RICHMOND, Va. — Richmond City leaders are set to take up what’s being called a historic investment in homeless services.
Next week, the city council will vote on giving the Salvation Army $7 million to operate an inclement weather shelter as well as a year-round shelter at 1900 Chamberlayne Avenue for ten years – significantly expanding the capacity of available beds.
Not only that, but the measures up for consideration would also establish an array of resources and programming to address job readiness, financial education, life skills, and mental health support.
However, a point of contention remains between city officials and leaders within the regional homeless connection network: How will people in need access services?
Right now, if someone in Central Virginia becomes homeless or is three days away from becoming homeless, they really only have one option to try and access help. They have to call the Homeless Connection Line.
But CBS 6 has spoken to many people in the past who have faced challenges trying to get someone on the line to answer or call back.