Recognizing Progress in Atlanta’s Unhoused Initiatives
I had the opportunity to attend a meeting recently that highlighted the incredible work being done in our community to address our unhoused population. While this isn’t my usual area of focus, I was deeply moved by what I learned and felt compelled to share it with you.
You may have noticed the presence of larger encampments in certain areas of Buckhead, particularly near GDOT and MARTA properties. What’s inspiring is the compassionate and thoughtful approach being taken by the Atlanta Police Department’s HOPE (Homeless Outreach Proactive Enforcement) team. Their mission is to connect individuals experiencing homelessness with short- or long-term housing solutions. Rather than simply relocating people, they ensure they have access to safe and stable options. By partnering with organizations like Gateway, United Way, Salvation Army, and the Veterans Administration, they’ve achieved an impressive 96% success rate in helping individuals transition into shelters and supportive services.
MARTA has also developed its own HOPE team, launched in August 2020 in collaboration with HOPE Atlanta, to provide support to individuals who are seeking refuge within the transit system. The team is proactive in reaching out to offer assistance. If you see someone who might need help on MARTA, you can contact their team at 404-848-5309 or by emailing martahope@itsmarta.com.
To learn more about these meaningful efforts, you can visit the following organizations:
It’s truly heartening to see such dedicated work making a real difference in the lives of individuals and in our community. Let’s continue to support and spread awareness of these incredible initiatives!
