Assessment Center Seeks to Help Solve a Complex Problem
The issue of homelessness is a complicated one. Questions of why individuals or families become homeless must be answered in order to assist them in solving the problems to prevent it from happening again. In order to do something really useful, Gwinnett County wanted to find out a way to help the systemic problem instead of simply having a Band-Aid approach to the problem.
Clinic, Counseling and Job Application
The Assessment Center is a step toward fighting the systemic problems of homelessness. By having resources such as a medical clinic, counseling for substance abuse and mental health, and a place to apply for jobs, the Assessment Center hopes to tackle many of the causes of homelessness in the community. This is a collaboration between United Way of Greater Atlanta, Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners and the Primerica Foundation, which altogether are HomeFirst Gwinnett.
Shelter
The NAC Norcross Assessment Center Shelter will include 20 beds for single women and women with children who will be eligible for up to a 90 day stay. In coordination with the assessment center, the shelter is designed to prepare guests to transition from homelessness into housing through case management best practices, program design and facility workflows.
A Place to Feel Safe
The shelter is connected to the church’s fellowship hall, but has a private, separate secure entrance away from the street. The shelter will provide residents with a place where than can have storage space, computer desks and a place to sleep. Design of the space intends to make guests feel safe and relaxed so that children will be able to get schoolwork done, and adults can apply for employment.
For more information regarding the Assessment Center and Shelter, please visit the HomeFirst Gwinnett website.