Chesapeake Thrives

11/21/2025

November is Diabetes Awareness Month

Diabetes affects millions of individuals and families, but with education, support, and early action, we can work together toward healthier outcomes. This month, we encourage our community to learn the signs, understand the risks, and explore tools that empower long-term wellness.

Diabetes Education & Support:
Chesapeake Regional offers helpful programs and classes for managing and preventing diabetes:
https://chesapeakeregional.com/diabetes-education

Community Wellness Resources:
Healthy Chesapeake provides local support focused on nutrition, wellness, and chronic disease prevention:
https://healthychesapeake.org/focus-areas/hub

Let’s stay informed, support one another, and prioritize our health—today and every day.

11/20/2025

We’re proud to highlight the incredible work of the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia & the Eastern Shore! Each year, they help ensure our neighbors have access to nutritious meals through mobile food distributions, local farm partnerships, and ongoing community support.

Thank you for your dedication to fighting hunger and strengthening families across our region.

Learn more or get connected today!
https://foodbankonline.org/resources/find-a-food-pantry/

11/19/2025

Happening Tomorrow!
If you or someone you know could use a little extra support, RESET Inc. is hosting their weekly food distribution from 3–6pm, and preregistered families can also pick up diapers during this time.
Please share to help spread the word!

11/13/2025

Updated information as of November 12th.

UPDATE (Nov. 12): Virginia SNAP Benefit
Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced that, following new federal guidance, 65% of regular monthly SNAP benefits for more than 850,000 Virginians is anticipated to be distributed by Thursday, November 13.

With the federal government's reinstatement of SNAP benefits for November, Virginia will pause the issuance of Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance (VENA).

The Chesapeake Department of Human Services will provide updated information as it becomes available and remains committed to supporting all citizens during this challenging period.

IMPORTANT NOTICE (Oct. 29): Governor Glenn Youngkin has declared a State of Emergency to address the anticipated lapse in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits starting November 1, 2025, due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. The state will fund benefits through their Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance efforts (VENA).

What you need to know:

VENA benefits will be issued via the existing electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card that SNAP recipients currently hold.
Supplemental funds will go directly to EBT cards beginning next week.
VENA benefits will be issued weekly, not monthly, in hopes the federal shutdown will end soon. For example: If a household normally receives $200 for a monthly benefit, a $50 benefit will be issued on a weekly basis.
The Governor has stated the effort should continue at least through November unless the shutdown ends during the month.

For more information regarding Governor Glenn Youngkin's Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance (VENA) Effort, visit www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/news-releases/2025/october/name-1066593-en.html. The Chesapeake Department of Human Services will provide updated information as it becomes available and remains committed to supporting all citizens during this challenging period.

11/12/2025

We want to hear from you! Your feedback helps shape programs and support for our residents - every voice matters.
Take the survey today and help us build a healthier Chesapeake!
Link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KM6Y5T3

We need your help! Please take this Chesapeake Opioid Needs Assessment Survey and share your input about opioid use in our community. This survey will help our team understand how opioids are being used, the consequences of misuse, and the impact on vulnerable populations. Your answers will remain anonymous. Thank you!
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KM6Y5T3

11/12/2025

SNAP/EBT shoppers can enjoy extra savings on fresh fruits and vegetables at farmers markets and participating retailers.
No sign-up needed — simply bring your SNAP card and start saving!
Visit VirginiaFreshMatch.org to find a location near you.

11/12/2025

We’re proud to spotlight the Chesapeake Cares Resource Center, a key partner supporting our unhoused neighbors with essential daily needs and pathways to stability. Their continued collaboration strengthens our community and extends care where it’s needed most.

11/10/2025

All City offices, courts, community centers, Chesapeake Public Library locations, and Chesapeake Animal Services will be closed on Tuesday, November 11, for Veterans Day. The Chesapeake Visitor Center will be open from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. There will be no changes to trash collection schedules. There will be no regular City Council meeting on Veterans Day. The next City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 18, at 6:30 p.m.

The Chesapeake Mayor’s Commission on Veterans Affairs will hold a Veterans Day Ceremony on Tuesday, November 11. The ceremony will take place at 11:00 a.m., at the Chesapeake Veterans Memorial in front of City Hall (306 Cedar Road).

11/10/2025

On this episode of the Chesapeake Thrives Show, we’re highlighting Community Grants, a partnership between Chesapeake Human Services and the Planning Department that supports programs helping our community thrive.
If you’re interested in learning about available grant opportunities and how to apply, join us for the Community Grants Open House on Tuesday, December 2 at the Portlock Galleries. Register Here: https://forms.office.com/g/pzzvKsK3N7
For more information on Community Grants visit Community Grants | Chesapeake, VA (cityofchesapeake.net)

11/10/2025

Did you know your organization may be eligible for grant funding to support programs in Chesapeake?
In Episode 49, host Chanacy Butler breaks down the Community Grants process and invites you to the Open House on December 2 to learn more.
Let’s continue working together to help our community thrive!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tkjd6wzYQd8

11/07/2025

Our community has free resources available!
Please share to help spread the word.
If you need help now, call 2-1-1