When Leadership Shows Up

We are thankful to have witnessed leadership that extends beyond obligation, but leadership rooted in deep care for the community. On August 1, we welcomed the Chair of the Prince William County Supervisors, Deshundra Jefferson, to our Gainesville home and office. Here, we run our StrongHer thrift store, office space, and a newly developing home for mothers and families. This visit represented a growing awareness and commitment from the county to understand and uplift the experiences of mothers and families facing housing insecurity. Chair Jefferson’s visit affirmed that the work we’re doing matters to not just the families we serve, but to the future of our county.

When Chair Jefferson walked our halls, she saw an atmosphere of care and compassion for the mothers and their families we serve. She smiled warmly as she met “big sisters,” and greeted our staff by name. At VAWFSC, we house mothers in difficult situations, and offer programs with classes, therapy, and healthcare to help them get back on their feet. Without stable housing, women are at risk of missed appointments, mental health crises, lack of maternal care, and overall hardships for both the mother and children. Taking note of these devastating effects, Chair Jefferson pledged to be a part of the change. 

On June 3, the Prince William County Board adopted a groundbreaking Affordable Dwelling Unit (ADU) Ordinance. This local regulation requires 15% of all new housing to be affordable for households who earn below 80% of the area’s median income. This policy has the potential to change lives. For the mothers and children we support, affordable housing in new communities means a genuine chance at security, stability, and long-term independence. Chair Jefferson was able to see the true impact stable housing has on families in this community, and we are inspired by her promise to be a part of our mission. 

Chair Jefferson’s visit marked a turning point. Previously, VAWFSC’s outreach was restricted to the minimal number of people that know about us. Mothers were privately sharing their powerful stories to just one another. Various nonprofit organizations were involved, but working independently. However, thanks to Chair Jefferson’s dedication, this organization is now cited in county meetings and discussions, granting us a larger outreach, and more available help for mothers. Chair Jefferson also committed to in-person follow ups with our mothers, providing an ear to listen, and a chance for change. Finally, instead of working separately, the county government and various non-profit organizations are collaborating directly. 

At VAWFSC, we believe that stable housing is just the beginning. In the programs we offer for mothers at our Haymarket and Manassas houses, we teach mothers how to become independent; through financial literacy, mental healthcare, and various life skills and responsibility. We walk alongside mothers in crisis, helping them regain their footing, rebuild their confidence, and reimagine what is possible for their futures. When housing, mental wellness, and maternal care are all addressed together, families don’t just survive. They thrive.

When a leader shows up, the entire community feels the impact. Thank you to Deshundra Jefferson for your commitment to not just the county, but to mothers and families who are often unseen. As the county implements the new ADU ordinance, we look forward to the start of new opportunities and stronger foundations for the mothers in our program.