The Rockbridge Area Relief Association (RARA) is based in Lexington, VA. RARA has been serving residents of Rockbridge County and the cities of Lexington and Buena Vista, VA since 1972.
RARA provides assistance with the following:
Shelter- Utilities
- Heating Fuel (kerosene, fuel oil, wood)
- Medications
- Gasoline, Transportation
How does RARA work?
A person/family that has encountered financial difficulty and needs help will contact RARA by telephone to request assitance. (The telephone number and hours of operation can be found in the "Contact RARA" section of this website).
RARA will take an application by telephone and verify that the person/family qualifies for assitance and that such a need does exist.
RARA will make all payments directly to the vendor.
RARA has a confidentiality policy to protect the privacy of this information.
RARA may provide assitance or may work with other agencies to botain assistance. These agencies may include the Department of Social Services, Total Action Against Poverty (TAP), Valley Program for the Aging Services (VPAS), Rockbridge Area Transportation System (RATS), the Salvation Army, and area churches.
How does RARA assist with food?
Persons/families in need may apply for assistance and pick up food at RARA's Food Pantry (location and hours of operation can be found in the "Contact RARA" section of this website).
How is RARA's Food Pantry supplied?
RARA purchases food from the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank in Verona, VA and from local retailers. This is supplemented by donations of food from area churches, schools, civic organizations, individuals, and businesses.
How are RARA services funded?
RARA is supported by the United Way of Lexington/Rockbridge County, Buena Vista United Fund, area chruches, civic organizations, schools, and individual donors.
Contributions include money and food primarily, but may include other items whn a specific need arises.
Who staffs RARA?
RARA has two part-time employees, a Director and a Secretary-Treasurer. Volunteers provide all other services which total more than 4800 hours annually.