homeward

Homeward to Host Best Practices Conference for Homeless Service Agencies and Partners

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 04:00:34 GMT

Homeward – the planning agency for the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC), a network of homeless service providers that deliver coordinated and compassionate solutions to homelessness in the Richmond region – will host the 2026 Wells Fargo Best Practices Conference on Friday, May 1, 2026 at the DoubleTree Richmond-Midlothian hotel in Chesterfield County.

More than 200 attendees, including public and private partners, are expected to gather to learn together and recognize the collective impact of our region’s coordinated response to homelessness.

This year’s conference theme is Adaptive Collaboration, which highlights the innovative ways that homeless service providers align their efforts to maximize resources and serve more people.

As the demand for homeless services rises, our regional network of providers continues to deliver proven programs. Homeward data shows that GRCoC agencies served 5,538 individuals between July 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025.

“Homeward’s regional Best Practices Conference brings together homeless services professionals to share critical insights and learn from one another so that our coordinated and compassionate network can serve more people,” said Kelly King Horne, Chief Executive Officer with Homeward. “As we focus on adaptive collaboration, this event offers an opportunity to highlight the impressive work of homeless service providers. GRCoC agencies support thousands of our most vulnerable neighbors.”

The conference brings together homeless service providers, funders, community leaders, advocates, and others. Workshops will focus on sharing strategies to solve homelessness on a client, organization, and community level. Session topics range from collaborating with faith communities to serving veterans to sheltering the medically vulnerable to applying AI tools to homeless services.

A keynote luncheon panel will focus on shaping the future of homeless services in our region. The panel will feature Kristen Dahlman, Deputy Secretary of Commerce and Trade for the Commonwealth of Virginia; Brian Koziol, Executive Director of the Virginia Housing Alliance; and Reggie Gordon, President and CEO of the Richmond Memorial Health Foundation. 

Homeward’s 2026 Best Practices Conference is sponsored by Wells Fargo, Virginia Housing, Davenport, Virginia Credit Union, VCDC, and Humana.

Additional information about the Best Practices Conference is available online: https://www.homewardva.org/conference .

Staff Spotlight: Pam Kirby

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 08:00:24 GMT

"Homeward is there to bring all the different pieces of homeless services together. "

Q: How did you get into homeless services as a field of work?

A: Homeward is my first job in homeless services. Previously, I was an ESOL teacher, and before Homeward, I worked in operations at a local nonprofit that’s focused on solving the childcare crisis in our community. There is definitely an overlap between struggling to find adequate childcare and housing instability. At my previous job, we noticed that rising housing costs were one of the top barriers associated with affording childcare. A portion of the children that we helped to place in daycare were from families that were experiencing some form of homelessness, such as living in a hotel. It really brings to light that these issues are systemic and interconnected.

Q: What’s your job at Homeward and has it evolved since you first joined?

A: I was initially hired as Office and Events Support. I supported the community engagement manager with events logistics. I also assisted with The PIT count. It was the first time I directly interacted with people experiencing homelessness. It was intense but deeply meaningful. Then, we had some staff changes and retirements, and I took on more responsibilities related to grant management. I’ve been doing that work for about the past six months, and I am still learning! Each grant has different reporting requirements for how we allocate the funding we receive. It can be complex, but as a very detail-oriented person, it is work that I enjoy.

Q: What have you been working on recently?

A: Currently, I am working with our CFO to prepare next fiscal year’s budget and funding allocations. I am also supporting the team that’s working on planning the Best Practices Conference in May.

Q: Is there anything you wish more people knew or understood about homeless services as a field of work?

A: I wish more people understood that Homeward is there to bring all the different pieces of homeless services together. I don’t think people appreciate fully what that entails. It takes so much cooperation, nuance, and creative problem-solving to address homelessness, to bring services to people who need it, making sure efforts aren’t duplicated, to bring in new partners across different sectors, and to ensure that limited resources are being used efficiently to help the most people. We know there is more to be done, but what is already being done is remarkable.

Q: What motivates you?

A: I am proud to be a part of an organization that is helping to solve a crisis in our community. Knowing that I am able to use my skills to do work that is benefitting others is a great feeling.

Homeward Releases Data about Homelessness in the Richmond Region Based on the January 2026 Point in Time Count

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 12:30:13 GMT

Data from the January 2026 Point in Time (PIT) count show that homelessness in the Richmond region remained relatively steady. The January 2026 PIT count recorded 618 people experiencing homelessness, which is slightly lower than the January 2025 count that recorded 660 people experiencing homelessness.

Notably, our region’s network of year-round shelters increased capacity and served more people recorded by the PIT count than last year. The total number of individuals and families experiencing homelessness in the Richmond region staying in year-round shelters was 363 people in the January 2026 PIT count compared to 326 people in 2025. Our regional year-round shelter system, which includes 16 shelter programs operated by local nonprofits, increased the number of people served by 11 percent.

Seasonal shelters and warming centers that were operational during the PIT count – such as the Inclement Weather Shelter operated by The Salvation Army, the Surge Shelter operated by CARITAS, and others – served 255 people compared to 184 people during the January 2025 PIT count. Extreme winter weather, including extensive and dangerous ice, resulted in the opening of additional seasonal resources.

Shelter is one of many tools that our region uses to address homelessness. As year-round and seasonal shelters supported more people, the demand for homeless services continues to be significant. Homeward data shows that 5,538 individuals were served between July 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025 by agencies in the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC), our region’s collaborative and compassionate network of nonprofits and local governments, through programs such as rapid rehousing, permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, and other housing services.

“These results are a snapshot of homelessness and demonstrate the high level of need in our community and increasing pressure on community safety nets,” said Kelly King Horne, Chief Executive Officer with Homeward, which manages PIT counts as the planning agency for the GRCoC. “Our regional homeless services system has expanded capacity to help more people receive assistance during times of crisis. Year-round providers focus on helping our neighbors get on the pathway to a permanent home. The slight reduction in homelessness shows the effectiveness of proven programs to help people access resources, but the level of need continues rise rapidly as more and more people are pushed to the brink and into homelessness.”

Similar to recent PIT counts, the primary reason for homelessness as reported by participants via surveys was related to economic hardship. Financial challenges – including unemployment, eviction, and cost of housing – accounted for 47 percent of the primary reason for homelessness. Breakdown in family relationships was the second most common reason at 18 percent.

As a result of extreme weather and road conditions in late January, the PIT count was confined to indoor shelters as allowed in federal regulations. Temporary, seasonal shelters and warming sites, including designated hotels, were open and took part in the count.

Horne added: “It’s important to note that the PIT count is just one piece of the picture in our community and does not capture other regional residents who are unstably housed, forced to move frequently, or worried about maintaining a roof over their head.”

Ongoing coordination by the GRCoC is critical to supporting our most vulnerable neighbors. GRCoC members serve over 1,000 people each day in our region through housing and shelter programs. In 2025, GRCoC agencies served over 8,900 people experiencing homelessness or within three days of losing their housing. Without these critical services, the rate of homelessness would rise exponentially. For more information on the GRCoC and its impact, read the GRCoC Annual Report .

Additional information about the January 2026 PIT count, including multiple charts and other data visualization, is available on Homeward’s PIT webpage . This page is updated with the latest data from the count. For media inquiries or questions about the PIT count, please contact Kelly King Horne at kkhorne@homewardva.org.

Staff Spotlight: Kavita Tiwari

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:45:04 GMT

“It is rewarding and meaningful to know that accurate data directly impacts planning and service delivery for people experiencing homelessness.”

Q: How did you get into homeless services as a field of work?

A: What began as an unexpected opportunity turned into something I believe I was meant to be a part of. My background is actually in two completely different fields: Chemistry and IT! After moving to the US and raising two wonderful children, I was ready to dive back into working. I knew it would be difficult to find work with the gap in my resume, but a friend and former colleague encouraged me to pursue my current role at Homeward. I am so grateful that I got the opportunity to work here.

I was amazed to learn how much coordination, support, and structure exists to assist people experiencing homelessness. That discovery really stayed with me. Once I started working in my role, I realized how important data and systems are for the success of direct services.

Everything was new to me when I first started: the systems, the reports, the data collection processes. But I am a fast learner, and I really wanted to do my best. I gave it my all. My IT experience helped too. I just completed my six-year anniversary with Homeward! My first supervisor, Margot, took me under her wing and taught me everything I know.

Q: What’s your job at Homeward and has it evolved since you first joined?

A: My current role at Homeward is HMIS Reporting Coordinator. I work with data all day, every day. Data is essential because it tells the true story of homelessness in our community. My team works towards improving the quality and the accuracy of federal reports, system performance measures, and many other metrics. When I first started, I used to just create and send the reports assigned to me. Over time, I have gained a deeper understanding of the reports we work on and why they matter. Agency meetings with our partners have helped build relationships with them and I have a better understanding of their needs and the challenges they face, which helps our team better support their teams.

Q: What are some parts of your job that you enjoy?

A: I like the problem-solving and collaborative aspects of my work: data cleaning, identifying patterns, and working with providers to correct errors so that the information we submit truly and accurately shows what’s going on in our community. It is rewarding and meaningful to know that accurate data directly impacts planning and service delivery for people experiencing homelessness. Being able to help, troubleshooting issues, and serving as a consistent point of support makes the work feel collaborative and meaningful.

Q: What have you been working on recently?

A: Right now, I am working on a federal report called the Longitudinal Systems Analysis (LSA). It’s very important that we submit this report with accurate data, because it impacts everything we do, including program planning and funding allocations. To submit the LSA, I have to follow up with service providers, make sure the data they submit is accurate and notice if anything is missing. I am always working on reports! Right after I finish this one, we’ll be working on the System Performance Measures (SPM) and Point-in-time count (PIT), and then the Housing Inventory Count (HIC), and more local reports. I am booked with reporting work for the next couple of months at least.

Q: Is there anything you wish more people knew or understood about homeless services as a field of work?

A: I wish more people understood how much coordination, data, and behind the scenes work goes into homeless services. It is a combination of several things: direct services, data collection and analyses, compliance with federal requirements, and collaboration with several agencies. We also have to rely on accurate data to drive decisions. This work is challenging but deeply impactful. Every data point that is being corrected improves the process. Supporting the providers in submitting accurate data ensures that people experiencing homelessness receive better and effective support.

Q: What motivates you?

A: What motivates me is knowing that the work I do behind the scenes has a real impact on people’s lives. Even though I’m not providing direct services, I know that accurate data, strong provider relationships, and well-supported HMIS systems help programs operate more effectively and sustainably.

I’m also very motivated with my team, the HMIS team, is very dedicated and they inspire me every day. My colleagues Margot and Latosha consistently bring in a solutions-focused mindset. I have never heard Margot say, “This can’t be done,” without investigating a solution first. If there is data and a way to get the requested data, we will find the answer. Working with Margot over the years has taught me there is always a way forward. Latosha plays a critical role in addressing data corrections. The three of us make this happen. Working with teammates who are committed, resourceful, and supportive pushes me to do my best work and makes even complex challenges feel manageable.

Community Collaboration in Action

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 16:44:18 GMT

As the planning and coordinating agency of the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC), Homeward staff members work closely with local leaders and community members in participating jurisdictions across our region. Greater Richmond is a diverse area and our localities range from urban to suburban to rural. The needs of those communities differ as well.

Homeward staff work closely with GRCoC agencies and local government partners to collaborate in ways that support their specific needs and environments while also supporting their residents facing the trauma of homelessness.

That collaboration happens constantly. For example, Homeward staff participate in ongoing coordination calls in Chesterfield County to help individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness. In Henrico County, staff are part of the monthly human services strategy calls. In Richmond, staff participate in the city’s Human Services Expert Cabinet Meeting that occurs every other week. In the town of Ashland, staff participate in planning and coordination efforts. These calls provide opportunities for Homeward team members to share updates, resources, and more.

The continuing conversations and the connections that come from these meetings highlight the importance of ongoing collaboration to support the individuals and families experiencing homelessness in our region.

How do these collaborations begin? If often starts with a phone call or an email. In fact, Homeward has recently begun supporting Powhatan County to establish a more coordinated effort to address unsheltered homelessness in the rural county.

The community conversation began when a Department of Social Services outreach worker for Powhatan County reached out for help. Homeward staff facilitated deeper conversations about homeless services with key community stakeholders, including County Administration, Department of Social Services, emergency medical personnel, public safety (police and park rangers, in particular), and the Free Clinic of Powhatan.

Initial discussions focused on where homelessness occurs, who is impacted, pathways to homelessness, and challenges to addressing homelessness in the county. After this initial conversation, attendees then take part in Homeward’s Connections to Homeless Services training session. Everyone also has committed to participate in monthly calls that will help to improve coordination of homeless services in Powhatan.

Homeward’s role is central to ensure this collaboration occurs. Staff members help to align all stakeholders with each other and make sure they’re engaged with the GRCoC.

Homeward also provides resources and insights to facilitate services so they have the biggest impact possible.

Community engagement isn’t limited to local government officials or nonprofits. Anyone can get more involved in the GRCoC and how our region supports our most vulnerable neighbors.

Here are five tangible ways you can get involved:

· Attend an upcoming Connections to Homeless Services training session. These sessions are a great introduction to this work. They take place on the third Friday of every month from 10am – 11:30am. You can get more details and register online .

· Participate in the Housing Problem Solving in-person training session. The next session takes place on March 27th from 10am – 11:30am. You can register online to reserve your spot.

· Support local nonprofits that provide homeless services and are funded by the GRCoC or partners on the Homeless Connection Line.

· Share this Housing Resource Card with people in need.

· Know how to find accurate and reliable information about resources and services for those facing homelessness. Homeward’s website has a list of verified resources.

Current Homeless Services Programs Are Making a Difference

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 18:33:24 GMT

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 r ecent 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

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 18:02:34 GMT

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

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 13:00:02 GMT

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.

Since joining Homeward in 2007, Margot played a pivotal role in transforming how homelessness services are understood and delivered through information, analysis, and evaluation. Her work ensured that critical data was not only collected but used meaningfully to improve program performance and funding decisions across the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care and beyond.

Margot's influence extended far beyond spreadsheets and reports. She championed collaboration across sectors, bringing together criminal justice systems, healthcare partners, state agencies, and nonprofits to build a more coordinated and effective response to housing instability. Her unique blend of technical expertise and deep commitment to human dignity set a new standard in the field. Margot’s efforts helped over 300 providers serve over 8,000 individuals and families each year by making complex data accessible, actionable, and rooted in real lives. In 2023, Margot was honored as the inaugural recipient of the Housing Leadership Award at the Virginia Governor’s Housing Conference. It was a testament to her contributions to housing stability and homelessness system improvement across the Commonwealth.

Colleagues describe Margot as someone who "combined meticulous analysis with a deeply human approach." She never forgot that behind every dataset are real people. Her leadership helped Homeward and partner agencies amplify the voices of those with lived experience, ensuring policies and programs reflect the realities of our neighbors experiencing homelessness.

As Margot transitions into retirement, we express our immense gratitude for her service. Her work has left an indelible mark on Homeward and the regional homelessness response system. Please join us in wishing her all the best in this next chapter!

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

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 17:32:38 GMT

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.

Our GRCoC outreach teams responded quickly and compassionately under the pressure of last week’s dangerous ice storm and ongoing frigid temperatures. They were able to connect with people on their caseloads and worked late into the night on Saturday connecting with people sleeping outdoors. In partnership with local shelters, local government partners, and community organizations, the outreach teams made sure everyone who wanted a warm, indoor place to go was connected to it.

Despite this incredible collaboration, we know that the need for homeless services continues to rise. We also know that not everyone wants to go inside during extreme weather. Those who didn’t want to go to shelter were given hand warmers and cold weather care kits. They were checked up on throughout the duration of the storm. Outreach workers worked tirelessly to support the individuals they serve.

“There were a lot of amazing moments of collaboration,” said Vicki Wise, Homeward’s Strategic Community Engagement Manager. “One gentleman didn’t want to go to shelter because he didn’t want to leave his cats. We were able to coordinate with the local community policing officers, and they were able to do welfare checks on him throughout the bad weather, and let the outreach teams know how he was doing.”

Another amazing story is that, on the night of the storm, one of our regional healthcare partners reported that significantly fewer people than usual were using the healthcare facility as a shelter from the elements. Having additional capacity in the community allowed the healthcare partners to focus on meeting health needs during the start of the extreme cold weather. Collaboration among outreach teams was integral to that outcome.

Trained outreach workers have been connecting individually with people who choose (for a variety of reasons) to turn down shelter even during extreme weather. While respecting personal choice, our region’s outreach teams continue to engage people and offer assistance. They know people by name and take the time to build relationships when possible.

“This weather event has been hard,” Wise continued, “but I’ve been in multiple calls across our continuum of care and it has been so heartwarming, and so inspiring, to see how smoothly our system worked together to support our neighbors. Our work matters. And outreach is really key to our response in extreme weather events. They’re the boots on the ground, facilitating connections, meeting people where they’re at, and being that link across systems of care.”

How you can help.

We understand and appreciate that many people want to find tangible ways to help our neighbors pushed into homelessness. Here are two easy ways to help:

1. Connect to a local supply drive. Two current needs are water bottles and Uber gift cards.

2. Support one of the nonprofits doing this work. Here’s a list of local nonprofits that provide homeless services and are active members of our regional network.

Finally, please join us in expressing thanks and gratitude for the incredible work our outreach teams did this last week, and continue to do each and every day. Feel free to email messages to info@homewardva.org to be shared at the next collaborative meeting of the community street outreach teams or drop a note c/o Homeward at 9211 Forest Hill Avenue, Suite 110, Richmond, VA 23235.

Preparing for This Weekend's Winter Storm

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:35:42 GMT

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.

That’s why Homeward’s team has been working with homeless service providers in our region to coordinate efforts and help the most people.

Our collaborative and compassionate system of homeless service providers works daily to serve as many people as possible and that urgency becomes even more acute as extreme weather approaches.

What Homeward is Doing

Homeward’s team is working with our partners in the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care – our region’s network of local homeless service providers – and other community partners to coordinate preparation in advance of the winter weather and a response for after the storm. Among our efforts:

· Communicating with network providers, especially street outreach teams, to identify what’s needed

· Using existing interagency meetings to quickly collaborate and coordinate among service providers and partners

· Ensure that emergency shelters are doing as many program intakes in advance of the storm as space and staffing allow

· Soliciting and collecting donations for those experiencing homelessness

How You Can Help

We appreciate the calls and emails from individuals, churches, and other groups asking what they can do. We invite members of the Greater Richmond community to join us as we prepare for this extreme winter weather. You can help with the following:

· Purchase items from this Amazon Wish List to provide supplies for those experiencing homelessness. Homeward will collect and distribute these supplies to our outreach and shelter partners.

· Donate items to Homeward, including gift cards for food and gas stations.

· Donate to homeless service agencies in our region .

· 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 .

We know that the need for homeless services and housing support far outpaces the capacity and resources in our region. Intentional and consistent coordination helps us have a bigger impact as a region. Working together, we can support our neighbors experiencing homelessness during this dangerous and extreme weather.

5 Questions About The Point in Time Count

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 20:13:41 GMT

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.

PIT counts are a requirement from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that communities conduct periodic counts of people experiencing homelessness as defined by federal regulations. This data is compiled both locally and nationally to inform programs, planning, and funding.

We often get questions about the role and impact of the PIT count, and since we’re preparing for the upcoming count we thought it’s a great time to answer the five most common questions we receive about PIT counts.

What is the Point in Time count?

The Point in Time count is a single-day count that provides a snapshot of changes and trends over time related to individuals and families experiencing homelessness in our region. PIT data are based on the actual numbers of people counted by experienced and trained volunteers. Those volunteers will travel across the region to literally count people experiencing homelessness – both in emergency shelter and living or staying outdoors. Volunteers also will complete surveys with individuals experiencing homelessness to get a better and direct understanding of their situation and needs.

Why does our region conduct this count?

Findings from PIT counts help our region’s coordinated network of homeless services learn about needs in the community from those individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness. By talking directly to people experiencing homelessness in our region, homeless services providers can lead more effective and impactful community change. Participating in the count helps our community be eligible for federal and state funding on homelessness although increases in funding come from legislative efforts to increase the amount of appropriations.

How is the count organized?

Homeward staff have coordinated and managed our region’s PIT counts for over 25 years. There is a lot of planning behind the scenes in order for the counts to provide high quality data. Homeward staff begin planning for a count more than a month in advance. For example, the team recruits and trains volunteers. Homeward also tailors the process for the count to each specific locality in our region to ensure the data collection is as thorough as possible.

How can I help?

We always appreciate this question and people’s interest in helping. Thank you! For the PIT count, the Homeward team relies on experienced and trained volunteers. Although opportunities for participating in the count itself is limited, there are other ways to offer support. For example, consider making winter care kits, which are often distributed during the count. Other ways to help include attending a training on our coordinated response to homelessness, sharing our region’s Coordinated Resources for Homelessness and Housing Assistance , and connecting with one of the agencies participating in the Count.

What can we learn from the PIT count results?

PIT counts offer a single-day snapshot of homelessness in our region. What’s particularly helpful is to analyze this data over time so we have a better understanding of the broad themes and trends related to homelessness. The PIT counts don’t capture everyone in crisis but can offer insights on what people need and where gaps exist. By talking directly with individuals experiencing homelessness, we have a better understanding of the causes of homelessness and what support really works. It’s also worth noting that the PIT count is just one piece of year-round planning, education, and service coordination among homeless service providers, local government, first responders, community support organizations, and others in our region. This work is 24/7/365 and the PIT count is a part of that continuous effort.

The Homeward team that’s responsible for the PIT count appreciates everyone’s interest and support in this initiative. It’s an important part of our collective work to identify the best ways to move our neighbors from homelessness to permanent homes.

If you want to get more involved in helping our most vulnerable neighbors experiencing homelessness, we encourage you to consider supporting Homeward or one of our partner agencies in the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care, our region’s network of local, mission-driven nonprofits serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

Staff Spotlight: Camille Johnson

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 15:08:27 GMT

“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.”

Q: How did you get into homeless services as a field of work?

A: I always knew I wanted to work with underserved populations, and I was drawn to outreach work. In college, I majored in sociology, and I volunteered with Hanover Safe Place where I got to work with domestic violence survivors. I was talking with people who were in crisis, and I saw how it connected to so many other social issues, like homelessness. Those experiences cemented for me that I wanted to pursue outreach work as a career.

Q: What’s your job at Homeward and has it evolved since you first joined?

A: I started at Homeward in May of 2024 as a Lived Experience Coordinator. I was focused on connecting people with lived experience of homelessness to homeless services work. Their insight and perspectives can be invaluable when we are looking at understanding client needs. My colleague Choice East has since taken over that work, and he is really well suited to it since he brings his own perspective of having lived experience of homelessness.

My current role is CoC Referral Coordinator. I coordinate shelter referrals for single men, single women, and families. I help them get into emergency shelter. I work with rapid re-housing providers to get clients connected to them. I also run a case conferencing group to connect our more vulnerable clients to shelter.

Q: What are some parts of your job that you enjoy?

A: I enjoy talking to clients. I am often talking to people who are going through really difficult situations. Sometimes the thing they need the most is someone to lend an ear and be a supportive voice, and I can be that person for them. My favorite part of my job is when I can give someone good news: that they’ve been connected to a shelter program or the right supportive service for their needs. Sometimes people break down in tears of relief or they’re really happy. I love that I was able to help them take a next step towards solving their crisis. I also love my team. Jen and Choice are so supportive and they’ve taught me a lot!

Q: What have you been working on recently?

A: Right now, I’m working with Choice on a project that helps people experiencing domestic violence get connected to housing intervention and shelter services. We have weekly case conferencing where we talk to these clients, try to get them somewhere safe and use the resources that we have.

Recently, I worked with the case managers at the Inclement Weather Shelter (IWS). We developed a system where we can refer people from the IWS to other forms to shelter. We created shelter match slips for more vulnerable clients who can’t be easily contacted by phone (possibly because they are sick, disabled, or don’t have easy access to a phone). So that evening when they are staying at the IWS, they get notified by the slip that they’ve been connected to a shelter program. It’s been very successful. A lot of clients who might have otherwise fallen through the cracks have been reached this way.

Both the emergency and IWS shelters have been at capacity, so it’s been a relief for the participants and the staff to be able to move more people to other solutions.

Q: Is there anything you wish more people knew or understood about homeless services as a field of work?

A: As a field of work, it takes a lot of empathy and compassion. These people are going through the worst crisis of their life, and it’s our job to try to get them back on track. It can be difficult work, but I get the chance to be a bright spot in their day, showing them that something good is coming, being a door or a window to move them forward on their journey. This work is tough, but seeing a client pull through is the best reward you can be given. There are so many people who are one check or one job loss away from homelessness. We all need to be kind to people!

Q: What motivates you?

A: Getting into shelter can be such a big breakthrough for people, and that’s my motivation to keep calling clients. I think, “Maybe this connection I am able to give them will be the things that changes their life.”

My team, Jen and Choice, also keeps me motivated. When rough stuff is happening or we’re working through a lot of problems, they are both always available to teach me what they know. They always stay positive. We have monthly coffee meetings where talk through what challenges we’re facing at work and how we can support each other as a team.

Homeward has been such a great experience for me. Every single person on the Homeward team is personable and professional. You feel like everyone has your back. I have felt so supported as I have taken on new roles and challenges.

Camille Johnson is Homeward's CoC Support Coordinator.

Before the Babies Arrive: A Holiday Story of Collaboration

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 18:53:31 GMT

This holiday week, our community of partners proved once again that we do better work together.

One of the core components of our coordinated efforts at Homeward is “ case conferencing .” During case conferencing, Homeward staff work with providers from across the community to address the needs of households experiencing homelessness and collaborate to meet their housing and service needs.

During this week’s Family Case Conferencing, we learned about a couple pregnant with twins and scheduled for induction after the holidays. In discussion, the partners identified an available shelter that could accommodate this growing family.

With partners working together, we were able to talk with the family, find transportation, and get them safely into shelter just in time for the holidays, and before their babies arrive.

Tonight, this family has a warm place to rest, supportive shelter staff, nourishing food, and the peace of mind to prepare for their next chapter together.

This is what collaboration looks like. We are deeply grateful for every partner and the generous community supporters who helped make this moment possible.

Farewell and Thank You, Melanie McDonald

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 19:19:27 GMT

After more than 20 incredible years with Homeward, Melanie McDonald embarks on a well-earned retirement.

Melanie joined Homeward in 2006 and has been a cornerstone of our organization ever since. In her role as Grants and Compliance Manager , Melanie worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure our operations ran smoothly and effectively. Her work managing public grants, optimizing the use of funds, and overseeing key administrative functions like risk management, payroll, contract support, and regulatory compliance was vital to Homeward’s success. It is work that allowed the rest of our team to serve hundreds of people experiencing homelessness with confidence and integrity.

Throughout her career with Homeward, Melanie helped guide the organization through periods of growth and change. When she first started, Homeward had a small team, and everyone “wore many hats.” Over the years, as Homeward expanded, Melanie’s deep commitment to excellence and stewardship helped strengthen our systems and paved the way for sustainable impact.

At her retirement celebration — affectionately themed “Time Flies!” in honor of her favorite pastime — team members reflected on what Melanie has meant to Homeward. Her steady presence, thoughtful leadership, and warm spirit have shaped not only the work we do but the culture we share. We’ll especially remember how her joy for birdwatching (binoculars often close at hand) became a symbol of the enthusiasm and positivity she brought to our work every day.

Melanie’s legacy is one of dedication, compassion, and care: qualities that have allowed Homeward to serve our region’s most vulnerable neighbors with dignity for decades. While we will miss her immensely, we are so grateful for her years of service and the many ways she has strengthened our mission to prevent, reduce, and end homelessness.

Please join us in wishing Melanie a joyful, restorative, and bird-filled retirement. Thank you, Melanie, for everything.

Addressing Homelessness Together, as a Region

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 05:00:43 GMT

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

There has been an increase in people experiencing homelessness in the Greater Richmond region since 2020. There are a few key factors that contribute to that rise: the cost of living has increased 40% since 2020 and the average rent price is up almost 24% in the past five years.

Meanwhile, we don’t have enough homes for everyone who lives in our region and we don’t have nearly enough homes that everyone can afford. What we’re seeing is an increase in costs, lack of housing, and rise in poverty that are all pushing more individuals and families into homelessness.

When we ask people experiencing homelessness the primary cause, 48% respond that it’s tied to economic factors, such as financial reasons or eviction. Another 22% say that a breakdown in family relationships is the primary cause.

Now, given this already challenging backdrop the federal government is planning devastating cuts to programs that help people experiencing homelessness get into safe, stable, and permanent homes. Those cuts will likely lead to a significant uptick in homelessness in our region. This recent 8 News story about the local impact provides helpful context to the current environment.

Fortunately, our region has an effective and proven network of homeless service providers known as the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC). The GRCoC includes 34 local, mission-driven agencies and local government partners.

In 2024 alone, GRCoC agencies and partners served over 8,900 people.

GRCoC agencies and partners operate a variety of programs, including emergency shelter, rapid re-housing, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing. Those agencies also help people with case management, housing navigation, developing a housing plan, and more. Get more details on this extensive work and impact in the latest edition of the GRCoC Annual Report.

Our region has hundreds of dedicated homeless service professionals who work daily to help individuals and families experiencing homelessness get on the path to a permanent home. They do that through coaching, helping people find safe and stable homes, connecting them to other resources, assisting with some financial support, and a lot more.

It’s important to note that these efforts are regional and collaborative. For more that 25 years, our region has worked together on strategies to address homelessness. Thanks to that collaboration, thousands and thousands of our neighbors have gone from the streets to a safe and stable home.

Homeless service providers maximize their limited resources so they can say yes to helping as many people as possible, but the reality remains that we can’t give someone what we don’t have. Plus, the need for help continues to grow rapidly.

We need to invest in expanding resources for people pushed into homelessness. When we expand resources, we can get more people off the street and into to a permanent home.

We know that working together as a region, we can address homelessness and help more individuals and families get on the pathway to a permanent home. It takes all of us!

Learn how you can give help and support local, mission-oriented members of the GRCoC.

Winter Planning to Serve Our Most Vulnerable Neighbors

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 15:52:34 GMT

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.

Our coordinated and compassionate system of homeless service providers works daily to serve as many people as possible. We know that the demand for homeless services far outpaces the capacity and resources in our region.

Intentional and strategic coordination helps us maximize impact. That’s why winter planning has been ongoing for more than two months. This blog post provides a summary of those planning efforts, what we may see this winter, and how we all can continue to support those pushed into homelessness.

Winter Outlook

There are a number of systemic factors that contribute to homelessness in our region, such as increased cost of living, high rent prices, not enough homes for everyone, economic uncertainty and job losses, and cuts to federal funding and programs. These factors have led to increasing rates of homelessness in our region.

We expect to see elevated rates of homelessness, including unsheltered homelessness, during the winter. Additionally, we anticipate increased housing instability, which will put more pressure on our homeless services system because those who are pushed towards homelessness (i.e., forced to double up or live in hotels) will feel less secure and reach out for assistance from homeless service providers.

If our region has extreme winter weather, the homeless services system will be under significant strain.

Winter Planning and Prep

GRCoC partners and Homeward staff have been working together to identify ways that we can serve more people, especially given this challenging context.

There have been a series of planning meetings focused on coordination between The Salvation Army, CARITAS, local government partners, and Homeward related to the Inclement Weather Shelter and new Surge Shelter. Discussions have centered on logistics, such as opening timelines, transportation, staffing, and communication strategies. This group has gathered three times and will continue meeting.

A second series of planning meetings has focused on how to support families seeking shelter during the winter. Discussions are tailored to the needs of families and focus on diversion options, case conferencing, and access to resources. This series of meetings has included local government partners, Commonwealth Catholic Charities, Daily Planet Health Services, Housing Families First, YMCA, and Homeward. These planning meetings take place alongside established weekly meetings among GRCoC partners.

Furthermore, with recent changes and reductions in federal funding for homeless services, Homeward and GRoC partners are collaborating at multiple levels to try to preserve funding for our region. For more information on these changes, watch this recent Channel 8 news story and review analysis from the National Alliance to End Homelessness.

How You Can Help

There are four tangible ways that we all can help individuals and families facing homelessness this winter:

1. Connect to Street Outreach : If you see someone experiencing unsheltered homelessness, fill out the Notification of an Individual Sleeping Outdoors form to contact street outreach workers. They’re trained to engage and support people living outside.

2. Share Resources: Helping people get information about resources can be a powerful way to support those in need. Homeward’s Housing Resource Card and The Street Sheet both offer extensive details on an array of housing and basic needs resources.

3. Spread Accurate Information : Ensuring that accurate information is disseminated around the community is crucial to connect those in need with resources in a timely manner. The GRCoC will host multiple training and events in November and December. Check out the events calendar online. Specifically, we recommend Connection to Homeless Services on 11/21 and Housing Problem Solving on 12/5.

4. Donate: Consider donating to a GRCoC partner. A list of local nonprofits funded by the GRCoC or are partners on the Homeless Connection Line are online here.

Providing Shelter and Nourishing Our Neighbors in Need

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 11:45:01 GMT

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.

Emergency shelters for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in the Richmond region are coordinated through the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC). This collaboration ensures that we have the maximum impact helping people and can serve as many of our neighbors as possible.

Who do they serve?

Between July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025, shelter operators that received coordinated funding through the GRCoC provided 125,751 shelter bed nights. They served 1,252 people (751 single adults and 501 people in families) in year-round shelter programs and another 251 people in domestic violence shelter programs.

Additionally, shelters served over 250,000 meals to program participants in that timeframe.

Emergency shelters offer a safe physical environment and access to food while also providing year-round resources, such as access to housing-focused case management, housing stability plans, housing barriers assessments, and connections to other resources.

GRCoC partner agencies that operate emergency shelters are established organizations with a long track record of service and highly qualified staff. These providers also meet extensive transparency and accountability standards.*

Who are they?

Emergency Shelter Providers

· CARITAS

· HomeAgain

· Housing Families First

· The Salvation Army

Domestic Violence Shelters

· Hanover Safe Place

· YWCA Richmond

Medical Respite

· Daily Planet Health Services

* These shelters are coordinated through our regional coalition. There are other shelters and resources outside the scope of the GRCoC that are not included here.

How can you help?

Learn more about our region’s compassionate and coordinate efforts to address homelessness, including year-round shelters. The most recent GRCoC Annual Report has lots of great data and info. You can also review a summary of the report online.

Additionally, consider supporting the local nonprofits that operate shelters in our region. A link for each nonprofit is above. Feed More is another great organization to support as our region’s largest foodbank.

As economic insecurity and housing instability continue to rise, more of our neighbors will be pushed into homelessness. It will take all of us working together as a community to solve homelessness in our region.

Act Now to Preserve Critical CoC Federal Funding

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 21:14:06 GMT

Act Now to Preserve Critical CoC Federal Funding

Homeless services providers have faced significant funding challenges and uncertainty this year. On September 30th, Politico reported potentially catastrophic changes to the FY25 HUD CoC NOFO. HUD’s changes to this CoC Program NOFO will result in significant funding delays, loss of housing for 550+ people in our community, and critical resource gaps in communities all across the country, no matter what their political inclination. It will impact all kinds of communities, with a greater impact on rural areas that have fewer resources to offset federal funding cuts.

GRCoC Data:

The CoC program is the largest single source of funding for homeless services in the GRCoC, with 87% of HUD CoC funds allocated to Permanent Housing programs in the GRCoC. HUD CoC Permanent housing programs include: Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH), Rapid Re-Housing (RRH), and youth-specific Joint Transitional Housing & Rapid Re-Housing. The HUD CoC Program supports nearly 350 housing units across the greater Richmond Region and provides monthly rental payments to 278+ landlords. The HUD CoC program is also the only source of funding coordinated through the CoC for Permanent Supportive Housing.

If an arbitrary 30% cap on permanent housing funds is implemented, we’d see devastating results in our community. These cuts could result in over 550 older adults, chronically homeless individuals and families with mental and physical disabilities, veterans, and families with minor children pushed into eviction and street homelessness. Across all HUD CoC-Funded Permanent Housing projects in FY2024-25, 834 people were served, a 70% reduction in the GRCoC’s capacity to house people experiencing homelessness could represent 584 fewer people receiving housing supports annually in our community. 70% fewer housing resources could mean: 154 adults aged 55+, 354 adults with disabilities, and 294 people in families with children will not be able to receive critical CoC housing resources.

Let’s be clear: These cuts would cause hundreds of families and individuals currently living in safe and stable housing to lose their homes and be forced back into homelessness.

This poses an existential threat to our region and we need you!

The Ask

Call and/or email to ask your Representative and both Senators to please protect homelessness funding for our state/district by including section 166 from S. 2882/H.R. 5450 in the continuing resolution. Outreach to republican representatives is especially critical.

Find your Congressional Representatives

Senators:

Tim Kaine (D)

Mark Warner (D)

House Representatives:

VA-1: John McGuire (R)

VA-4: Jennifer McClellan (D)

VA-5: Rob Wittman (R)

Here is a sample script you can tailor and use to contact your representatives:

“I am a constituent living in [insert city/town/county] and [insert connection to homeless services]. I am calling to urge you to protect CoC Funding for homeless services as a top priority for your colleagues in the [house/senate]. Specifically, when the government shutdown ends, we need you to ensure the inclusion of Section 166 in the Continuing Resolution; a no-cost provision in the continuing resolution. It would require HUD to renew all existing funding grants for homeless services expiring during calendar year 2026 for one 12-month period. This no-cost provision would save money for taxpayers, allow for Congressional review of controversial changes in homelessness policy, and prevent funding interruptions next year which have detrimental impacts in their district and state.”

Statement on Homelessness

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 18:42:15 GMT

At Homeward, we believe that all people deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, especially individuals and families experiencing homelessness. They are our neighbors and members of our community. We all face varying levels of crisis and hardship throughout our lives, some of us more than others.

Individuals and families pushed into homelessness are trying their best to navigate trauma and a housing crisis. Our response as a community should be to support and empower them. As human beings, everyone has inherent value and dignity.

Homelessness is traumatic, and we should acknowledge and respect the resilience needed to transition from experiencing homelessness to a safe, stable, and permanent home.

Building pathways to permanent homes can be challenging. Fortunately, there are a great many homeless service providers, social workers, and others who make an impact every day. These dedicated professionals work tirelessly to support the individuals and families experiencing homelessness and housing instability. These frontline workers provide comfort, guidance, and support.

We know how to solve homelessness in our region. There are a number of programs with proven track records of success in moving people from homelessness to safe and stable homes. These programs work, but we need additional investments in these solutions, including more housing and supports, such as job training and housing or financial counseling.

You can help by supporting local nonprofits that serve individuals and families experiencing homelessness in our region: https://www.homewardva.org/our-partners .

Housing Is the "EpiPen" for Homelessness — But We Need Enough of Them

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 12:57:13 GMT

Housing works. We just don’t have enough.

In a recent Urban Institute article , experts caution that while calling in the National Guard might seem like decisive action against homelessness in Washington, D.C., it doesn’t address the root problem: a lack of housing resources.

The piece uses a striking and creative analogy:

One would not assert that EpiPens don’t save people from allergic reactions if a hospital only had five EpiPens but 25 people experiencing an allergic reaction.

The same is true for homelessness. We know that getting people into housing is a proven, life-saving intervention. But when there’s far less available housing than people in need, the solution can’t reach everyone.

The takeaway is clear: rather than relying on temporary stopgaps, our communities must invest in more permanent housing solutions and supportive services. With enough resources, we can ensure that everyone who needs “the EpiPen” of housing actually receives it.

Support proven local efforts to end homelessness.

Cookies, Coordination, and a Path to Housing: How This Week’s Case Conferencing Took a Different Turn

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 18:05:37 GMT

This past week, case conferencing looked a little different - and the impact was undeniable.

As we navigate a year filled with uncertainty and change, our team wanted to try something more intentional and focused. Instead of our usual agenda, we decided to zoom in on the top 8 individuals who have been staying the longest in emergency shelter across our CoC. These are often the most complex cases, where progress can feel slow and housing solutions hard to find. But we believed that by rallying more intentionally around them, we might be able to move the needle.

So we took a different approach.

Ahead of the meeting, we looked up each individual’s case history and sent a personal email to every provider who’s ever worked with them. The goal was simple: bring the right people to the table, spark communication early, and show that these cases matter—not just in numbers, but in names and stories.

And it worked.

Even before the meeting started, case managers were already talking. In corners of the room, emails were being pulled up, timelines discussed, and partnerships forming. The collaboration had started before we even sat down.

Once we got to the actual case conferencing, the shift was palpable. The conversation was more engaged, more strategic, and more hopeful. Providers shared insights, challenges, and creative solutions. We didn’t just talk about barriers—we talked about next steps. Together.

Importantly, this kind of deep coordination is only possible because of the strong data sharing agreements and ongoing training that underpin our system. Every provider at the table operates under a shared commitment to confidentiality, data security, and ethical collaboration . These agreements and trainings build the trust required to share information responsibly and ensure that each individual’s privacy and dignity remain protected.

The best part? Five of those eight individuals are now on their way to housing.

It was a reminder that when we come together with clear focus and shared accountability, progress is possible—even with the most complex cases. Oh—and we brought cookies. ��

Because let’s be honest: it’s been a long year with a lot of unknowns, and sometimes a little sweetness helps us all feel a little less ~crumby~.

This week showed us what’s possible when we lead with intention, connection, and just a bit of cheer. We’re grateful to all the providers who showed up—not just physically, but emotionally and professionally. Let’s keep building on this momentum.

Because housing is possible. And we’re in this together.

Jen Johnson is Homeward's Director of Continuum of Care Operations.

When the System Comes Together: Supporting a Grandparent Through Crisis

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 18:07:46 GMT

Sometimes, it’s the unexpected moments that reveal the strength of a system—and the compassion behind it.

Recently, a grandparent staying in one of the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC) emergency shelters found themselves in a sudden, life-altering situation: they were unexpectedly asked to take custody of their grandchild. While this was a moment of deep personal significance, it also came with a wave of uncertainty. Where would they stay? Would they lose their shelter bed? How could they care for a child while experiencing homelessness?

Overwhelmed but determined to do the right thing, the individual reached out to the Homeless Connection Line (HCL) — often our community’s first point of contact for those in housing crisis.

The response that followed is a testament to what’s possible when systems work together.

Upon hearing the situation, the HCL worker didn’t hesitate. They immediately reached out to the Coordinated Entry Referral Team, who jumped into action to find if a solution was possible that would keep both the grandparent and their grandchild safe, sheltered, and supported.

The request was urgent and unusual - it's not often that a single individual suddenly needs to be transferred to a shelter that can support both an adult and child. Knowing that the individual’s current shelter couldn’t accommodate families, the team made a series of phone calls to family shelters in the region.

Then, a breakthrough: HomeAgain Richmond Shelter had space available.

What could have been a logistical hurdle turned into an example of flexibility and compassion. The shelter where the individual was currently staying offered full support: they understood the urgency and helped coordinate the transfer. There were no roadblocks, just a shared commitment to helping someone through a critical moment.

Jen Johnson is Homeward's Director of Continuum of Care Operations.

Staff Spotlight: Terri Lawson

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 18:15:56 GMT

“I truly enjoy helping people navigate through different circumstances and creating a space for them to be seen and heard.”

Q: How did you get into homeless services as a field of work?

A: I know now that it was the Universe bring together collaborative components because I stumbled into this work by way of interviewing for a director position at another agency and the Executive Director of that agency told me that she believed I would be perfect for a nonprofit she works closely with and recommended that I connect with that organization: Homeward. Once the connection was made, it has been strong and solid ever since. I have always worked in social/human services because I have a passion for helping others and a genuine care and kindness to connect with people.

Q: What’s your job at Homeward and has it evolved since you first joined?

A: My job and title have evolved over my time with Homeward, but my role and my work has remained anchored in the success and impact of the Homeless Connection Line. My current position is Access Programs Director.

Q: What are some parts of your job that you enjoy?

A: I truly enjoy helping people navigate through different circumstances and creating a space for them to be seen and heard. I also enjoy educating and talking with different organizations and businesses within the community to share a clear understanding of who we are and what our work encompasses. I have found delight in seeing and hearing the connection and understanding take place once people truly learn about our work. It is in those moments when they "get it" and it all makes sense for them, that I feel like I have made a huge difference in this journey to help end homelessness. And overall, being able to help people solve problems, de-stress, take a breath, believe a little more and overcome is another highlight in my work.

Q: Is there anything you wish more people knew or understood about homeless services as a field of work?

A: I do, I wish people understood that it is far more complex than just getting people off the street and out of sight. The compound complexities that people come with require dedicated, compassionate work, over time. We are tasked with ending a person’s or family's homelessness and that takes time, energy, effort, connections, collaboration and advocacy. We must consider how people will sustain and maintain that housing beyond that initial move in. What resources do they need, what challenges and barriers are they facing and how can we help reduce those? Poverty is a crucial component; people are poor and with such a low minimum wage how can someone truly afford the cost of living today? Lastly, I wish people understood that more deeply affordable housing (not market value) is the game changer needed.

Q: What motivates you?

A: My faith, my compassion, and my purpose keep me motivated in this work that can be heavy to lift for us. We are supporting people in crisis and folks with trauma and many times we do not have the thing they want most. However, knowing the impact of our work and that we are truly making a positive impact in someone's life makes it worthwhile.

Staff Spotlight: Frances Marie Pugh

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 18:52:27 GMT

"In every aspect of homeless services, the principal question is always how decisions will impact someone who is currently experiencing homelessness."

Q: How did you get into homeless services as a field of work?

A: I started in homeless services as an AmeriCorps VISTA through Virginia Housing Alliance. My background is in economics, public policy, and direct service through volunteerism, so homeless services turned out to be an unexpectedly natural fit!

Q: What’s your job at Homeward and has it evolved since you first joined?

A: When I first started at Homeward, my role was a little bit of everything. I found my niche in writing coordinated funding applications and have helped our community secure an additional $3.8 million in competitive funds dedicated to homeless services. In my current role, I mostly focus on ways to improve the efficiency and efficacy of coordinated funds in our community, in addition to supporting our competitive funding competitions and grants administration.

Q: What are some parts of your job that you enjoy?

A: I most enjoy the opportunities that I have to be in-person with our partners! In my role, I see the system from a very different perspective than from those on the ground doing the work, so it’s incredibly valuable to me to learn from our partners and the amazing professionals who serve in contexts that I don’t normally see.

Q: Is there anything you wish more people knew or understood about homeless services as a field of work?

A: As a field of work, I wish that more people understood just how person-centered the work is. In every aspect of homeless services, the principal question is always how decisions will impact someone who is currently experiencing homelessness, especially in policy and funding decisions.

Q: What motivates you?

A: I am motivated by the knowledge that the work we do at Homeward makes a positive difference in the lives of our neighbors experiencing homelessness, both presently and in the future. I also am motivated by the hope that the work we do will not only reduce the total number of people experiencing homelessness in our region, but strengthen our community’s integrated safety net resources to respond when someone experiences a housing crisis at any level.

Staff Spotlight: Vicki Wise

Thu, 22 May 2025 20:15:07 GMT

“Engaging with people and building community motives me.”

Q: How did you get into homeless services as a field of work?

A: I first started in the field in an AmeriCorps position working with families at a local shelter in 2014. I loved the creative nature of the work and the families that I worked with. After obtaining my Master’s in Social Work (MSW) degree in 2017, I began a job as an outreach worker and my passion for the field continued to grow.

Q: What’s your job at Homeward and has it evolved since you first joined?

A: I am the Community Engagement Coordinator. I started with Homeward as the Youth Programs Coordinator, focusing on working on programs for homeless youth in the region, aged 18-24. In my current position, I am able to use various aspects of my past experiences working in shelter and outreach, which helps me to understand our homeless services network and connect more deeply with a wide variety of community members.

Q: What are some parts of your job that you enjoy?

A: I love to engage with our partners across the region. I enjoy being able to develop and deliver trainings and events to support the work being done by partners in the field.

Q: Is there anything you wish more people knew or understood about homeless services as a field of work?

A: Homeless services is a complex system that can take time to fully understand. Luckily, I work in training, so I am designing additional trainings to break down this complex system and make it easier for more people to understand and engage in a way that is meaningful for them.

Q: What motivates you?

A: Engaging with people and building community motivates me.

Compassion in Action: One MSW Student’s Experience in Homeless Services

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 17:21:53 GMT

In honor of Social Work Month, we're highlighting Homeward's Coalition Support Intern and current MSW student, Ainsley Miller. We asked her about the connections she sees between social work and homeless services.

How has your experience at Homeward shaped your understanding of the connection between social work and housing stability?

One of the things I’ve learned during my time at Homeward is that homelessness has many causes, and it’s a multi-faceted crisis. Social work as a practice is a good mix of a lot of different skills while keeping people at the center of your work. Social work has this ability to make connections across different fields and can fill in gaps in other services. It’s well suited for how complex the process of solving homelessness can be.

As social work students, we learn the importance of understanding both the person and the environment they are surrounded by. So, rather than seeing your client as a list of symptoms and issues to be solved, you ask, “What brought you to this point of crisis? How is your environment impacting you?” Housing is one of the most crucial aspects of your environment. If you don’t have a reliable roof over your head, a sense of safety and stability at home, it makes it much more difficult to be successful in every other area of your life.

· What’s one key lesson you’ve learned as a student social worker about supporting individuals experiencing housing insecurity?

The more I learn about how the Continuum of Care works, I have learned you can’t promise people things you don’t have. There simply aren’t enough resources, and you have to prioritize the most vulnerable. It’s an unfortunate reality. One of the things my supervisor taught me is that to be successful in this work, you have to stay grounded. You can’t project your own emotional reactions onto the people you work with and/or their interactions with the system, even though some days that can be tough. This is how you stay focused on the big picture, which is maximizing the resources we do have to help the most people.

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to go to the Virginia General Assembly for Housing Advocacy Day. I got to see how changes are made on the policy level that can then be used to go advocate for people on the ground. This is part of the “big picture” work that Homeward does.

What’s next for you?

Next semester, I will be placed with a different organization to continue gaining supervision hours. I’d like to be placed somewhere that is focused on recovery, because I would like to work in recovery spaces as a substance abuse counselor. Homelessness and substance abuse cross over with each other, so it’s been helpful for me to get a better understanding of the landscape of homeless services in our region. There is a lot of difficult, but good work being done.

Homeward Releases Data from Winter Point in Time Count 2025

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 14:01:10 GMT

Homeward today released data from the January 2025 Point in Time (PIT) count, which shows that a significant number of individuals and families continue to experience homelessness in the Richmond region. Lack of housing and economic hardship remain persistent challenges and driving factors for the elevated rates of homelessness in Central Virginia. Additionally, it’s important to note that these numbers do not capture other regional residents who are unstably housed or worried about maintaining a roof over their head.

You can read a press release about the most recent PIT count data here and explore the numbers on Homeward’s PIT webpage.

Let’s take a closer look at the data from the PIT count:

The January 2025 PIT count recorded 660 people experiencing homelessness, which is essentially unchanged from the PIT count in January 2024, which recorded 681 people experiencing homelessness.

The most recent PIT count recorded 517 people in shelter, including 80 children. Those individuals and families stayed in area shelters administered by a strong network of providers that include Bridges of Change, CARITAS, Daily Planet Health Services, Goochland Free Clinic, Hanover Safe Place, HomeAgain, Housing Families First, Liberation Veteran Services, Richmond Behavioral Health Authority, Safe Harbor, The Salvation Army, Virginia Home for Boys and Girls, and the YWCA Richmond.

The number of individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness – those who were staying outdoors, in cars, and other places not meant for habitation – was 143 people, which is a decline from 206 people recorded as unsheltered in January 2024. Individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness are served by street outreach workers from Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC) agencies, including Commonwealth Catholic Charities, Daily Planet Health Services, Richmond Behavioral Health Authority, Richmond Department of Social Services, and Virginia Home for Boys and Girls.

A primary reason for the decline in unsheltered homelessness in the January 2025 PIT count was the extreme cold. Due to the weather, additional warming shelters were available across the region during the week of the count, so many people who may have been staying outside in those temperatures were at a warming shelter. These individuals were counted at that shelter instead of outdoors for the purpose of the single-day count. These emergency weather resources are not designed to provide ongoing supports to assist people to get on a pathway to permanent housing and the individuals likely returned to unsheltered homelessness.

Families with minor children accounted for 5.5 percent of those experiencing homelessness. Approximately 45 percent of individuals experiencing homelessness were over 55 years old. The median age of those counted was 52, highlighting a growing trend of older adults in our region being pushed into homelessness.

Economic hardship and housing loss are leading causes of homelessness, according to those surveyed as part of the PIT count. Approximately 50 percent of respondents cited cost of housing, unemployment, or eviction as the primary reason they are experiencing homelessness. Additionally, more than 25 percent stated that the breakdown of a family or relationship was their primary cause for homelessness.

The Greater Richmond region’s level of homelessness has increased in recent years due to historic underfunding of homeless services, the lack of housing, and increased economic insecurity for many residents. This situation would be far worse if not for the coordinated efforts of GRCoC agencies. Those 34 local, mission-driven nonprofits serve over 1,000 people each day in our region through housing programs. In 2024 alone, GRCoC agencies helped to house over 1,516 individuals and people in families. Without these critical services, the rate of homelessness would rise exponentially.

Statement from Homeward on Federal Funding Situation

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 02:09:21 GMT

As the designated planning agency for the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care, our region’s coordinated network of homeless service providers, Homeward works closely with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). We have been following recent developments related to federal funding for homeless programs. We are collaborating with local, state, and national partners to assess the implications for the people served by the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care and to ensure that there are no further disruptions to support proven solutions to homelessness in our region. Federal funding from HUD has been critical to our local network’s ability to help thousands of regional residents get on the pathway to a permanent home. This person-centered and compassionate work has tangible impacts in our communities. We will continue to monitor this situation closely, update our partners, and support this important work. To learn more about the vital role of HUD funding and its impact in our region, read this recent blog post .

Richmond Region Receives Over $9.3 Million in Federal Funds to Address Homelessness

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 16:29:02 GMT

Amount Includes Over $1.5 Million in New Project Funds

Richmond, VA – January 27, 2025 – Homeward, the planning and coordinating agency for the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC), announced that the region was awarded $9.39 million in federal funding from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). That money includes an increase of $1.57 million in new project funds to support our most vulnerable neighbors across the region experiencing homelessness.

Based on recent performance data available here , Homeward estimates that this funding will support permanent housing assistance for more than 1,500 regional residents.

“This new funding from HUD will allow St. Joseph’s Villa to provide housing support and services to an estimated 27 households a year, effectively ending their homelessness,” said Katie Chlan, Senior Director of Flagler Housing and Homeless Services at St. Joseph’s Villa. While more funding is required to end homelessness in the Greater Richmond community, it will end the crisis of homelessness for the households we are able to serve.”

Homeward coordinates and submits the annual funding application to HUD on behalf of the GRCoC, our region’s coordinated and collaborative network of homeless service providers, including local nonprofits and public sector partners. HUD issued federal funding awards for communities across the country on January 17, 2025. The federal dollars included in this announcement represent money allocated in last year’s federal budget by Congress. Funds will begin to be distributed to specific projects beginning in July and likely continue for about 12 months based on contracts between the federal government and recipient agencies within the GRCoC.

This announcement comes within days of the Winter 2025 Point in Time (PIT) count that took place on January 22 ^nd and 23 ^rd . The PIT count is a federally mandated count of individuals and families experiencing homelessness in a region.

“This substantial increase in federal funding is a testament to the GRCoC’s impact and the key role of regional collaboration,” said Kelly King Horne, Homeward’s Executive Director. “The Richmond region is a national leader in delivering proven solutions to end homelessness. While these resources are significant, we also recognize that HUD funding alone is insufficient to meet the growing needs of individuals and families experiencing homelessness across the region.”

Public Private Partnership

Our region’s response to homelessness is truly a public private partnership between government at the federal, state, and local level and mission-driven nonprofit organizations. Local government partners play a key role in our region’s ability to secure additional federal funds.

The GRCoC’s Ranking Committee and Homeward’s team of subject matter experts take the lead on developing and reviewing the HUD application before it’s submitted. The Ranking committee includes representatives from the City of Richmond, Chesterfield, and Henrico as well as private funders and people with lived experience of homelessness.

The committee’s membership reflects the cross-section of public and private sector partners that come together through the GRCoC to deliver homeless services in our region. That deep collaboration and broad representation are key factors that make the GRCoC’s funding work so robust and effective. That coordination helps our region stand out in the highly competitive funding application process.

“Public private partnerships are essential to solving homelessness,” said Allison Bogdanovic, Executive Director of SupportWorks Housing. “SupportWorks Housing will be able to serve 27 more people experiencing homelessness thanks to this new funding from the HUD Continuum of Care program.”

Recipients and Programs Funded

The vast majority of federal funds awarded by HUD will be directed to maintaining existing homeless services in the Richmond region. The funding will be used to support programs at recipient GRCoC agencies. This money cannot be legally used to add shelter capacity or additional beds to our regional crisis response system. The resources will help fund programs that move individuals and families to a pathway to a permanent home.

Agencies and programs that will receive federal funds from HUD include: Commonwealth Catholic Charities, Daily Planet Health Services, Hanover Safe Place, HomeAgain, Homeward, Housing Families First, Richmond Behavioral Health Authority, St. Joseph’s Villa, SupportWorks Housing, and YWCA Richmond.

New programs supported by the increase in HUD funding will allow our region to add two new rapid re-housing programs including one serving households fleeing domestic violence and add up to 27 new units of scattered site permanent supportive housing.

“With the support of new HUD funding, Hanover Safe Place can provide essential housing support and services to over 35 families, offering them a pathway out of homelessness,” said Sheree Hedrick, Executive Director of Hanover Safe Place. “This funding will be life-changing for the homeless survivors of domestic violence we assist. Every step forward brings hope and stability, proving that together, we can make a difference and build a future where everyone has a safe place to call home.”

This announcement is important because it highlights that the Richmond region continues to be highly competitive for critical federal funds. Included in the expanded awards are resources to support new programs targeting youth and young adults, including young parents.

Accountability and Transparency

These federal grants are earmarked to fund specific programs at recipient GRCoC agencies. This money supports proven solutions to homelessness in our region and come with strict accountability and compliance requirements.

In order to receive federal funds, agencies must raise matching funds, demonstrate proven solutions, and must show how they coordinate services with our regional network and partner agencies.

All federal funds require extensive financial auditing, quarterly data reporting to HUD, and local monitoring for compliance and outcome. This stringent process ensures that limited resources are maximized to help the greatest number of people possible and support solutions with a proven track record of success.

Recipient agencies receive these funds as reimbursements, so they must satisfy federal audits and reporting requirements in order to access the funding.

“The programs supported by these funds are informed by what we hear from our neighbors experiencing homelessness,” added Horne. “GRCoC agencies consistently gather input directly from those facing homelessness to ensure that our solutions meet their needs and aren’t based on assumptions or what we think might be helpful in solving homelessness.”

Additional information about the GRCoC and community-based efforts to reduce homelessness, including an application to join the GRCoC, is available at endhomelessnessrva.org .

Ways to Help People Experiencing Homelessness This Holiday Season

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 16:10:11 GMT

The holidays are a time of joy, gratitude, and celebration. It is also a time that the reality of homelessness becomes more visible, standing in sharp contrast to the season's twinkling lights and jolly tunes. Many of us are inspired to reflect on our blessings and find ways to support our more vulnerable neighbors, whether that be with our time or our resources. Here are just a few ways you can help this holiday season:

1. Create cold weather kits: Create kits with cold weather essentials to be distributed by Homeward staff and volunteers during our community’s Point-In-Time count (PIT) in January. The PIT count is a single night count of people experiencing homelessness in our community.

2. Spread hope for the holidays with CARITAS: CARITAS has several ways to give back this season. You can donate items to their holiday shop, make holiday cheer bags for program participants, help organize donations , or provide a Christmas meal .

3. Give House Warming Gifts : HomeAgain ’s Community Housing clients are in need of supplies for their new homes including cleaning supplies (Lysol wipes, bleach, laundry detergent, bathroom cleaner, trash bags, mop, brooms, sponges), paper products (paper towels, toilet paper, napkins), Household Supplies (new twin/full sheets, new twin/full blankets/comforters, pillows, towels, washcloths, pots/pans, utensils, plates, bowls). Shop directly from their Amazon Wishlist.

4. Spread joy to families in Housing Families First Programs: Fulfill a child's holiday wish list (or an entire family's wish list), provide a child with a new set of pajamas or a coat, fill holiday stockings, make a holiday dinner basket, or donate gift wrapping supplies. Info on how to participate in all of these opportunities is on HFF's website.

5. Collect basic needs and holiday items : Help The Salvation Army collect basic need items for adults and children staying in their shelters, or donate children's gifts from their Angel Tree registry at Wal-Mart.

6. Donate medical supplies, food, and winter gear: Daily Planet Health Services is collecting medical supplies for their diabetes, maternity, pediatric, and therapy programs. They also need pantry staples and winter clothing. All info is on their website.

Thank you! We at Homeward wish you a joyful holiday season. If you If you have questions about Homeward’s work or the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care, email info@homewardva.org.

Note: If you are having a difficult time this holiday season, please take care of yourself. If you are struggling with housing, visit homewardva.org/get-help to learn about community resources. If you need to talk to someone, contact the Warm Line at 866-400-6428. It is a peer-run mental health line through Mental Health America of Virginia.

Homeward Supports Regional Application for Federal Funding

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 16:03:27 GMT

The Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC) – our region’s compassionate and coordinated network of 34 local, mission-driven agencies addressing homelessness – recently submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) the regional coordinated application for federal funding. This application is important to our area because federal funding from HUD accounts for the majority of public dollars allocated for homeless services.

You can learn more about the application and funding process in this recent blog post on the GRCoC website .

As the GRCoC’s planning agency, Homeward plays an integral role on the development and submission of this critical funding application.

Each year, the GRCoC confirms the appointment of an agency to act on its behalf as the designated Collaborative Applicant through a process of endorsement by the Governance Committee and approval by the GRCoC Board. Once approved, the GRCoC Board chair signs a memorandum of understanding outlining the key practices and principles between GRCoC and our collaborative applicant. Homeward has served as the designated Collaborative Applicant since the formation of the GRCoC.

Homeward staff members are responsible for compiling the application. They work closely with GRCoC members, especially the Ranking Committee, to craft application materials. The Homeward team truly goes above and beyond in this critical and herculean task.

In addition to shepherding the application process for our region, Homeward raised private funds to support engagement with nationally recognized consultants. This partnership ensures that our region is competitive with others and helps our region secure even more funds. These consultants offered key recommendations for the application and worked with GRCoC agencies to assist with their contributions to the application process.

This investment from Homeward enabled the GRCoC to apply for more federal resources and is yet another example how Homeward helps to grow capacity for the GRCoC and its member agencies.

In addition to Homeward’s work on the regional coordinated application for federal funding, our team serves a wide array of roles as the GRCoC’s planning agency. Homeward facilitates greater collaboration and more efficient use of limited resources among homeless service providers. Homeward analyzes data and creates reports to help GRCoC partner agencies and local governments better understand causes of and proven solutions to homelessness. Homeward secures significant resources, ensures funding compliance, researches and compiles best practices for homeless solutions, and provides recommendations based on input from people with lived experience in our region.

We invite you to learn more about Homeward’s role and the GRCoC’s impact in our region by reading the GRCoC Fiscal Year 2023 – 2024 Annual Report.

Homeward Executive Director Honored with CEF BRAVO Award

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 17:00:08 GMT

Homeward's Executive Director, Kelly King Horne, was recognized earlier this month by the Chesterfield Education Foundation as an outstanding alumna of Chesterfield County Public Schools.

The BRAVO Awards honor remarkable achievements of Chesterfield County Public Schools alumni each year. This celebration gives honorees the chance to return to their former schools, sharing their stories with current students and highlighting how their education in Chesterfield County set them on the road to success.

Since the awards' inception in 2009, the Chesterfield Education Foundation reports that 60 alumni have received BRAVO Awards.

Kelly was recognized for her 21 years with Homeward. Serving as Executive Director since 2007, Kelly has led initiatives for compassionate, coordinated approaches to homelessness. Nationally, she contributes to the Leadership Council for the National Alliance to End Homelessness, where she’s served since 2018. A proud Monacan High School graduate from the class of 1987, Kelly’s dedication extends globally through her work with Habitat for Humanity and the Peace Corps. She is also a dedicated mother and an active supporter of the Monacan Marching Band and Humanities program.

View Kelly's award video:

Homeward’s 2024 Gaps Analysis for the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care Highlights Challenges and Strategies in Addressing Homelessness

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 14:24:33 GMT

As more and more people in our region face housing instability and are pushed into homelessness, the demand for homeless services is higher than ever before.

Homeward’s 2024 Gaps Analysis for the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC) highlights critical challenges and strategies in addressing homelessness. The rising cost of housing, exacerbated by the long-term affects of the pandemic, has intensified the crisis, pushing more people into homelessness.

Key recommendations include:

Focus on deeply affordable housing for individuals earning less than 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI), the most vulnerable population.
Align funding with GRCoC strategies, prioritizing emergency shelters and case management to improve transitions out of homelessness.
Increase support for rapid rehousing programs, which have successfully housed 80% of participants.
Expand Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) units to meet growing demand.
Encourage flexible funding and targeted prevention efforts to help individuals stay housed and avoid the trauma of homelessness.

Addressing these gaps is vital to ending homelessness and ensuring stability for Richmond’s most vulnerable.

Read the full Gaps Analysis here.

For more data on homelessness, see here.

Summer Point in Time Count Records Increase in Rate of Homelessness in the Richmond Region

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 12:00:11 GMT

New Taskforce to Address Unsheltered Homelessness in Region to Launch

Richmond, VA – August 23, 2024 – Data from the July 2024 Point in Time (PIT) count continue to show a significant number of individuals and families experiencing homelessness in the Richmond region. The region’s level of homelessness has remained high since the COVID pandemic because need outpaces capacity of local human services assistance programs and affordable housing resources. Additional investment in the regional homeless assistance network is necessary to serve those experiencing homelessness today and to reduce the level of homelessness in the future.

The July 2024 PIT count recorded 585 people experiencing homelessness, including 267 people experiencing unsheltered homelessness.

The count also recorded 318 people in shelters across our region. Serving over 300 people in shelter each and every day has been consistent for our region since before the pandemic. The consistency of housing-focused shelter capacity highlights the resiliency of the local nonprofits that serve individuals and families in shelter programs that work to connect program participants to permanent housing and services.

The number of people experiencing unsheltered homelessness – defined as people staying outdoors, in cars, and other places not meant for habitation – remains much higher than our region’s historic average before the COVID pandemic.

In response to the rise of unsheltered homelessness in our region, the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC) and Homeward will launch a new regional taskforce to address unsheltered homelessness. The task force will include representatives from homeless service agencies and local governments. This task force will identify strategies and solutions to address unsheltered homelessness and issue formal recommendations this fall.

“Although our region has made strides and shelters continue to support hundreds of people daily, homelessness remains a persistent challenge,” said Kelly King Horne, Executive Director with Homeward, which manages PIT counts as the planning agency for the GRCoC. “We can’t allow this to become a new normal for our region. The findings from the Summer 2024 PIT count should be a call to action to invest in proven homeless services programs, support efforts to reduce poverty, and create more housing that everyone can afford.”

The persistence of people experiencing unsheltered homelessness highlights a clear link between homelessness and other, larger systems, notably economic inequality and poverty.

The two most significant contributing factors to individuals and families getting pushed into homelessness are a breakdown in relationships (30%) and economic hardship, such as losing a job (21%) or cost of housing (11%). Collectively, those two reasons explain why 62% of people surveyed were pushed into homelessness. Evictions, often a result of economic strain, account for another 13 percent of why people experience homelessness. These findings underscore how economic policies and conditions directly impact housing instability and force more people into homelessness.

“We need to expand our coalition to solve homelessness and invest additional resources targeted to prevent homelessness from happening,” added Horne. “The resiliency of homeless services providers is inspiring as hundreds of frontline outreach workers, case managers, and others work diligently to serve our most vulnerable neighbors. In addition to supporting these proven programs that move people from the street to pathways for a permanent home, our region needs to prioritize anti-poverty efforts and more affordable housing.”

Additionally, our region continues to see more older adults pushed into homelessness. Older adults, defined as those 55 and older, accounted for 43.9 percent of adults counted during the July 2024 PIT count. Additionally, 15.6 percent of adults experiencing homelessness were 65 or older. This specific age cohort rose almost three percent from July 2023 and is expected to continue to increase. These populations present unique challenges for housing because they are far more likely to have a disability and limited income. Integrating with other systems of care, such as medical assistance and health care, is vital for serving older adults experiencing homelessness.

“It’s important to remember that these numbers represent real people facing the trauma of homelessness,” Horne said. “These are our neighbors, the vast majority of whom have lived in our region for many years.”

Additional information about the July 2024 PIT count, including multiple charts and other data visualization, is available on Homeward’s PIT webpage . This page is updated with the latest data from the count. For media inquiries or questions about the PIT count, please contact Kelly King Horne at kkhorne@homewardva.org .

Local Funding Supports Regional Solutions to Homelessness

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 17:07:47 GMT

July 1st marked the beginning of a new fiscal year for the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC) and Homeward. New and existing resources that support proven solutions to homelessness will be deployed over the next 12 months to serve our region’s most vulnerable neighbors.

This is an ideal time to recognize a crucial set of partners in the effort to solve homelessness: local governments, including Chesterfield County, Hanover County, Henrico County, and the City of Richmond.

All four jurisdictions dedicated local funding for GRCoC agencies in their recently approved budgets. These local resources support the critical work of homeless service providers in the Richmond region.

The GRCoC Board of Directors, Homeward’s leadership, and GRCoC agencies are grateful for the ongoing partnership between the GRCoC and our local governments. This partnership between the public and nonprofit sectors has been instrumental in our region’s efforts to address homelessness and one reason that the Richmond area is nationally recognized for this work.

Importantly, the funds earmarked in FY 2025 budgets and disbursed by local governments align with the GRCoC's f unding priorities and investment strategy . These funding priorities and investment strategies ensure that resources for homeless services are maximized to help as many people as possible.

Although the demand for homeless services and housing far outweighs the available resources, by aligning public funding with proven strategies, our region can say yes to helping more people. Collaboration and coordination ensure we have a bigger collective impact.

Thank you to the elected leaders and staff from Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico, and Richmond for continuing to invest in GRCoC agencies and proven strategies to solve homelessness.

Housing Focused Strategies Hold the Key to Ending Homelessness

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 17:20:44 GMT

Our region's collaborative network of homeless service providers, The Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC) , supports solutions to homelessness that are focused on getting our neighbors off the street and on to pathways to a permanent home. Why is this approach considered a highly effective method for solving homelessness in our region and across the country?

Understanding Housing Strategies: A Compassionate Approach to Homelessness

Strategies that focus on providing pathways to housing are designed to address homelessness by prioritizing permanent homes for individuals experiencing homelessness. This approach operates on the principle that having a stable home is the foundational step towards improving one’s overall well-being. The core idea behind this strategy is that before individuals can tackle other challenges like finding employment, managing finances, or addressing substance abuse, they must first have their basic needs met—starting with a secure place to live. By ensuring this fundamental necessity, housing focused programs create a stable environment from which individuals can begin to rebuild their lives.

Client choice is a key component.

Individuals are given the autonomy to select their housing and participate in supportive services according to their needs and preferences. Empowering clients to make these decisions enhances their sense of control and commitment, increasing the likelihood of long-term housing stability and personal development. This approach is about fostering an environment where individuals can thrive, regain their dignity, and work towards a brighter future. By prioritizing housing, this approach offers a compassionate and practical solution to ending homelessness and improving the quality of life for those affected.

National Data Demonstrates Effectiveness and Reduces Cost Burdens on Communities.

Individuals in these programs access housing more quickly and maintain housing stability at higher rates than those in traditional homeless assistance programs. For example, Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) has a housing retention rate of up to 98% after one year. Programs that prioritize permanent housing significantly reduce the use of emergency services, leading to substantial cost savings. One study found an average savings of $31,545 per person in emergency services over two years. Another study showed that these programs can cost up to $23,000 less per consumer per year than shelter programs.

Participants in these programs report higher levels of autonomy, choice, and control.

They are more likely to engage in supportive services, which leads to better outcomes in terms of employment, education, substance use reduction, and mental health.

A focus on permanent housing has been particularly effective in reducing veteran homelessness.

The approach has contributed to a 50% reduction in veteran homelessness in the United States.

Bipartisan and Administrative Support:

Homeless service programs that have a proven track record of success have garnered strong bipartisan support.

Our Region is a National Leader in Addressing Homelessness.

Homeward’s Executive Director, Kelly King Horne, presents regularly about solutions to homelessness to national audiences. Last year, she spoke at HUD's Quarterly Updates on how our region’s strategies positively changed how those experiencing homelessness in the Greater Richmond are served by our community of providers.

Where Can I Donate Clothes in Richmond?

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 17:00:43 GMT

This is a question we get regularly at Homeward from caring community members. Below is a list of organizations that accept clothing donations.

While this list is current as of July 2024, please confirm by contacting these organizations. They each have their own procedures and instructions for how and when they take donations. Know of more organizations we can add to this list or have updated info to share? Email info@homewardva.org . Thank you!

Dress for Success

804-234-3034

The mission of Dress for Success is to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.

Goodwill

804-745-6300

Goodwill helps individuals overcome challenges to work while helping employers meet their workforce needs. We fund a wide array of job training and support services through donations and sales of used goods, contract services and philanthropic contributions.

HOPE Thrift

804-422-0236

Hope Thrift, a ministry outreach of Hope Church, sells high quality donated goods at fair prices in an attractive, welcoming retail setting to raise money to support local and global ministries.

Liberation Thrift

804-230-4144

Formerly Love of Jesus Thrift Store South, Liberation Thrift is a ministry of Liberation Church.

Liberation Veteran Services

804-233-4064

LVS offers homeless veterans the care, stability, and resources needed to help rebuild their lives. We greatly appreciate all in-kind donations such as household goods and men’s clothing in good condition.

Shepherd's Way Relief Center

804-562-7490

We are a mission of Love of Christ Fellowship Ministries Church. We receive donated men’s, women’s and children’s clothes and give them away as needed.

Vietnam Veterans of America

804-358-8287

We’ll pickup your used clothes and household goods at your convenience and use them to support programs that address the concerns and needs of all veterans.

Staff Spotlight: Jen Johnson

Tue, 21 May 2024 18:56:24 GMT

"We are always ready for the next opportunity to listen, learn, and share to make it possible for even more people to find a safe and stable place to live."

Q: How did you get into homeless services as a field of work?

A: For me, it all started when I worked at a YWCA in Salt Lake City, Utah, as a teacher in their pre-k center. This YWCA also had a domestic violence shelter. At the same time, I was taking social work classes, and eventually I transitioned to the shelter program, where I worked for about 7 years. I then moved to Virginia and continued to do domestic violence (DV) work. Eventually, a position on the Homeless Connection Line (HCL) opened up. I had previous experience answering DV calls, and a lot of the skills I learned working in DV transitioned well to talking to people in crisis at the Homeless Connection Line.

Since October 2020, I have been working with Homeward to coordinate referrals for housing interventions and working with community partners to help make more connections for our neighbors in need.

Q: Tell us about Homeward’s partnerships with healthcare providers.

A: For many years, we have learned from our surveys of people experiencing homelessness that almost 70% of adults have health insurance coverage, often through a Medicaid managed care organization (MCO). We suspected that many of the individuals being served in our homeless assistance programs were eligible to receive support from MCO care coordinators but there was no clear way to make these connections. When someone is in crisis, they may not be able to keep up with health insurance paperwork or navigate the sometimes difficult process of arranging for services or follow up. We worked to develop a way to share data with MCO’s to provide better service coordination and navigation without compromising an individual’s right to privacy. The agreements we developed have allowed us to coordinate services and provide a model for other service providers around the state. Focusing on the needs of the individuals seeking homeless assistance and helping to make these connections has led to tangible improvements for so many of our neighbors. One gentleman in a local emergency shelter needed a wheelchair in order to search for an apartment. Connecting him to his care coordinator through the MCO enabled them to get a wheelchair to look at houses. Other individuals are able to get support with chronic health conditions while staying in an emergency shelter and to develop a housing and service plan that best meets their needs so that they can focus on improving their health.

Our MCO partners share our belief that stable housing can improve health and we are excited to continue to expand and deepen our partnerships with healthcare service providers.

Q: Do you have any advice for someone new to this work?

A: In this work, you’ll burn yourself out if you’re always looking for the big wins. There’s momentum in small wins, they make the biggest impact when added up. Some people might look out in a field of beautiful flowers and find a weed. And they’ll water that one weed and keep focusing on it. But if you flip it, and look out into a field of weeds, find the one flower. Water that flower. Focusing on the small wins or flowers can help us to grow more flowers together.

Q: What are some parts of your job that you enjoy?

A: This past year I’ve tried to meet more of our partners in person and get to know them more. I have stronger relationships with our partnerships. Someone told me a few months ago, “I never would have thought to reach out to you about a situation, but since I’ve met you I know you’re someone who can help me troubleshoot.”

Another piece of that is, I love to listen. Because I don’t work in direct services, when I meet with our providers and understand their work more, it helps me listen to how we can make changes and how we can improve our shared work. What else do we have to work towards? By listening, I can identify building blocks for developing policy or expanding solutions to common issues.

Q: What motivates you?

A: When I see that things are working better, and problems are improving, or when I’m listening and trying to figure out how to make it better, that motivates me. Making our partner’s jobs easier, making the work feel more connected and better. That motivates me to keep going and keep trying, because at the end of the day it’s helping a person.

And, meeting the people who are helped to find stable housing reminds me of the value of our “behind the scenes” coordination and problem-solving work. Choice East and I have been working for the last 45 days to connect individuals with long histories of homelessness to a new housing development. We have been working with names on a list and helping to make sure that the housing applications were complete and working to remove obstacles as they came up in a new partnership and referral process. At a meeting at a partner homeless service agency this week, we were able to meet one of these individuals in person. Choice and I reminisced about how we had helped our partners troubleshoot issues with the referral and application process and reduce the stress of the individual and our partners. Our work together has helped more than 37 individuals exit homelessness this past month and we know that these connections are life-changing. We are always ready for the next opportunity to listen, learn, and share to make it possible for even more people to find a safe and stable place to live.

Homeward Executive Director Awarded YWCA Outstanding Women Award

Tue, 21 May 2024 18:41:26 GMT

Last week, I was honored to be recognized with an Outstanding Women's Award in Nonprofit Management from the YWCA Richmond. Here are the remarks I shared at the event (and a picture from my formative time in Moldova).

I wanted to share three things I learned as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Republic of Moldova almost 30 years ago that I still use today Homeward working to reduce homelessness in our community and country.
1) I spent a lot of time during my Peace Corps service sitting on porches and helping the older women in my village. I was particularly close to Auntie Varvara. She lived alone in her family’s house and did not have much of an income but loved being a host. I would buy small bags of sugar and quietly put them in her cabinet as a way to repay her hospitality. One day, she told me that if I insisted on doing this, I could buy paint so that she could brighten her home to be more pleasant for her visitors. That’s what mattered most to her.
By listening, I learned to focus on what mattered to her and not what I thought she needed.
2) I also learned that sometimes we don’t have to listen—especially to nonsense. At the end of each day, the students would gather at the edge of the village and wait for the cows to come home from their daytime pasture. The boys would play soccer. The girls wanted to play but were not allowed. So, as a future nonprofit leader, I assessed the power dynamics and resource situation and bought my own soccer ball. As “the Amerikanka” with a ball, I could change the rules and we played co-ed soccer games from then on.
3) Finally, I learned about focusing on the most important thing and how to center my work and life on what matters most. I joined the Peace Corps and went to Moldova in the mid- ‘90’s because I was fascinated by a country and a region in transition. I wanted to be a part of the change to a more democratic and optimistic future. I didn’t really have talent as a middle school English teacher. I didn’t have clear goals for my role and I can’t say I excelled in that role. At the end of my service, my students shared that I had helped them feel safe and treated them with dignity and respect.
And, with that and learning when to listen and when to challenge community conditions, I started on my current path. Thank you to everyone here who has been a part of that.

Homeward to Host Best Practices Conference for Homeless Service Agencies and Partners

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 13:00:13 GMT

Richmond, VA – May 1, 2024 – Homeward – the planning agency for the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC), a network of homeless service providers that deliver coordinated and compassionate solutions to homelessness in the Richmond region – will host its annual Best Practices Conference on Friday, May 3, 2024 at The Westin Richmond hotel in Henrico County.

More than 200 attendees, including public and private partners, are expected to gather to learn together and recognize the collective impact of our region’s coordinated response to homelessness.

Notably, these collaborative efforts have a long-term impact. Homeward reported that 80 percent of people who exited shelters and other GRCoC programs did not return to homelessness within a one-year period.

“We’re proud to once again host this regional Best Practices Conference because the event brings together homeless services professionals to share critical insights that enable our regional network to support more people facing homelessness and housing instability,” said Kelly King Horne, executive director of Homeward. “In addition to learning from one another, this event offers a moment to acknowledge the meaningful work done by homeless services agencies and highlights that we all can be part of the solutions to address homelessness in our region.”

The conference brings together homeless service providers, funders, advocates, and others. Workshops will focus on sharing strategies to solve homelessness on a client, organization, and community level.

Adrienne Cole Johnson will serve at the conference’s keynote speaker. An engagement expert, she is a natural mediator, community builder, skilled facilitator, and strategist. Johnson is the co-founder of the Richmond Night Market; co-owner of The Len, an open concept event venue; and serves as Chief of Family and Community Engagement for Henrico County Public Schools, the first position of its kind, taking lead on building culture, climate and connections for parents, community members, and partners.

Session topics will cover deeply affordable housing policies, aligning with the public sector, partnering with Managed Care Organizations, supporting people with dementia, and more.

Horne added, “The knowledge shared at this conference is so impactful because it empowers homeless service agencies to work smarter, connect the dots, and maximize limited resources.”

Homeward’s 2024 Best Practices Conference is sponsored by Virginia Housing and the Richmond Association of Realtors.

Additional information about the Best Practices Conference is available online: https://www.homewardva.org/conference.

For questions related to the conference or to register, please email info@homewardva.org.

Staff Spotlight: Choice East

egerde@homewardva.org (Elizabeth Handwerk) — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 18:45:21 GMT

From experiencing homelessness himself to now helping others who are going through similar crises, Choice East brings invaluable empathy and insight to his work at Homeward.

Choice East was interviewed by Elizabeth Handwerk in February 2024.

Q: How did you get into homeless services as a field of work?

A: It all started when I lived in San Francisco and became homeless. Eventually I got into an SRO hotel through an agency there. They had a work program called the Desk Clerk Training program. I went through that and became a desk clerk. When I moved to Richmond, I worked at some shelters including CARITAS. Through ACTS, I worked the Homeless Connection Line before migrating over to Homeward.

Q: What’s your job at Homeward and has it changed over the years?

A: I started at Homeward in 2020. Over time, I have taken on more responsibility and had a few title changes. Now, I’m the System Referral Coordinator. I do all shelter referrals for families and single adults, and all referrals for rapid rehousing, youth singles and families, permanent supporting housing referrals, voucher referrals through RRHA, and I’m also the referral coordinator for the joint youth transitional housing and rapid rehousing programs.

Q: Wow, you're the only person doing all of that for the entire Richmond region! It sounds like a lot, but you seem to be managing it well.

A: Yeah, it is a lot, but there are some benefits to me being a single point of contact. I have established relationships with providers, partners, and clients. Over time, I have become very familiar with them. They know me and trust me. The referral process is more streamlined, and communication is more efficient because I know what’s going on with every client that day and every shelter that day.

Q: What are some parts of your job that you enjoy?

A: Each person that I talk to is in a unique situation that requires a problem-solving approach. I enjoy tackling each client’s individual needs, investigating if needed, and working with the person in crisis to find a solution.

Normally, I don’t hear back from clients after I’ve referred them to a shelter, but there are a few exceptions. There is an older lady that I sent to CARITAS a few years ago. To this day, she still texts me a devotional quote every morning.

Last week, there was a guy I sent to shelter. Later that day, he texted me back and said, “Hey, I made it to the shelter and I want to thank you again for referring me. I think everything is going to be alright now.”

Q: What motivates you?

A: I have lived experience of homelessness, so I’ve been through the process myself. This gives me a totally different perspective from most people. I know the feelings on both ends of the line. I know you might feel apprehensive about going to shelter; I’ve been there myself. I know what it feels like to be in a crisis. When you’re in crisis you can’t think ahead to next week or next month. You’re scared about what’s happening to you today and you can’t plan beyond that until you get help.

Q: How do you talk to people in crisis who may be scared or uncertain about going to shelter?

A: When someone is frustrated and says ‘you don’t understand’, I can say YES, actually I do get it. I know what it feels like. And that just totally flips the conversation. My personal experiences have enabled me to talk to people in ways others can’t.

When I’m talking to people about going to shelter, sometimes they ask me, “What do you think should I do?” I learned this in recovery: “I can’t tell you necessarily what to do. I only can tell you what has worked for me, and hopefully that helps you make your own decisions.”

If someone seems really scared about going to shelter, I say, “Why don’t you just go to the intake? After intake, if you still feel like it’s not the right place for you, you don’t have to stay there. But I would hate for you to miss the opportunity.” And a lot of times, that works.

Q: What does the process for making shelter referrals look like?

A: First, I run a report by priority, look up the names in HCIS (a shared community database), see if they’re banned at any shelters, and look through their notes to see if they have any preference in shelters. For example, I won’t send someone to CARITAS who says they don’t want to go. Once I find a shelter client match, I offer them the shelter placement. I send a referral through HCIS to the shelter and leave a note about my interaction with the client. Then I email the shelter directly to tell them who I’m sending and give them the info. Each shelter is a bit different in their referral process in how many they refer each day, and how they notify of open referrals.

Q: Is there anything you wish more people knew or understood about the homeless services as a field of work?

A: Ending someone’s homelessness is not as easy a process as the average person thinks it is. There’s no one solution to homelessness because there’s no one lump group of “homeless” people. They come from every age, demographic, and background you can think of. What works for one person might not work for another. As a community, we need to be strategic in our approach. Who’s going to provide resources? How are you going to track the outcomes to know what’s working? And, you need to actually talk to people experiencing homelessness to understand what they need.

I wish there were more resources beyond offering shelter beds that would address root causes of homelessness. Shelter is just a temporary solution to a bigger problem. You need resources beyond shelter. Mental health services, affordable housing services. You could have all the resources in the world, but if the average person can’t afford a studio apartment because its $1500 a month and their minimum wage salary can’t cover it, no resources can fix that. It’s the structural issues that need to be addressed.

Recently, homeless services providers were criticized in the news. It made me feel like I was being personally attacked. These types of criticisms are completely missing the point.

Q: Your work is definitely hard enough already without the criticism. Thank you, Choice, for sharing your story and for all that you do each day to help people in a housing crisis.

A: The things I went through when I was homeless prepared me for the work I do now. In a way, my struggles eventually became my superpower.

Homeward Releases Data from Winter Point in Time Count 2024

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 14:30:01 GMT

Unsheltered Homelessness Continues to Rise as Housing Instability Remains a Top Regional Issue.

Richmond, VA – March 4, 2024 – Data from the January 2024 Point in Time (PIT) count show that a significant number of individuals and families continue to experience homelessness in the Richmond region. Housing instability has remained a persistent challenge in the region and driving factor for the elevated rates of homelessness in Central Virginia.

The January 2024 PIT count recorded 681 people experiencing homelessness, which is essentially unchanged (only 1.3 percent lower) from the PIT count in January 2023.

The number of people experiencing unsheltered homelessness – those who were staying outdoors, in cars, and other places not meant for habitation – rose by 9.6 percent to 206 people in January 2024.

Economic hardship and housing loss are leading causes of homelessness, according to those surveyed as part of the PIT count. More than 51 percent of respondents cited cost of housing, unemployment, or eviction as the primary reason they are experiencing homelessness. As critical support programs, such as state rental assistance and eviction prevention, have ended more residents now lack vital lifelines to keep them in their homes and off the street.

The Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC) – our region’s collaborative and compassionate network of 34 local, mission-driven nonprofit agencies providing homeless services – serves over 1,000 people each day in our region. This system, regarded as a national model for addressing homelessness, continues to feel the strain of increasing housing instability. The GRCoC network partners with regional local government agencies and leverages private and public funding to maximize impact but remains under-resourced to meet the current level of need in our region.

As housing instability grows, this challenge will become more acute and could lead to ongoing increases in the number of people experiencing homelessness, including individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness on the street.

In addition to economic hardship and the end of critical support programs, the lack of affordable homes in our region adds even more pressure to the homeless services system. Simply put, more and more people in the Richmond region can’t find a place to call home that they can afford. The lack of affordable housing options results in people experiencing homelessness for longer durations. According to data from the January 2024 PIT count, the median length of time that a person experiences homelessness is 298 days.

Solutions for Homelessness

The persistently elevated levels of homelessness in the Richmond region highlights the need for additional resources to support our most vulnerable neighbors. External factors that are outside of homeless services – such as historically high rents, wages not keeping up with the costs of living, and the lack of affordable homes – add significant pressure to a system trying to meet the increased need without enough funding.

Three solutions would have transformational impacts on serving our neighbors experiencing homelessness:

First, support existing and proven programs that have a track record of successfully moving people from the street or shelter to permanent homes. Our region should double down on what’s working and invest in existing programs rather than start new, unproven initiatives.
Second, advocate for federal, state, and local reforms, including rental assistance programs and zoning changes that encourage the development of more affordable housing.
Third, invest resources in programs that support vulnerable groups to help prevent the trauma of homelessness in the first place. Examples include expanding the child tax credit and more funding for assistance targeted to aging populations.

Who Was Counted?

Conducted by Homeward, the federally mandated PIT count took place on the night of January 24, 2024, and the morning of January 25, 2024, and included individuals and families staying in shelters and living outside or in other places not meant for habitation. This single day count is conducted across the state and its methodology is reviewed by a community coalition. The PIT count provides a snapshot of changes and trends over time. PIT data are based on the actual numbers of people counted by experienced and trained volunteers. In addition to the count, a sample of individuals were surveyed about their experiences, which provides further insight directly from people with current lived experience of homelessness.

GRCoC uses HUD’s definition of homelessness to conduct the count, which includes people staying in area shelters, such as emergency shelter, transitional housing, and sexual and domestic violence providers, and individuals staying outdoors or in a place not meant for human habitation, such as a car, a tent in the woods, or on the streets.

Individuals captured by the PIT count include the following:

· 39.9 percent were 55 or older.

· 62 percent reported their race as African-American/Black.

· 29.7 percent reported their race as White.

· 8.3 percent reported their race as multi-racial or another race.

Where Can I Get More Information?

Additional information about the January 2024 PIT count, including multiple charts and other data visualization, is available on Homeward’s PIT webpage . This page is updated with the latest data from the count.

Addressing Homelessness: Supporting Frontline Staff

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 21:32:26 GMT

This post is part of a series that explores the ways in which the Richmond region addresses homelessness and provides context on how our collaborative and regional network operates. You can access other posts in this series on Access Versus Resources , Funding by The Numbers , and Keys to Helping More People .

Homelessness is a complex issue. The frontline staff members who support those experiencing homelessness feel called to this work. Criticizing these staff members, their work, and their dedication is unacceptable. We can have conversations and disagree about the best programs or strategies to address homelessness, but we all should be acknowledging and thanking these staff members for their commitment and compassion.

Frontline staff members have reported that this repeated criticism, especially from elected officials, weighs on them and makes their already challenging work even harder. They feel personally attacked and maligned when they’re doing their best to support others in housing crises day in and day out.

HCL staff members patiently and compassionately listen to all callers, even when the callers repeat the same criticisms and accusations and share frustrations about their personal experience with the affordable housing crisis in our community. HCL staff members work with each caller to help find solutions to their housing crisis. Staff members offer problem solving help and provide community resources—using a list of faith-based resources and public sector programs. Some HCL staff have even talked to friends and family members of callers to try to resolve their housing crisis. And, HCL staff record the data needed to continue to develop pathways to permanent housing in our community.

As a partner in the GRCoC and a longtime advocate for addressing the homelessness and affordable housing crisis in our community, I would love to use this moment to take what we hear from people calling the HCL to develop solutions and resources that will meet the immediate need for assistance and do the hard work of addressing the gaps in resources. We can do this without furthering persistent criticisms against the people doing the hard work to meet people where they are and walk alongside them in crisis.

Addressing Homelessness: Keys to Helping More People

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 21:10:39 GMT

We cannot give people what we do not have.

The HCL cannot provide immediate relief if that immediate relief does not exist. The HCL cannot solve the decades of underinvestment in housing that is affordable for people with children, persons with disabilities, and older adults finding themselves without options for safe and decent housing, and many others.

So, what will help move the needle in addressing homelessness in our region?

Support existing GRCoC homeless assistance programs .
Advocate for increasing local public sector investments to support year-round and seasonal shelter programs.
Share your concerns with legislators working now at the General Assembly to pilot rental assistance programs to support families with children.

Addressing Homelessness: Funding by The Numbers

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 20:41:29 GMT

This post is part of a series that explores the ways in which the Richmond region addresses homelessness and provides context on how our collaborative and regional network operates. You can access other posts in this series on Access Versus Resources , Keys to Helping More People , and Supporting Frontline Staff .

Our region has underfunded homeless services for decades. As economic and housing instability has grown in recent years, that lack of funding becomes more and more evident.

So, how does our region fund homeless services?

Through a combination of private donations and public funding. The vast majority of the public money comes from the federal government. Those funds may flow through state and/or local governments but it originates at the federal level and is dictated by federal guidelines.

Since 2007, our region has been able to access tens of millions of dollars in federal Continuum of Care funding to support permanent housing programs that serve over 700 people each and every day in our region.

Historically, local governments’ direct funding of homeless services has been less than 1 percent of the money secured to serve individuals and family experiencing homelessness.

The end of additional pandemic era funding from the federal government and the wind down of both state and federal support programs (such as state rental assistance and eviction diversion) have created even larger gaps in the resources needed.

It’s important to recognize that localities have begun to dedicate more money to homeless services, which we support. However, those funds aren’t nearly enough to address the current need.

Addressing Homelessness: Understanding Access versus Resources

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 20:32:23 GMT

This post is part of a series that explores the ways in which the Richmond region addresses homelessness and provides context on how our collaborative and regional network operates. You can access other posts in this series on Funding by The Numbers , Keys to Helping More People , and Supporting Frontline Staff.

Homelessness is a complex and interconnected challenge. As anyone who works in homeless services or volunteers in this space can attest, it’s hard work. That work is made even more difficult when misinformation and misleading criticisms are persistently leveled against our regional system of homeless services.

The Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC) is a collaborative and compassionate network that includes 34 local, mission-driven nonprofit agencies and over 200 frontline professionals dedicated to serving our most vulnerable neighbors facing the crisis of homelessness. It's important to share the real story of what’s happening in our community every day to support and serve individuals and families facing homelessness.

Understanding Access and Resources

There seems to be a fundamental misunderstanding between access and resources for homeless services. Adding additional options to access our regional network of homeless services doesn’t mean that there are more programs or shelter beds for those in need. In fact, taking that approach can actually add strain to the system because individuals will be given the false expectation that they’ll be able to get immediate services. Simply put, we can’t give someone what we don’t have.

Right now, individuals can connect with our region’s network of homeless service providers through street outreach workers or the GRCoC Homeless Connection Line (HCL). The HCL was developed by community partners working together to address the homelessness crisis. This work began in 2016 when we reviewed what we heard from people experiencing homelessness and those being served by emergency shelters and other homeless assistance programs. Creating a regional way to access homeless services was paramount and the HCL serves as a key component.

Yet, the need in our region far outpaces the resources we have. Let’s look at a single day earlier this week as an example. On Monday, February 12, 2024, HCL staff spoke with 99 people in a housing crisis in our community. And that’s just one day. That same day, there were no open shelter beds or spaces in housing assistance programs available because those programs were already serving other people in crisis. That day, Feb. 12, 2024, 320 individuals (including families with children) were being served in a year-round emergency shelter; 150 individuals were at the Inclement Weather Shelter; 34 people made contact with a street outreach worker, and 720 people received housing assistance and supportive services in a GRCoC housing program.

The next day, there was one open shelter bed available for those households identified as the most vulnerable in our region. There were an additional five referrals from our coordinated response system (mistakenly referred to as “point of entry”) to permanent housing programs which work to assist our neighbors staying outdoors, in cars, and in shelters due to the lack of enough affordable homes in our region.

Notably, three of the six referrals over this two-day period were to programs funded in October 2023 through a federal grant that supported the regional expansion of services for youth and young adults experiencing homelessness. These referrals demonstrate the impact of additional investments in housing assistance programs.

Our region is facing a resource issue, not an access issue. Individuals have shown that they can contact our regional system. It’s the fact that we don’t have enough capacity in housing assistance and shelter programs that’s the true, and understandable, source of frustration.

Homeward Announces 2024 Winter Point in Time Count

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 16:21:49 GMT

Collecting reliable and consistent regional data about individuals and families experiencing homelessness is crucial in building an effective community-wide response.

Homeward will organize and conduct a Point in Time (PIT) count in the Greater Richmond region on the night of January 24, 2024, and the morning of January 25, 2024.

Findings from the PIT count help our region’s coordinated network of homeless services, the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care, learn about needs in the community from those individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness.

By talking directly to people experiencing homelessness in our region, homeless services providers can lead more effective and impactful community change.

PIT counts are a requirement from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that communities conduct periodic counts of people experiencing homelessness. This data is compiled both locally and nationally to inform programs, planning, and funding. Homeward has coordinated Greater Richmond's PIT counts since 1999. Homeward has used a standard methodology since 2007, which includes publishing PIT count data and trends over time on our website.

As part of statewide coordination, PIT counts are taking place around Virginia on January 24-25, 2024.

Once the Greater Richmond PIT count is complete, Homeward will begin analyzing the data and reporting to federal and state agencies, as required by law. Initial findings from the Winter 2024 PIT count are expected to be released in late February.

GRCoC Commends City of Richmond for Expanding Shelter Services

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 19:43:35 GMT

On behalf of Homeward, we want to thank Mayor Levar Stoney, City Council President Michael Jones, Committee Chair and Councilmember Stephanie Lynch, all of the members of Richmond’s City Council, and the truly dedicated members of the City administration for making this significant and compassionate expansion of homeless assistance available. For 25 years, our community has come together across organizational and jurisdictional differences with a shared goal of reducing the crisis of homelessness.

The Greater Richmond Continuum of Care is a coordinated and compassionate network of homeless service providers in our region supporting our neighbors pushed into homelessness. More than 34 mission-oriented agencies participate in the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care. This collaboration starts with listening to the community. We talk with and listen to our neighbors pushed into homelessness and then work together to overcome obstacles to finding permanent, stable housing in our region. Our local homeless service agencies develop and deliver trauma-informed programming and tackle the complex challenges of securing funding and navigating large service networks in order to meet the needs shared with us by our neighbors. Homeless service providers use what we learn from our neighbors to say yes to helping as many people as possible, but the reality remains that we can’t give someone what we don’t have.

When we expand resources like we are seeing in action today, we can get more people on the pathway to a permanent home.

Today represents a significant step forward on this pathway and we are pleased to support this effort and to be a part of such a compassionate community working to make it possible for all of our neighbors to have a safe place to call home. Here is a link to the remarks made at today’s event by Annette Cousins , the Chair of the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care board. Here’s a link to the letter of support we shared in September and we are looking forward to having additional resources now to continue to our fight against homelessness: https://bit.ly/47U4zlH .

Again, we thank the City Administration and City Council for their strategic and compassionate partnership and collaboration on this important and difficult issue. We’ve seen that additional investments in proven solutions to homelessness result in more people receiving the help they need. We believe that everyone deserves a safe place to call home and commend City leaders for your continued commitment to support our most vulnerable neighbors.

To learn more about how to join us in these efforts as we approach winter, please visit: https://www.homewardva.org/help .

Margot Ackermann Receives Housing Leadership Award at 2023 Virginia Governor’s Housing Conference

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 14:41:40 GMT

Margot Ackermann, Ph.D. is a self-described data enthusiast. At Homeward, she’s particularly proud of using data to help improve the world in tangible ways. Her incredible efforts and enormous impact were honored on November 16th at the 2023 Virginia Governor’s Housing Conference in Hampton. Margot was the inaugural recipient of the Housing Leadership Award. We may be a little biased, but we can’t think of anyone more deserving of this accolade than Margot.

Margot has a unique ability to combine technical expertise and a deep commitment to the dignity of all people experiencing homelessness and housing instability. As Homeward’s Research and Evaluation Director, she is often immersed in spreadsheets and databases and loves using data to answer questions.

Since 2007, Margot has worked to make federally required data collection efforts more user-friendly and relevant for program delivery and funding allocations. She has influenced the field of homeless service practitioners to invest in the ability to collect and analyze program data in order to continually improve and enhance how the greater Richmond region tackles the crisis of homelessness.

Margot’s work is central in supporting more than 200 local practitioners in the Richmond area and an additional 100 practitioners around the Commonwealth to serve more than 8,000 individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness over the course of the year, each year.

She also is a champion of collaboration and recognizes that when we work together, we can have a bigger impact. Beyond the coordinated network of homeless service providers in the Richmond region and three other Continuums of Care, Margot has engaged with other systems of care including community criminal justice, healthcare providers, and state agencies including the state Medicaid program. These analyses and data matching projects have engaged healthcare practitioners and hospital systems and local justice system partners to coordinate referrals for people who are most likely to experience repeated episodes of homelessness and housing instability.

Most notably, Margot centers and uplifts our neighbors pushed into homelessness to ensure that everyone in Virginia has a safe place to call home. Her ability to incorporate and integrate person-centered data that both meets regulatory requirements and amplifies the voices of marginalized populations has transformed how Virginia and local public and private agencies work together to understand the needs of Virginians facing homelessness and housing instability. She has raised the bar for data-driven decision-making while making it possible for local homeless assistance agencies and our public sector partners to reach the raised bar.

Check out this great Q&A with Margot from October 2022 to learn more about her work and how it has evolved over the years.

We also love this video , shown at the Governor’s Housing Conference, about Margot’s impact in helping to solve homelessness in Central Virginia.

Everyone at Homeward is grateful for Margot’s tireless commitment to our mission and inspired by her work. Congratulations to Margot for being the first person honored with the Housing Leadership Award!

Greater Richmond Continuum of Care Announces Seven New and Expanded Programs to Serve Young People Experiencing Homelessness in the Richmond Region

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 18:00:42 GMT

Programs are Funded by $4.4 Million U.S. Housing and Urban Development Grant Announced in 2022

Richmond, VA – October 18, 2023 – The Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC), the Richmond region’s collaborative and compassionate network of homeless service providers, announced the expansion and creation of seven programs specifically designed to serve young people experiencing homelessness in our region. These programs are made possible in large part to a $4,478,877 million grant that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded to the GRCoC in 2022. This federal funding is for a two-year period.

“This grant award has already been impactful and marked the first time that the Richmond region received dedicated youth funding from HUD,” said Frances Marie Pugh, Youth Programs Manager with Homeward. “The programs announced today will ensure that our region can reach more young people facing the trauma of homelessness and help them on a pathway to a permanent home. The planning process has been truly collaborative with a wide array of community partners and we expect that these programs will be transformational for our region.”

Homeward led a planning process to identify the needs of youth experiencing homelessness in the Richmond region and developed a community plan that was submitted to and approved by HUD. As part of the grant award and implementation process, the GRCoC Youth Action Board solicited and reviewed program applications from local homeless service providers. This community-led effort evaluated all the applications and selected seven programs for funding, including:

Commonwealth Catholic Charities Youth Hub Drop In Center: This project will expand the number of hours available for drop in and expand the supports available through the existing Youth Hub. This program offers low-barrier access to in-person services and a safe place to stay during the day.

Virginia Home for Boys and Girls (VHBG) Youth Outreach: This project will add two additional youth outreach workers to the region’s coordinated outreach team. VHBG outreach workers will engage the community on issues around youth homelessness to connect and serve people 18-24 staying in cars or outdoors.

Daily Planet Health Services (DPHS) Peer Support Case Manager: This project will add a Peer Youth Specialist (a person with lived experience) to DPHS’ case management team. This position will serve individuals 18-24 by providing additional levels of support and peer navigation to help participants connect to comprehensive health and supportive services in an effort to obtain and maintain independent housing.

HomeAgain and VHBG Joint Transitional Housing-Rapid Re-Housing: This project will serve individuals and families aged 18-24 through site-based transitional housing (TH) on VHBG’s campus and Rapid Re-Housing (RRH) through the community. This project will have seven TH beds and 15 RRH units.

Housing Families First Joint Transitional Housing-Rapid Re-Housing: This project will serve individuals and families aged 18-24 through site-based transitional housing and Rapid Re-Housing through the community. This project will have 12 TH beds and 26 RRH units.

GRCoC Coordinated Entry System : This project will ensure the infrastructure needs for youth-specific expansions of the existing coordinated entry system to ensure accessibility to youth projects.

Homeward Management Information System (HMIS): This project will ensure the infrastructure needs for youth-specific expansions of the HMIS to ensure accurate data from youth programs and to support Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) efforts.

“Never in my wildest dreams did I think my housing journey would look like this and I never thought I would be homeless,” said Kim Embe, Chair of the GRCoC Youth Action Board and a young person with lived experience of homelessness. “It's something that you're vaguely aware could reasonably happen, especially being someone who has always had to live paycheck to paycheck. I now am in a position to be doing such fulfilling housing work and sharing spaces with some of the most revolutionary people I know, who all share such a passion for addressing and ending homelessness. I can't wait to see what's in store for the rest of YHDP and general housing advocacy work in Richmond.”

Young people aged 18 – 24 who are experiencing homelessness and are single, parenting, or pregnant can qualify for these programs. The GRCoC’s existing coordinated entry system will be used to connect young people to services. They can access information and get connected to services via one of four options:

Youth Hub: Located at 809 Oliver Hill Way in Richmond, open on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday 1pm-4pm. In-person intake and supportive conversations. Stop by or call 804-648-4177.
Coordinated Youth Outreach: One-on-one intake and supportive conversations for young people staying in cars or outdoors. Notification of individual or family sleeping outdoors (google.com)
Homeless Connection Line: Phone-based intake and supportive conversations available Monday - Friday 8am-9pm and Saturday - Sunday 1pm-9pm. Leave a voicemail if all lines are busy and your call will be returned within one business day. Call 804-972-0813.
EmpowerNet: 24/7 phone hotline for domestic/sexual violence shelter, counseling, and crisis assistance. Call 804-612-6126.

To learn more about the youth programs and how our region is using the HUD grant, visit youthrva.org .

Additional information about the GRCoC and community-based efforts to reduce homelessness is available at endhomelessnessrva.org .

Summer Point in Time Count Provides Insights on Homelessness in the Richmond Region

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 11:00:00 GMT

Greater Richmond Continuum of Care Launches Housing Surge in Response to Heightened Unsheltered Homelessness in Region

Richmond, VA – September 7, 2023 – Data from the July 2023 Point in Time (PIT) count continue to show a significant number of individuals and families experiencing homelessness in the Richmond region. The region’s level of homelessness has remained high since the COVID pandemic because need outpaces capacity of local human services assistance programs and affordable housing resources. Additional investment in the regional homeless assistance network is necessary to serve those experiencing homelessness today and to reduce the level of homelessness in the future.

The July 2023 PIT count recorded 486 people experiencing homelessness, which is 8.7 percent higher than the 447 people recorded in the July 2022 PIT count.

“It’s important to remember that these numbers represent real people, our neighbors facing the trauma of homelessness,” said Kelly King Horne, Executive Director with Homeward, which manages PIT counts as the planning agency for the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC). “The findings from the Summer 2023 PIT count should be a call to action to continue our region’s compassionate response to homelessness and invest in proven solutions.”

Housing Surge

In response to the data collected during the July 2023 PIT count, the GRCoC – our region’s coordinated and compassionate network of homeless service providers – has launched a housing surge initiative. This program is currently underway and will continue through December. The goal is to move 50 people off the streets and into permanent housing by the holidays.

Many GRCoC partner agencies are involved in this initiative and working to get 50 people currently living on the streets into a permanent home.

“The housing surge is a direct response to the increased need GRCoC agencies are seeing,” said Michael Rogers, Systems and Continuum of Care Director with Homeward. “This initiative is supplementing the existing and extensive work already done by GRCoC agencies and will help move dozens of more people off the streets and into safe, stable homes. We are grateful for our partnerships with housing providers that make this and other efforts possible.”

Older Adults

Older adults accounted for 41.9 percent of those counted during the July 2023 PIT count, representing a significant percentage. Additionally, 12.3 percent of adults experiencing homelessness were 65 or older.

These populations present unique challenges for housing because they are far more likely to have a disability and limited income. Integrating with other systems of care, such as medical and health care, is vital for serving older adults experiencing homelessness.

Reasons for Homelessness

During the July 2023 PIT count, individuals and families surveyed were asked about the reason for their homelessness. The most common response, from 25.4 percent of those surveyed, was a breakdown in families or other relationships. Additional reasons were eviction at 16 percent, unemployment or job loss at 15.9 percent, and the cost of housing at 10.5 percent.

Economic strain and hardship collectively accounted for over 40 percent of the reason for homelessness in our region. These findings underscore how economic policies and conditions directly impact the rate of homelessness and force more people into homelessness.

Where Can I Get More Information?

Additional information about the July 2023 PIT count, including multiple charts and other data visualization, is available on Homeward’s PIT webpage. This page is updated with the latest data from the count. For media inquiries or questions about the PIT count, please contact Kelly King Horne at kkhorne@homewardva.org.

Homeward Announces Summer 2023 Point in Time Count

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 13:19:28 GMT

Richmond, VA – July 25, 2023 – Collecting reliable and consistent regional data about individuals and families experiencing homelessness is crucial in building an effective community-wide response. Homeward will organize and conduct a Point in Time (PIT) count in the Greater Richmond region on the night of July 26, 2023 and the morning of July 27, 2023

Findings from the PIT count help our region’s coordinated network of homeless services learn about needs in the community from those individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness.

“The Summer PIT count will help our region better understand the needs of our neighbors experiencing homelessness,” said Kelly King Horne, Homeward’s Executive Director. “We also will ask new questions, including how those experiencing unsheltered homelessness plan for weather emergencies, such as extreme heat or cold.”

By talking directly to people experiencing homelessness in our region, homeless services providers can lead more effective and impactful community change.

Reporters are invited to observe the Summer 2023 PIT count. Any members of the media interested in participating must register directly with Homeward to ensure that all Federal privacy rules are followed. To register, email Horne at kkhorne@homewardva.org .

“The PIT counts in January and July are an important part of our efforts to ensure our region’s response to homelessness is grounded in listening to those who are most impacted,” Horne added.

Once the Greater Richmond PIT count is complete, Homeward will begin analyzing the data and reporting to federal and state agencies, as required by law. Initial findings from the Summer 2023 PIT count are expected to be released in late August.

The Power of Public Private Partnerships

Mon, 22 May 2023 19:32:28 GMT

When the public sector and private sector align their missions and resources to find solutions to homelessness, they can make a bigger impact.

Finding enduring solutions to homelessness is a challenging and complex process. The Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC) – our region’s collaborative and compassionate network of 34 mission-driven agencies supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness – has established a thorough system to research, identify, and implement proven solutions. Keeping individuals at the center of this process is crucial. GRCoC decisions are informed by the lived experience of our neighbors experiencing homelessness.

A key component of the GRCoC’s strategy has been to leverage public private partnerships. Working together, public and private entities are able to maximize resources and help more people in need.

As the chair of the GRCoC Board of Directors and a community volunteer, I’ve seen these partnerships work firsthand. I am often asked how the public and private sectors collaborate when I talk about solutions to homelessness, so I thought it would be helpful to breakdown the importance of public private partnerships.

Let’s take a closer look at this form of collaboration and why it’s so powerful!

What Are Public Private Partnerships?

A public private partnership is a collaborative relationship between the public sector – i.e., government entities – and the private sector. Regarding public private partnerships to address homelessness in Central Virginia, these efforts are most often between local governments and nonprofit organizations with missions to support individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

What Role Do Local Governments Play?

Local governments play a critical role in how our region addresses homelessness, particularly through public private partnerships. Three roles come to mind immediately. First, elected officials serve as key advocates to lift up existing and proven community-based work. Second, they can shape public policy to reflect established best practices. Third, local governments are investors in community-based approaches to solving homelessness. By allocating public funds, local governments align their priorities with the deep expertise at the GRCoC. Local governments can make long-term investments that support the dignity of all their constituents.

What’s a Recent Example?

On December 12, 2022, the Richmond City Council formally approved an ordinance that included a $1,000,000 allocation to Homeward on behalf of the GRCoC. This funding will support homelessness services and was the result of months of collaboration between City leaders, Homeward, and GRCoC members. The money will specifically address the needs of individuals and families in the City of Richmond who are experiencing unsheltered homelessness. Any organization that wants to access these funds must demonstrate that their project will reduce unsheltered homelessness for City residents. Proposals are submitted to the GRCoC Ranking Committee for initial review. That ranking review

includes GRCoC members, Homeward staff, and representatives from the City. Funding allocation is endorsed by the Ranking Committee and submitted to the GRCoC Board of Directors for approval. This process ensures a community-led review that prioritizes lived experience and requires proposals to clearly demonstrate a path to success. Some of the types of programs that are likely to be funded include housing-focused case management, outreach, and emergency shelter operations. Thanks to the City of Richmond’s investment in the GRCoC its residents will have access to more high-quality services that create a path to a safe and stable home.

How Can I Help?

We always welcome individuals to help us advocate for and support our region’s most vulnerable neighbors. There are three ways you can help today:

1. Support Public Private Partnerships: Contact your City Council member or County Supervisor and tell them that you support more public resources to address homelessness. You also can tell them that you want to see increased support for high quality providers that are committed to utilizing best practices to address homelessness.

2. Educate Yourself about Solutions to Homelessness: We appreciate your interest in supporting our region’s efforts to solve homelessness and encourage you to learn more about proven programs that work. T he Greater Richmond Continuum of Care website has a lot of great info. You also can check out the Fast Facts – PHA (pharva.com) on housing instability in our region. Be sure to share what you’ve learned with others!

3. Donate and Help: If you’re moved to donate your time and resources or want to identify additional ways to support individuals and families experiencing homelessness, Homeward’s website has a great resource to give help.

Homeward to Host Best Practices Conference

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 18:33:24 GMT

Richmond, VA – April 20, 2022 – Homeward – the planning agency for the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC), a network of homeless service providers that deliver coordinated and compassionate solutions to homelessness in the Richmond region – will host its annual Best Practices Conference on Friday, April 28, 2023 at The Westin Richmond hotel in Henrico County.

The conference also marks the beginning of celebrations for Homeward’s 25th anniversary.

More than 150 attendees, including public and private partners, are expected to gather to learn together and recognize the collective impact of our region’s coordinated response to homelessness.

“This conference brings together leaders in homeless services to share critical insights so we can support more of our region’s most vulnerable neighbors,” said Kelly King Horne, executive director of Homeward. “Plus, we can take a moment to celebrate the incredible progress made over the past 25 years while acknowledging significant work is still needed to meet our region’s growing needs.”

The conference brings together homeless service providers, funders, advocates, and others. Workshops focused on connecting people facing homelessness to federal, state, and local supportive services, including addiction resources, youth employment programs, and school-based resources.

Additional topics include sessions about affordable housing policies and how our regional network can support the efforts to increase deeply affordable housing in the Greater Richmond area.

Horne added, “The knowledge shared will empower homeless service agencies to work smarter, connect the dots, and maximize limited resources.”

For additional information about the Best Practices Conference, please email info@homewardva.org.

Q & A with Melanie McDonald

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 17:40:32 GMT

Melanie McDonald’s work with Homeward is largely behind-the-scenes. It is also vital to Homeward's successful operation.

Melanie McDonald’s work with Homeward primarily happens behind the scenes. Although most people who interact with Homeward might not collaborate with Melanie directly, her efforts are critical to the organization’s ability to fulfill its mission. As Homeward’s Grants and Compliance Manager, she ensures that grants are implemented properly and Homeward is set up for success.

Melanie joined Homeward in 2006 and over the past 17 years she has been a driving force behind Homeward serving our region’s most vulnerable neighbors.

Given her important role and insights, we thought it would be great to ask her a few questions.

Question: What is your role at Homeward?

Answer: Currently, I serve as Homeward’s Grants and Compliance Manager. In this role, one of my responsibilities is to manage public grants that Homeward has been awarded. I focus on optimizing the use of funds from multiple public sources, and ensuring that the funds are used within the parameters set by the grant agreements. This work also assures that the money we receive is used effectively and can impact as many people as possible.

There are also significant administrative needs related to Homeward managing HMIS (a federally mandated database of individuals receiving homeless services). More than 360 homeless services staff across 20 communities in the state use a shared database to understand the needs of people experiencing homeless and coordinate services to solve their homelessness.

In addition to grant compliance, I also administer a wide array of operational functions, including insurance procurement, risk management, employee benefits administration, payroll review, vendor contract management, accounting and bookkeeping support, and regulatory compliance.

Q: Your role is vital to Homeward’s ability to operate successfully and it’s also work that doesn’t get “seen” out in the field. Is there anything you wish more people knew or understood about the behind-the-scenes work that happens at Homeward?

A: The process for receiving and using public funds to fulfill the mission of a nonprofit is complex and highly regulated. I believe it is in the best interest of everyone (the clients who receive services, the nonprofits who provide the services, and the tax payers who provide the public funds) that money from public sources is spent ethically and effectively. I work to ensure that Homeward has systems and processes in place to ensure that we remain good stewards of public funds.

Q: How has your work at Homeward changed over the years?

A: When I started at Homeward, we were a staff of seven. My responsibilities were more generalized. At that time we all wore many hats. As the organization has grown over the years (we now have 13 full-time and 8 part-time staff), and the number of public grants has increased, I have been able to move into my current role.

Q: What motivates you in this work?

A: Knowing that my work helps our team succeed and support more people in need. While I don’t interact with people experiencing homelessness every day, I do sometimes have opportunities to talk with them. Whenever this happens, I’m reminded why I work here.

When I first joined Homeward 17 years ago, I was looking for a position where I could apply my skills and energy to something that felt more real to me. At Homeward, I found a group of creative, dedicated people who are working to solve a very real challenge. At the end of each work week, I know that my efforts have enabled Homeward’s staff to have a bigger impact. I’m still thrilled to be here!

Winter Point in Time Provides Insight on Homelessness

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 14:27:01 GMT

Unsheltered Homelessness More Than Doubled in January 2023.

Richmond, VA – March 8, 2023 – Homeward today released initial findings from the Winter 2023 Point in Time (PIT) count that occurred in January 2023. Data show that a significant number of individuals and families continue to experience homelessness in the Richmond region. The January 2023 PIT count recorded 690 people experiencing homelessness, which is one percent lower than the PIT count in January 2022.

Although the total number of people experiencing homelessness in our region remained essentially flat compared to January 2022, the Winter 2023 PIT count did record a significant increase in the number of people experiencing unsheltered homelessness. The number of people who were staying in unsheltered conditions increased by 121 percent from 85 people in January 2022 to 188 people in January 2023. This is the largest number of people staying outdoors, in cars, and other places not meant for habitation that were counted as part of a Winter PIT count in at least the past 15 years.

“While the total number of individuals experiencing homelessness in January 2023 is similar to 2022, with pandemic resources fully exhausted by last year, the number of people who were staying in unsheltered conditions more than doubled,” said Kelly King Horne, Executive Director with Homeward, which manages PIT counts as the planning agency for the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC). “This challenge will require additional resources to support our region’s coordinated and compassionate system of homeless service providers. Our region also must prioritize building more housing to ensure that everyone can afford a place to call home.”

What is the PIT Count?

Conducted by Homeward, the federally-mandated PIT count took place on the night of January 25, 2023, and the morning of January 26, 2023, and included individuals and families staying in shelters and living outside or in other places not meant for habitation. This single day count provides a snapshot of changes and trends over time. PIT data are based on the actual numbers of people counted by experienced and trained volunteers. In addition to the count, a sample of individuals were surveyed about their experiences, which provides further insight directly from people with current lived experience of homelessness.

“Individuals counted during the PIT count are our neighbors,” noted Horne. “They are people in our community who we collectively engage every day of the year, not just at this one time.”

Solutions for Homelessness

Recent progress in addressing homelessness in 2021 and 2022 can be attributed to increased funding for GRCoC partner agencies and expanded capacity. These added resources enabled agencies to provide more services and access to more stable housing options.

As predicted, the scheduled closure of emergency shelters established during the pandemic likely contributed to higher rates of unsheltered homelessness among our region’s most vulnerable neighbors.

Although greater funding for homeless services is important, low rental vacancy rates and the lack of deeply affordable housing remain critical challenges in our region.

“There is a direct correlation between additional resources and expanded housing options with lower rates of homelessness,” added Horne. “Our region has a number of local programs with proven records of success helping individuals and families get on the path to safe and stable housing. We need to prioritize these solutions as well as create more permanent supportive and deeply affordable housing.”

Where Can I Get More Information?

Additional information about the January 2023 PIT count, including multiple charts and other data visualization, is available on Homeward’s PIT webpage . This page is updated with the latest data from the count.

You also can read blog posts about previous PIT counts, including the Summer 2022 PIT Count and Winter 2022 PIT Count .

Homeward Announces 2023 Winter Point-in-Time Count

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 14:33:19 GMT

Collecting reliable and consistent regional data about individuals and families experiencing homelessness is crucial in building an effective community-wide response.

That’s why the Point in Time (PIT) counts that take place in January and July each year are so important. Homeward has just announced that it will organize and conduct the Winter 2023 PIT count in the Greater Richmond region on the night of January 25, 2023 and the morning of January 26, 2023.

Findings from the PIT count help our region’s coordinated network of homeless services learn about needs in the community from those individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness.

By talking directly to people experiencing homelessness in our region, homeless services providers can lead more effective and impactful community change. Our region’s PIT count this month is part of a statewide effort to conduct counts simultaneously around Virginia.

Keep an eye on our blog for data from the Winter 2023 PIT count. Initial findings are expected in late February. Learn more about previous PIT counts and review data that’s been collected on our website.