I had the incredible honor of being invited to speak at this year’s 15th annual Richmond Homeless Connect. This event is a shining example of what our community can achieve when we care for those who need it most. It was truly humbling to stand alongside so many dedicated volunteers and community organizations, all working tirelessly to support individuals who are homeless or precariously housed.

Richmond Homeless Connect started 15 years ago as a grassroots initiative to bring much-needed services to people experiencing homelessness in our city. Over the years, it has grown into a well-organized annual event where guests can access vital services all in one place—everything from health screenings and dental care to haircuts and warm meals. It’s a day where we offer practical support and remind each person who walks through the doors that they are seen, valued and cared for.

During my opening remarks, I shared the following message with those in attendance:

“Good morning, everyone. It is truly an honor to stand before you today at Richmond Homeless Connect, an event beautifully showcasing our community’s compassion, dedication, and unity. We are here to offer services, yes—but more than that, we are here to remind everyone who walks through these doors that they are valued, seen, and cared for.

This event is only possible because of the incredible collaboration of many people—our dedicated community organizations and especially our volunteers. You all give your time, energy, and heart to ensure that today is a meaningful experience for everyone here. To our volunteers, your work is the backbone of this event. Whether you’re offering a warm meal, a listening ear, or vital services like health screenings, haircuts, or dental care, you are making a profound difference. Your presence today is a testament to the power of human connection and the generosity that lies within our community.

I am deeply grateful to the organizations and local agencies that provide year-round support. You are doing critical work to meet the needs of those in our community who face homelessness or precarious housing. Your tireless efforts ensure that hope is never lost and people can access the care and support they need daily.

Together, you are making Richmond a place where compassion thrives and where the most vulnerable are not forgotten but embraced. Today is not just about what we can give but about what we can learn from one another and how we can continue to walk alongside those in need with respect and love.

As we begin, I encourage everyone to offer services and take a moment to connect, listen, and let everyone know they matter. May this day reflect the kindness and hope within each of us.”

In addition to speaking, I was also asked to offer a prayer for those who have tragically lost their lives due to overdose, a reality that touches many lives in our community:

“Gracious and loving God, we come before You today with heavy hearts, remembering those who have lost their lives due to overdose. We pray for their souls that they may find rest and peace in Your eternal embrace. In Your mercy, comfort their families and loved ones left behind in grief, and give them strength to heal and find solace in their memories.

Lord, we ask for Your grace and compassion to surround all those struggling with addiction. Guide them with Your light so that they may find the support and strength they need to overcome their challenges. Be with those who care for them—the friends, family, and service providers—and bless them with endurance, love, and hope as they walk alongside their loved ones in this difficult journey.

We pray that our community might continue to extend open hands and open hearts, to be a source of healing and love for those affected by addiction, and to work together toward a world where no life is lost to overdose. In Your holy name, we lift these prayers, trusting in Your boundless love and compassion. Amen.”

The prayer continued with a call for compassion, healing, and hope for those struggling with addiction and their loved ones.

This event is a powerful reminder that, as a community, we can make a difference when we come together with open hearts and hands. I am genuinely grateful to have been part of this year’s Richmond Homeless Connect, and I look forward to continuing to support this vital cause in any way I can.

Remember that supporting our most vulnerable neighbors does not end today. It is an ongoing effort that requires our continued compassion, dedication, and love.