Thanks to the efforts of a local group of volunteers, nearly 300 unhoused residents in Northern Virginia are starting 2025 on the right foot.
The group, dubbed “Made in Reston,” collected and distributed 290 backpacks with winter goods in December to help people experiencing homelessness in Reston, Herndon and Vienna get “all the supplies they need to be ready to stay out for many hours and to make that time a bit more comfortable,” organizer Rosa Simon told FFXnow.
Efforts to assist residents in need began nearly 20 years ago for the volunteer organization when Simon and her children became friendly with a group of unhoused residents on a Reston walking path.
After getting to know each other, it was clear to Simon and her family that they could do more than just be a friendly face.
“We noticed that they all needed new backpacks as theirs get wet and break very often, body wipes, toiletries and an extra set of clean clothes so they can feel clean enough to go out to look for a job,” Simon said.
Plastic envelopes to protect important documents from getting wet, hand warmers, hats, gloves, and sunscreen were also identified as needed items.
“That’s how the backpack idea started,” Simon added.
The backpack collection drive, which was also organized in winter 2023 and spring 2024, led the way to many other projects for the organization. During the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, Made in Reston produced roughly 2,000 facemasks for residents when supplies were limited.
The organization also provides hot meals three times a week, an effort fueled by its belief that it takes a village to help those in need.
“Now many people in the community know what we do,” Simon said. “They wanted to support us, they always ask about ways to join us, and when we share about what we currently do for our streets community, they all jumped to help us.”
Meeting material needs is only half the battle. Many also need social support and relationships in order to improve their circumstances.
“They need someone to talk to and encourage them,” Simon said.
According to Simon, the assistance that Made in Reston provided last year helped more than 20 individuals get out of the streets and into more stable environments. With a new year now underway, the group wants to continue expanding its reach to improve the lives of those who need it the most.
“We are currently celebrating 24 successful stories,” Simon said. “They overcome a lot to be where they are now, holding a job, meeting with me on a regular basis and volunteering with us to serve other men. We love to help them in their situation, we love to encourage them out of that situation and we love to celebrate their success.”
