Board recognizes Community of Faith Mission; advocates urge more funding, services for people experiencing homelessness

The James City County Board of Supervisors presented the chairman's award to Community of Faith Mission in recognition of its seasonal shelter and meals program for people experiencing homelessness in the Williamsburg area.

The proclamation and award noted the mission's history (opened November 2012) and recorded cumulative figures cited by staff and volunteer representatives: 2,832 guest stays and 8,496 meals served since inception, more than 2,000 volunteer shifts and more than 10,000 volunteer hours. The mission's representatives described their new Heads Up case-management program and requested continued funding and coordination with county and partner agencies.

In public comment Donna McDaniel, speaking for Community of Faith Mission, reported that in the current season the mission has served 56 unique guests (about half James City County residents), that 43 of 56 guests fall between ages 26 and 59 and 10 are over 60, and that the program's in-kind value for church host sites this year would equal roughly $127,000 for a 126-night equivalent, not counting meals or other support.

Board members thanked mission staff and volunteers; several members also raised broader concerns about homelessness and community needs during the public comment period and subsequent board remarks. Staff noted coordination with neighboring jurisdictions and United Way on service capacity issues.

The board recorded the award and public comment and indicated budget and program decisions would be considered in future funding cycles.