$12 Million in Grants Secured by Virginia to Fight Against Homelessness
The Commonwealth of Richmond, Virginia is set to receive over $12 million in Virginia Housing Trust Fund Homeless Reduction Grants to tackle the issue of homelessness, as declared by Gov. Youngkin. This significant financial injection will be targeted at efforts to minimize and ultimately eradicate homelessness across the state.
The allocation of this funding underscores Virginia’s commitment to assisting some 2,669 individuals and families who are grappling with homelessness. The funds will be strategically invested in 25 permanent supportive housing projects, 34 rapid rehousing initiatives, and nine innovative schemes aimed at addressing the needs of underrepresented population groups.
Governor Youngkin expressed his delight over this development, emphasizing that these funds are a critical investment in the state’s well-being. He stated, “A crucial aspect of attracting new businesses to the Commonwealth is ensuring the availability of housing to support these economic endeavors.” Youngkin further added, “This funding will enable us to safeguard our most vulnerable communities, tackle the shortage of housing in Virginia, and work towards making homelessness in the Commonwealth a rare, short-term, and non-reoccurring phenomenon.”
This substantial funding comes from the Virginia Housing Trust Fund, provided by the General Assembly. The current grant allocation represents 20 percent of the fund’s total investment for this fiscal year, according to an official press release.
The remaining funds will reportedly be channeled towards the creation of new housing units or the rehabilitation of existing ones, through the Affordable and Special Needs Housing Program.
In terms of the distribution of the 2023 Homeless Reduction Grant, several projects within the region were earmarked to receive a portion of the funds. These include initiatives spearheaded by the Valley Community Services Board, the Council of Community Services, The Haven at First & Market, Miriam’s House, and New River Community Action Inc.
Each of these projects is centered around addressing homelessness within various counties and cities, ranging from the City of Buena Vista and Highland County under the Valley Community Services Board, to Amherst County, Appomattox County, Bedford County, Town of Bedford, Campbell County, and the City of Lynchburg for projects run by Miriam’s House.
For a comprehensive list of all the initiatives set to benefit from the 2023 Homeless Reduction Grant, individuals are encouraged to click here.
