Department of Family Services

CONTACT INFORMATION: Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
703-324-7500 TTY 711
12011 Government Center Parkway, Pennino Building
Fairfax, VA 22035
Michael A. Becketts
Director

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CARES Program

What is CARES?

The CARES (Community Adult Residences with Empowering Support) program provides a safe, supportive home for older adults and adults with disabilities. This program is operated by Fairfax County under the authority of Virginia’s Adult Foster Care program.

CARES residents live in a home environment, rather than a large facility, allowing them to receive the support they need while remaining part of the community. Residents receive daily assistance such as meal preparation, medication reminders and support with personal care. CARES exists to help older adults live with dignity and independence for as long as possible through affordable, high-quality care.

Financial assistance for residents in the CARES program is provided through Virginia’s Auxiliary Grant (AG) program, which helps cover the cost of care and housing. For more information about the AG program, including how to apply, visit Virginia DARS Auxiliary Grant Program.

The CARES program reflects Fairfax County’s ongoing commitment to expanding affordable, community-based housing options for vulnerable adults. 

Why Choose CARES?

  • Home-like Setting: live in a warm, family-style environment.
  • Connected Living: active engagement with support from caregivers and the community. 
  • Personalized Support: individualized care provided to promote independence. 
  • Affordable Care: cost-effective alternative to assisted living facilities. 

Why Become a CARES Provider?

The heart of CARES is its dedicated and compassionate providers. 

We are looking for people who want to open their homes and hearts to an older adult in need. As a certified CARES provider, you will: 

  • Provide a safe and caring home
  • Help with daily activities and support needs
  • Receive financial compensation

Download and share the CARES Program information flyer.

Rubina and Catherine’s Journey with CARES

Caring for others has always been at the center of Rubina Jawiad’s life. She believes that when someone is in need, you reach out, because one day you may need a hand. To Rubina, caregiving is not a profession or a duty; it is a calling of the heart. Over 10 years ago, Rubina met Catherine, who was staying at a local shelter while enduring one of the darkest seasons of her life.

Supported by the CARES program, Rubina and her family welcomed Catherine into their home, providing care, friendship and healing.

Read More

In this episode of Mature Living, Jonathan Bell, Adult Services Supervisor with the Adult Services Department of Family Services, Mary Lee, the CARES Program Coordinator, and Rubina Jawaid, a CARES provider, talk about many aspects of the CARES program.  Katherine Vu, a CARE program participant, describes how the program helps her. 

At its core, CARES exists to respond to community needs for options to age in place, providing opportunity for residents to live their success story and thrive. Aligned with the County’s One Fairfax policy, this alternative to high priced assisted living care provides equitable access to safe, supportive and affordable housing.

Moreover, CARES addresses several of the areas highlighted in the County’s SHAPE the Future of Aging Plan including housing and neighborhood supports, services for older adults, personal well-being and economic stability. This intersectionality highlights the significant impact the program can have in responding to many of the challenges faced by older adults in Fairfax County.

Interested in learning more about the CARES program?  Call the Fairfax County Department of Family Services, Adult and Aging Division at 703-324-7948, TTY 711.

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