The $1.9 billion Apple Federal Credit Union has kicked off its annual back-to-school supply drive for needy children in Northern Virginia. The 158,900-member credit union is accepting backpacks, pens, notebooks, even cash donations, at its branches around Fairfax County.

The Fairfax-based credit union will match donations up to $5,000 until Aug. 15 and has joined with Fairfax County Public Schools, the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department and more than a dozen non-profit organizations in the effort. Apple is participating in similar efforts in Loudoun, Prince William, Winchester and Stafford counties.

“Unfortunately, need has become routine,” said Sophia Echaide-Viafara, a guidance counselor in Fairfax County.  “Fairfax is known as a wealthy county but people don't realize that there is poverty here.” 

Below, from left, Capt. Willie Bailey of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, Apple FCU Kingstowne Branch Manager Doris Ibanez, Apple FCU Vice President of Marketing Cynthia McAree and Robert Sowell, the credit union's vice president of community relations with some of the first donations to the cause.