ABOUT US
Helping families and individuals experiencing homelessness secure and maintain a Home, Again.
In 2017, HomeAgain served 770 individuals across 540 households including men, women, children, and veterans!
“With your help, HomeAgain is able to help end homelessness for over 500 households each year, getting them back on the road to stability. Safe, decent, and affordable housing does transform lives and boosts potential! It is difficult to be successful without it! Thank you for your support.” – Lorae D. Ponder, Executive Director
ORGANIZATION’S HISTORY & TIMELINE
HISTORY
1979
In 1979, a group of concerned citizens began meeting to discuss the issue of homelessness in Richmond and the surrounding areas. This group consisted of people from area churches and human service agencies. A needs assessment was conducted and funds were sought to provide shelter for those in need.
1980
In 1980, the group became a 501(c)(3) non-profit agency under the name Emergency Shelter Inc. The agency began providing shelter on a temporary basis in the firehouse at 200 West Marshall Street. Over 483 individuals were served at the firehouse in 2 ½ months! A major fundraising campaign began to raise money for a building.
1981
In 1981, over $52,000 had been raised and a building for shelter was secured at 2 East Main Street. This beautiful home serves homeless women and children today and remains a core program of HomeAgain.
1994
In 1994, Emergency Shelter Inc. purchased and renovated 11 West Grace Street for the Men’s Emergency Shelter. Today this facility serves 28 gentlemen experiencing a housing crisis each night.
1996
In 1996, a transitional program for women and children was created. This program housed families in area apartments for up to two years. Today this program has evolved into the Family INRICH Transitional program serving families in a variety of compositions, unaccompanied men, and unaccompanied women who live in scattered site apartments.
1998-2001
In 1998, Emergency Shelter Inc. began a partnership with the Veterans Administration and opened a beautiful facility on the Hunter-Holmes McGuire Medical Center in 2001. This program remains the largest transitional housing program for homeless veterans in the area.
2005
In 2005, the agency’s name was changed to HomeAgain in order to better represent our mission within the community.
2012
In the fall of 2012, the agency began providing permanent supportive housing to families who are experiencing a housing crisis in which an adult member of the household has a disability. This program was created to meet an unmet need in the community and provides a permanent solution to homelessness for the families that are served.