The hospitality industry has experienced extensive economic impacts during the Coronavirus pandemic.
- In an attempt to aid Stafford local restaurants, the Stafford County Economic Development and Tourism Department in partnership with the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has created the first Stafford Cares program aimed to support local restaurants and families in need.
Stafford Cares is a county-wide initiative that includes a number of new programs and projects fostering the well-being of Stafford citizens and businesses.
- The first program for Stafford Cares, “Helping Restaurants and Families in Need,” funded through a Community Development Block Grant, will purchase meal certificates from local restaurants and give them to Stafford families enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Approximately 3,500 SNAP recipient families in Stafford County will be served by this program and receive meal cards to local restaurants. The minimum benefit to any SNAP recipient family is $150.
- The participation of 75 to 100 restaurants is needed for this program. Approximately $7,400 worth of meal cards or certificates will be purchased from each restaurant.
- The total number of participating restaurants will impact the number of meal cards or certificates purchased from an individual restaurant.
The direct benefit serves two audiences.
- First, Stafford restaurants will get a critical infusion of cash, attract more customers, and increase sales.
- Second, the program addresses food insecurity concerns for families in need who are part of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Stafford.
- Additional indirect benefits include increased local restaurant sales, workforce retention, and increased County tax revenue. Additional meals tax revenue supports Stafford public schools.
To participate, restaurants must apply online by noon on March 8th, 2021. Click here for more information gostaffordva.com/stafford-cares-restaurant-application
Recent Stories
Big decisions and new initiatives are always unfolding around us—decisions that can leave us questioning the future and wondering how they will impact our community. But at Potomac Local News, we’re dedicated to showing you the way forward, helping you understand these changes and what they mean for the road ahead.
This week, we brought you exclusive stories that showcase how our community is evolving, from the cancellation of a major road project to the launch of new fundraising initiatives. Here’s how we’re showing you the way forward:
Osbourn Park High School has received the Virginia School Breakfast Award from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) for its success in expanding breakfast access, maintaining nutritional integrity, and serving more scratch-cooked meals. The school is one of three recipients this year.
Cafeteria manager Nidia Bruno expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the team’s dedication to feeding students. Andrea Early, director of Food and Nutrition, noted that breakfast participation at Osbourn Park has increased by 30% and praised the cafeteria team for efficiently managing the expanded program. The school benefits from the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) Program, which provides free breakfast and lunch to all students.
(FXBG Advance) – Local delegates Joshua Cole, a Democrat, and Hillary Pugh Kent, a Republican, have been appointed to an emergency committee that will monitor the impact to Virginia of the…
Nothing Bundt Cakes has officially opened its doors just outside Manassas, bringing its signature, handcrafted bundt cakes to the community. The Prince William Chamber of Commerce celebrated the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new bakery at 9825 Liberia Avenue, Suite 101.
The popular national bakery chain, known for its rich, moist cakes and signature cream cheese frosting, offers a variety of flavors and sizes, from bite-sized Bundtinis to 10-inch Bundt cakes perfect for special occasions. The store aims to be a go-to destination for birthdays, anniversaries, and everyday celebrations.
“We are ecstatic to have them join the thriving business community in Prince William County,” said a representative from the Chamber. “Their presence adds to the diverse selection of locally owned and franchised businesses that make this area a great place to shop and dine.”
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
