Blue Ridge Area Food Bank Honors Valencia Bailey for International Women's Day

Happy International Women's Day! The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank celebrates the incredible women across our staff, volunteer team, and partner network who work tirelessly to fight hunger in their communities. Thank you for all that you do!

Today, we're honored to introduce you to one of these incredible women, Valencia Bailey. Valencia is the fearless leader behind Good Samaritan Food Pantry and Clothing Closet--a Food Bank partner that serves guests in Orange, Virginia.

"I kind of grew up with always giving. I never thought in my life that we'd be at this magnitude, but we're here, and this is my baby," Valencia shared. "I love it. This is my heart."

Valencia and her husband Tommie founded Good Samaritan Inc. in 2014, driven by a rising need in their community and inspired by a legacy of generosity passed down through generations. When you visit the pantry, you can't help but feel like family. The love is palpable from the food and clothing you receive to the kindness shown by each volunteer who works there. Valencia stressed that no one leaves without their needs met or a connection to other helpful resources.

“We are a pool of resources for everyone. If you come in the door with a need, I promise you, I can give you a phone number, make a call, help you.”

In addition to their pantry, Good Samaritan works with those experiencing homelessness, they partner with reentry programs, and they collaborate with social services to support their community. Their vision for the future includes a women and children's shelter with mental health programs, a free clinic, and budgeting classes.

“I think it’s very important that the community wrap around their citizens and help everyone grow to be successful. The thing is, it doesn’t take a lot to help someone else.”