RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The Richmond City Council made a big move in Monday night’s meeting – investing millions in the city’s homeless services.
City leaders voted ‘yes’ to giving the Salvation Army of Central Virginia $7 million to make several major changes to the shelter on Chamberlayne Avenue in the city’s southside.
“I think there’s just amazing potential,” said Councilwoman Kristen Nye, who represents the city’s 4th District. “This is a first ever that we’re doing in the City of Richmond — a walk-up resource center for people that are in some sort of housing crisis or need wraparound support.”
The Salvation Army will use the money, along with other funds, to operate an inclement weather shelter and a-year-round emergency shelter in the city.
“It’s an all-hands-on-deck affair,” said Councilwoman Ann-Frances Lambert, who represents the city’s 3rd District. “It’s going to take collaboration, communication and community to make this a success.”
Stephen Bastche, Executive Director of Program Services for the Salvation Army of Central Virginia, said the goal is to increase capacity.
“It allows us to open a new 50-bed emergency shelter,” said Batsche. “This would be a year-round shelter for single men.”
Additionally, a part of the shelter will be used as a resource center operated by the city to connect those experiencing homelessness with mental and physical support.
Lastly, the money will eventually transform the location into a multi-purpose facility offering programs for financial education, job readiness and even substance abuse counseling to families and adults.
“I think it’s it’s going to be a game changer in our city,” said Nye.
In Monday night’s meeting, Richmond resident Cora Hayes voiced her opposition to the ordinances, asking if the Salvation Army has a group overseeing the conditions of their current shelters. But later in her remarks, she said that Councilwoman Stephanie Lynch, who represents the city’s 5th District, said an advisory group will be put into place to help administer services.
“We’re we’re in it for the long haul,” said Batsch. “The city of Richmond is gaining a long-term site that they can count on year after year, and the Salvation Army is an experienced operator. And so I think for the city of Richmond, I think that’s a it’s a benefit and a plus for everybody.”
City leaders have not yet responded to an inquiry from 8News about a timeline for the shelter plans.
