Pennino Building to remain closed for months

The Pennino Building, which houses many of Fairfax County’s human services agencies and was damaged by flooding in February, won’t reopen until this summer, at the earliest.

Significant progress has been made to repair various issues, including damage to the elevators, carpet, drywall, electrical components, and technology, the county announced on March 31. “But additional time is needed before it is safe for the building to be reoccupied.” An equipment failure caused the flooding.

The Pennino Building, located in Fairfax close to the Fairfax County Government Center, houses the Department of Family Services, Community Services Board, and Area Agency on Aging, among other offices.

Visit this webpage to learn how to access services online or visit agencies’ satellite offices.

Family services and employment assistance are available at the Heritage Center, West Wing, 7611 Little River Turnpike, Annandale, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.

Documents for the Department of Family Services can be dropped off any time at a secure drop box location, including the one at the Heritage Center.

Some services offered by the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services are available at the Herrity Building (12055 Government Center Parkway), next to the Pennino Building.

These services include registration and payments for Child Care Assistance and Referral, Community Education and Provider Services, Head Start, SACC, Beyond the Bell, and Camp Fairfax.

Residents are strongly encouraged to avoid visiting the Pennino Building. For those who arrive and need assistance, the county’s CareVan is stationed on the premises to provide limited services.