Roanoke, Virginia – The city of Roanoke is currently grappling with a noticeable increase in homelessness compared to the summer of 2022, according to recent data released by the Roanoke Council of Community Services.
The statistics indicate an increment in the number of individuals without a stable residence in the city. However, a decline in the number of individuals living on the streets has also been observed. The Summer Point-In-Time count, conducted on July 13, 2023, revealed that more individuals are availing themselves of shelter services compared to the previous year.
Melissa Woodson, the Executive Director of RAM House, discussed the situation in Roanoke, stating, ”We’re on the cusp of being like other cities that have major problems.”
The data gathered in July 2023 demonstrates that 305 individuals are currently experiencing homelessness in Roanoke City. This figure is arrived at by counting those taking shelter and those residing in street encampments, categorized under ‘sheltered count’ and ‘unsheltered count’ respectively.
The total number of individuals facing homelessness has risen from 269 in 2022 to 305 in 2023, yet the unsheltered count has fallen from 91 in 2022 to 70 in 2023.
Addressing this issue, Matt Crookshank, Roanoke’s human services administrator, said, “These are tough challenges, obviously, that we’re trying to solve.” He noted a 13% rise in homelessness since summer 2022 and a staggering 54% increase compared to summer 2021.
Crookshank identified affordable housing scarcity, inflation, and the economic conditions of households as contributing factors to this problem. He noted, “I think it speaks to the lack of affordable housing, challenges with inflation, and the economic situation of households.”
Many homeless individuals take refuge at Roanoke’s Rescue Mission. Kevin Berry, the Director of Communications, acknowledged that while the number of homeless individuals is increasing, the shelter still has space. Berry also highlighted that many of these individuals are dealing with substance abuse and mental health issues.
While resources exist to assist those in need, accessibility may pose a challenge for some. Melissa Woodson, RAM House Executive Director, suggested the need for a centralized location for these services. She said, “The idea that they have to go around town and get services doesn’t make sense; we need a one-stop shop for them in the day shelter.”
With an aim to provide more comprehensive assistance to the homeless community, RAM House is currently in search of a new facility. Woodson outlined the services they aim to offer, including showers and a clinic run by Virginia Tech residents.
In response to this issue, the City of Roanoke is allocating over $6 million in ARPA funds towards 50 affordable housing units.
Woodson expressed optimism for the future, stating, “In this city, we are doers. I am optimistic that things can be better in the future.”
Roanoke’s homeless assistance team encourages the public to offer their support in terms of time and financial contributions to community partners such as RAM House and the Rescue Mission, rather than giving directly to panhandlers on the streets.
