HAMPTON ROADS, Va. - The COVID-19 pandemic caused a surge in housing costs and a rise in unemployment, leaving nearly 600,000 families unhoused in 2020, according to the National Alliance.
Some Virginia representatives are stepping in to end homelessness and fix other problems caused by the pandemic.
Virginia representative Elaine Luria announced $2 million in funding from the Department of Housing And Urban Development to help organizations across Hampton roads help people experiencing homelessness.
The grant comes soon after Virginia Beach Police shared photos of a homeless camp cleanup that they’ve been monitoring for months.
According to Luria, the funding from The Department of Housing and Urban Development will help nonprofits get people off the streets and into permanent housing options.
Rep. Elaine Luria says, “Serving in the military, I have definitely met and worked with and have Sailors work for me whose families came from difficult situations where they grew up without having a secure home and just understanding the challenges that prevent families, young people with the ability to be successful in life.”
The funding is part of the $2.6 billion from the Continuum of Care Competition Awards where Virginia will receive more than $34 million for various projects across the commonwealth.
Here is a breakdown of the funding awarded to Virginia’s Second Congressional District:
Norfolk
- Shelter Plus Care FY21 $595,774
Virginia Beach:
- Samaritan House - Rapid Re-Housing 1, 2, 3 and 5 (5 is for domestic violence) $691,383
- Community Alternatives Management Group, Inc. - CAMG 34 FY2021 $416,746
- LGBT Life Center - CHAP Virginia Beach Expansion Renewal FY21 $209,285
- StandUp For Kids - SUFK Youth RRH $126,178
- The Planning Council - FY2021 VB HMIS Project $62,721
- Judeo-Christian Outreach Center - JCOC Affordable Housing $61,888
- City of Virginia Beach - CoC Planning Grant $53,169
- Virginia Beach Community Development Corporation - Renewed Hope $134,162
- Virginia Beach Community Development Corporation - New Haven $13,173
- Virginia Beach Community Development Corporation - Veterans First $77,473
Newport News, Hampton/Virginia Peninsula:
- City of Hampton Department of Human Services - FY2021 GVPHC Planning Project $57,04
