An Overview of the GA Senate Study Committee on Unsheltered Homelessness Report

The Georgia Senate Study Committee released a report this month that aimed to address the growing issue of homelessness in the state. The report provides insights into the causes, challenges, and potential solutions for addressing homelessness.

Key Findings

The primary conclusion drawn from the report is that there has been a significant increase in the number of unsheltered homeless individuals in Georgia -- this we knew. Factors contributing to the rise include economic instability, lack of affordable housing, and insufficient mental health services.

Causes of Homelessness

The report identifies several key factors contributing to homelessness:

1. Economic Factors: Rising housing costs and stagnant wages have made it increasingly difficult for low-income individuals and families to secure stable housing.
2. Mental Health Issues: A lack of access to mental health care services has left many individuals without the necessary support, leading to increased vulnerability to homelessness.
3. Substance Abuse: Substance use disorders are prevalent among unsheltered populations, complicating their ability to maintain stable housing.
4. Systemic Barriers: Institutional barriers such as discrimination and inadequate social safety nets exacerbate the situation for vulnerable populations.

Recommendations for Addressing Homelessness

The committee provided several recommendations aimed at mitigating unsheltered homelessness:

1. Increase Funding for Housing Programs: The report advocates for more state funding directed toward affordable housing initiatives and supportive services.
2. Enhanced Mental Health Services: Expanding access to mental health care is crucial for addressing one of the root causes of homelessness.
3. Collaboration with Local Governments: The report emphasizes the importance of partnerships between state agencies and local governments to create tailored solutions that meet community needs.
4. Data Collection and Analysis: Improved data collection methods are recommended to better understand the demographics and needs of homeless populations, which can inform policy decisions.

You can read the official report here.

Author: Ericka Cameron-Carr