By Cherisse Hoffman
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) – As the federal government shutdown continues to cast a shadow of uncertainty, the city of Richmond is taking crucial steps to help those affected.
On Friday, Richmond Mayor Dr. Danny Avula announced a plan to address critical needs ranging from food insecurity to alleviating utility cost burdens.
City leaders say that this is a time of crisis and Steven Nesmith, CEO of the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority believes that the community needs to come together to fight it.
“This is a stance of unity, a stance of togetherness from the mayor, our great mayor, elected officials from the general assembly. Those who feed and care for public housing residents and the residents throughout the entire city of Richmond,” Nesmith said.
At the forefront of the city’s efforts to combat food insecurity is an enhanced partnership with Feed More.
The non-profit organization plans to significantly scale its operations, aiming to support 300 food pantries throughout the region as the demand for assistance continues to grow.
Mayor Avula stressed the importance of community involvement.
“Food and money is a great way to support the work that Feed More is doing. They will take your money, they will take your food donations. They will turn that into more meals for more people,” he said.
Beyond food, the city is also addressing the immediate concern of utility bills. For the month of November, Richmond is suspending utility disconnections for non-payments and waiving late fees, providing a crucial reprieve for struggling households.
Mayor Avula affirmed this commitment, stating that the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) will maintain connection and will work with customers to create a payment plan.
While these measures address short-term challenges, city and state leaders are also looking ahead, planning to collaborate on setting aside funds to mitigate future uncertainties should the shutdown persist.
Despite the current difficulties, Mayor Avula expressed optimism for a resolution.
“I really do believe this shutdown will end at some point, it has to,” he said. “But in the meantime, we are going to band together to be a community that bands together and cares for and loves one another deeply,” Avula said.
Richmond’s swift action aims to provide a vital safety net for its citizens as they navigate the ongoing impacts of the government shutdown.
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