CARITAS

A refuge for those in need

CARITAS is a leading human services organization serving the greater Richmond area by providing strategic resources to address the critical needs of the chronically homeless. This includes housing assistance, substance use disorder counseling, and workforce development in a supportive environment. The goal is sustainable change in the life of all program participants. CARITAS presently provides services to thousands of people annually through its five programs: Women’s Emergency Shelter, the Furniture Bank, Works, The Healing Place for Women, and the 47 Recovery Residences. The CARITAS Center, which opened in 2020, made their ministry much more effective by bringing many services into a single location which offers state-of-the-art-programs, trained staff, and a commitment to safety, accountability, and innovation. The mission is lived out through dedicated staff, program graduates, peer mentors and a robust network of volunteers.

It takes many people to meet the needs and care for hurting people through CARITAS. Many CARITAS employees have themselves experienced homelessness and/or substance use disorders and they give back through their work to help others heal and build a better life. 

 “I love being able to be a part of seeing the light come on in other people’s eyes. I get to show others there is hope and that the pain they feel when they first come doesn’t last forever.”

– Casandra Jefferson, THPW Program Coordinator

Third at work: Third Church has been a supporter of CARITAS for many years. During a recent winter, Third Church had an impact on multiple people served through donations. CARITAS families took home clean-home buckets assembled by Third families, and women at The Healing Place were wrapped in warm comforting pajamas given to them by a Third Church parish group. Many others have volunteered at CARITAS work days.

God at work: Participants in the CARITAS Shelter or The Healing Place often feel as if the world has forgotten them. Anyone who has been helped through CARITAS, however, whether through a meal, receiving support, a winter coat, or simply someone’s time, feels God’s love expressed here on earth.

Act now through prayer

Pray that everyone that comes to CARITAS seeking a safe place to sleep will find one, that everyone seeking recovery from addiction will find help, that everyone who is willing and able to work will find a fulfilling job, and that everyone trying to get back on their feet will be given adequate support.