Formerly Homeless Kids Benefit From Back-To-School Shopping Event

Local volunteers took 16 formerly homeless children in Northern Virginia back-to-school shopping on Aug. 21 to ensure they get off on the right foot in the new school year. Volunteers from Keller Williams Metro Center partnered with New Hope Housing to help families in permanent supportive housing.

The shopping trip took place at a Target store, where volunteers served as personal shoppers for each child. The $4,000 in funds for the shopping trip were raised through a bowling event. Sponsors Universal Title of McLean, McLean Mortgage Corporation and Super Home Warranty pitched in to raise the funds. The Keller Williams - Old Town Alexandria office helped coordinate and regularly leads special projects for New Hope Housing.

It was the second year the shopping trip was held for residents in New Hope Housing programs. The 16 participating children's families had experienced homelessness multiple times, and at least one of their parents has a disability.

"Having the opportunity to spend time with the kids helping them pick the perfect outfit and school necessities is so rewarding," said Christine Sennott of Keller Williams - Old Town Alexandria, who coordinated the event. "The children are just thrilled that they get to pick their clothes and the agents are touched by the simplest of things that make the kids so happy. Everyone goes home that night with smiles on their faces."

Buying needed items during the back-to-school season can be a hardship for struggling families. According to the National Retail Foundation's 2019 Back-to-School survey, K-12 families are expected to spend an average $239.82 on clothes and accessories during back-to-school shopping. That's on top of an average $117.49 for school supplies such as notebooks, pencils, backpacks and lunch boxes, and $135.96 for shows.

Aside from the back-to-school shopping event, Keller Williams members have participated in their annual RED Day to renovate three two-bedroom apartments for formerly homeless adults and clean homeless shelters. Through these efforts, more than 100 agents and partners have volunteered raised over $20,000 for special projects at New Hope. New Hope Housing recently recognized Keller Williams Metro Center as Community Champion for their partnership.

New Hope Housing executive director Pam Michell says the volunteer efforts benefit families beyond housing and other needed services. "New Hope Housing provides the housing and support systems, but community volunteers can really help children and families feel that they belong," said Michell.

Mount Vernon-based New Hope Housing serves homeless families and single adults in Fairfax County, Alexandria, Arlington County and the City of Falls Church. Services include shelter, transitional and permanent supportive housing, outreach and support services. For more information, visit www.newhopehousing.org.