Since our too-long COVID-19 quarantine began, families coast-to-coast have taken to the porch to show their solidarity with each other in the crisis. It occurred to one of our favorite photographers, Celeste Linthicum, that the largely impromptu family gatherings could serve another purpose. So, she made flyers and offered to take professional family photos of everyone in her neighborhood in return for whatever they would like to donate to help laid-off restaurant workers. The Community Foundation built her a donation page (https://communityfoundationlf.org/product/loudounstepsup/) and she was off!
The Tourism and Hospitality Relief Fund was started by the Visit Loudoun Foundation, which made $25,000 in emergency aid available in $500 increments to help cover rent and utilities. Considering that 7,000 Loudouners filed for unemployment the week after Easter, we know that's just a start.
Which is why every effort counts! We’re so grateful to work with Celeste and thankful to all her neighbors for their generosity in donating more than $3,000! If you'd like to help, please donate using the link above and send your photo to our editor at melinda.gipson@lifestylepubs.com so we can at least add it to our Facebook page. And remember: nothing is impossible when Loudoun Steps Up!