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City of Alexandria, VA

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  • Live

    Make the most of Alexandria's outstanding quality of life with information and services of interest to residents.

    • Be Prepared

      Are you ready? Find resources and information to help residents, businesses and visitors to prepare for all types of emergencies, and to stay safe.

      • Flooding Preparedness
      • Snow and Ice Control
      • Hurricane Preparedness
      • Emergency Preparedness
      • Public Health Emergency
    • Community Life

      Learn more about pets and animals, schools and libraries, parks and farmers' markets, community gardens, and more.

      • Community Gardens
      • Farmers' Markets
      • Parks
      • Pets
      • Recreation
    • Get Involved

      There are many opportunities to get involved to help better the City of Alexandria. Opportunities include serving on a Board, Commission or Committee, providing input on a new City project or speaking at a City Council meeting.

      • Boards and Commissions
      • Civic Engagement Policy
      • City Academies
      • Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
      • Speak at a Meeting
      • Volunteering
    • Getting Around

      Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

      • Bicycling in Alexandria
      • Bus and Rail
      • King Street Trolley
      • Parking in Alexandria
      • Street Maps
      • Taxis
      • Water Taxis
    • Historic Preservation

      Historic Alexandria is a treasure trove of early structures, artifacts, and records that creates a unique way of life for its citizens and provides enjoyment for thousands of people who visit this special community every year. The City continues to add resources to its collection of local and nationally designated historic districts.

      • Alexandria History
      • Board of Architectural Review
      • Historic Alexandria
      • Historic Districts
    • Licenses & Permits

      Find out whether a permit is required, the type of permit needed, fees involved, and what requirements are necessary for the activity you want to engage in Alexandria.

      • Building & Construction
      • Business Licenses
      • Health Permits
      • Marriage Licenses
      • Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
    • Parking

      Information about parking in the City of Alexandria, including parking options, enforcement, districts and permits.

      • Contest a Parking Ticket
      • Guest Parking Permits
      • Parking Permits
      • Parking Studies
      • Parking in Old Town
      • Pay a Parking Ticket
    • Public Health & Wellness

      Alexandria is committed to ensuring our residents thrive through physical, mental, and social health.

      • Aging & Adult Services
      • Domestic Violence
      • Environmental Health
      • Environmental Quality
      • Health Department
      • Health Clinics
      • Sexual Assault
      • Substance Abuse Prevention
      • Substance Abuse Services
      • Teen Pregnancy Prevention
      • Teen Wellness Center
    • Public Safety & Courts

      Agencies and programs that help maintain our safety and overall quality of life. These links contain information about the City of Alexandria's law enforcement agencies and public safety organizations, courts and judicial system.

      • Fire Department
      • Police Department
      • Sheriff's Office
      • Circuit Court
      • Clerk of Circuit Court
      • General District Court
      • J&DR Court
      • Court Service Unit
    • Public Works

      Learn more about how the City maintains streets, sidewalks, bridges, and other infrastructure in the City.

      • Bridge Maintenance
      • Paving and Potholes
      • Sewer Maintenance
      • Street Sweeping
    • Real Estate & Taxes

      The City collects car and real estate taxes, maintains tax relief programs and assesses property values. Taxes can be paid in a variety of ways including online, by phone and by mail.

      • Payments
      • Personal Property/Car Tax
      • Real Estate Assessments
      • Real Estate Tax
      • Tax Guide
      • Tax Relief
    • Schools & Libraries

      Did you know that ACPS is one of the most diverse school systems in the country? Our students come from more than 80 different countries, speak more than 60 languages, and represent a myriad of ethnic and cultural groups. The Alexandria Library is an educational, user-oriented service institution providing free public access to recorded knowledge and ideas.

      • Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS)
      • Alexandria Library
      • Child Care
      • Higher Learning
      • Out of School Time Programs
    • Social Services

      The City provides public assistance as a safety net for individuals and families, including help with homelessness prevention, food, rent, utilities, medical coverage and prescriptions, job training and placement assistance, and much more.

      • Aging & Adult Services
      • Child Care Assistance
      • Homeless Services
      • Housing Resources
      • Mentoring Programs
      • Military & Veteran Services
    • Trash & Recycling

      Find information on the City's refuse, recycling and yard waste collection programs.

      • Recycling
      • Refuse Collection
      • Yard Waste
    • Utilities

      The City of Alexandria does not operate any public utilities. The following companies are the primary providers of their respective service:

      • Cable TV (Comcast / Xfinity)
      • Drinking Water (Virginia American Water)
      • Electricity (Dominion Energy)
      • Natural Gas (Washington Gas)
      • Sewage/Water Treatment (Alex Renew)
      • Wired Telephone (Verizon)
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  • Play

    Whether you live here or are just visiting, Alexandria is a great place to shop, dine, take in the arts, get outdoors, and just have fun.

    • About Alexandria

      If you are looking for small-town charm and big-city amenities, Alexandria is the place to find them. Alexandria has a fascinating history, and many of its historic buildings are still preserved today. The City's many historic homes, churches, businesses, and museums allow residents and visitors alike to experience the past that makes it the charming town it is today.

      • Alexandria's History
      • Demographics & Statistics
      • Maps & GIS
      • Visit Alexandria
    • Arts & Culture

      Through engaging the community, encouraging participation, and facilitating access to arts and culture, the City builds a vibrant community for its residents, workers, and visitors.

      • City Concerts
      • City Events
      • Historic Property Rentals
      • Museums & Historic Sites
      • Office of Historic Alexandria
      • Office of the Arts
    • Entertainment

      Find events and activities, shops and restaurants, concerts and performances, arts and culture, historic attractions, parks and libraries, farmers' markets, and more.

      • City Concerts
      • City Events
      • Office of the Arts
      • Visit Alexandria: Things to Do
    • Getting Around

      Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

      • Bicycling in Alexandria
      • Bus & Rail
      • King Street Trolley
      • Parking in Alexandria
      • Street Maps
      • Taxis
      • Water Taxis
    • Museums & Historic Sites

      Alexandria is a desirable location to live, work and play. The City owns many of the premier historic sites in Alexandria and it is charged with the conservation, interpretation and promotion of these links to the past.

      • City Museums
      • Historic Sites & Attractions
      • Office of Historic Alexandria
    • Parks & Recreation

      Alexandria is an active community that offers more than 900 acres of parks and dedicated public space, and a wide variety of neighborhood and recreation centers, pools, dog parks, farmers' markets, waterfront activities and more.

      • Classes & Camps
      • Dog Parks
      • Facility & Park Rentals
      • Farmers' Markets
      • Marina & Waterfront Parks
      • ParkLink Interactive Map
      • Parks & Trails
      • Pools & Aquatics
      • Recreation Centers
      • Sports Leagues & Programs
    • Visit Alexandria

      Information about visiting Alexandria, including shopping, dining, attractions, accommodations, events listings and more. Plan your visit with an itinerary builder, interactive maps, hotel booking, online restaurant reservations and much more.

      • Group Tours
      • Meet in Alexandria
      • Plan Your Visit
      • Trip Planning Assistance
      • Visitor Center
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  • Services

    We are here to serve you. Browse the topics to the right to learn more about the programs and services we offer.

    • Alex311

      Connect with professional and knowledgeable staff for City service and information requests from every City department.

      • Missed Collection
      • Parking
      • Potholes
      • Street Cleaning
      • Trash & Recycling Containers
      • Trees
      • Yard Waste / Bulky Items Pickup
    • Animals

      What you need to know about animals, pets and wildlife in Alexandria.

      • Animal Adoption
      • Animal Control
      • Dog Parks
    • Buildings & Construction

      The City provides services to residents, businesses, contractors, and visitors needing permits for constructions and other developments.

      • Building Codes
      • City Code
      • Code Administration
      • Green Building
      • Land Use & Zoning
      • Permit Center
      • Permits & Land Use Applications
    • Environment

      "Green" initiatives, air quality, noise, water conservation, mosquito and rodent control.

      • Air Quality
      • Clean Waterways
      • Climate Change
      • Eco-City Alexandria
      • Green Building
      • Mosquito Control
      • Noise Control
      • Rodent Control
      • Stormwater Management
    • Jobs
      • City Government Jobs
      • Alexandria City Public Schools
      • Job Search Assistance (Workforce Development Center)
      • Collective Bargaining
    • Maps & GIS

      Geographic Information Systems (GIS) centrally manages, shares and analyzes information about locations through specialized mapping technology. This information increases transparency, improves many City technology applications and provides critical data to decision makers and the public.

      • Interactive Maps
      • Open Data
      • Standard Maps
    • Parks & Recreation

      Alexandria is an active community that offers more than 900 acres of parks and dedicated public space, and a wide variety of neighborhood and recreation centers, pools, dog parks, farmers' markets, waterfront activities and more.

      • Classes & Camps
      • Dog Parks
      • Facility & Park Rentals
      • Farmers' Markets
      • Marina & Waterfront
      • Parks & Trails
      • Pools & Aquatics
      • Recreation Centers
      • Sports Leagues & Programs
    • Property & Housing

      The City administers various housing-related programs and services.

      • Housing Master Plan
      • Landlord & Property Manager Resources
      • Maps & GIS
      • Office of Housing
      • Parcel Viewer
      • Real Estate Assessments
    • Public Health & Wellness

      Alexandria is committed to ensuring our residents thrive through physical, mental, and social health.

      • Aging & Adult Services
      • Emergency Mental Health Services
      • Environmental Health
      • Environmental Quality
      • Health Department
      • Health Clinics
      • Sexual and Domestic Violence Services
      • Substance Abuse Services
      • Teen Pregnancy Prevention
      • Teen Wellness Center
    • Public Safety & Courts

      Agencies and programs that help maintain our safety and overall quality of life. These links contain information about the City of Alexandria's law enforcement agencies and public safety organizations, courts and judicial system.

      • Fire Department
      • Police Department
      • Sheriff's Office
      • Circuit Court
      • Clerk of Circuit Court
      • General District Court
      • J&DR Court
      • Court Service Unit
    • Public Works

      Learn more about how the City maintains streets, sidewalks, bridges, and other infrastructure in the City.

      • Bridge Maintenance
      • Paving & Potholes
      • Sewer Maintenance
      • Street Sweeping
    • Real Estate & Taxes

      The City collects car and real estate taxes, maintains tax relief programs and assesses property values. Taxes can be paid in a variety of ways including online, by phone and by mail.

      • Payments
      • Personal Property/Car Tax
      • Real Estate Assessments
      • Real Estate Tax
      • Tax Guide
      • Tax Relief
    • Social Services

      The City provides public assistance as a safety net for individuals and families, including help with homelessness prevention, food, rent, utilities, medical coverage and prescriptions, job training and placement assistance, and much more.

      • Aging & Adult Services
      • Child Care
      • Children & Families
      • Discrimination & Disabilities
      • Gang & Youth Violence Prevention
      • Homeless Services
      • Housing Assistance
      • Human Rights
      • Job Search Assistance (Workforce Development Center)
      • Mentoring Programs
      • Military & Veteran Services
    • Trash & Recycling

      Find information on the City's refuse, recycling and yard waste collection programs.

      • Recycling
      • Refuse Collection
      • Yard Waste
    • Transportation

      Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

      • Bicycling in Alexandria
      • Bus & Rail
      • King Street Trolley
      • Parking in Alexandria
      • Street Maps
      • Taxis
      • Transportation Planning
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  • Business

    Ideally located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., Alexandria is nationally recognized as one of the best places to live and do business on the east coast. Learn how we can help you start or relocate your business in Alexandria, and access resources for existing businesses and commuters.

    • Business Resources

      The City provides services and resources to help existing businesses expand within the City and promotes recruiting new businesses in Alexandria.

      • Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP)
      • Alexandria Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
      • BIPOC Small Business Program
      • Doing Business with the City
      • New Business Guide
      • Public-Private Partnerships
    • Jobs

      Alexandria offers wide range of job opportunities and services. Work for City government or City Public Schools, find out about an internship opportunity or learn about workforce development and career training options.

      • City Government Jobs
      • Job Search Assistance (Workforce Development Center)
      • Collective Bargaining
    • Licenses & Permits

      Find out whether a permit is required, the type of permit needed, fees involved, and what requirements are necessary for the activity you want to engage in Alexandria.

      • APEX Permitting & Land Use System
      • Business Licenses
      • Business Outdoor Program & Permits
      • Health Permits
      • Permit Center
      • Zoning Information
    • Real Estate & Taxes

      The City collects car and real estate taxes, maintains tax relief programs and assesses property values. Taxes can be paid in a variety of ways including online, by phone and by mail.

      • Business License Tax
      • Business Personal Property Tax
      • Lodging Tax
      • Meal Tax
      • Payments
      • Real Estate Assessment Search
      • Real Estate Assessments
      • Sales Tax
    • Transportation

      Information on how to get to and through the City of Alexandria, including walking, biking, bus, rail, air, ridesharing, and more.

      • Getting Around
      • Vehicle Registration
      • GO Alex Commuter Resources
      • Parking in Alexandria
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  • Government

    Learn more about Alexandria's accountable, effective, and well-managed government.

    • City Council

      The Alexandria City Council is composed of a Mayor and six Council members who are elected at-large for three-year terms. The Mayor, who is chosen on a separate ballot, presides over meetings of the Council and serves as the ceremonial head of government.

      • City Council Calendar
      • Communicate with City Council
      • Council Assignments
      • Meeting Dockets & Video
      • Speak at a Meeting
    • Boards & Commissions

      The City of Alexandria has a strong commitment to citizen participation as evidenced by the number of citizen boards and commissions established by City Council. These bodies compose a formal system through which citizens can advise City Council on all major issues affecting the City.

      • Meeting Dockets & Video
      • Apply for a Board or Commission
      • Boards & Commission Calendar
      • Boards & Commission Vacancies
      • Board of Architectural Review
      • Board of Zoning Appeals
      • Planning Commission
      • Park & Recreation Commission
      • Transportation Commission
    • Departments & Agencies

      View a list of City departments, offices and other agencies, and learn about their role in the organization.

      • City Government Departments & Offices
      • Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
      • Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)
      • Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS)
      • Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP)
      • Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority (ARHA)
      • Alexandria Transit Company (DASH)
      • Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA)
      • Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
      • Visit Alexandria (Official Tourism Site)
    • Public Safety & Courts

      Information about the City of Alexandria's law enforcement agencies and public safety organizations, courts and judicial system.

      • Police Department
      • Fire Department
      • Sheriff's Office
      • Courts
      • Office of Emergency Management
      • Emergency & Customer Communications
      • Community Policing Review Board
    • Elected Officials

      Alexandria voters elect a Mayor and City Council and three local officers, as well as state and federal representatives.

      • City Council
      • Clerk of Circuit Court
      • Commonwealth's Attorney
      • Sheriff
      • Voting in Alexandria
    • Get Involved

      There are many opportunities to get involved to help better the City of Alexandria. Opportunities include serving on a Board, Commission or Committee, providing input on a new City project or speaking at a City Council meeting.

      • Boards & Commissions
      • City of Alexandria Academy Programs
      • Civic Engagement Policy
      • Speak at a Meeting
      • Volunteering
    • Transparency

      The City government acts with integrity in an open process, and provides timely access to clear, trustworthy information, presented and employed by all parties from the beginning to the end of the process, including the reasoning that leads to and supports the policy conclusion.

      • Operating Budget & Capital Improvement Program
      • Meeting Dockets & Video
      • Performance Analytics
      • Alexandria's Strategic Plan
      • Race & Social Equity
      • Community Policing Review Board
      • Collective Bargaining
      • City Code
      • Open Data
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  • Projects & Plans

    Much of our work involves creating and improving infrastructure and planning for the future. Learn more about major projects and plans here, and how you can get involved!

    • Arts & Culture

      Information about arts, culture and historic projects in the City.

      • Arts & Culture Master Plan
      • Public Art Implementation Plan
    • Development

      Information about commercial and residential development projects in the City.

      • Landmark/Van Dorn Area Planning
      • North Potomac Yard Implementation / Virginia Tech Innovation Campus
      • Potomac River Generating Station Redevelopment
    • Environmental

      Information about environmental and "green" projects in the City.

      • 500 Block N. Pitt St. Sewer Separation Project
      • Flood Action Alexandria
      • Franklin St. Sewer Relocation Project
      • Holmes Run Trail Repairs
      • Lucky Run Stream Restoration
      • Oronoco Outfall Remediation Project
      • Wheeler Ave. Sanitary Sewer Pipe Relining
      • Windmill Hill Park Project - Phase II
    • Neighborhoods

      Information about neighborhood projects in the City.

      • Alexandria West Planning
      • Duke Street and West Taylor Run Project
      • Eisenhower Avenue Metrorail Station Pedestrian Crossing Improvements
      • King-Callahan-Russell Intersection Improvement Project
      • Mount Vernon Avenue North Complete Streets
    • Parks & Recreation

      Information about parks and recreation projects in the City.

      • Beauregard Street Multi-Use Trail Project
      • Bicycle Parking
      • Eugene Simpson Park Renovation Projects
      • Joseph Hensley Park Renovation
      • Old Cameron Run Trail Project
      • Robinson Terminal South Update: Historic Ship Stabilization
    • Public Facilities

      Information about public facilities projects in the City.

      • Alexandria Waterfront
      • King Street-Old Town Metro Access Improvement Project
      • Municipal Broadband
      • Potomac Yard Metrorail Station Project
    • Social Services

      Information about social services projects and plans in the City.

      • Aging and Adult Services
      • Early Care & Education Common Agenda
      • The Partnership to Prevent & End Homelessness
    • Transportation

      Information about transportation projects and plans in and around the City.

      • Adaptive Traffic Signal Control
      • Alexandria Mobility Plan
      • Complete Streets
      • Duke Street in Motion
      • Potomac Yard Metrorail Station Project
      • Smart Mobility
      • Traffic Mitigation
      • Vision Zero
      • West End Transitway
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  • Calendar

    There's always something to do in Alexandria! Browse community events, government meetings and activities, and important deadlines.

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Homeless Services

Information about housing assistance, shelters and homeless services
Page updated on November 3, 2022 at 1:07 PM

Homeless Services

  • Department of Community & Human Services

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Homeless Services Assessment Center (HSAC)

As part of the City of Alexandria Continuum of Care response to homelessness, HSAC allows for the efficient and effective connection of persons to services through a comprehensive assessment. Additionally, all persons will be assessed for diversion services, creating an opportunity to address the housing crisis with targeted assistance while averting unnecessary entry into the shelter system.   

If you are experiencing a housing crisis, call 703.746.5700 or walk in to meet with a member of the HSAC staff.

Department of Community and Human Services 
2525 Mt. Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22303 
Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Except holidays) 

After hours, families and individuals experiencing a housing crisis and needing emergency overnight stay should contact the Alexandria Community Shelter or Carpenter's Shelter. 

PATH Homeless Assistance Program

Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness, known as PATH, is a federal, state and local partnership that provides outreach and assistance to adults with serious mental illness who are experiencing homelessness or who are at risk of becoming homeless. PATH services include community-based outreach and access to mental health, substance abuse, case management and other supportive services.

Also see the Homeless Services Assessment Center for more information. 

 

 For more information, call the PATH Coordinator at 703.746.5973 or the Director of the Office of Community Services 703.746.5862.

Warming Centers

Warming centers are being offered, at libraries and recreation centers, to provide relief from the cold for community members who may not have access to a warm shelter during the day. For warming center locations and hours, visit alexandriava.gov/122602.

Winter Shelter

The City of Alexandria Winter Shelters, also called Hypothermia Shelters, ensures that individuals and families experiencing homelessness have a warm, clean and safe environment to retreat from the elements of weather at night. The Winter Shelters, operated by Carpenter's Shelter, are open nightly from 7 p.m. - 7 a.m. regardless of weather from November 1- March 31.  For November and April 1-15, the openings are dependent on the weather. The Winter Shelters provide supportive services and resources necessary to assist residents in obtaining stable housing.

2355-A MILL RD (LEFT SIDE OF THE FRONT ENTRANCE, NEXT TO THE FENCE)

This location serves any single adult resident experiencing homelessness. 703.477.5773.

  • Hours are 7 p.m. - 7 a.m. daily
  • Guests are encouraged to use the pick-up options offered by Carpenter's shelter (see Transportation below)
  • If someone is unable or unwilling to utilize the provided transportation, they are welcome to access the Winter Shelter directly starting at 7 p.m.
     

CARPENTER'S SHELTER (930 NORTH HENRY ST.)

This location serves families experiencing homelessness. 703.746.3660

  • Hours are 7 p.m. - 7 a.m. daily

TRANSPORTATION

For anyone in need of transportation to the Winter Shelters, Carpenter's Shelter will be providing assistance at three pickup loations:

  • 6:20 p.m. at City Hall (301 King St.)
  • 6:30 p.m. at Braddock Road Metro Station (Kiss & Ride) and Carpenter's Shelter
  • 6:40 p.m. Christ House (131 South West St.)

David's Place Day Shelter

David's Place is located at 930 North Henry Street, the original location of Carpenter’s Shelter. Program hours are 7-9 a.m. Services include:

  • Laundry and showers 
  • Last load at 8:30 a.m.

Individuals seeking emergency shelter are encouraged to go to 2525 Mount Vernon Ave. to complete the screening on a walk-in basis. Phone screening appointments are also available as needed by contacting the call center at 703.746.5700. Once screened, individuals will be added to the wait list and referred once a bed is available at Alexandria Community Shelter or Carpenter's Shelter.

More About Homeless Services

The City takes a “continuum of care” approach to homelessness designed to promote community wide commitment to the goal of ending homelessness. The Office of Community Services and their partners--which range from other City programs and services to national and local nonprofits like  Catholic Charities,  Volunteers of America Chesapeake,  Carpenter’s Shelter,  Community Lodgings and  ALIVE!--coordinate together to provide a wide range of services, minimize the trauma associated with homelessness and dislocation, and optimize self-sufficiency among individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

Helping residents experiencing homelessness is complex and challenging. As many different people you encounter who are homeless, there are that many different stories. The causes of homelessness include the national housing crisis and lack of low-income housing, unemployment, decreasing opportunities for work and the erosion of safety net programs. Often people experience the loss of a job or have a health crisis that leaves them choosing between paying the rent or paying for an expensive prescription or medical care. The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the national housing crisis, putting many at risk of eviction, foreclosure and homelessness. 

Transitioning residents out of homelessness can be a slow process, which sometimes takes years. According to  EndHomelessness.org, people experiencing chronic homelessness (those who have experienced homelessness for at least a year) typically have complex and long-term conditions, such as mental health issues, substance use disorders, physical disabilities or other conditions. Once someone becomes homeless, it is difficult for them to get back into housing and they can face long or repeated episodes of homelessness.

DCHS proactively and regularly reaches out and engages residents experiencing homelessness year around, offering the effective and essential safety net services designed to improve their lives and transition them out of homelessness. DCHS values individual personal choice and self-determination and does not force services on anyone, but staff work hard to ensure everyone is aware of the supportive services with the City and their right to access them and transition out of homelessness.

What You Can Do if You Encounter Someone Experiencing Homelessness

If you see someone who looks in need of housing supports, there are  a couple of options. 

  • If you have engaged the individual in conversation and learn that they are in need of supportive services, let them know they can call 703.746.5700 or text 703.346.5599 or walk-in for services at 2525 Mount Vernon Ave. during business hours. Staff will support them by identifying the next steps in assisting them with their current situation. Once screened, individuals will be added to the waitlist and referred once a bed is available at Alexandria Community Shelter or Carpenter's Shelter. During the winter months, let them know about the City's Winter Shelter Program run by Carpenter's Shelter (703.548.7500), which is open daily from 7 p.m. - 7 a.m. through March 2021. You can also share with them the Alexandria Community Resources Card, also available as an easy-to-print two-sided flyer.

  • If you aren’t comfortable engaging in conversion,  contact Alex 311 to report your observations; please refrain from taking photos of residents experiencing homelessness out of respect for their privacy. Your report will be sent to DCHS staff, who will go out and speak to the person within 24-48 business hours and offer available support and resources. DCHS values individual personal choice and does not force services on anyone, but staff work hard to ensure everyone is aware of the supportive services with the City and their right to access them and transition out of homelessness.
  • For more immediate welfare checks, call the police non-emergency line at 703.746.4444.

Learn about more ways you can help or raise awareness about homelessness from resources shared during the 2020 National Youth Homelessness Awareness Month and 2020 National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Awareness Week.

Shelters & Resources

SHELTERS

ALEXANDRIA COMMUNITY SHELTER

2355-B Mill Road, Alexandria, VA 22314 - 703.746.3660
The Alexandria Community Shelter is a City-owned; 64-bed emergency shelter operated by Volunteers of America Chesapeake. Shelter is provided for men, women and families.

CARPENTER’S SHELTER

930 North Henry Street
Carpenter’s Shelter  is a 60-bed facility that supports those experiencing homelessness in achieving sustainable independence by providing shelter, guidance, education and advocacy.

EVICTION STORAGE 

The Eviction Storage program provides furniture storage and emergency shelter referrals for eligible low-income households facing immediate eviction. Call 703.746.5700 for more information.

RESOURCES

  • Partnership to Prevent and End Homelessness
  • Eviction Prevention Task Force
  • Alexandria Community Resources Card  (Also available as an  easy-to-print two-sided flyer  )
  • Resources for Veterans

  • Veterans First Division of Friendship Place : Screening phone number is 202.658.9599 and you must leave a voicemail with your name and number to be called back or email  vfscreen@friendshipplace.org.

Community Resources List

View below list of community resources .

Drop-In Day Program

David’s Place 703.548.7500
930 N. Henry St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Monday-Saturday 7–9 a.m.
Closed Sun; showers, laundry & phone/mail service available

Shelters / Homeless Services

Alexandria Community Shelter 703.746.3660
2355-B Mill Road, Alexandria, VA 22314
Referral from Homeless Services Assessment Center (HSAC) required

Alexandria Winter Shelter 703.477.5773
2355-A Mill Road, Alexandria, VA 22314
Open nightly from November–March and weather-dependent in April; City of Alexandria Residents/Self-referral
Open 7 p.m.–7 a.m. nightly

Carpenter’s Shelter 703.548.7500
930 N. Henry St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Referral from Homeless Services Assessment Center (HSAC) required

Falls Church Emergency Winter Shelter 703.854.1400
217 Gordon Road, Falls Church, VA 22046
Dec 1–Mar 31, 6 p.m.–8 a.m.

Homeless Services Assessment Center (HSAC) 703.746.5700
2525 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, VA 22301

New Hope Eleanor Kennedy Shelter 703.799.0200
9155 Richmond Hwy, Ft. Belvoir, VA 22060
Self-referral; call at 4:30 p.m. for overflow space

New Hope Housing 703.820.7621
Bailey’s Crossroads Community Shelter 
5914 Seminary Road, Falls Church, VA 22041
Self-referral; call daily to ask about space availability

Emergency & financial Assistance Programs

Catholic Charities 703.548.4227 (Press 5)
125 S. West St. Alexandria, VA 22314
Email: ea-ch@ccda.net; rent and utilities

Christ Church 703.549.1450 ext. 306
118 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314    
Rent, utilities, medical, sec. deposits; must live in Alexandria

Department of Community and Human Services  
Call 703.746.5700 or text 703.346.5599
2525 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, VA 22314
Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. 
Homeless prevention, energy assistance and benefits 
programs, child welfare and other human services

Northern Virginia Family Services 571.748.2500    
www.nvfs.org/covid-19-emergency-assistance-program
Must apply online at the address listed    
Childcare, co-pays, food, heath, housing, utilities

Salvation Army 703.548.0579
107 E. Bellefonte Ave., Alexandria, VA  22301
Call for an appointment for financial assistance; utilities
Will request photo ID, disconnect notice, proof of income and proof of residence

St. Joseph Catholic Church 571.312.8408    
Call and leave a detailed message; will call back
Rent, medical: will help with rent if facing eviction; can help with medicines not covered by insurance

St. Rita’s Church 703.836.1356 
3815 Russell Road, Alexandria, VA 22305
Call and leave a detailed message; will call back
Rent, medical rent, utilities, medical, sec. deposits, food
Must live in the City of Alexandria

St. Paul’s Lazarus Ministry 703.549.3312 ext. 66
228 S. Pitt St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Call and leave a message; will call back
Rent, utilities, medical, sec. deposits; must live in Alexandria

St. Vincent de Paul 703.836.1724
310 S. Royal St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Call and leave a message; will call back
Must live in the City of Alexandria; inside 395 corridors

Legal Assistance

ID Assistance – Department of Community and Human Services 703.746.5700 ; Must be an City of Alexandria Resident

Legal Services of Northern Virginia 703.684.5566
110 N. Royal St., Alexandria, VA 22314

Virginia Lawyer Referral Service 1.800.552.7977

Victim/Witness Assistance & Commonwealth’s Attorney 703.746.4100; Mon-Fri, 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Veterans / Aging / Disabled

Adult Protective Services 703.746.5778

Aging & Adult Services 703.746.5999
4401 Ford Ave., Alexandria, VA 22302

DOT –Transportation Information 703.746.4084

Metro Access 301.562.5360
Low-cost transportation for disabled and elderly individuals

Senior Taxi 703.746.5999 
For seniors 60+; call to apply

Veteran Administration Medical Center 202.745.8000 
50 Irving St., NW, Washington, DC 20422

Veterans Crisis Line 800.273.8255 Press 1
Confidential help line for veterans in crisis

Wounded Warrior Program 571.258.3900
Assistance for veterans of any era

Meals

Breakfast

Old Presbyterian Meeting House 703.549.6670
323 S. Fairfax St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Breakfast served on Thursdays 6-8 a.m.

Old Town Community Church 703.982.0549
212 S Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Breakfast served Wednesdays 6–8 a.m.

Old Town Deli 703.836.8028
109 N. Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Breakfast served Tuesday 8–10 a.m.

Washington Street United Methodist Church  
109 South Washington St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Breakfast served Mon and Fri 6–8 a.m.

Lunch

Meade Memorial Episcopal Church 703.549.1334
322 N. Alfred St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Brown Bag Lunch Program, Mon–Fri, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Hot Meal, Saturdays Oct–Mar, 12:30–1:30 p.m.

Dinner

Christ House 703.548.4227
131 S. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Evening Meal, daily 4:30–5:30 p.m., 
*Meals will be served to go*

Hunger Free Alexandria 703.662.1067 
Food pantry locations and schedules: hungerfreealexandria.com
Text the word FOOD (or COMIDA) to 877-877 to find nearest emergency food distribution sites

Meals on Wheels 703.746.5999, COA residents who are 60+ 

Health & Mental Health & Substance Use Support

Emergency Mental Health Services 703.746.3401

Non-Emergency Mental Health 703.746.4444

Alexandria Community Services Board 703.746.3400
720 N. Saint Asaph St., Alexandria, VA 22314 4th Floor
Services for people with mental illness, intellectual disability and/or substance use disorders

Alexandria Health Department 703.746.4996
4880 King St., 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22302
Free & confidential walk-in HIV testing Mon (5-7 p.m) and Wed (1-3 p.m); Dental Clinic 703.535.5568

Alexandria Neighborhood Health Services, Inc. (ANHSI)
703.535.5568 (extension 5211 or 5901)
2 East Glebe Road, Alexandria, VA 22314

Casey Health Center 703.746.4886
OBGYN, Pregnancy and Post-Partum Services
1200 N. Howard St., Alexandria, VA 22304

Phoenix House 703.8410703 ext. 1
521 N Quincy St., Arlington, VA 22203
Substance Abuse Treatment Center

Thrift Stores

Christ House Thrift Shop 703.548.4227
125 S. West St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Thur–Fri, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Prevention of Blindness Look Again Thrift Store 703.683.2588
900 King St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Tue–Fri & Sun 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.–6 p.m. 

Salvation Army Thrift Store 703.642.9270
6528 Little River Turnpike, Alexandria, VA 22312
Mon–Sat, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

ReENTRY RESOURCES

Alexandria Criminal Justice Services 703.746.4547

Local Probation & Pretrial Services
2003 Mill Road, Alexandria, VA 22314

Friends of Guest House 703.549.8072 
1 East Luray Ave., Alexandria, VA 22301
Re-entry support and services for women

Offender Aid & Restoration (OAR) 703.228.7030
1400 N. Uhle St., Unit 704, Arlington, VA 22201
Reentry programs and services

Virginia Department of Corrections 571.414.6868
Probation & Parole – District 36
4740 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria, VA 22304

Employment / Education

Literacy Council of Northern Virginia 703.237.0866
2855 Annandale Road #114, Falls Church, VA 22042

Virginia Employment Commission 703.813.1300
5520 Cherokee Ave., Alexandria, VA 22312
Employment search assistance and access to computers

Workforce Development Center 703.746.5940
1900 N. Beauregard St., Suite 300, Alexandria, VA 22311
Mon–Fri 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Employment search assistance & access to computers

other important numbers

Emergency 911
Non-Emergency 703.746.4444
Adult Protective Services 703.746.5778
Alexandria Sexual Assault Center Hotline 703.683.7273
Alexandria Domestic Violence Hotline 703.746.4911
Child Abuse and Neglect Complaints 703.746.5800
Crisis Link 703.527.4077; or text “CONNECT” to 855-11
Detox Services 703.746.3636
Emergency Mental Health Services 703.746.3401

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