Support/Works Creates “Actual” Affordable Housing

by Charles McGuigan 03.2026

We’ve all heard developers talk about the construction of affordable housing that is anything but affordable. Except, of course, for the wealthy. But the folks at SupportWorks Housing (formerly Virginia Supportive Housing) actually do create affordable housing. 

On March 4, SupportWorks accepted a check for $500,000 from Senator Mark Warner that brings the construction of sixty new affordable housing units in Richmond’s Northside one step closer to becoming a reality. 

The presentation of the check from Senator Warner was made at Cool Lane Commons, yet another success story brought to you by SupportWorks. 

“This isn't just a building with walls and a roof,” Allison Bogdanovic, executive director of Support/Works, said of Cool Lane Commons. “It’s a foundation. For some of us, this is the first place in a long time where we can lock a door, sleep through the night without fear, and start dreaming about a future again.”

Allison reminded those present that people experiencing homelessness are human beings. 

“They are more than just numbers,” she said. “They are veterans who served our country, grandparents, seniors, and people with disabilities. Before finding a home with us at SupportWorks, they were struggling to survive, often treated as invisible.”

It took time, the cooperation between neighboring municipalities, and a lot of hard work, but the rewards are immeasurable. “Cool Lane Commons represents a turning point,” said Allison. “It shows that when we prioritize dignity, we can turn a crisis into a community.  We thank you for the political will it took to open Cool Lane Commons.  But we’re not finished.  Today you’ll hear about our next community, Greenview in Highland Park.”

Greenview will be located at 2900 Rady Street, on a parcel of land donated by Richmond Behavioral Health Authority. Those living at Greenview will have, along with affordable housing, access to onsite support services.

The projected cost for construction is about $18.3 million, and all but $5 million has already been raised. Once that last $5 million is secured, construction would begin in 2027 and be completed two years later.

What makes this project truly unique is that the vast majority of the funding (about $10 million) came from three regional municipalities—the City of Richmond and the counties of Chesterfield and Henrico. About $2.5 million came from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. And then, of course, a half million dollars from the federal government thanks to  Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine. The Bob and Anna Lou Schaberg Foundation also gave a generous donation of $300,000.   

Allison concluded her remarks by pointing out how successful SupportWorks has been in providing affordable housing for almost four decades now.

“For over thirty-seven years, you have supported our mission to end homelessness,” she said. “Together we have built communities, improved neighborhoods, and transformed lives.  Supportive housing works. Ninety-six percent of our residents do not return to homelessness.  Let’s build on our partnerships and work together to make our region a better, safer, more prosperous place for everyone.”