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Connecting to Community at VCU

A resource guide for VCU students and VCU Libraries users to explore the Richmond community and learn about the importance of community networks.

General Resources

  • Greater Richmond Regional Street Sheet
    • This is a live document that is constantly being updated by Homeward Staff to provide the most current information for individuals seeking resources
    • Resources found in counties adjacent to Richmond are also provided
  • Richmond, Virginia Help Sheet
    • A collection of local resources for individuals who are experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, or mental health issues
  • Food and Clothing Resource List
    • A collection of food and clothing resources compiled by MAD RVA

Mutual Aid Groups

  • RVA Community Fridges
    • A network of 14 fridges located throughout RVA that provides free food 24/7 to those in need as well as encourages others to share when they have an abundance of food
  • Food Not Bombs
    • Provide free vegetarian and vegan meals as a protest against war and poverty
  • MAD RVA
    • Mutual Aid Distribution (MAD) in RVA runs the Meadowbridge Community Market (MCM)
    • MCM is a free grocery store that does not require ID, proof of income, or personal information, they only ask that people take what they need and leave what they don't
  • Mask Bloc RVA
    • Provide free masks
    • Link tree has mask request forms, donation links, and Covid-19 resources

Healthcare

  • Health Brigade
    • A free clinic that aims to provide quality health care for underserved individuals
    • Specifically for individuals who are low-income, uninsured, or have Medicaid
  • VCU Health Hub
    • A health promotion hub
    • Offer programs that are focuses on engaging in group activities that promote wellness
  • Health and Wellness Library Resource Guide
    • The VCU Medical Center Health and Wellness Library is located within VCU Medical Center's Gateway building
    • The library is designed for patients who are seeking to learn more information about their condition
    • The resource guide provided by the Health and Wellness Library is a great resource for anyone wanting to learn more about their health condition or are seeking specific resources
    • Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Intersex Health Page
      • Provides information on LGBT+ rights, local support groups, and how to find supportive healthcare

Community Networks

  • Community Gardens
    • Link provides access to a map of existing community gardens, as well as an application portal for new gardens
    • Community gardens are encouraged to participate in the Richmond Compost Initiative
  • RVA Rapid Transit
    • Group dedicated to "educating, organizing, and advocating for frequent and far-reaching transit in the Richmond region"
    • Offer many free programs to help educate Richmond residents learn more about transportation and how they can self-advocate for their needs
  • Virginia Cooperative Extension
    • The cooperative extension is connected to Virginia Tech and Virginia State University and works to provide educational programs and resources to different  Virginia counties
    • Large number of gardening programs offered, both free and paid
  • VCU Clubs, Organizations, and Volunteering
    • VCU has over 500 student organizations and clubs
  • Buy Nothing Richmond/Henrico
    • Facebook page for listings of free items being given away by people located in Richmond and Henrico
  • Buy Nothing South of the James
    • Facebook page for listings of free items being given away by people located South of the James in Richmond, VA

Transportation