LINK was founded in 1990 in Newport News by leaders from the interfaith, civic and business community with a vision to break the cycle of poverty. LINK is a nonprofit volunteer organization which exists to help people help themselves through education, direct services, advocacy and outreach programs. To date, more than 100 organizations work collaboratively to provide unduplicated, coordinated services. In collaboration with many other organizations, LINK has undertaken efforts to focus on a wide range of synergistic programs and services: LINK Emergency Service Center (Intake Referrals and Food Pantry) CANLINK I and IV Permanent Supportive Housing Programs for Homeless Persons with Disabilities Veteran's Medical Respite Program Veteran's Emergency Shelter Program Adopt a Family/Share the Spirit Children’s Holiday Program Emergency Hurricane Shelter for the Homeless PORT Emergency Winter Shelter Program Professional and Casual Clothing Closet Household/Furniture/Car Distribution Center Free Notary Service LINK’s Mission Statement: LINK increases the organized capacity of the Greater Virginia Peninsula to address and to reduce the causes of poverty through collaborative partnerships, advocacy, and maximization of effective resources.