Richmond steps up after DOGE slashes funding for community health programs

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- In the wake of the Trump administration slashing funding for community health programs nationwide, the city of Richmond says it will be able to keep its own programs running for at least a few more months.

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has moved to end 80% of AmeriCorps programs nationwide -- effective immediately and extending through at least August -- in an effort to cut federal costs.

AmeriCorps is a nationwide service organization that provides a variety of services, including healthcare, disaster response and education. Hundreds of thousands of AmeriCorps volunteers work to help Americans get jobs, support military veterans, assist older Americans in living independently and more each year.

During 2024, AmeriCorps invested nearly $24 million into the lives of Virginians, with just under 3,000 volunteers coming into the Commonwealth to provide community aid. There are over 300 AmeriCorps locations in Virginia, including schools, food banks, homeless shelters, youth centers, veterans' facilities and more.

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Richmond AmeriCorps, the AmeriCorps branch local to the city, currently has 25 volunteers on staff. These volunteers work across many local organizations, from VCU Health to Feed More to La Casa de la Salud.

"In just the second quarter of this year, AmeriCorps members have provided services to more than 8,000 Richmond residents," the city said. "Over 6,500 of those individuals reported an increase in health knowledge and access to resources critical to improving their quality of life."

In a May 14 press release, Richmond announced that one of its Americorps programs, RVA Health Corps, was impacted by DOGE's cuts. Said program is described as a "vital initiative serving thousands of residents with health education and access to care."

However, the city said it has a solution that will keep Richmond AmeriCorps funded for at least a few more months.

“This program is too important to let go,” said Mayor Danny Avula in the release. “We’ve seen firsthand the difference it makes in our communities and we are committed to ensuring its impact continues.”

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Richmond hires AmeriCorps participants on a rolling basis -- meaning that, sometimes, yearly funding is not completely used up. The city has gathered leftover programming funds from previous years and will use those funds to keep Richmond AmeriCorps going until August.

"Despite federal setbacks, the City of Richmond remains committed to service, workforce development and community impact," the city said. "The city will continue working with partners and funders to withstand the AmeriCorps program through the challenges ahead."

8News asked a city spokesperson about what may happen to Richmond AmeriCorps after August. We have not received a response as of the time of reporting.