Virginia Town Makes Giving Easy With Permanent Drop Sites

What started as an emergency response during a government shutdown has blossomed into a lasting lifeline for families in Gordonsville, Virginia.

Town Manager Anthony Schienschang launched donation collections in late 2025 when federal workers faced losing food assistance benefits. But when the shutdown ended, he saw something bigger: a chance to keep helping families who slip through the cracks of official aid programs.

"Growing up, my family had to go to the food bank multiple times because I was raised by a single mother with three boys," Schienschang said. "My heart goes out to people in those situations and if there's something we can do to make life a little bit easier for them, I'm happy to do it."

The town now operates two permanent drop-off locations at Town Hall and the Visitor Center on Main Street. Residents can donate unexpired food, unused personal care items, and gently used clothing during regular business hours.

All donations go to Good Samaritan Inc., a local nonprofit that has served Orange County families for more than a decade. The organization partners with them because of their commitment to helping everyone, regardless of income level or residency.

"No one ever walks in the door of Good Samaritan without getting food or clothes," said Valencia Bailey, the nonprofit's program director. The organization serves clients from any location and provides emergency relief even when people don't qualify for government programs.

The Ripple Effect

The impact reaches beyond emergency relief. Good Samaritan fills "weekend backpacks" for students at Orange County Public Schools, making sure kids have food when school meal programs aren't available. The most needed items include peanut butter, canned protein, macaroni and cheese, and instant meals.

Bailey says personal care items like tampons, body wash, and shampoo are constantly in demand. Spring and summer clothing donations help families prepare for warmer weather, while new children's coats of all sizes remain a priority year-round.

The permanent collection sites mean Gordonsville residents no longer need to drive to Orange to donate. That simple convenience turns good intentions into actual help, making generosity easier for busy families who want to give back.

Anyone in need can visit Good Samaritan's Orange location during open hours or make an appointment for other times. The program proves that small infrastructure changes can create big community impact when leaders choose compassion over bureaucracy.