Amy Popovich outlines goals for Richmond's homeless services and opioid response initiatives

The Richmond City Education and Human Services Meeting held on July 10, 2025, focused on critical updates regarding homelessness services and substance use response initiatives. The meeting commenced with a welcome to Deputy Chief Administrative Officer (DCAO) Amy Popovich and her team, who provided insights into recent community engagement efforts and action items stemming from a mid-April meeting.

Popovich highlighted the collaborative nature of the previous community conversation, which included stakeholders from various organizations, such as GRTC leadership and local faith partners, all working towards addressing homelessness in Richmond. She emphasized the importance of these discussions in shaping actionable goals.

One significant update was the establishment of the Office of Opioid and Substance Use Response, with Anna Jones set to begin as the new coordinator. Popovich also announced the installation of naloxone vending machines, aimed at combating substance use issues in the community.

The meeting then transitioned to the discussion of four key goals related to homelessness services. The first goal focused on increasing bed capacity during extreme weather conditions. Popovich reported that the Salvation Army currently provides 106 beds for inclement weather but noted the need for additional capacity, especially during severe winter nights. To address this, a partnership with Caritas was proposed, which includes a budget of $618,000 to support 60 additional beds for individuals over 30 nights throughout the year. This initiative aims not only to provide immediate shelter during extreme weather but also to enhance year-round support for individuals experiencing homelessness.

Following Popovich's presentation, Tiffany Ford, Director of Neighborhood and Community Services, was invited to discuss the remaining goals, indicating a continued commitment to improving services for the unhoused population in Richmond.

The meeting underscored the city's proactive approach to addressing homelessness and substance use, with a focus on collaboration and resource allocation to meet the needs of vulnerable populations. Further updates and discussions are expected as the city moves forward with these initiatives.