On September 1, 2011, just one week before school starts, the Sheriff’s Office will take 25 homeless kids shopping for clothing and school supplies. For the past 18 years, the Shop with the Sheriff program has partnered with Target to help needy children get ready for the upcoming school year. The children currently reside in the Katherine K. Hanley and Patrick Henry Family Shelters. Each child will be paired with a Sheriff’s deputy and given a $300 certificate to use toward his or her purchase.
“The Sheriff’s Office is involved in a number of community activities but this is one our favorites,” said Sheriff Stan Barry. “To be able to help children in need start the school year right gives everyone a deep sense of satisfaction.”
Since 1992, the Burke Target has been the primary sponsor of this program. Several local businesses have joined in sponsoring this worthwhile event. Montessori of Chantilly and Virginia Commerce Bank made generous cash donations, Costco will donate a backpack to each child and Panera will provide breakfast to the staff and kids before they go on their back-to-school shopping spree.
The Katherine K. Hanley and Patrick Henry Family Shelters provide a safe, temporary home for families, where they can receive help to assess their needs and develop a plan to locate permanent housing as quickly as possible. The shelters are an integral part of the county’s 10-year plan to end homelessness.