Richmond, VA – January 22, 2021 – Homeward today has released new, verified data on the number of people served in 2020 by coordinated shelter programs and the Homeless Crisis Line (HCL). Homeward and its partner agencies served thousands of our most vulnerable neighbors during an especially challenging year. 

Emergency shelters served 2,927 people in 2020. More than 128,000 shelter bed nights were recorded and 1,274 people who were served reported that their last residence was not meant for habitation. 

Total call volume for the HCL was more than 52,000 calls in 2020. Although not unique callers -- some individuals called multiple times -- this volume highlights the increased need for homeless services and support last year. In 2020, the HCL served 4,461 people who were homeless or within three days of losing their housing. HCL Diversion Specialists connected these individuals to housing resources, permanent housing, and shelter programs. 

Data about the shelter programs and HCL was collected from the shared confidential database used by the homeless services network. This data meets or exceeds federal requirements for data collection and service coordination to address homelessness. This data includes single adults and family units that include adults and children. 

The HCL offers trained Diversion Specialists who can assist households within three days of losing their housing to problem-solve, connect to community resources, and connect to homeless assistance if needed.

We here at River City Consulting are so proud to have been able to design Homeward's new website. To view the new site, visit www.homewardva.org and donate to this incredible organization today!