Aligned with our mission and focus area, our community initiatives provide access to essential services and professional development opportunities for women and families as part of the League’s continued commitment to improving the lives of women and families in Northern Virginia.

In 2019, 12.8% of women in Virginia between the ages of 18-24 lived in poverty according to the United Health Foundation. The Loudoun Commission on Women & Girls found that ⅓ of women surveyed in the County had an unmet need ranging from child care support, connections to employment, food or nutritional support, and domestic violence resources. According to Northern Virginia Magazine, Virginia ranks as the eighth most expensive place to raise a child in America. Washington D.C. ranks as the most expensive place for families. 

JLNV is collaborating with community partners to support local organizations that help families with the high costs of raising children through various initiatives, as highlighted below.

Community Grants Program

Each year, the Junior League of Northern Virginia awards grants of funds and volunteer hours to support community projects that align with our mission, focus area, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. Each organization has a unique mission and approach to providing essential services and support to women and children in crisis. You can learn more about the current recipients here.

Period Pantries

As a part of our current focus area, Women Helping Women, JLNV is currently running a Period Pantry Campaign to establish and sustain period pantries throughout Northern Virginia. Period pantries are designed to address the critical issue of period poverty, which affects an estimated 20% of women in the local area, by distributing free period products to anyone in need. Many women are impacted by price hikes that make it difficult to access hygiene and period products. Through actions like period products drives and our campaign to establish Period Pantries the League hopes to alleviate this burden for many women in Northern Virginia.