Virginia Beach is a caring and compassionate community. Ultimately, deciding who and how to help someone living on the streets is a personal decision. If you are inclined to help, but are unsure of how and where to start, we have provided frequently asked questions and general answers for guidance.
When in doubt, you can point individuals in a housing crisis toward the trained nonprofit service providers and public service professionals who have the knowledge and resources to resolve their homelessness. Whatever you decide, remember that it is always right to treat individuals with dignity and as any other member of our community. If you frame all your intentions with this in mind, event the smallest of kind gestures will go a long way in making a positive impact in someone’s life.
FAQs
Encourage the individual to call the Regional Housing Crisis Hotline at (757) 227-5932, available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Hotline is the first step in connecting with homeless services and community resources. Calling the hotline does not guarantee assistance, since shelter, housing, and other resources are prioritized for the most vulnerable individuals and families (with minor children) experiencing homelessness or a housing crisis in Virginia Beach. There are also more community resources where the individual can get help.
Contact the Homeless Outreach Team at (757) 385-5165. The team’s role is to find, engage, and assess the needs of people experiencing street homelessness and help connect them to available resources. Their role is not to control the behavior of people experiencing homelessness.
When you call, please provide the date observed and any additional details that will help staff identify the location and situation (e.g. landmarks and cross streets, number of individuals, description of environment, etc.).
It’s important to note that people who panhandle aren’t necessarily homeless, and people who are homeless don’t always panhandle.
If you’re inclined to help someone who is panhandling, but don’t feel comfortable giving directly to an individual, you can offer a Get Help Pocket Pal or Get & Give Help card so the individual can connect with resources in the community. Find these informational resources and more ways to support the community effort by visiting our Give Help page.
Call the Crisis Intervention Team through Virginia Beach Police Department’s non-emergency number at (757) 385-5000.
Unless they are trespassing, treat them as you would treat anyone else.
Thank you for your interest and support! If you are comfortable engaging the individual, you can offer a Get Help Pocket Pal or Get & Give Help card so the individual can connect with resources in the community. Find these informational resources and more ways to support the community effort by visiting our Give Help page.
Thank you for your interest and support! Please call the Housing Resource Center at (757) 385-5167 or visit our Landlord Opportunities page to learn how you can partner with our rental housing and homelessness programs.
Thank you for your interest and support! You can find opportunities to donate, volunteer, join BEACH Community Partnership and more by visiting our Give Help page.