(Posted 2026 January)

As we reflect on this recent holiday season, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible impact each of our partners, donors, and volunteers made through this year’s Adopt-A-Family Holiday Program. Thanks to the immense outpouring, 882 donors joined hands to support 1,019 families and 2,096 children in our community, helping the Fairfax County Department of Family Services’ program surpass the reach of all previous years.

So many individuals, families, businesses, and local organizations joined together to bring joy, hope, and relief to families who needed it most. This was especially meaningful at a time when our community has weathered mounting challenges from the economic uncertainty in dealing with the federal shutdown to the temporary reduction in SNAP benefits.

Food insecurity has risen dramatically for so many local families, which made YOUR contributions even more critical this holiday season. Your kindness ensured that families had meals to share, gifts to open, and the means to celebrate.

Your steadfast support has truly been a beacon of light for so many facing financial hardships. Thanks to your generosity of spirit, children had smiles on their faces, family celebrations were supported, and hearts were lifted. The kind gifts, food boxes, warm clothing, and thoughtful notes you provided were reminders to these families that they are cared for and not alone.

We can’t say it enough — this program would not be possible without YOU! Each supported family and each delighted child is a testament to your infectious belief in spreading joy. Whether you donated, volunteered, shared the program with friends, or stepped up in other ways, we want you to know how deeply appreciated you are.

Next year will mark a significant milestone: the 20th year of the Adopt-A-Family Holiday Program. This program has grown over the years because of unwavering supporters across Fairfax County. Reaching this milestone reminds us of the difference we can continue to make together.

On behalf of all our staff and the families we serve, thank you for making the holidays brighter for those in need. We are so grateful to have you in our corner and look forward to continuing this journey with you and growing our circle of supporters in 2026 and beyond.

Together we can shape a brighter community for the next generation through Adopt-A-Family and our many other opportunities throughout the year.