New resource center launches for unhoused community
Members of the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners, CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, and other officials gathered on June 15 for opening day of a new resource center in South DeKalb designed to “connect individuals experiencing homelessness with the services they need to regain stability and independence,” according to officials.
Launched through a partnership with New Life Community Alliance (NLCA), a nonprofit run through New Life Church in Decatur, officials said the new DeKalb Day Center will serve as a centralized point of access for housing assistance, workforce development, behavioral health services, healthcare referrals, and other resources.
According to information shared at the June 15 launch, the center will offer access to case management, housing navigation, employment assistance, educational opportunities, meals, hygiene services, clothing assistance, and technology resources. Participants will also be connected with behavioral health services through Claratel Behavioral Health and employment resources through WorkSource DeKalb.
“Unlike traditional service delivery models that require individuals to navigate multiple agencies and organizations independently, the Day Center brings a range of providers together under one roof, reducing barriers to access and improving coordination among service partners,” stated officials.
A news release about the opening of the center states that it will begin operations through a phased implementation process that allows staff and partners to establish effective service delivery systems while gradually expanding capacity. Throughout the initial launch period, emphasis will be placed on individualized assessments, service coordination, and building pathways toward permanent housing and self-sufficiency.
“Every individual deserves the opportunity to move beyond crisis and toward stability,” said Michael Bryant, CEO of New Life Community Alliance. “By working together, we can remove barriers, provide meaningful support, and help people take the next steps toward housing, employment, and long-term independence.”
The center will operate at the New Life Community Alliance campus (located at 3592 Flat Shoals Road) while DeKalb County officials continue evaluating long-term opportunities to expand shelter and supportive housing resources countywide. Services established through this partnership will help create continuity of care as future homelessness initiatives are developed, said officials.
“We understand that a hand up is not a handout,” said Cochran-Johnson during the opening ceremony of the center. “Homelessness is one of the most complex issues facing communities across the nation, and meaningful progress requires partnership, innovation and compassion.”
“This new center strengthens our ability to meet residents where they are, provide critical support services, and create opportunities for long-term success,” Cochran-Johnson continued. “It represents another step forward in our efforts to build a more responsive and coordinated system of care throughout DeKalb County.”
Residents seeking assistance or organizations interested in supporting the effort can contact New Life Community Alliance at (404) 687-4033.
