The Lorton Community Action Center (LCAC) seeks to provide low-income individuals, senior citizens and families residing in Fort Belvoir, Lorton, Newington and other portions of southeast Fairfax County with access to basic needs and the opportunity to empower themselves through LCAC’s self-sufficiency programs. LCAC strives to connect people with other programs in the area that will have a positive impact on a family’s long-term “health.” LCAC helps to prevent homelessness by offering emergency financial assistance for rent or mortgage, as well as utilities. The importance of keeping individuals and families in a safe, stable environment cannot be over-emphasized, since the steadiness of “a place to call home” impacts all aspects of a family’s life from employment to a child’s performance in school. LCAC is an independent 501(c)3, nonprofit organization that partners with a wide array of religious groups, community organizations, corporations, individuals and local businesses to fulfill its mission. Volunteers play an integral role in all aspects of LCAC’s programs and services.