By Eva Hartman and Pat Miller
Alexandria, VA – InspireLit
“InspireLit has shared over 165,000 books across Alexandria through curated collections of new and gently used books donated by the community.”
InspireLit focuses on getting books into the hands of Alexandria’s children and building access to reading at home. Founded by local educators, the organization partners with schools and community groups. At its book fairs, children select their own books, often with guidance from volunteers.
In addition to events, InspireLit maintains book-sharing shelves in locations families already visit, allowing children to take books home without barriers.
Most-needed donations are children’s books, particularly board books, picture books, and graphic novels. New books are preferred, though gently used titles in good condition are accepted. Full book drives can be coordinated in advance.
Contact and Drop-Off:
[email protected] or [email protected]
Company of Books, 2200 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, VA 22301
Fund for Alexandria’s Child
The Fund for Alexandria’s Child provides direct support to children in foster care and those at risk of abuse or neglect. Requests are submitted by Family Services Specialists and fulfilled as needs arise.
Support is practical and immediate, covering basic necessities and items that stabilize daily life.
High-demand items include cleaning supplies, personal hygiene products such as toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and diapers.
Contact and Drop-Off:
Christine Levine, MSW
Coordinator of Community Resources
4850 Mark Center Drive, Child Welfare Services, 7th Floor
Alexandria, VA 22311
703.746.5663
[email protected]
Mother of Light Center
The Mother of Light Center has served Alexandria since 2019 through food distribution and outreach. Its clothing distribution program provides access to everyday items.
Donations are accepted for casual, gently used clothing for children, women, and men, along with casual shoes, linens, and small household items. Items should be clean and ready to wear or use.
Contact and Drop-Off:
421 Clifford Ave., Alexandria, VA
Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
[email protected]
703.307.5902
ALIVE!
ALIVE! addresses food and housing insecurity across Alexandria, serving approximately 20,000 individuals each month. Programs include food distribution, financial assistance, eviction prevention, and transitional housing.
Through Community Food Hubs and partner sites, the organization distributes essential groceries citywide. High-demand items include rice, beans, pasta, canned tomatoes, oatmeal, cereal, and kid-friendly meals. Tuna snack packs and high-protein drinks are also needed. Donations should avoid glass containers.
Non-food items include laundry detergent, hygiene products, diapers, cleaning supplies, baby wipes, and formula.
Contact and Drop-Off:
ALIVE! Warehouse
801 South Payne Street, Alexandria, VA
Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
703.837.9300
[email protected]
