Housing Is the "EpiPen" for Homelessness — But We Need Enough of Them
August 18, 2025
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.
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.
Sometimes, it’s the unexpected moments that reveal the strength of a system—and the compassion behind it.
“I truly enjoy helping people navigate through different circumstances and creating a space for them to be seen and heard.”
"In every aspect of homeless services, the principal question is always how decisions will impact someone who is currently experiencing homelessness."
“Engaging with people and building community motives me.”
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.
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.
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 .
Amount Includes Over $1.5 Million in New Project Funds
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:
