On an unseasonably warm late winter evening last week, local leaders, politicians, GRIP staff, volunteers, and member congregations gathered to connect, unite, hear about challenges, and find solutions. The 2026 annual meeting called “Sunset & Sips” began socially then got down to business with the executive director’s annual report, a panel discussion with leaders, a chance to hear firsthand from a GRIP family, and a celebration of incredible volunteers.
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Executive Director Ralph Payton’s 2025 report included highlights such as:
Meals: 75,000
Outreach meals to encampments: 9,600
Families housed: 25
Single adults housed: 15
Mail services: 3,160
Showers: 2,739
Laundry: 420
Board President Maria Costen hosted a panel with perspectives from John Gioia, Contra Costa County Supervisor, Samantha Watson, Early Childhood Mental Health Program, Daniel Barth, SOS Richmond, Michelle Milam, Crime Prevention Mgr., Richmond, Jamie Schecter, Homeless Services Chief, Contra Costa Health, and Ralph Payton, Greater Richmond Interfaith Program (GRIP).
GRIP family Robert Herger and Rebecca Bull and their two young girls shared how the family shelter let them stay together and support each other as they found stability, and moved into recently permanent housing thanks to the care, love, and support of GRIP.
Southside Church of Christ and Open Door United Methodist Church were honored along with individual volunteers Amy Nichols and the tireless, long-time GRIP volunteer Tak Yamamoto, both from Open Door.
