HENRICO COUNTY, Va. -- Some families are looking for a new place to stay after a hotel on Broad Street unexpectedly closed this week.
The shutdown of Hotel I-64 Monday meant some people had less than 48 hours to find a new place to live.
Melnae Harris, who had been staying at the hotel with her three sons, said she has been working to rebuild her life.
Harris said that while it was a struggle, she and her children at least had a roof over their heads at the hotel.
But like many others, Harris said she got devastating news when an employee knocked on her door last Saturday evening.
Harris said she tried to hide her fears from her children as she frantically tried to figure out how they could avoid sleeping on the streets.
And she was not the only one.
“About 60 other people and families had to go too,” Harris said. “They were trying to get their stuff out. People were helping each other, trying to figure out where to go.”
Harris said no info was given about why Hotel I-64 suddenly shut down.
The CBS 6 Problem Solvers were unable to speak with the owners.
A note on the front door stated the hotel was closed and check back as “we look forward to seeing and serving all of our valued guests again soon.”
Harris and her children were able to get help to relocate to another motel for a few days, but she worries how the other families are faring and what resources can help.
Commonwealth Catholic Charities is one option for households in crisis.
Those in emergency situations can connect with resources through the agency`s homeless point of entry on 511 West Grace Street.
There is also a housing crisis hotline that families can call at 804-648-4177.
Officials said they have a street outreach team that can go to the families that might need the help, and they can walk them through their options.
If folks can get to their West Grace Street homeless point of entry location, they can help Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. through 5 p.m.
