Our Mission

CARES was formed by the United Way of Petersburg, Downtown Churches United, and Petersburg Social Services.  In 1984, our emergency Shelter located at 244 Halifax Street was opened.  It has been the agency’s core program for 30 years, evolving and responding to the needs of the community.  The CARES Shelter is a 20-bed facility that operates 365 days per year.  It serves as a gateway by providing women in crisis with safety and a roof over their head.

Our Mission is to serve the community by helping to alleviate homelessness and help those in crisis establish stability and independence.  Through a network of community programs, CARES can help individuals and families when they are in crisis and unsure of where to turn.

Our goals are:

-To maintain an emergency shelter for the homeless in crisis situations

-To provide support services leading to self sufficiency

-To prevent homelessness and to aid those who suffer homelessness

-To assist the community with its efforts to develop affordable housing

CARES Outcomes

• During the period of July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020, CARES provided 4,162 nights of shelter to 206 women and 106 children.
• All of those who entered the shelter were linked to supportive services and all school-aged children received comprehensive assessments.
• Of those served, 72% achieved permanent housing in their own apartment, either with or without subsidy.  Another 28% found temporary housing with family or friends.
• Forty-three (52) families took advantage of the Post-shelter Supports and Intervention services.
• Of the clients entering the CARES Shelter in FY19, 52% were survivors of domestic violence, 21% claimed a disability and 15% suffered from mental illness.