In the heart of DeKalb City Hall, a pressing issue took center stage during the City Council meeting on September 22, 2025. As the evening unfolded, the topic of housing insecurity emerged, drawing passionate voices from community leaders dedicated to addressing homelessness in the area.

Tanisha Clark, the executive director of the Family Service Agency, stepped forward to shed light on the complexities of homelessness. With a firm belief that homelessness is not a crime, she emphasized the need for compassion and understanding rather than criminalization. “To truly address homelessness, we must understand its root causes,” she stated, highlighting factors such as poverty, systemic barriers, and limited access to mental health care. Clark shared impactful statistics from the agency’s Community Action Program, which has empowered over 3,000 families and helped transition 24 individuals into permanent housing over the past year.

Clark's message was clear: simply providing shelter is not enough. She advocated for comprehensive support services, including case management and mental health resources, to help individuals achieve long-term stability. “Any DeKalb County resident experiencing homelessness has options,” she urged, encouraging community members to reach out to local organizations for assistance.

Following Clark, Leslie Wicks, executive director of Hope Haven, shared her extensive experience in the field. With a candid approach, she discussed the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness, including the reluctance of some individuals to accept shelter due to personal choices or circumstances. Wicks recounted poignant stories that illustrated the struggles and realities of homelessness, emphasizing the need for collaboration among community organizations to effectively address these issues.

As the council members listened intently, the discussion highlighted the importance of community engagement and the necessity for a multifaceted approach to tackle homelessness. The meeting underscored a collective commitment to finding solutions that respect the dignity of individuals while addressing the systemic issues at play.

The evening concluded with a call for action, as council members considered how best to support the ongoing efforts of local agencies. The discussions at the meeting not only illuminated the challenges of housing insecurity in DeKalb but also sparked a renewed sense of hope and determination among community leaders and residents alike. As the city moves forward, the commitment to compassion and collaboration remains a guiding principle in the fight against homelessness.