Housing Authority Visits New Hope Housing and Harris Center for Homeless Solutions

The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners held a Committee of the Whole meeting on August 28, 2025, focusing on homelessness and mental health services in the community. The meeting featured presentations from various organizations that provide support to unsheltered individuals and those facing mental health challenges.

One of the key discussions centered around the experiences shared by outreach workers who engage with unsheltered individuals. They emphasized the importance of addressing basic needs, such as food and water, which resonated deeply with attendees. This highlighted the critical role of empathy and understanding in outreach efforts.

The meeting also included insights from New Hope Housing, the largest landlord for the housing authority, which manages 1,600 apartments and 700 vouchers. New Hope Housing focuses on mixed-use developments, integrating retail and commercial spaces while providing low-barrier access to housing. They do not conduct drug testing and prioritize creating a supportive environment for residents, which includes not enforcing evictions.

Another significant topic was the Navigation Center, which serves as a bridge for individuals transitioning from homelessness to permanent housing. This facility prioritizes those most in need, offering essential services such as showers, laundry, and job training. It operates through referrals from homeless agencies and first responders, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary support.

The Harris Center was also discussed as a jail diversion program aimed at redirecting individuals with mental health issues away from incarceration. This facility provides voluntary treatment for those who have committed low-level, nonviolent crimes. The program has successfully diverted over 2,600 individuals, with a notable percentage finding stable housing post-treatment.

Andrea Daniels from Clarity Tail Behavioral Health summarized the trip's findings, emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing homelessness. She noted that integrating mental health services with housing solutions is crucial for long-term stability and reducing chronic homelessness.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration among local governments, nonprofits, and community members to enhance support systems for the unhoused population. The discussions underscored the need for innovative solutions and comprehensive strategies to tackle homelessness and mental health challenges in DeKalb County.