RVA group urges $7M grant for homeless shelter upgrades

Richmond faces a pressing need for improved homelessness support, prompting a community initiative focused on upgrading local shelters. The group RVA Women Lifting Up Hope has spearheaded a fundraising effort to help secure the necessary resources for the Salvation Army’s planned expansion, known as the ‘Center of Hope’. Founder Jacquelin Aronson was moved to action after visiting the Chamberlayne Avenue shelter and witnessing the challenges firsthand, which led to a call for collective support.
The core of this campaign is a $100 donation drive, targeting 10,000 participants to collectively raise $1 million. This amount is crucial for unlocking a $7 million grant from the City of Richmond, intended to build the new facility. The initiative highlights the need for better infrastructure to serve those without stable housing, emphasizing the shared responsibility of the community.
Lionel Bacon, the Salvation Army’s Community Relations and Development Director, stressed the importance of dignity and hope in the design of the new Center of Hope. He noted that the upgrades must be thorough to meet the needs of residents, ensuring the facility provides a safe and respectful environment. The project represents a significant step forward in addressing housing insecurity in the area.
The broader community is being encouraged to contribute, with 12 On Your Side matching the initial donation of $300 to show support. This collaborative approach underscores the need for public policy that prioritizes care for vulnerable neighbors and adequate funding for essential services. As individuals reach out to those in need, they reflect the biblical call to speak up for the oppressed and uphold justice, as in Proverbs 31:8-9.
For the ‘Center of Hope’ to become a reality, sustained involvement from the public is vital. The group invites women and men to join in supporting the upgrades, recognizing that compassionate action and wise stewardship of resources are key to fostering a more just and merciful society. By contributing, supporters can help ensure that the shelter meets the highest standards, providing refuge and dignity to those seeking assistance.

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