Savannah establishes Interagency Council on Homelessness for coordinated care efforts

House Bill 797, introduced in the Georgia House Legislature on March 18, 2025, aims to enhance the coordination and effectiveness of homeless assistance programs in the Chatham-Savannah area. The bill establishes the Interagency Council on Homelessness for Chatham-Savannah, which will serve as the primary board for overseeing the continuum of care for homelessness in the region.

Key provisions of the bill include the council's responsibility for interagency coordination in planning, policymaking, and program development related to homelessness. It mandates compliance with federal Housing and Urban Development requirements and outlines the council's role in managing a homeless management information system and a coordinated entry system. The Chatham-Savannah Authority for the Homeless is designated as the collaborative applicant responsible for leading these efforts.

The bill has sparked discussions regarding its potential impact on local homelessness strategies, particularly in light of the existing Interagency Council on Homelessness established by the City of Savannah in 2023. Supporters argue that the bill will streamline funding applications and improve resource allocation, while critics express concerns about the effectiveness of additional bureaucratic structures.

The implications of House Bill 797 are significant, as it seeks to address the pressing issue of homelessness in a region that has seen rising numbers of individuals experiencing housing instability. Experts suggest that improved coordination could lead to better outcomes for those in need, but the success of the bill will depend on the council's ability to effectively implement its provisions and engage with the community.

As the legislative process continues, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the bill's progress and its potential to reshape the landscape of homelessness assistance in Chatham-Savannah.