"It was founded in 1974 in response to a need for a home in the Gum Springs area for a large family living in miserable conditions. The incentive came from parishioners of Good Shepherd Catholic Church, and with private donations, a grant from the Fairfax County, labor from Genuario Construction Company, the house was built, and the family moved from their one room shack. Although the initiative came from members of Good Shepherd Church, GSH&FS has from its beginning been an ecumenical organization with no official ties to either Good Shepherd Catholic Church or the Diocese of Arlington. Its Board of Directors and in its clients in need have come from many local churches, and its clients from all races, creeds and walks of life.

From a modest beginning of all volunteers, and a $10,000 budget, operating out of the board president’s home with a two drawer file cabinet and answering machine, it has grown to a staff of ten paid staff, four full time and six part time, and a budget in excess of $1,800,000, of which 90% is program directed. Of course this also requires the effort of many dedicated volunteers.

GSH&FS provides emergency services to hundreds of families each year. One of its more significant contributions to combating homelessness however, is its rental/sublet program, now called the ABC program. When started in 1983 it was the only one of its kind nationwide, but has since been emulated as far as California. This program, along with its budget counseling and related efforts has provided permanent homes to hundreds of families over the years.

GFSH&FS’s thirty-three year heritage in fighting homelessness, has established a sound reputation in Fairfax County."'

2. Stop living paycheck to paycheck

3. Stop running up credit card balances

4. Stop using variable rate debt

6. Stop leaving checks in your mailbox

7. Stop identity theft

8. Stop phishing

9. Stop the status quo