New data released by Homeward, a regional organization coordinating homelessness services in Central Virginia, has revealed a significant spike in homelessness across the Richmond region. The data, collected during the summer of 2023, shows an 8.7% increase in the number of individuals experiencing homelessness compared to the previous year. The Point-in-Time Count conducted by Homeward identified 486 individuals experiencing homelessness, with a notable rise in unsheltered homelessness. This refers to individuals who stay outdoors, in cars, or other uninhabitable places.
The data also highlighted that a significant portion of those affected by homelessness in the Richmond region were over the age of 55. Relationship breakdowns were cited as the primary cause of homelessness, followed by evictions and employment challenges. Kelly King Horne, the executive director of Homeward, expressed concern over the elevated count of unsheltered homelessness, which remains higher than historical averages seen in the region before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Richmond region, which includes the city of Richmond, Ashland, and surrounding counties, has seen a troubling rise in homelessness. Winter point-in-time counts conducted in January 2022 and January 2023 reported 85 and 188 unsheltered individuals, respectively. The latest data from Homeward's count indicated that individuals aged 55 and older accounted for 40% of the homeless population. Relationship breakdowns were identified as the primary cause of homelessness for a quarter of those affected, while evictions and employment-related issues were also significant factors.
Despite efforts to address the issue, Richmond lacks a year-round shelter to support its homeless population. In May 2021, the council requested funding from the federal homelessness assistance program to establish a year-round shelter, but none of the allocated funds were used for this purpose. The recent data underscores the urgent need for comprehensive and sustainable solutions to tackle homelessness in the Richmond region.
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