"My life has changed so much. I can now take care of myself."
Before moving in to VSH's supportive studio apartments, Ben was homeless for many years due to a disability. He feels that having support services staff right in his building has been a tremendous help. They assisted Ben when he applied for disability income. Now he is able pay his own way.

PROGRAMS

Financial Foundations Housing Access Support Services

Mother taking care of her two boys in their apartment

Shelter Plus Care (S+C)

S+C is a federally funded HUD program that provides rental subsidies and necessary supports to those who are formally homeless with a disability (mental health, substance abuse, and/or AIDS). The City of Richmond, Department of Social Services, is the program Grantee, and VSH serves as the program sponsor. Shelter Plus Care is currently at capacity, serving 130 individuals and many family members.

Who qualifies for S+C?

To qualify for S+C services, the client must meet the following criteria:

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Be homeless (as defined by HUD)
  • Have a disability (as defined by HUD) - specifically Serious Mental Illness, Chronic Substance Abuse, and/or AIDS
  • Be receiving long-term case management services from a partner agency

Who are the S+C Partner agencies?

  • Chesterfield Mental Health
  • CARITAS
  • Henrico Mental Health
  • Home Again
  • Freedom House
  • OAR
  • Richmond Behavioral Health Authority

How does someone become a part of S+C?

Each partner agency maintains their own waiting list process. All clients are referred directly from their partner agency. VSH does not maintain any waiting lists or handle the selection of program participants. Interested parties are encouraged to contact their case manager at their provider agency.