– Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin and the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has reaffirmed his commitment to addressing homelessness in the State of Virginia by awarding a $12 million boost to support 55 projects in the Commonwealth. Bay Aging, a leading non-profit 501(c)(3) dedicated to providing programs and services that people of all ages need to live independently in their communities, has been selected as one of the recipients of this funding, marking a significant step forward in the battle against homelessness.
With homelessness continuing to be a pressing issue nationwide, the Virginia Housing Trust Fund Homeless Reduction Grant Program recognizes the importance of investing in organizations that provide sustainable solutions and support to those in need. Bay Aging and DHCD share a common goal: to reduce homelessness throughout Virginia. Bay Aging has a proven track record of delivering impactful programs and services to vulnerable populations across the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula, having assisted 534 people and 210 families with rapid rehousing services between October 2022 – September 2023.
“In the pursuit of sustainable economic growth and a thriving business landscape, it is imperative that we develop responsive housing solutions,” said Governor Youngkin. “This funding not only safeguards our most vulnerable citizens, but also addresses the changing housing needs of all Virginians.”
Bay Aging’s Rapid Re-housing program has been awarded $60,000 and Bay Aging’s Scattered Site Permanent Supportive Housing 2024 program has been awarded $265,823. The allocation of funds to Bay Aging underscores DHCD’s dedication to fostering collaboration with community-based organizations to tackle complex social challenges. The award will enable Bay Aging to expand its efforts in providing housing assistance, case management, and supportive services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
“The negative health impacts of homelessness on families and individuals is substantial. Bay Aging’s Homeless Solutions Program is directly addressing social determinants of health, including Economic Stability, Education and Health Care Access and Quality, Neighborhood and Built Environment, and Social and Community Context” said Angie Alley, Bay Aging Assistant Director, Housing Services.
The partnership between DHCD and Bay Aging exemplifies a collaborative approach to addressing homelessness, leveraging resources and expertise to invoke lasting change in communities across Virginia. Together, they are working toward a future where every individual has access to safe and stable housing. Bay Aging serves as the Lead Agency of the Northern Neck Middle Peninsula Housing Coalition, one of 12 Virginia Local Planning Groups under the DHCD Balance of State Continuum of Care.
“American citizens are confronting record-breaking cost of living increases that leave many just one crisis away from homelessness. One might be surprised to learn that the single greatest systemic cause of homelessness across the nation is a lack of affordable housing. Additionally, the negative health impacts of homelessness on families and individuals are substantial. This combination is especially challenging for older adults who live on fixed incomes and suffer from chronic illnesses” stated Angie Alley. “With the assistance of our community partners, Bay Aging’s Homeless Solutions Program seeks to prevent, reduce, and alleviate homelessness through effective and coordinated community-wide efforts and service.”
