Update: Community Answers Call for Help

Sunday afternoon, a group of elderly residents at were frustrated after nearly two days with no power or air conditioning and little food and water.

At 4:30, asking the community for help. By 6 p.m. there were three tables overflowing with food - and more on the way.

The community turned out quickly, bringing cases of water, cooked chickens, loaves of bread, pizzas, cut watermelons, cookies, juices and more to the Fellowship House residents.

The power has been out at Fellowship House since 10:40 p.m. on Friday,

Jana Broughton is executive director of Fellowship Square, which operates the independent living facilities for low-income seniors - many of whom are also disabled - at Lake Anne and Hunters Woods in Reston.

She says emergency checks were put in place shortly after the storm and all residents were accounted for. The facility routinely goes over emergency prep with residents, such as advising them to always keep three days of nonperishables on hand and a list of medications nearby.

About 100 of the 150 residents, especially those with medical needs, left with family members on Saturday, Broughton said. Adding to the confusion: the phone system is down and Fairfax County's 911 system was out of service for part of the day Saturday.

"I think that is one of the things that scared people the most," said Broughton.

Broughton says she is also seeking assistance from the American Red Cross and the county.

Lake Anne residents are welcome to cool off at Hunters Woods Fellowship House. Broughton said she is trying to arrange cots and bedding so Lake Anne residents could stay there in a common room if they desire. She is also hoping to have van transportation between the two by tomorrow.

Broughton says she is pleased with the community support of food and water Sunday. If the community wants to offer additional help, here is what they will need:

* Residents would love hot coffee and breakfast Monday morning.

* Want to deliver more food? Bring non-perishable protein snacks such as nuts, string cheese and fruit. Foods lower in salt are best. Meals will also be welcome. People can contact Broughton if they want to coordinate. She can be reached at 703-895-2638 or at jbroughton@fellowshipsquare.org. 

* Residents can use rides to Hunters Woods Fellowship House or other cooling centers, as well as rides should they need to refill medication. If you can drive, please stop by Lake Anne Fellowship House at 11405 North Shore Dr. Broughton and additional staffers will be on site on Monday.

* Flashlights and batteries would be useful.

* The Fellowship House will still have needs when the power returns. Residents could use help clearning spoiled food out of refrigerators and transporting the garbage to dumpsters. This will likely have to wait until the power returns in case residents want to file a claim with their renter's insurance. Contact Broughton if you would like to help.

Note: The is also out of power and can use water and ice donations. food pantry will also be assisting Fellowship House and can always use donations of non-perishables.