The Surry County Department of Social Services, Department of Youth and Family Resources and Census 2020 joined forces on June 26 to reach out to the community. These agencies collaborated to get information out, issue masks, practice social distancing and have fun on a beautiful Friday morning at Surry Village Apartments.

This outreach began with registration and a gift of a mask that was made by Destiny Walker, a 14-year-old participant of the Precious Gems, which is a program of the Department of Youth and Family Resources. She diligently worked on the masks, even though she did not have previous training on sewing; she simply wanted to give back to her community. Her dedication was outstanding. It took her numerous days, sometimes working 12 hours a day, to complete 115 masks for the “We Care Community Outreach.”

As youth played, they were reminded to remain six feet apart from other participants. Throughout the event, all involved were practicing social distancing, wearing masks and using sanitizer.

Surry Sheriff Carlos Turner was the speaker for this event. His mission was to continue to bond with the community and to speak on respect and about the demonstrations of peaceful protesting. He asked citizens to be open about things that may make them uncomfortable and talk to the department about any issues that may come up.

With the excitement of the youth, Glenn Lyttle and Paquita Spratley geared up for the fun in directing the sack races and dance contest with prizes for the winners. Gift giveaway drawings were a plus for youth and families, as well as snack bags that were donated by the Department of Social Services. There were three big item prizes of bicycles donated by the local Department of Social Services and a tower fan for an adult that was donated by Department of Youth and Family Resources. Other items donated included a doll, cleaning products and toys that were given as prizes.

Census 2020 representatives Shirley Gilliam, Eunice Gay, Linda Gholston and Carolyn Holloway supplied Census bags, coloring books, cups,and information to citizens to let them know of the benefits of submitting their Census forms.

In conjunction with the certificates that were given to supporters offering thanks for genuine support, the committee — Valerie Pierce, LaJeune Stone, LaTonya Brown, Linda Gholston and Glenn Lyttle — thanked Surry Village Apartments and Lucinda Majette for their support and all others who supported this event in any way.

If you live in Surry County and are interested in this type of information or service for a group in the community, contact Glenn Lyttle at glyttle@surrycountyva.gov or call 757-294-5278 and ask for Glenn or Paquita.