A bedroom at Housing Families First’s Hilliard Shelter
VHA is excited to introduce our April member spotlight, Housing Families First.
For 25 years, Housing Families First has been transforming lives across the Richmond region, offering hope and creating pathways to stability for families experiencing homelessness. As the organization reaches its quarter-century milestone in 2025, its impact continues to grow, with 230 families served in the past year alone.
Founded on the principle that every family deserves a safe place to call home, Housing Families First has evolved from its origins as a transitional housing provider into a comprehensive support system that employs a “housing-focused-but-not-housing-only” approach. This proven strategy prioritizes getting families into stable housing quickly while providing the support services needed for long-term success.
The organization’s impressive statistics tell a powerful story of impact: 90% of families who left a Housing Families First program last year moved directly into a home of their own, with an average transition time of just three months from initial intake to leasing. In 2024, Housing Families First’s programs touched the lives of 773 children, youth, parents, and grandparents across the Greater Richmond region.
Housing Families First operates several programs, including Hilliard House emergency shelter, which provides temporary housing for up to 40 children and adults; Key Hunters, an online housing coaching program to help families work through a housing crisis; and the Building Neighbors rapid re-housing program, which helps vulnerable homeless families move quickly into permanent housing while providing additional support services. Their newest initiative, Forging Foundations, specifically addresses the needs of young adults aged 18-24 who are homeless, including those who are parenting or pregnant.
The organization’s success is built on a foundation of community support and strategic partnerships. With over 600 volunteers contributing more than 2,000 hours of service in the past year, Housing Families First demonstrates the power of collective community action. Their calendar of events, including their annual Back to School Party and The Art of Housing fundraiser, creates opportunities for community engagement while bringing joy and practical support to the families they serve.
Beyond providing immediate housing solutions, Housing Families First takes a holistic approach to family stability. They connect parents and youth with employment opportunities, childcare resources, and an extensive network of community services. This comprehensive strategy helps families not just find housing, but build the foundation for long-term success.
As the Richmond region continues to grow and evolve, Housing Families First remains committed to its vision of ensuring every child and family has a safe place to call home. Through their innovative programs, community partnerships, and dedication to serving families with dignity and respect, they’re not just providing housing – they’re building stronger communities for all of us.
Volunteer, donation, and partnership opportunities abound at Housing Families First, including special 25th-anniversary options. One unique opportunity throughout 2025 is engaging your friends, family, and colleagues in parties and special events to benefit Housing Families First. All party hosts receive a small gift with swag to liven up the celebrations and express gratitude. For more information about Housing Families First’s programs or to learn about volunteer opportunities, contact Jasmine Snead at jasmine@housingfamiliesfirst.org.
“The VISTA role has significantly enhanced Housing Families First’s capacity to build lasting relationships with our landlord and volunteer stakeholders, allowing us to expand our network of supporters dedicated to housing homeless families.”-Terri Iguina, Housing Families First Deputy Director of Operations