DeKalb County announced it has opened a new resource center in south DeKalb designed to connect people experiencing homelessness with housing, employment and health services.
The DeKalb Day Center, located at the New Life Community Alliance campus at 3552 Flat Shoals Road in Decatur, will serve as a centralized access point for housing assistance, workforce development, behavioral health services, healthcare referrals, and other resources, according to a county announcement.
“Homelessness is one of the most complex issues facing communities across the nation, and meaningful progress requires partnership, innovation and compassion,” DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson said. “This new center strengthens our ability to meet residents where they are, provide critical support services, and create opportunities for long-term success.”
Through a partnership with New Life Community Alliance, the center will offer case management, housing navigation, employment assistance, educational opportunities, meals, hygiene services, clothing assistance, and technology resources. Claratel Behavioral Health will provide behavioral health services, and WorkSource DeKalb will offer employment resources.
County officials said the center differs from traditional service models by bringing multiple providers together in one location, reducing the need for individuals to navigate agencies independently.
The center will launch through a phased process, with an initial focus on individualized assessments, service coordination, and building pathways toward permanent housing.
“Every individual deserves the opportunity to move beyond crisis and toward stability,” said Michael Bryant, CEO of New Life Community Alliance in the release. “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 the county evaluates options to expand shelter and supportive housing resources countywide.
