During the Richmond City Education and Human Services Standing Committee meeting on January 16, 2025, a pressing call for action emerged regarding the city's ongoing homelessness crisis. Committee members expressed frustration over the lack of adequate shelter and support systems for individuals experiencing homelessness, emphasizing the urgent need for a dedicated building to serve as a shelter.

One committee member passionately stated, "Give me a building. That's all I'm asking," highlighting the city's numerous vacant properties that could potentially be repurposed to address this critical issue. The discussion underscored the inadequacies of the current system, particularly the challenges faced by individuals trying to access services through the existing Joint Regional Coalition on Homelessness (JRCOC). The hotline for assistance has been criticized for its poor responsiveness, leaving many without the help they need.

The committee is advocating for additional physical locations that would allow for coordinated entry and intake services, aiming to meet individuals where they are. This approach is seen as essential to not only provide immediate shelter but also to facilitate long-term solutions, including the development of deeply affordable housing. However, the committee acknowledged that funding for such housing initiatives has historically fallen short, complicating efforts to create a sustainable inventory of affordable units.

The meeting also addressed the need for collaboration among various stakeholders, including housing authorities, developers, and city administration, to gather data on the availability of housing at 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI) and below. Without this information, the committee believes it will be challenging to formulate effective strategies to combat homelessness.

As the committee continues to grapple with these issues, members expressed a commitment to improving the current system and ensuring that families and individuals in crisis are not left without support. The urgency of the situation was palpable, with committee members recognizing the immediate need for solutions while also planning for long-term strategies to prevent homelessness in the future.