VIRGINIA, USA — As temperatures drop across Hampton Roads, emergency shelters say they’re preparing for what is typically their busiest stretch of the year, made more challenging this season by high rents, continued evictions, and a growing need for services.

On the Peninsula, HELP Inc. in Hampton is already seeing shelter demand climbing earlier than usual. Executive Director Matthew Stearn says the rise isn’t surprising, but the pressures behind it are intensifying.

“We prepare for our largest numbers throughout the year, and our largest number last year we had 100 on one night,” Stearn said. “We are seeing a rise in our numbers this time last year, but I don’t think it’s hindering our capacity. I think everybody’s able to get a bed that needs a bed.”

Rents Outpacing Incomes

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