You are not currently a member of the Virginia Coalition to End Homelessness and I'd like to tell you why we need you to join today.

VCEH's educational and advocacy efforts created every state funded homeless prevention and assistance program including the Homeless Intervention Program, State Shelter Grant, and Child Services Coordinator Grant.  We will continue to work with you to improve these programs and increase resources for preventing and ending homelessness. 

Our advocacy for these programs has never been more important.  The Governor's proposed budget includes an 18 percent cut to these programs, and your membership dollars will fuel our advocacy efforts to save these programs*.  I am sure you agree that we cannot lose these funds especially considering the local budget cuts that have already come your way.

In addition to our advocacy efforts on the state budget, we are gearing up for exciting initiatives to encourage increased investment in permanent supportive housing, and increased investment in prevention and rapid re-housing programs for families.

We cannot accomplish our work without your active participation as a member.  We know that everyone's finances are tight, but now more than ever is the time to join and contribute what you can.**

I have been VCEH's Executive Director for the past 16 months.  Ending homelessness is not easy and we have a lot of obstacles to tackle.  But I do believe that we can improve the response to homelessness and do a better job of preventing it before it occurs - even in these dire financial times.  

Please join today!  Membership is annual.  Current members who are due for renewal will receive a renewal notice.

Hope your new year is off to a great start.

Best Wishes,

Phyllis Chamberlain
Executive Director
Virginia Coalition to End Homelessness

*We have a Special Municipal Membership for those who cannot support public education activities and instead want to support capacity building and technical assistance initiatives.

**While we have suggested membership contribution levels based on your organization's budget, money should not be the obstacle to membership.  If you do not feel comfortable with the suggested membership levels, please contribute to the best of your ability. Just please join!