THRIVE Peninsula Expands Services to Meet Rising Needs Across Newport News
Faith-based nonprofit ramps up food access, financial coaching, and bilingual programs as economic pressures mount
NEWPORT NEWS — As inflation and cuts to public assistance tighten budgets for families across the Peninsula, THRIVE Peninsula, a long-standing faith-based nonprofit, is stepping up its outreach and support programs to meet growing demand. Partnering with local churches, community groups, and donors, the charity provides emergency food, financial aid, financial education, and other services to individuals and families in crisis.
Measurable impact on community
According to information on the charity’s website, in the first six months of 2025, THRIVE provided $242,840 in direct financial assistance, conducted 243 financial coaching sessions, and supported more than 18,000 people across its programs. Its volunteer-driven model logged over 13,000 hours of service, underscoring the scale of community involvement behind its work.
Executive Director Angela York stated in a recent email newsletter that the economic challenges facing families are acute. “In Virginia, a family of four needs nearly $99,000 a year just to cover the basics, yet many of our neighbors earn far less,” York noted. “We’re seeing more people reach out as safety nets shrink.”
To expand access, THRIVE has introduced Saturday Market hours, installed refrigerated “THRIVE To-Go” food lockers for after-hours pickup, and opened a satellite pantry at SafeHaven Empowerment Center in Denbigh. The group also launched its Prosperar program to provide culturally relevant support in Spanish and recently built a new storage facility to keep essential supplies on hand.
In addition to basic needs, THRIVE offers initiatives aimed at long-term stability. Its “Level Up Spring Challenge” encouraged participants to grow savings or reduce debt, with some achieving more than $1,100 in positive financial change over the program’s span.
The organization’s efforts have earned notable recognition, including the Peninsula Humanitarian Award from the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities and a Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator, the nonprofit evaluator’s highest score.
Looking ahead, THRIVE plans to strengthen workforce partnerships, expand bilingual outreach, and prepare for its annual “Let Christmas THRIVE” program to support families during the holiday season. York said strategic planning will be a priority as the group considers how best to serve amid changing economic conditions.
THRIVE Peninsula celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
THRIVE Peninsula will host a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration on Monday, Sept. 16, from 5 to 7 p.m. at 12749 Nettles Drive, Newport News. The event highlights Prosperar, THRIVE’s Hispanic Resources program, which provides Spanish-language access to its food market, financial assistance, coaching, and community resources. Serving more than 40 families weekly, Prosperar is among the few local programs offering full support in Spanish. Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, THRIVE’s Market will feature a special section stocked with culturally inspired pantry staples and fresh foods that honor the traditions of the Peninsula’s Hispanic community.
What you can do to help
THRIVE Peninsula relies on community support to keep its shelves stocked and its services running. Individuals, businesses, and organizations can contribute in several ways:
Donate food — Most-needed items include jelly, spaghetti, boxed potato sides, canned peas, collards or carrots, pudding or other baking mixes, and farm-fresh eggs or produce. Frozen meats, dairy, and other cold-storage items are also accepted.
Host a food drive — Churches, workplaces, and community groups can organize collection events to support THRIVE’s free grocery store.
Shop online — Purchase from THRIVE’s Amazon Wish List and have items shipped directly to them.
Give financially — Monetary donations help restock shelves, maintain extended hours, and sustain long-term programs.
Donations can be dropped off at THRIVE’s Newport News site during open hours (Monday – Thursday: 10:00am – 5:00pm, Fridays 10:00am – 2:00pm, with staff available to assist curbside.)
A Newport News contributor used AI tools and these sources:
THRIVE Peninsula - August Newsletter (subscribe here)
Recent reporting by Newport News Daily:
