Atlanta is the new Black Mecca and in spite of the success that’s boasted on television shows, there is an issue of homelessness that impacts the city. It’s estimated that there are over 3,000 people living without a place of residence in the city and Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms is going to do something about it.
An initiative to combat homelessness began two years ago with former Mayor Kasim Reed. The Homeless Opportunity Bond was approved to invest funding intended to secure permanent housing, emergency shelter options, eviction prevention and homeless youth intervention. Mayor Lance Bottoms was a part of this initiative and has made it a priority to continue the work needed to support these efforts. In partnering with the HomeFirst program, The United Way and receiving donations from private organizations, the $50 million goal has been met and the funds raised will be used to create 550 homes for the current homeless population.
The co-chair of the Atlanta Regional Commission on Homelessness, Jack Hardin said, “It is a misperception that many people have — that homelessness is represented entirely by the people they see on the streets. A far larger proportion of people experiencing homelessness have incomes and function at very high levels, but live on the margins of the economics of our society and any hardship can derail.” A former homeless man, Marshall Rancifer who now is an advocate for the homeless states, “If the city wants to end homelessness, its time to show some unconditional love and build relationships.” He also revealed to a local Atlanta news station reporter that the number of homeless in Atlanta is much higher than what is being reported and fears that $50 million won’t be enough to do significant work. It is however, a great start to address a growing concern that many large cities are experiencing.
