Announcements

Tax season is here, and there are many free resources to help you file your taxes with ease. For help filing taxes online, visit www.MyFreeTaxes.com. If you need in-person assistance, find an IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program at https://irs.treasury.gov/freetaxprep/ or https://www.getyourrefund.org/en/vita_providers. Many Virginians qualify for free assistance. For additional resources, visit https://www.dss.virginia.gov/community/eitc.cgi or contact 211 Virginia. Text TAXES to 247-211 to receive resources directly to your phone.

Winter storms can pose significant risks to personal safety, property, and community infrastructure. From freezing rain and snow to blizzards, these events often bring hazardous road conditions, power outages, and dangerously low temperatures. Preparing ahead of time – by ensuring your home is winter-ready, checking car maintenance, and having an emergency kit on hand – can make all the difference when severe weather strikes. Stay informed, avoid unnecessary travel during storms, and look out for vulnerable neighbors. Text SNOW to 247-211 to receive resources and tips directly to your phone.

As the temperatures drop, energy bills can quickly become an unwelcome surprise. The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) is offering crisis assistance to qualifying households through the Virginia Energy Assistance Program (EAP). Applications are currently being accepted and can be submitted until Saturday, March 15. To learn more about how the program can help your family, visit dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea. dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea.

If you’ve been impacted by Hurricane Helene, help is available. Explore our comprehensive list of resources offering direct assistance with food, medical care and more in your local area. Whether you need immediate help or long-term recovery support, we’re here to guide you to the services that best meet your needs. SEARCH: Disaster Recovery or call, text or chat with a Community Resource Specialist.