The City of Richmond and Henrico County announced today the extension of their contract with CARITAS for the Inclement Weather Surge Shelter, which expanded the number of contracted days from thirty to sixty. The contract was finalized ahead of the recent storms, ensuring more shelter options for local residents. 

The contract expansion enables CARITAS to continue to provide additional capacity to support individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness in the Greater Richmond region during extreme weather this winter. As a reminder, the Surge Shelter provides additional capacity and space for people experiencing unsheltered homelessness when the Salvation Army Inclement Weather Shelter is full and the temperature falls below 40 degrees. The Surge Shelter can be activated when those conditions are met between December 1, 2025 and March 31, 2026.

“The recent weather conditions highlight our need for quality shelter providers during inclement weather. Extending our contract with CARITAS affirms Richmond’s commitment to compassion and stability for our most vulnerable neighbors, especially in light of the recent extreme weather,” said Amy Popovich, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer of Human Services. “CARITAS has been a trusted partner in providing shelter, support, and pathways to long-term housing. This extension allows us to continue that work together; ensuring safety, dignity, and hope for individuals and families in need.”

"The Surge Shelter has been a lifeline for many in our community through the brutal cold and other harsh conditions this winter," Henrico Board of Supervisors Chair Roscoe D. Cooper III said. "Henrico County is proud to continue our partnership with Richmond and CARITAS to keep this facility operating, providing warmth, safety and compassion to those who desperately need it."

“CARITAS is happy to continue our regional partnership for the Surge Shelter,” said Karen O’Brien, President and CEO of CARITAS. “The Surge Shelter has provided a warm, safe, and supportive space for our neighbors facing unsheltered homelessness during this harsh winter season. Our team is ready to continue serving the community and ensure that the Surge Shelter is ready when needed and activated.”

The Surge Shelter operated by CARITAS is not a walk-up shelter. Individuals in need of shelter should go to the Salvation Army Inclement Weather Shelter at 1900 Chamberlayne Ave in Richmond as their entry point. If the Surge Shelter is operating, transportation will be provided from the Salvation Army Inclement Weather Shelter to the Surge Shelter.

For more information about Homeless Services in the City of Richmond, please visit the Office of Homeless Services. For specific information regarding our shelter operations, please visit the City of Richmond Inclement Weather page.