Our Mission

Life often gives us circumstances beyond our control and, for the individuals and families that we serve, they don’t always have the resources to quickly recover. Interfaith Outreach Association exists to step in during those moments and assist with helping our neighbors in need navigate during their tough times. We provide programs that give education, guidance and support, to identify ways out or ways up. We work with individuals and families to assess their needs, assist them as we can,  and connect them with the many resources in our community that can empower them to improve their situation.

It is our hope that our programs empower the communities that are affected by the immense poverty that our city, and the surrounding areas, face.

Our Impact

IOA serves populations in the city of Lynchburg as well as Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford and Campbell counties. The numbers below reflect the dire circumstances many of our neighbors in need face on a daily basis. 

This is the reality of Central Virginia today:

  • Housing is the #1 expense for all, with childcare and healthcare expenses closely following
  • 80% of households we serve include at least 1 child and/or elderly relative
  • Most neighbors served by Interfaith Outreach Association have an income of less than $1,000 per month
  • Most families we serve rely on SNAP benefits and Medicaid
  • The United Way of Central Virginia ALICE report states that 51% of those in Central Virginia live below the poverty line or paycheck to paycheck with little or no reserves. 

Interfaith Outreach Association made a difference this past year:

  • Interfaith is the most referred serviced provided through 211 in Central Virginia
  • 2,204 people received emergency assistance with rent and utilities
  • 3,341 letters of encouragement were sent to people incarcerated
  • 388 people participated in the Life Skills Classes in the Blue Ridge Jail system
  • 68 families received assistance with much needed home repairs and modifications, such as ramps
  • 96 families with 138 children received 912 pieces of furniture
  • Our Homeless Prevention Program has a 96% success rate in preventing homelessness
  • Our newest program, Home Again, works tirelessly to move households experiencing homelessness into housing. In only a few short months, over 20 households have moved into permanent housing! 
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