Homelessness Resources

shelter richmond vaThere are a number of ways you can join CARITAS and our partners in making a difference in the lives of people experiencing homelessness. By doing so, you help people find pathway to self-sufficiency and dignity.

How Can I Help a Homeless Person I Meet?

You can direct them to a number of local services:

  • Homeward’s Street Sheet features a list of resources for people experiencing homelessness including law enforcement, shelter information, mental health resources, and more.
  • If you or someone is 3 days or less away from losing housing or are already experiencing homelessness, call the Homeless Connection Line at 804-972-0813. This phone line facilitates access to resources and shelter alternatives.
  • Dial “211” for utilities/rent/mortgage and other human and social service assistance.
  • A list of more service providers can be found at www.yourunitedway.org, www.giverichmond.org.
  • For legal resources, visit courtsystem.org.

How Else Can I End Homelessness in the Richmond Area?

There are a number of ways to join CARITAS and our partners to create a brighter community for everyone.

How Can I Help a Panhandler?

Professionals working in human and homeless services recognize that all panhandlers are not homeless. Only a small percentage of people experiencing homelessness panhandle. Click here to learn more about panhandling.

What is a Coordinated Entry System?

CARITAS is a member of the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care, which seeks to prevent, reduce, and end homelessness through effective and coordinated community-wide efforts. CARITAS and The Healing Place work with 20+ other organizations in Richmond to set policies, track homeless individuals, and ensure individuals and families in Richmond are receiving access to emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing.

How Does CARITAS Help People Get Housing?

CARITAS has two housing coordinators on our team. They help navigate the complicated housing system alongside our program participants to find affordable housing options. The goal is to help the men and women in our program transition into safe, stable housing after a housing crisis. CARITAS believes in a Housing First model, which prioritizes stable housing so that men and women can focus on moving forward to reach their medical, professional, and personal goals.  Learn More About Rapid Rehousing.

How Many People are Homeless in the Richmond area?

Homeward collects data via a bi-annual point-in-time counts of people experiencing homelessness and through the Homeward Community Information System (HCIS) database.  Click here for the latest data on the homeless population in the Greater Richmond area.