Sheltering Arms Foundation

Our Story

More than a century ago, Sheltering Arms began as the vision of a young woman named Rebekah Peterkin, who dedicated her life to helping those in Richmond, Virginia, who could not afford healthcare. On February 13, 1889, with the support of her sewing circle and community allies, she established Sheltering Arms Hospital, a free acute care facility. Although Ms. Peterkin passed away two years later, her legacy lived on through the commitment of local physicians, nurses, and a devoted executive board of women who tirelessly worked to keep the hospital operational.

By 1894, the hospital had moved to Clay Street, where it became a cornerstone of the community, attracting patients from across Virginia. For over 70 years, Sheltering Arms served the community until it expanded to build a new hospital, adapting to the evolving healthcare landscape.

In the late 1970s, recognizing a growing need for specialized care, Sheltering Arms transitioned to focus on physical rehabilitation. In January 1981, it became the first private free-standing physical rehabilitation hospital in Virginia. This shift marked a new chapter in its mission to meet the healthcare needs of the community.

Over the years, Sheltering Arms has grown to include multiple inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation centers throughout Central Virginia. In the early 1990s, it launched fitness and recreation programs to promote safe exercise and healthy living among community members.

In 2016, a partnership with VCU Health System led to the creation of the Sheltering Arms Institute, a state-of-the-art facility that opened in 2020. This collaboration combines advanced technology, research, and evidence-based clinical care to provide comprehensive rehabilitation services for individuals recovering from strokes, spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and orthopedic conditions.

Today, Sheltering Arms Institute is recognized nationally for its excellence in physical rehabilitation, offering a full continuum of services that empower patients to overcome the challenges of injury and illness. With a commitment to innovation and patient-centered care, Sheltering Arms continues to adapt and grow, ensuring that all individuals have access to the rehabilitation services they need.

Impact

Sheltering Arms is dedicated to providing a full continuum of rehabilitation and wellness services, utilizing state-of-the-science technology and expert staff to help patients regain their independence and improve their quality of life.

Why Donate?

Your generous donations support Sheltering Arms in delivering vital rehabilitation services and community partnerships that enhance human ability, helping individuals with physical disabilities reach their full potential.

Get Involved

Join the mission to empower individuals through rehabilitation. Donate cryptocurrency or cash today to support Sheltering Arms and make a lasting impact in the lives of those in need.