Emergency Donating and Volunteering

Donating During Disasters

Donation needs are identified after a disaster, when specific items or funds are needed to support those affected.

When donations are being accepted, this page will include:

  • A list of accepted items
  • Drop-off locations for in-person donations
  • Information on the local organizations accepting monetary contributions

 

Volunteering During Disasters

Fairfax County offers several ways for residents to become affiliated or assigned volunteers, meaning they are trained and connected to a specific county department before an emergency occurs. These volunteers are activated as part of the county’s coordinated disaster response.

Opportunities are available across many county departments as noted below. These assigned volunteer programs ensure Fairfax County has trained, ready, and reliable individuals who can be called upon to serve their community.

Donate Information

  • None at this time. 

Please check back here on this page for up-to-date information on where and how to donate locally during a disaster. Waiting for official guidance before donating ensures your support is safe, effective and coordinated.

1.) What’s the best way to help — donate money, goods, or time?

The best way to help after a disaster is to donate money. Monetary donations give agencies the flexibility to buy exactly what is needed, when it’s needed.

 

2.) Can I donate clothes, food, or other items?

Fairfax County will provide a list of items that are being collected during a disaster. While we appreciate all donations, we ask that the public only donate items on the approved list to ensure contributions are useful, safe, and can be effectively distributed to those in need.

 

3.) Where can I donate items if they are being accepted?

Fairfax County will provide a list of donation collection sites. Never drop off items in locations unless they are officially requested.

 

4.) How do I make sure my donation is going to a legitimate organization?

Fairfax County will post information on which organizations are collecting funds on behalf of the county if a particular incident requires donations, ensuring your contribution goes to a trusted and authorized organization.

 

5.) Can I start my own donation drive or fundraiser?

Please do not start your own collections. If you would like to contribute, please donate only the items the county is accepting at the designated locations or consider signing up to volunteer to support disaster response efforts.

 

Volunteer Information

Department of Animal Sheltering: 

 

Department of Emergency Management and Security:

  • Emergency Management Volunteer Corps – Trained volunteers who promote preparedness and support public outreach.
  • Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) – Licensed amateur radio operators who provide emergency communications support.
  • Volunteer Emergency Team (VET) – A group of volunteers who have signed up to be called upon during emergencies or disasters to support Fairfax County’s response and recovery efforts.
  • VET Leader – Trained members of the Volunteer Emergency Team who help set up and manage Volunteer Reception Centers (VRCs), assisting with coordinating spontaneous volunteers and coordinate donation collection if needed.
  • https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/emergencymanagement

 

Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department:

 

Fairfax County Health Department:

  • Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) – Medical and non-medical volunteers who assist with public health emergencies, such as mass vaccination clinics or shelter operations.
  • Fairfax Medical Reserve Corps | Health

 

Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD):

1.) How can I volunteer to help during a disaster?

During a disaster, Fairfax County will call upon volunteers that are already affiliated with the county to fill volunteer opportunities. Learn more about volunteer opportunities above.

 

2.) Can I just show up to help?

No, in Fairfax County affiliated volunteers are requested to fill volunteer needs. We ask that anyone interested in disaster response volunteering sign up through one of our affiliated organizations before a disaster strikes. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit the volunteer opportunities.

 

3.) What kind of volunteer work is usually needed after a disaster?

Typical needs include:

  • Debris cleanup

  • Donation sorting and distribution

  • Flow controller

  • Data entry

 

4.) Do I need special training to volunteer?

Some roles require training, while others don’t. We strongly encourage those interested in volunteering to sign up before a disaster strikes. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit the volunteer section above.

 

5.) Can youth or teens volunteer?

Depending on the situation, youth and teens may be able to participate in volunteer opportunities. The requirements (including age restrictions or volunteering with a parent/guardian) will be displayed for each available volunteer opportunity.

 

6.) I’m a trained professional (nurse, EMT, social worker). How can I help?

Register with the Fairfax County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC). MRC accepts medical and non-medical volunteers who assist with public health emergencies, such as mass vaccination clinics or shelter operations.

 

7.) What if I want to volunteer virtually?

Some organizations offer virtual or remote roles. All available volunteer opportunities will be posted.

 

8.) Are volunteers still needed after the immediate response?

Absolutely. Recovery can take months or years. Volunteers are essential for rebuilding, community outreach, and supporting affected families long after the headlines fade. You can visit the volunteer section at the top of this page for available opportunities.

 

Close
Fairfax Virtual Assistant