Salvation Army launches fundraising campaign for Center for Hope

An organization that operates a homeless shelter on Ridge Street in Charlottesville has launched the public phase of a $28 million capital campaign to expand the facility.

The Center for Hope would be a 47,000 square foot facility that will double capacity from 55 beds to 110 beds and increase space for dining.

“The Center of Hope will be a literal lifeline to help us expand our efforts to lift our neighbors toward the lives they wish for and deserve, and in the process, to benefit the entire community,” an information release quotes Major Donny Wilson.

So far the organization has raised $16 million and needs to find the rest by early 2027 in order to move forward as planned.

The city has made a $3 million contribution to the project from its share of American Rescue Plan Act funds.

The two chambers of the Virginia General Assembly have yet to agree on a budget for FY2027. At issue is a desire in the Democratic-led Senate to sunset a tax on data centers providing additional revenue. The House of Delegates have not agreed to do that.

The Senate version currently includes a $9.1 million budget from Senator Creigh Deeds (D-11) for the Center for Hope. The House version does not.

The Salvation Army’s campaign comes at the same time the City of Charlottesville is working with three nonprofit organizations that work with the unhoused on the details of a low-barrier shelter and support center at 2000 Holiday Drive.

For more information on the project, visit the Salvation Army’s website.

Before you go: The goal of Town Crier Productions is to increase awareness about what is happening at the local, regional, state, and federal government levels. Please share the work with others if you want people to know things. Paid subscribers cover the cost of conducting research for this article which was originally published in the May 14, 2026 edition of Charlottesville Community Engagement.  You can either subscribe through Substack or make a charitable contribution.