Nashville's Office of Homeless Services celebrates housing 107 individuals in historic effort

The 2025 State of Homelessness Symposium, held on June 5, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee, commenced with an enthusiastic welcome from Demetrius Chaney Perkins, the public information officer. He encouraged attendees to introduce themselves and highlighted the importance of community engagement in addressing homelessness. Perkins acknowledged the presence of elected officials, despite their potential delay due to a lengthy council meeting the previous night.

The symposium featured Kenitha Patterson, the chair of the Homelessness Planning Council, who was recognized for her unique perspective as a leader with lived experience. Perkins emphasized the significance of this representation in the council's history. He also informed attendees about the availability of a virtual link for those unable to attend in person, promoting broader participation.

April Calvin, the director of the Office of Homeless Services, took the stage next. She expressed gratitude for the support from the community and acknowledged the challenges faced by her team, particularly in managing cold weather shelters and ongoing encampment issues. Calvin celebrated a recent achievement where 107 individuals experiencing homelessness were housed, marking a significant milestone for the community.

Calvin underscored the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders, including service providers, elected officials, and community members. She called for a shift away from a scarcity mindset, urging everyone to work together to eliminate homelessness. Her remarks highlighted the commitment of the Office of Homeless Services to secure funding and advocate for effective solutions to homelessness.

The symposium aimed to foster dialogue and share information about best practices in addressing homelessness, with Calvin expressing hope for continued collaboration and progress in the future. The event set the stage for ongoing discussions and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of those experiencing homelessness in Nashville.