We hope you had a safe and meaningful Independence Day! This season reminds
us that true independence starts with having the tools and support to build the life
you want for yourself and your family. Whether it's access to healthy food, learning how to budget, gaining new career skills, or finding stability during hard times, we are here to walk alongside you. If you are looking to learn something new or take steps towards your goal, we invite you to connect with us. Our programs are designed to help build confidence, find support, and move forward.
We are excited to share a new resource for families: The Secret Garden at Britepaths is now open! This cozy reading nook in our office is filled with books for children of all ages, and they're free to take home! From board books for little ones to chapter books and novels for older readers, your children can start or grow their own home library during your visit. Reading plays a big role in a child's growth, imagination, and learning, but we know books can fall off the list of priorities for families with a tight budget. We created this special space so you and your children can enjoy stories that inspire them and help them get ready for school in the fall.
We celebrated the ribbon cutting in June with families, supporters, and guest speaker Kimberly Reinhard from the Northern Virginia Association for the Education of Young Children. The next time you stop by our office, ask to visit The Secret Garden.
As temperatures rise, staying safe and cool is important. If you are feeling the heat, Cooling Assistance is available through the Fairfax County Department of Family Services. Applications are due by August 15. Cooling Assistance can help with the cost of keeping your home cool or repairing/maintaining equipment.
By phone: Enterprise Customer Service Center (833) 522-5582
By mail: DFS Energy Assistance, 12011 Government Center Parkway, Suite 232, Fairfax, VA 22035
In person, fax, or email: Visit herefor instructions and downloadable forms
For Older Adults: This Senior Cool Care Program offers free fans or assistance with air conditioning for eligible seniors.
Cooling Centers: If you or your home gets too hot, in addition to shopping malls, stores, or movie theaters, consider cooling off at one of Fairfax County's facilities designated as Cooling Centers during operating hours. Please check that locations are open before you arrive
Free Summer Fun at
Second Star Farm
Our friends at Second Star Farm and Wildlife Habitat in Aldie, VA are offering free farm visits, pony rides, and monthly horseback riding lessons for Britepaths' client families!
Celebrate with them at their Summer Picnic on Saturday, July 19 from 12pm-3pm at 40191 New Road, Aldie, VA 20105. Enjoy food, games, arts and crafts, and meet Bob the mini donkey, horses, and more outdoor fun. If you can't make the picnic, you are still welcome to sign up for farm visits to meet and care for animals, free pony rides for kids 12 and under, and monthly riding lessons for youth ages 8-18.
Take a break, connect with nature, and enjoy a peaceful day in the countryside!
When your income changes from month to month, it can feel hard to stay on top of bills or build savings. But creating a flexible budget can help you feel more in control.
Start by:
Adding up your must-pay monthly expenses: things like rent, groceries, utilities, and transportation.
Using your lowest-earning month as your baseline. If you made $1,000 in your lowest month, base your budget around that number.
Tips to stay steady when income isn’t:
Prioritize essentials first: Cover your must-pay expenses before anything else.
Split your budget into two parts:
Essentials: Fixed costs like rent, food, and utilities
Extras: Flexible spending like takeout, clothing, or subscriptions
Build a buffer: Save any extra income during higher-earning months in a separate savings account. Even $10–$20/month adds up.
Protect your buffer: Think of this savings as your safety net, not spending money. It’s there to help you through slower months and avoid relying on credit cards.
How to set up a savings account: You can open one at a bank or credit union, either online or in person. Look for an account with no or low monthly fees and easy transfers from your checking account.
