2024 ANNUAL REPORT
JULY 1, 2023–JUNE 30, 2024
Dear Friends and Partners,
A MESSAGE FROM Petrina Carter President/CEO
Sixty years after Congress declared a war on poverty, sparking the creation of Community Action Agencies across the nation, I find myself deeply honored to lead Tri-County Community Action Agency. I am driven by my passion to meet the needs of people facing the adverse conditions of poverty each day. However, it saddens me that, as a country, we have not yet eradicated poverty in one of the wealthiest nations in the world.
Since its inception in 1965, Tri-County Community Action Agency (TCCAA) has empowered communities in Southside Virginia. Over the past 59 years, we have not only grown in reach but also expanded our impact through comprehensive programming and advocacy.
I invite you to explore our 2023-2024 annual report. As you delve into our journey, you will meet our dynamic team—from our governance board and leadership to our dedicated staff. You will also discover the depth of our essential services, review our progress in funding, and get a glimpse of our ambitious goals for 2025 and beyond.
We are excited to share a series of success stories that display the real-world impact of our programs. Read about early educational advances with Head Start, empowerment through our Mentor Role Model Program, home improvements made possible by our Weatherization Assistance Program, and the crucial support offered by our Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Program. Each story is a testament to our ongoing commitment to creating a region where empowered people strengthen communities.
We are exceedingly proud of our work in Southside Virginia, and this report highlights how we continue to uplift individuals and advocate for the many unheard voices of the communities during ever-changing times. In this spirit of community and resilience, we also stand in solidarity with our courageous current and past staff members. This year, we hold Henry Brooks, Beverly Mitchell, Gracie Brown, and several others who are bravely fighting cancer close to our hearts. We invite you to join us in supporting them and to keep them in your continued thoughts.
We are honored to work with such dedicated individuals within our organization and throughout Southside Virginia. Together, we are making a tremendous impact! Our collective efforts and dedication have already sparked remarkable advancements, and I am both elated and confident that our continued partnerships will lead to even greater achievements. Your steadfast support and dedication are incredibly meaningful to us. Let’s keep moving forward together and making a real difference in our community!
Sincerely,
Petrina Carter | TCCAA President & CEO
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
Keep dancing: Beverly’s breast cancer journey
Tri-County employee Beverly Mitchell began receiving treatment for invasive ductal carcinoma breast cancer in January 2024. Despite the many challenges that have come along with her diagnosis, Mitchell refuses to let her cancer define her. In addition to her work with Tri-County, she stays distracted by dancing with Essence of Movement Dance Studio. “I’m not thinking about my diagnosis during dance class. It gives me something to look forward to and helps with energy,” Mitchell explains.
One source of comfort and inspiration? Her job. Beverly applies the same words of wisdom she shares with her Tri-County clients to her own situation:
I know my diagnosis is serious, but my work has taught me the value of staying focused on the
positive.” —Tri-County employee Beverly Mitchell
At the Tri-County Community Action Agency (TCCAA) our dedication to eradicating the violence of poverty in Southside Virginia remains steadfast as we strive to advocate for and empower individuals in our region. Our guiding principles are — and have always been — central to our success: collaboration, empathy, excellence, empowerment and accountability.
This past year has been one of significant impact. We are pleased to report that we now operate 15 programs aimed at serving diverse needs across our community. As you search through our 2023 annual report, you’ll discover how we have broadened our programming for children. In addition to our successful Head Start program, we’ve added the Infant & Maternal Health initiatives. This collaborative community effort, launched in partnership with over ten regional organizations, is aimed at birthing healthy babies and strengthening family outcomes. Additionally, our advocacy efforts for affordable housing have taken shape through the new Westside Mobile Home Park Project, which seeks to ensure housing security, promote financial literacy and expand access to community resources.
Our impact this year can be quantified by the many clients we have served, but the true measure of our success is seen in the lives changed and the communities strengthened. We step into a new year proud of the impact we’ve made and reinvigorated in our pursuit of our mission: to eliminate the violence of poverty through advocacy, empowerment and selfsufficiency. We are grateful for your continued support and partnership, which are crucial to our collective growth and prosperity.
Hubert Pannell Chairman of the Board
ABOUT US
Our mission is to eliminate the violence of poverty through advocacy, empowerment and self-sufficiency.
2,500+ clients served in 2023-2024
We are a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of individuals and families who are experiencing the effects of poverty. TCCAA has administered federal, state and local programs for over fifty years in Halifax County, Virginia. In October of 1965, the organization was chartered to assist in a nationwide effort, deemed necessary by the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, to fight against poverty in the United States.Tri-County Community Action Agency has been committed to using collaborative efforts with other community partners to identify community needs and to improve the lives of others. The agency consists of an array of services and programs that are built to empower the clients we serve through wrap-around program case management, education and support.
Our Leadership Team
Petrina Carter President and CEO
Alisha Rice Director of Operations
Catherine Maloney CFO and Development Officer
Carmina Eder Impact Director of Youth and Family Services
Penny Jackson Director of Human Resources
Silvana Hailey Head Start Impact Manager
Sheena Rosario Head Start Impact Manager
Linda Puryear Head Start Impact Manager
Leroy Childress Director of Housing Services
Kim Carson Director of Emergency Services
Danielle Lucas Head Start Compliance Specialist/Agency Planner
Dianne Burton Finance Officer
Denise Smith Trauma Informed Care Specialist
Audrey Brogdon Housing Development Coordinator
Monique Covington Head Start Impact Leader
Serving Excellence Since 1965
CHAR LOTTE COUNT Y
Assisting and representing Halifax, Mecklenburg, and Charlotte counties in Southside Virginia
HALIFAX COUNT Y
MECKLENBURG COUNT Y
Hubert Pannell Chairman
Sylvia Lovelace Vice Chair
Clarice Smith Secretary
Annette Tucker Assistant Treasurer
Laverne Taylor Board Member
Our Board Members
Andy Hargrove Board Member
Trakecha South Board Member
Lott Rogers Board Member
Wayne Smith Board Member
Mona Rainey Board Member
“I didn’t just find a job. “I found a career.
—Silvana Hailey, Head Start Program Staff
Ryland Clark Board Member
Nathan Parker Board Member
Claudia Lundy Board Member
Henry Carwile Board Member
John Terry Board Member
HEAD START PROGRAM
The TCCAA Head Start Program champions early childhood education for children aged three to five in rural Halifax and Mecklenburg counties. Designed to level the playing field for disadvantaged children, six South Central Head Start locations offer a high-quality preschool education that prepares children for kindergarten while equipping their families with essential resources. Through a comprehensive approach that includes parental involvement, Head Start fosters family empowerment and self-sufficiency, actively contributing to breaking the cycle of poverty.
127
$151,536 students in 2023-2024 teachers in 2023-2024 funds donated in 2023-2024
2,089 hours spent in school
16
FOSTERING GROWTH & CONFIDENCE
As a high school student, Destinee Ferrell got to know the ins and outs of the TCAAA Head Start Program as a volunteer teacher assistant. Years later when she became a mom herself, she knew exactly where to look for her son’s early childhood education.
Ferrell enrolled her son in TCAAA’s Riverdale Head Start program when he was three years old, exposing him to a program that focuses not only on academic growth and preparation for kindergarten but on a child’s social and emotional growth as well. And as a new mom, Ferrell says both she and her son have experienced major benefits from their two years as a Head Start family.
“He’s more social,” Ferrell said. “He’s pretty much always been the only child, so it was hard for him to share and communicate with other kids. He also had a speech delay, but now he’ll hug another kid and say things like, ‘Oh, that’s my baby.’ Head Start was definitely a big help with that. From start to finish, he’s definitely changed over the past two years.”
Head Start’s impact on Ferrell and her son didn’t end at the conclusion of the school day either. One of the core tenants of the TCAAA Head Start
Program is a holistic approach to early childhood development that empowers families and their children to become more self-sufficient.
“They worked with me and told me different things I could practice at home with him to help at school,” she said. “It helped me set up a routine for him, things like reading time where he just sits back, listens to the book and looks at the pictures. He likes to do that.”
Now with kindergarten on the horizon, Ferrell is not only thankful for the growth Head Start has fostered in her son but also for the confidence it has instilled in her as a new mother and the newfound support network it has provided.
“They don’t think about just the kids; they try to help the parent as well,” she said. “Whether it’s trying to find a job, providing extra help at home, or honestly just trying to help you figure out how to do everything. Because when you’re a new parent, it’s hard. We don’t necessarily ask for help because we feel bad for not knowing, but Head Start will help you in a way that’s welcoming and comfortable.”
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE & SEXUAL ASSAULT PROGRAM
The TCCAA Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Program provides comprehensive support to victims who are seeking to rebuild their lives after experiencing violence. Serving Halifax, Charlotte, Mecklenburg and Lunenburg counties, the program offers shelter, transportation, crisis intervention, and companion services for court and medical appointments, helping victims
regain stability and secure permanent housing. Additionally, through community education, the program raises awareness of domestic and sexual violence and fosters prevention of dating abuse, bullying, stalking and other unhealthy relationships. This empowers both individuals and communities to advocate against violence and promote safety and well-being.
217
Halifax - 85
Mecklenburg - 72
Charlotte - 51
Lunenburg - 8
Other - 1
61
84
Halifax - 40
Mecklenburg - 21
Charlotte - 5
Lunenburg - 1
Other - 9
66
Halifax - 40
Mecklenburg - 9
Charlotte - 13
Lunenburg - 1
76 cases served in 2023-2024 shelter placements in 2023-2024 hotline calls in 2023-2024
Other - 9
Community education programs held in 2023-2024
Transportation services provided in 2023-2024
2
3
Medical companion services provided in 2023-2024 Volunteers in 2023-2024
$9,185
Funds donated to Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Program in 2023-2024
QWhat would you have done if the shelter did not exist?
I really don’t know. That’s why I’m thankful for their existence.” “Freeze to death.” “Be in my car.
Can you describe your positive experiences with the program?
We had peace and quiet and peace of mind. We had food and any accommodation we needed. Again, I’m very thankful.”
“I met new positive staff that helped redirect my thinking.”
“Y’all really helped me with everything I needed.
Community Cannery
Tri-County Community Action Agency, Inc. has a local community cannery where fresh fruits, vegetables, soups, stews, meats and sauces can be canned. The cannery provides the materials to steam your homegrown foods to assist in preserving your local products.
INFANT & MATERNAL HEALTH
TCCAA’s Infant and Maternal Health Program provides essential support and resources to new and expectant families from the prenatal stage through postpartum as well as families with children under three years of age. In partnership with ten regional organizations, TCCAA leads this collaborative community initiative aimed at improving infant and maternal health outcomes. Outreach services include connecting families with local resources and providing them with
GINETTA HAYES
information on topics such as CPR, safe sleep and breastfeeding. Community health workers offer inperson or virtual home visiting services that foster strengths-based, solution-focused conversations rooted in research. These interactions empower parents to build healthy attachments and promote child development. By helping cultivate nurturing practices within the home, TCCAA guides families on their personal journey toward wellness.
If it takes a village to raise a child, then Ginetta Hayes and her two children are in good hands.
Hayes, a South Boston resident, first heard of TCAAA’s Infant & Maternal Health Program through a parenting class at the hospital that she took while pregnant with her first child. In the midst of the uncertainty and anxiety faced by most new parents and parents-to-be, she welcomed the idea of a community support network for her and her soon-to-be-born son.
“It was my first time being a mom, so I was nervous,” Hayes said. “I was doing it on my own, so I felt like I had a little extra support outside of the home.”
The TCCAA Infant & Maternal Health Program provides essential support and resources to news and expectant families in all stages from prenatal to postpartum, as well as for families with children under three years of age. Through the program, Hayes received information and resources ranging from diapers and formula to contacts at key local agencies like food pantries. Those resources were critical for a first-time mother, as was the
emotional support and motherly mentorship Hayes received throughout her involvement with the program.
Now the mother of two, Hayes has received support from the program for both her son – now five years old – and most recently with her youngest son, now two months old. Despite different circumstances regarding each birth and different TCAAA consultants for each child, Hayes says she has benefited immensely from the program’s guidance.
“[For my youngest son], my TCAAA contact had kids herself, so she was able to give me pointers on my baby,” Hayes said. “What cues to look for, advice on feeding, how to recognize their emotions, things like that. She gave me a book on baby cues and emotions, and that really helped.”
And even now as her son is set to begin first grade in the fall, the TCAAA remains an ever-present resource for Hayes and her family. She plans to work with the Infant & Maternal Health team once again to help her find a mentor for her son and continue to provide knowledge, resources and emotional support and she raises her sons.
“I really do enjoy their help because there are a lot of things that you just don’t know about,” Hayes said.
Families served in 2023-2024
Infant & Maternal Health Summit
Partners at Maternal Health Summitt
OBGYNs/health professionals; Tri-County staff; volunteers from the Halifax County-South Boston Library, VA Cooperative Extension, Sentara Community Cares Mobile Unit, Paths, Birth in Color, Virginia Rural Health Association, The Selah Center, Virginia Department of Health, The Health Collaborative, Southside Behavioral Health, Sentara, United Healthcare, Sentara Welcoming Baby Services
Community outreach events held in 2023-2024
Attendees at Maternal Health Summitt
VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (VITA)
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) at TCCAA provides free tax preparation for residents of Halifax, Charlotte and Mecklenburg counties who meet specific income requirements. Volunteers prepare federal and state returns for clients from February through April of each year, working to ensure that
community members receive the full benefits and refunds they are entitled to. With our main office in South Boston and additional sites this year in Chase City and Charlotte Courthouse, VITA is committed to enhancing financial empowerment and literacy throughout our community.
The TCCAA Home Maintenance/ Private Jobs Program delivers affordable maintenance services to homeowners in Halifax, Charlotte and Mecklenburg counties who meet specific income requirements. Covering a wide range of services from yard work and weatherization to
EMERGENCY SERVICES
TCCAA’s Virginia Homeless Solutions Program (VHSP) provides services to individuals or families in Halifax, Charlotte, Brunswick and Mecklenburg counties who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless. VHSP is dedicated to connecting community members with crucial resources and offering
support through a subsidized rapid re-housing program designed to quickly secure housing for eligible applicants. By providing direct assistance and facilitating access, VHSP actively works towards reducing homelessness and promoting longterm stability in our communities.
Households served with monthly boxes of food
559 individuals
SERVING HOPE FOOD PANTRY
Halifax - 8 households, 10 individuals
Mecklenburg - 8 households, 8 individuals
Charlotte - 13 households, 33 individuals
VIRGINIA HOMELESS SOLUTIONS PROGRAM
Halifax - 16 households, 22 individuals
Mecklenburg - 23 households, 40 individuals
Charlotte - 15 households, 37 individuals
$332,376 in grant funds and donations to prevent homelessness
392
Households served in 2023-2024
818 individuals
5 Households 7 Individuals
Participants housed in 2023-2024
29 Households
51 Individuals
Participants sheltered in 2023-2024
54
Households served in 2023-2024
99 individuals
42 Participants who avoided homelessness
ENERGY SHARE PROGRAM
{H-169/333, M-124/234, C-99/251}
$125,500 in funds distributed to the program to assist households with cooling and heating costs
The Challenge of Getting Back on Track
Note: Names and identifying details have been removed to protect the privacy of individuals.
A 2019 survey found that more than half of Americans are just one missed paycheck away from financial crisis. TCCAA programs like Emergency Services are in place to support community members who find themselves in those circumstances, or worse.
For one South Boston resident, that became a reality when they found themself headed toward an unexpected financial hardship that left them unable to pay their rent. After falling behind by just one month, late fees and the challenge of simply catching up compounded to transform their financial hurdle into an unscalable cliff.
“All I needed to do was get back on track,” they said. “I was trying to play catch up, and I was gradually paying on the late fees. You fall so far when you fall behind one month.”
However, through word of mouth, they learned about TCCAA and their Virginia Homeless Solutions Program (VHSP), which provides assistance to individuals and families in Brunswick, Charlotte, Halifax and Mecklenburg
counties who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless. And while their setback had not reached the severity of homelessness, the South Boston resident found the support system they needed to get back on track.
“It didn’t take them long at all to get back to me and help me get caught up on my rent,” they said of TCCAA’s Emergency Services personnel.
“I’ve been living here a long time without any infractions, and all I needed to do was get back up on my feet. Now I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing again.”
As a result of the assistance they received, the resident recommends TCCAA to anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation.
“I let people know how much they’ve helped me. If I know somebody who’s having a small struggle, I always mention Tri-County,” they said. “If you’re in a financial situation, go to TriCounty and explain to them what’s going on. It’s reasonable. They’ll reach out and let you know what they’re able to do.”
ANONYMOUS SOUTH BOSTON RESIDENT
WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (WAP)
TCCAA’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) supports Halifax and Charlotte County residents who meet certain income criteria. By providing comprehensive weatherization services, this program significantly reduces energy consumption and utility bills — saving households an average of $283 annually! WAP focuses on enhancing the efficiency and safety of heating and cooling systems while also
60
Participants in 2023-2024
JOHN & EDITH AUSTIN
improving overall home health through services like heating system or duct repairs, insulation and air sealing. With a commitment to prioritizing the elderly, persons with disabilities and families with children, WAP ensures that the most vulnerable populations receive timely and essential home weatherization.
TOTAL JOB COSTS: $344,409.62
Halifax - 40
Elderly - 45 Disabled - 36 Family with Children - 6
Any homeowner knows the burden of maintenance and upkeep. However, some repair jobs – like weatherization challenges – are not only too big for homeowners to take on themselves, they often present hidden financial and structural strains.
Thankfully for Charlotte and Halifax County citizens, the TCAAA Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) supports residents who meet certain income criteria and are in need of comprehensive weather services for their residence. The goal is to reduce energy consumption and utility bills, which can save residents hundreds of dollars annually.
For John and Edith Austin, a number of seemingly minor issues in their aging home prompted them to reach out to TCAAA for assistance. After an initial assessment, a crew began work that included a new furnace and roof, insulation, interior repair work on the ceiling, weatherization of doors and windows, and an exhaust fan in the bathroom. During insulation installation, the crew also discovered a leak under the house, which they repaired.
“The way they worked, somebody always came out and assessed what they needed to do,” Edith said. “They would tell us what they were going to do and how they were going to do it. And everything went smoothly. There were no hiccups.”
Charlotte - 20
Elderly - 13
Disabled - 18
In addition to the quality and efficiency of the work, the Austins also praised the quality and personability of the crew.
“All the employees were very respectful and helpful,” John said. “If you asked them questions, they answered them. They didn’t walk off and leave you hanging. We really enjoyed the ones working with us.”
“It was a really good experience, and I loved it,” Edith added.
With the work complete, the Austins have seen savings in their energy bills and more efficiency in their HVAC system. They also made some new acquaintances out of the project, many of whom they see out and about in their community.
“This is a small community, and you see people around,” Edith said. “We see the people who worked on our house out in the street. They’re always speaking, saying hello.”
Their experience with the Weatherization Assistance Program and the relationships the Austins formed with the TCAAA crew have them singing the organization’s praises.
“I would tell people to reach out to Tri-County,” John said. “They will come out and see what you actually need and see what they can do. Let them in your house, sit down and just talk to them. We trust people, and we trust them.”
WESTSIDE MOBILE HOME PROJECT
The Westside Mobile Home Park Project, a revitalization effort led by TCCAA in partnership with the Town of South Boston and local nonprofits, aims to transform the Sinai Community of Halifax County by building new, secure and affordable homes. This initiative seeks to empower current residents of the mobile home park by ensuring housing security,
promoting financial literacy and expanding access to community resources. By fostering a sense of belonging and bridging neighborhood disparities, the Westside Project is dedicated to cultivating generational wealth, creating sustainable opportunities and strengthening community fabric for lasting impact.
MENTOR ROLE MODEL PROGRAM
The TCCAA Mentor Role Model Program empowers at-risk youth in Halifax County through oneon-one and group mentoring. Additionally, the program provides comprehensive training for mentors. By fostering self-esteem, encouraging positive problemsolving and nurturing potential, our mentors provide the essential guidance and tools needed for young people to thrive and succeed, paving the way toward a brighter, more self-sufficient future.
Our mentors have worked tirelessly to create lasting memories and offer the tools and support necessary for success. By aligning with our organization’s mission and vision, the MRMP has played a vital role in fostering positive change and helping our mentees overcome challenges, setting them on a path toward a brighter future.
— Dr. Carmina Richardson Eder, Impact Director of Youth and Family Services.
10
Mentee Participants 2023-2024
5-18 yrs old
Age Range of Participants 2023-2024
5
Mentee Participants 2023-2024
FUNDING
Non-government grants, donations, etc.
Tri-County Community Action Agency is dedicated to empowering individuals and families in Southside Virginia through a wide range of services, including education, housing assistance, and emergency support. By making a donation, you contribute directly to life-changing programs that help build stronger, more resilient communities. Your support ensures that TCAA can continue to provide critical resources to those in need, fostering growth, stability, and opportunity for all
LOOKING AHEAD: 2024-2025
TCCAA is always looking for new ways to support our community. Here are some things to look forward to:
