Public Meeting June 1 | | |
The Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT) will host a public meeting to discuss the latest developments regarding the Shirley Gate Road Extension Project at 7:00 p.m., Monday, June 1, 2026, in the cafeteria of Willow Springs Elementary School, 5400 Willow Springs School Road, Fairfax.
Staff will provide an overview of the proposed design and discuss next steps with the project, specifically land acquisition activities. There will be a question-and-answer period following the presentation.
The project will extend Shirley Gate Road from the T-intersection at Braddock Road south to the Fairfax County Parkway with the construction of a two-lane road and additional bicycle and pedestrian amenities. The extension of Shirley Gate Road will provide another option from northbound Fairfax County Parkway to I-66 eastbound.
For more information, visit the Shirley Gate Road Extension webpage.
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VDOT Seeks Public Comment on Landscape Design Guidelines | |
The Virginia Department of Transportation has posted its Landscape Design Guidelines for review and public comment by June 7, 2026. The VDOT Landscape Design Guidelines provide policy statements for landscaping within rights-of-way owned by VDOT.
View the guidelines and associated documents on the VDOT website.
| | Route 29 Inside the Beltway Active Transportation Study To Hold Virtual Community Meeting in Spanish | | |
The Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT) will host a virtual public meeting entirely in Spanish to provide an overview of the Route 29 Active Transportation Study and proposed improvements on Wednesday, June 10, at 7:00 p.m.
To join the Spanish meeting:
FCDOT staff are requesting feedback on proposed transportation improvements. To learn more:
To submit feedback by phone, please call 703-890-5898 and enter Project Code 2402 to leave a recorded voice mail comment. Feedback will be accepted through the close of business, Tuesday, June 30.
For more information, visit the Route 29 Active Transportation Study webpage.
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