Understanding and Ending Homelessness: The Central Virginia Landscape and Miriam’s House’s Approach

Presented by Sarah Quarantotto.

Homelessness is a complex and evolving challenge across Central Virginia, but meaningful progress is possible with the right strategies and community partnerships. Join us for an in-depth presentation on the current scope of homelessness in our region, including key data trends, root causes, and the populations most affected. This session will explore proven, evidence-based solutions to homelessness, with a focus on the leadership and impact of Miriam’s House. Discover how Miriam’s House has revolutionized the local response through Housing First, supportive services, and innovative partnerships, paving the way toward making homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring in Central Virginia. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of both the challenges and the pathways to lasting solutions.

Speaker Biography:

Sarah Quarantotto serves as the executive director of Miriam’s House in Lynchburg, Virginia. With a master’s degree in social work from Virginia Commonwealth University and a career dedicated to the welfare of all community members, Quarantotto’s leadership is centered on the belief that every individual deserves a place to call home. Since 2010, Quarantotto has been an integral part of the Miriam’s House team. Under her leadership, the organization has seen a remarkable expansion in service capacity, increasing the number of individuals served and the number of homeless response programs provided. In 2015, Quarantotto was recognized by Lynchburg Business Magazine as a Top 20 Under 40 Professional, and in 2024, was recognized by Lynchburg Living Magazine as a Community Champion. When not addressing homelessness, Quarantotto can be found exploring the outdoors of central Virginia with her husband and two children.

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