Amazon has announced a $1 million commitment to the Right Now Needs Fund in Northern Virginia.

Launched with a $1 million commitment in October 2020 in partnership with Communities In Schools NOVA, the fund aims to remove barriers to learning for children from underserved communities who are attending public schools in Arlington, Alexandria City, and Fairfax County. To that end, the fund provides prepaid Amazon Vouchers, or Amazon Education Assistance Product Vouchers, that students can redeem online at their convenience for immediate needs such as clothing, hygiene products, and school supplies. The fund also will be leveraged to provide educational community programs and events, including tech literacy workshops, college advisement, and career panels.

Since announcing the selection of Arlington, Virginia, as the site of its second headquarters, the online retailer has invested in several programs in the Washington, D.C., metro region. To launch the yearlong investment, Amazon will donate new backpacks filled with essential school supplies to qualifying elementary and middle schools in northern Virginia.

"We know a strong foundation in education is essential to a child’s success and are proud to partner with Communities In Schools NOVA," said Amazon vice president of public policy Brian Huseman. "However, Amazon's contributions are just a small piece of the puzzle. The U.S. needs a comprehensive effort aimed at expanding access to resources and opportunities for students from underserved and historically underrepresented communities. In addition to partnering with organizations like Communities in Schools NOVA, we are also actively supporting policies at the federal and state level to address education as a top priority when it comes to the success of students and their families."

(Photo credit: Amazon/Tony Powell)