In response to rising levels of hous- ing insecurity, the Chesterfield-Colonial Heights Department of Social Services has created a digital housing assistance guide to help residents access critical resources at their convenience.

The guide provides resources to Chesterfield and Colonial Heights residents seeking information on housing due to the risk of being homeless, are homeless or in need of low- to moderate-income based housing can find resources in this section. It includes emergency shelters for community members facing homelessness and in need of temporary residential assistance. It also includes information about income-based and supportive housing opportunities and educational programming on eviction prevention and diversion.

“Housing insecurity is a significant challenge for our community,” said Kiva Rogers, director of Social Services. “Even for many people who are working full time, rent increases have made their current residence no longer affordable. Once someone has an eviction on their record, they face additional barriers to securing housing and it becomes a perpetual cycle.”

The guide also offers home ownership assistance and housing options for people with criminal records.

“We recognize that when residents are in crisis, they cannot wait to come into our office or call us during regular business hours to request assistance,” Ms. Rogers added. “By putting this information on the website, we are enabling them to connect with resources when they need it most.”

For more information, visit www.chesterfield.gov/5778/Housing-Assistance.