DeKalb County, New Life Community Alliance open resource center to connect homeless with housing, jobs and other services

DEKALB COUNTY, GA- As part of its ongoing commitment to addressing the unhoused community and strengthening support systems for vulnerable residents, DeKalb County today, June 15, launched a new resource center in South DeKalb designed to connect individuals experiencing homelessness with the services they need to regain stability and independence. 

Through a partnership with New Life Community Alliance, the new center offers access to case management, housing navigation, employment assistance, educational opportunities, meals, hygiene services, clothing assistance, and technology resources. Participants also will be connected with behavioral health services through Claratel Behavioral Health and employment resources through WorkSource DeKalb. 

“Homelessness is one of the most complex issues facing communities across the nation, and meaningful progress requires partnership, innovation and compassion,” said DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson. “This new center strengthens our ability to meet residents where they are, provide critical support services, and create opportunities for long-term success. It represents another step forward in our efforts to build a more responsive and coordinated system of care throughout DeKalb County.” 

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. 

The center 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. 

The initiative supports DeKalb County’s broader response to the unhoused, which prioritizes collaboration among local government, nonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, and workforce development agencies. By integrating services and strengthening partnerships, the County aims to improve outcomes for residents while creating a more efficient and sustainable support network. 

“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 Day Center will operate at the New Life Community Alliance campus while DeKalb County continues 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. 

Residents seeking assistance or organizations interested in supporting the effort can contact New Life Community Alliance at (404) 687-4033.