At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe no student should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from. That’s why we partnered with ABC 7 News for our Helping Hands initiative to spotlight Food For Neighbors, a nonprofit making a big impact in Northern Virginia.

Food insecurity affects nearly one in four middle and high school students in the region. To combat this, Food For Neighbors created the Red Bag Program, which invites community members to fill red bags with student-friendly food. These bags are collected five times a year, sorted, and then distributed directly to schools. This system empowers teachers, counselors, and social workers to ensure food reaches students who need it most.

What started nine years ago with just two schools and 100 kids has grown into a lifeline feeding more than 10,000 students across Northern Virginia. But with many schools still waiting to join the program, the need continues to grow.

During our visit, 7News’ Kellye Lynn surprised Executive Director Karen Joseph with an $1,100 donation from Easterns Automotive Group to help sustain and expand their mission.

We are proud to support Food For Neighbors and the incredible work they’re doing to fight hunger, one red bag at a time.

If you’d like to donate, volunteer, or learn more, you can visit Food For Neighbors online.

At Easterns, community is at the heart of everything we do — because it’s more than cars, it’s about caring.

At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe every student deserves the tools they need to succeed. That’s why we partnered with 7News for another edition of our Helping Hands initiative — this time surprising a group of hard-working students in Prince George’s County with brand-new laptops to start the school year.

7News meteorologist Jordan Evans joined us at Andrew Jackson Academy in District Heights, Maryland, where students from kindergarten through eighth grade gathered for the big reveal. Before the surprise, Principal Warren Tweety shared his excitement for what lies ahead:

“We’re looking forward to the greatness that’s going to happen this year, and with these babies here, it is going to happen with our big surprise,” said Principal Tweety.

The recipients were chosen because they earned a spot on the Principal’s Honor Roll, each maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA. Their dedication to learning made them the perfect candidates for this special moment.

When the laptops were unveiled live on 7News, the students’ faces lit up with excitement. Both the children and the school community expressed their gratitude, knowing these devices will open new doors for learning, creativity, and achievement throughout the year.

At Easterns, supporting education is at the heart of our mission. We’re proud to help invest in the next generation of leaders right here in our community.

At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe in uplifting those who dedicate their lives to strengthening our communities. On this Pay It Forward with Fox 5 DC, we were honored to highlight ScholarCHIPS, a nonprofit founded by Yasmine Arrington Brooks.

Yasmine’s vision was born from her own life experience. Growing up with an incarcerated parent, she realized there were few resources specifically designed to support children like her. In 2010, while still a junior in high school, Yasmine launched ScholarCHIPS to provide scholarships, mentorship, and a strong sense of community for students with incarcerated parents.

What began as a simple idea has grown into a powerful support system. ScholarCHIPS not only helps students pursue higher education, but also creates a family-like environment where young people can connect with others who share their struggles. One recipient described how the program changed her life — from receiving scholarships and care baskets to mentorship that continues even after graduation. She’s now preparing to start her master’s program, proof of the long-term impact ScholarCHIPS has.

With exciting initiatives ahead, ScholarCHIPS continues to expand its reach and strengthen its advocacy. To support their mission and recognize their impact, Easterns surprised them with a $2,200 donation.

We are proud to stand with Yasmine and ScholarCHIPS as they open doors of opportunity and hope for the next generation.