Collective Action Works

February 11, 2026

We often get questions about how people can help support the work of Homeward and homeless service providers in the Richmond region. One way we to help is talking to your elected representatives about the important work taking place and the need to fund proven, successful programs.

Collective action may seem like a small step, but it truly works! Lifting more and more voices to support our most vulnerable neighbors makes a difference. The final spending bill for Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (T-HUD) programs – which passed Congress and was signed this week by the president – proves that. The final T-HUD bill provides over $77 billion for HUD programs and represents a $7.2 billion increase over the previous fiscal year. The National Alliance to End Homelessness has a great summary of the approved funding and what it means.


Importantly, this bill included provisions to protect CoC Program funding, which was under real and direct threat. We raised an alarm about this threat in October and encouraged people to contact their representatives and senators. Those calls and emails had an impact.


This outcome is a great reminder that collective action works. When we unite, we can make a difference!

Data with Purpose: Celebrating Margot Ackermann’s Retirement from Homeward

By Elizabeth Handwerk • January 30, 2026
After nearly two decades of dedicated service and impact on efforts to solve homelessness in the Richmond region, Margot Ackermann, Ph.D. is retiring from her role as Director of Research and Evaluation at Homeward . While we will deeply miss her leadership, compassion, and institutional knowledge, we also celebrate the legacy she leaves behind: one that has strengthened our community, shaped data-driven practice, and inspired countless colleagues and partners.

Our Work Matters: Collaboration and Coordination with Street Outreach Partners during Harsh Winter Weather

January 28, 2026
There is incredible compassionate collaboration that happens with trained street outreach professionals and Homeward - the dedicated planning agency for the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC) – each and every day, but especially on days with extreme weather.

Preparing for This Weekend's Winter Storm

January 21, 2026
Most of us have seen the weather reports for this weekend’s winter storm. Any accumulation, let alone what’s forecasted, is disruptive for everyone, especially our neighbors facing homelessness.

5 Questions About The Point in Time Count

January 14, 2026
Later this month, Homeward will organize the Winter 2026 Point in Time (PIT) count for our region. The PIT count takes place annually and has been managed by Homeward since 1999.

Staff Spotlight: Camille Johnson

By Elizabeth Handwerk • January 6, 2026
“There are so many people who are one check or one job loss away from homelessness. We all need to be kind to each other.”

Before the Babies Arrive: A Holiday Story of Collaboration

By Jen Johnson • December 23, 2025
This holiday week, our community of partners proved once again that we do better work together.

Farewell and Thank You, Melanie McDonald

By Elizabeth Handwerk • December 19, 2025
After more than 20 incredible years with Homeward, Melanie McDonald embarks on a well-earned retirement.

Addressing Homelessness Together, as a Region

November 24, 2025
As the Richmond region continues to become a more expensive place to call home, we see elevated rates of poverty, housing instability, and homelessness.

Winter Planning to Serve Our Most Vulnerable Neighbors

November 18, 2025
The Richmond region got its first blast of winter recently. As the winter season approaches, we all brace for cold days and colder nights. Winter is always an especially difficult time for our neighbors pushed into homelessness. Homeward staff have been working diligently with Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC) partners to prepare for the additional challenges that come with cold weather.

Providing Shelter and Nourishing Our Neighbors in Need

November 17, 2025
As we recognize Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week from November 16th – 22nd, we’re reminded of the important role that emergency shelters play in our region’s coordinated and collaborative response to homelessness. In fact, many people are often surprised to learn how many emergency shelters operate throughout our region and the number of meals they provide.