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South Central Virginia Nonprofit Network (SCVNN) is a recently-launched support network that establishes a comprehensive database of resources and essential services for those in need of assistance.

With a seven-county service area consisting of Amelia, Buckingham, Cumberland, Charlotte, Lunenburg, Nottoway and Prince Edward, SCVNN focuses on providing information and creating connections to critical resources, including nonprofits and locally-based state/ government agencies, regional/national organizations with a local presence, faith groups and food pantries.

The network launched May 20.

CEO of STEPS, Inc. Sharon Harrup said in a release issued by the network that the area’s Nonprofit Leaders’ Roundtable had been discussing such a website for some time. Harrup said the current ongoing COVID-19 crisis served as a catalyst for the collective resource as the area sees a need for such essential services.

“Currently SCVNN consists of a website and a simple community PR campaign to gain awareness,” Dr. Susan Baker, Crossroads community services board executive director said. “We want to plan other outreach campaigns such as a direct mailer to reach rural residents who lack internet access and a printed questionnaire for those seeking volunteer assistance.”

The release highlighted nonprofits providing essential services in the network’s coverage area are encouraged to claim or submit their listing for approval if they have not done so yet.

Thomas Jordan Miles III, interim CEO for Piedmont Senior Resources, said Friday although the network’s creation was motivated by the coronavirus and needs identified throughout the community during the pandemic, the hope is that the network will continue to exist and grow even when the virus’ presence in the community dissipates.

“We stand alongside the organizations that are and will be represented in the network to provide essential services during this pandemic and after COVID-19 loosens its grip on our friends, family and neighbors,” Miles stated.

Aside from COVID- 19-focused resources, the site also provides information to the community on resources for domestic violence, education, employment, family and financial assistance, food, health and wellness, housing and utilities and legal aid.

For more information, log onto to www.scvnn.org.