Gwen Torain of the city’s Department of Housing and Community Development says the tour gave board members a good picture of the agencies’ work and need for financial support.

"They're visiting agencies that assist with information and referral; they're stopping at agencies that work with families who may be in crisis as far as needing transitional housing and, also, agencies that provide temporary emergency housing,” explained Torain.

The tour included Family Services of the Piedmont, Mary’s House and Room at the Inn of the Carolinas.