RISC calls on Richmond and Chesterfield leaders to act on housing, mental health and gun violence

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Thousands of residents called on city and county leaders to take action on key issues in the community during an annual meeting of Richmonders Involved to Strengthen Communities (RISC) members on Tuesday.

On Tuesday, March 24, members of RISC gathered in large numbers for their annual Action Assembly, drawing more than 2,700 attendees to St. Paul’s Baptist Church.

The event brought together residents from Richmond and Chesterfield County to push local leaders to reaffirm their commitment to three priorities: reducing gun violence, expanding mental health services, and increasing access to affordable housing.

Speakers highlighted the growing strain on working families, noting that many full-time workers still struggle to afford stable housing.

Affordable housing emerged as a central concern. While Mayor Danny Avula’s proposed budget includes $11.7 million intended for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, RISC members raised concerns that the funding is not clearly allocated in the budget language.

According to RSIC, $1.7 million is assigned to a new “Affordable Housing Revolving Fund,” and $10 million is allocated to the “Equitable Affordable Housing Program.” Neither of these is the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.

Advocates called on city leaders to ensure the money is directed as promised and to maintain transparency in the process.

“We need affordable housing so that nobody has to be dependent on a non-profit to pay the rent, or the Belmont Food Bank, so they can eat," said one resident. "We need affordable housing now."

Richmond Mayor Danny Avula responded by stating that his team is working to clarify the budget language so the funding commitment is clearly reflected. 

“I have sent amended language to this initiative in advance, and I've also worked with my colleagues on council to support their submission of a budget amendment, which will be the most efficient way to provide that clarity,” said Avula

City Councilmember Kenya Gibson also addressed the crowd, emphasizing the importance of continued community engagement and accountability.

“We need to keep showing up and checking those receipts," Gibson said. "I know it's hard work to hold us accountable, but I also know that the community and relationships that we built in this process are irreplaceable."

In addition to housing, RISC announced plans to launch a new campaign focused on expanding mental health services for families and children in Chesterfield County. The group is also partnering with the National Institute for Criminal Justice Reform to develop strategies aimed at reducing gun violence in the Richmond area.