The Inclement Weather Shelter

On October 11, 2021, Richmond City Council approved $1,781,510 in federal funds to implement a new Inclement Weather Shelter. Commonwealth Catholic Charities (CCC) is collaborating with the City and will operate the new shelter. 

The City’s Department of Housing and Community Development identified several options for the proposed shelter. Option #1, and the preferred choice based on cost effectiveness and capacity, was to assist CCC to expand their facility located on Oliver Hill Way to provide emergency shelter to single adult individuals from inclement weather starting this fall. CCC already provides outreach, meals, and services to persons experiencing homelessness. Additionally, through a partnership with the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GRCoC) and a contract with the State, CCC currently operates a Non-Congregate Program utilizing local hotels. By expanding their Oliver Hill Way facility, at least 75 individuals seeking shelter may be served.

The new shelter considers the recommendations from the GRCoC’s Seasonal Shelter Taskforce and the City’s 2020-2030 Strategic Plan to End Homelessness.

Funding will support the proposed project, which utilizes a two-prong approach.

The first prong includes operating a temporary shelter site at a local hotel, the Quality Inn. The temporary location will be used until the renovation is completed at Oliver Hill Way. The shelter, while at the temporary site, will operate 12-15 hours per day.

The second prong is the renovation of the permanent site at Oliver Hill Way, which will operate 24/7. 

Services provided at both sites include case management, two meals per day, showers, vaccination opportunities, and the connection to healthcare/counseling and other needed resources, if occupants so choose. In addition, onsite security will be available at both the temporary and permanent sites. The new shelter is anticipated to open in early November.

The overall service delivery and funding strategy for homeless services in the region is the responsibility of the GRCoC. The City appreciates its collaboration with the GRCoC. As a member of the Continuum of Care, it will continue to work in partnership toward the ultimate goal of alleviating homelessness and providing stable, permanent housing options for all residents.