Covid-19 Updates
COVID-19 is an evolving global, national, and statewide crisis. At Big Brothers Big Sisters, the health and safety of our Littles, Bigs, families, staff, event participants, and partners is our first priority.
We are monitoring the situation and following guidance from area health departments and school districts, as well as federal guidance from the CDC. BBBS is evaluating all meetings, Match events, and fundraisers. All updates will be reflected on this page and on social media, @BeaBigVA.
For Bigs, Littles, Families, and Potential Volunteers
- Site-Based Match Meetings: Site-based match meetings are cancelled and will resume after our public school partners open. We encourage matches to stay in touch using guidelines from our Pen Pals Packet.
- UPDATES Community-Based Match Outings: We encourage matches to follow CDC and Virginia Department of Health guidelines. Healthy people without underlying conditions can likely still meet, but matches use their own discretion based on the situation of the Big and family. If Bigs, Littles, or their families feel uncomfortable meeting, they should not do so. We encourage matches that aren’t meeting to stay in touch, see guidelines below.
- Recruitment: The value of a mentoring relationship in times of stress is increased. If you are considering volunteering, we encourage you to reach out. We will continue to conduct recruitment calls and interviews with added safety precautions.
- Match Activities: All current match activities have been cancelled.
Additional resources for Bigs, Littles, parents/guardians, and supporters are provided below. For location specific information, please click on the links at the bottom of this page.
•••last updated: 07/21/21•••
Community Access & Health Resources
- Free COVID-19 testing in Richmond
- 8 Ways to Reduce Corona Virus Anxiety – Prevention Magazine
- Managing Anxiety and Stress – US Center for Disease Control
- Managing COVID-19: Expert Tips – Anxiety & Depression Association of America
- Coping with stress, fear, and uncertainty – HelpGuide.org
- Salvation Army Support Line – The Salvation Army USA launched a nationwide support line for emotional and spiritual care . Call 1-844-458-HOPE (4673) or learn more by clicking the link above
- Mental Health Resources – Including face-to-face video therapy. Appointments available for those without health insurance, no co-pays collected during the COVID-19 crisis period
- Virginia Career Works – Information on employment opportunities and other career resources
- Emergency Unemployment – How to apply for unemployment
- DMAS COVID-19 FAQs – For Medicare Members
- VA Medicare Taking Action – Ways Medicare is taking action to fight COVID-19
- Virginia Department of Health on COVID-19 – Read the latest updates from VDH on COVID-19
- Comcast Internet Access – Learn more about how Comcast is supporting families in need of internet access with 60 days free
- The Search Institute Tip Sheet – Download a guide on ways to work through concerns from youth during this time.
- National Association of School Psychologists – Talking to Children About COVID-19
- Dominion Energy Assistance – Dominion has suspended all service disconnections for nonpayment at this time.
- Remember to call 211 – For assistance finding food, paying housing bills, accessing free childcare, or other essential services
Find specific location information guides below.
Keep updated and in touch with us on Facebook and Instagram @BeaBigVA.
Match Meetings | Virtual Hang Out Ideas for Bigs
With the executive stay-at-home order in place, we understand it can feel hard to stay connected. But we encourage everyone to abide by it to stay safe and healthy. To help make the transition to virtual hang outs easier, we compiled a fun list of ideas and activities for you and your Little to enjoy. Although, let’s be honest its great for friends and family too!
COVID 19 | Support Guide for LGBTQ+ Youth
We know that COVID-19 has serious implications for the well being of all of us, but especially for LGBTQ youth. Even before the global pandemic, studies have shown that LGBTQ youth are at an increased risk. The increase of social distancing means that many LGBTQ youth have experienced a decrease in positive social relationships, and we want to help combat that.
Internet Safety For Youth
During this global pandemic, we are turning towards technology now more than ever to keep us connected. At BBBS, we’re grateful our matches can continue to stay in touch, but know this comes with additional responsibilities to ensure the safety of our Littles.
