Freedom House

The mission of Freedom House is to embrace those in need and in crisis and to welcome them into a stable and supportive environment where self-sufficiency and independence may be achieved. They manage The Conrad Center, The Community Shelter, and Sean's Place (18-month transitional housing); they also offer medical/mental health respite. Freedom House serves Richmond and surrounding area and is accessible by bus.

Programs Supported by the Community Action Fund:

The Community Shelter at Freedom House is a 40-bed transitional housing program that provides comprehensive support services including case management, referrals to complementary programs, and life skills training. The program provides a safe, clean and stable environment where individuals address the issues that led them into homelessness. The program also provides well-balanced evening meals, on-site AA meetings and group activities. Residents are required to find employment, address medical and/or mental health issues if needed, begin saving 30%-50% of their income, and pay unresolved debts. They are strongly encouraged to stay in the program for the full 12-month period and then transition into permanent housing.

The Conrad Center Meals program provides hot, nutritious meals to homeless individuals and low-income workers. These individuals are more likely to suffer from poor nutrition and chronic illnesses due to living on the streets or in sub-standard housing. Many who attend the program are working hourly jobs and do not make a sufficient income to cover the cost of housing, food, and other necessities. The program is the only regular breakfast and dinner provider in the city and surrounding counties to this population. Freedom House collaborates with more than 120 churches and civic organizations that assist with providing food and volunteers to work in the kitchen during the meals.