News and Information
September 23, 2020
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is offering two programs to support parents/guardians and students in distance learning.
Parent Connect provides in-person services for parents and guardians at NCS Community Centers and other community locations. Assistance includes support related to digital literacy and Internet access; support related to language barriers; and connection to county Health & Human Services resources, service navigation and referrals. Beginning on Monday, Sept. 28, these services are offered by appointment only Monday through Friday, 3-8 p.m., though times may vary by location. See the Parent Connect website for more information.
NCS Connects: After School is a virtual platform providing programming for youth and teens during after-school hours, Monday through Friday, 3-6 p.m., at bit.ly/ncsconnects. Virtual programs began on Monday, Sept. 21 and include academics (i.e., STEAM), family engagement, service learning and youth leadership development.
September 21, 2020
Each year, influenza—better known as the flu—causes millions of illnesses in the United States, and people age 65 and older account for the majority of flu hospitalizations and deaths. An annual flu vaccine is the best way to reduce your risk of getting sick.
To help protect older adults in our community, the Fairfax County Health Department and Department of Neighborhood and Community Services are offering flu vaccination clinics at select Senior Centers. This service begins on October 6 and is available to residents 50 and older by appointment only (see dates below).
The Health Department is urging everyone 6 months of age and older to get the flu vaccine. This year is especially important since flu symptoms are similar to COVID-19 infection, another respiratory illness. Getting a flu vaccine this season will reduce symptoms that may be confused with COVID-19 and limit the number of illnesses, hospitalizations, and intensive care unit admissions, alleviating stress on the health care system.
For your safety, appointments are limited, and face masks and temperature checks will be required. Don’t wait – take control of your health this season and get a flu vaccine!
To make your appointment, call 703-246-6010*, TTY 711. For more information, visit fairfaxcounty.gov/flu.
To find other places in the community to get a flu vaccine, visit www.vaccinefinder.org.
*Pneumonia vaccine also available. Must be requested when making your appointment.
Flu Vaccination Clinics for Older Adults
October 6, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Herndon Senior Center, 873 Grace St., Herndon
(times also available Oct. 8 & 9)
October 19, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Lincolnia Senior Center, 4710 N. Chambliss St., Alexandria
(times also available Oct. 21 & 22)
October 26, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Original Mt. Vernon High School, 8333 Richmond Hwy., Alexandria
(times also available Oct. 28 & 29)
November 2, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Little River Glen Senior Center, 4001 Barker Ct., Fairfax
(times also available Nov. 4 & 5)
November 9, 9am - 3:30pm
Lewinsville Senior Center, 1613 Great Falls St., McLean
(times also available Nov. 10 & 12)
5 Simple Steps to Stop the Spread of Germs
In addition to getting vaccinated against the flu, these simple steps can help stop the spread of germs and protect you from getting sick:
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Stay home when you are sick, which will help prevent others from catching your illness.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
Clean your hands often.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
September 17, 2020
On September 16, First Lady of Virginia Pamela Northam visited Fairfax County to recognize the important work of early childhood educators as part of her annual Back to School tour. She toured three sites and delivered hand sanitizer, face coverings and books to educators. First Lady Northam’s tour began at Office for Children Early Head Start provider Leticia Flores-Ortiz’s home in Herndon. She was joined by Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton, State Delegate Ibraheem Samirah and State Senator Janet Howell’s legislative staff.
Next, Mrs. Northam visited Hutchison Elementary School in Herndon, where she participated in the Fairfax County Public Schools’ Grab & Go food distribution and enjoyed a virtual tour through Fairfax County's Supporting Return to School (SRS) program.
Mrs. Northam concluded her time in Fairfax County with a visit to the Hopkins House McNeil Preschool Academy in Alexandria, where she was joined by State Delegate Paul Krizek. She met staff and board members, toured the program, and read a story to the children (following social distancing protocols).
Throughout the tour, Mrs. Northam thanked the educators for their continued service supporting Virginia children and families and adapting to challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. She let educators know that they are superheroes!
