Current Homeless Services Programs Are Making a Difference

February 18, 2026

As housing instability and the cost of living continue to rise nationally, and especially in the Richmond region, we’ve seen increased pressure on homeless services. These larger economic forces push more people to the brink of homelessness and add further strain to our current support network for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

Although this environment is concerning, new data highlights that homeless services programs – those that focus on finding a permanent home and building support systems – are effective and help reduce homelessness.


A recent New York Times story summarizes the data: “A large sample of the counts, taken in January 2025 and compiled by The New York Times, suggests the homeless population shrank by tens of thousands of people nationwide from the record level set the previous year, though the number remained high by historical norms.”


In our area, we saw a slight decline in the number of people experiencing homelessness in January 2025 compared to January 2024.


These data points are a snapshot of homelessness in the nation and our region. The Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC) – our region’s coordinated and compassionate network of local homeless service providers – engages in year-round collaboration and service coordination across the public, nonprofit, and private sector. GRCoC partners also work together to identify creative solutions to meet individuals and families where they are to meet their needs.


Even though this new evidence demonstrates that current programs are making a difference, it’s important to note that housing instability in our region – which isn’t tracked in a formal way – continues to increase based on analysis of housing costs. The most recent GRCoC Annual Report clearly details the swift rise in housing costs combined with the decline in available homes.


In addition to these new data points, we know what solutions are most effective for our region because we consistently ask people experiencing homelessness about their needs and work with frontline experts that have extensive experience getting people into safe, stable, and permanent homes.


You can help too! Here are five ways you can support our most vulnerable neighbors:

· Consider donating or volunteering with local nonprofits that are funded by the GRCoC or are partners on the Homeless Connection Line

· Donate to Homeward

· Attend a training on our region’s coordinated response to homelessness

· Share our region’s Coordinated Resources for Homelessness and Housing Assistance guide

· If you or someone you know needs help but isn’t yet homeless, contact Help 1 RVA, Senior Navigator, a local Department of Social Services office (Richmond DSS, Henrico DSS, Chesterfield DSS), NAMI Central Virginia, or Virginia 211

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.

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

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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

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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

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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.