Dear Families Helping Families Supporters,
 
With deep gratitude and a sense of accomplishment, we reach out to you during this pivotal moment in the journey of Families Helping Families (FHF). For years, your support has helped us transform lives by meeting the diverse and urgent needs of families in Albemarle County Public Schools. Your generosity has provided transportation, housing assistance, access to vital resources, and so much more. Together, we have demonstrated the power of community.
 
In our time of reflection, we are reminded of our core mission: to foster connection and empower families to overcome obstacles to an equitable education. In the last 4 years, WE have been able to do so much... To highlight a few:
 

• 97.0% of every dollar raised went directly to meeting the needs of the community​​

• Snack closets have been developed and maintained by a WAHS high school student

• Mental health and wellness supports were provided to schools to ensure youth and families have knowledge and skill to support themselves through tough times.

• $20,628 - One time utility and rental assistance was provided to families in need when FHF was the only agency to have funding.

• Hygiene/cleaning supplies drives were organized across communities in schools in partnership with local churches, parents and school staff.

We would be remiss if we failed to highlight the dedicated and committed volunteers, donors, community members, Albemarle County Public School Staff, and everyone who has given selflessly of their time, voice, finances and wholeheartedly cheered us on along the way. Your unwavering support has made Families Helping Families not only a connection point for some but for many an opportunity to move forward.

At Families Helping Families we are looking forward to the new opportunity we have to transition from a 501c3, non-profit to a legacy fund housed under the operations of the Albemarle Foundation for Education (AFE). This transition is a unique and vital opportunity, marking an exciting new chapter, allowing us to expand our reach and have a greater impact.

Transitioning to a Legacy Fund is the ultimate goal of what Families Helping Families has always dreamed of; becoming part of the greater school community; ensuring accessibility for all students and removing barriers to educational success. The mission; the work stays the same. Our friends at AFE are on board and in full support of our wishes and desires for the fund which include but are not limited to:
 

1. Having a FHF representative on the AFE board

2. Understanding and applying funds for direct needs of students including those who are impacted by the housing crisis

3. School support staff will be able to access snacks, clothing, hygiene supplies, etc. on behalf of families and schools

4. Creating opportunities for youth voice and action and

5. Providing PTOs and donors a universal space to donate financially

We are truly excited about the opportunity and our wish is that you will continue to be an active cheerleader for this next step whether that is through getting to know more about AFE and how they are driving this mission forward or by donating to the FHF Legacy Fund. Collectively, we will continue to make a difference—one family, one student, and one community at a time.

For more information about AFE including how to donate directly to the Families Helping Families (FHF) Legacy Fund, you can visit https://www.k12albemarle.org/our-division/albemarle-foundation-for-education.  
 
With heartfelt appreciation,
 
Latara Ragland
President
Families Helping Families
 
Randy Tripp, Jr
Board  President
Albemarle Foundation for Education