We focus on robust operational strategies and coordinated planning efforts to tackle homelessness. Central to our approach is the "Housing First" methodology, which emphasizes the importance of providing individuals and families with stable housing as a primary step, followed by supportive services tailored to their unique needs. The CoC operational model can be summarized in four critical phases:

1. Outreach, Intake, and Assessment: This foundational step helps identify the specific needs of individuals experiencing homelessness, linking them to relevant services and housing levels.
2. Emergency Shelter: We ensure a safe refuge for those in immediate need, prioritizing homeless families with children.
3. Transitional Housing: Through this phase, we equip individuals with the necessary skills for future self-sustained living.
4. Permanent Housing: With or without supportive services, this stage offers affordable living solutions, setting individuals and families on a path to stability.

Our Coordinated Entry System streamlines access to suitable housing and services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. By prioritizing the most vulnerable and ensuring timely placements, we maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of our resources.

Coordinated Entry is a standardized approach used in housing and homelessness sectors to assess, prioritize, and connect individuals and families experiencing homelessness with appropriate housing and service interventions. This system aims to streamline the process of finding suitable assistance by providing a centralized or collaborative means for evaluation and referrals. Through coordinated entry, communities can more efficiently allocate resources, ensuring that those with the greatest vulnerabilities and needs receive prioritized access to available housing and support services. By reducing fragmentation and duplication of efforts, coordinated entry seeks to promote consistency, fairness, and transparency in addressing homelessness at the community level.

Every year, we meticulously prepare and submit an application to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for funding. This process ensures we remain eligible for federal resources, enabling us to provide crucial services and housing solutions to our community members in need. See our currently funded agencies here.

Data-driven decisions are key to our success. To facilitate this, we utilize the statewide HMIS database, a dedicated system designed to capture, store, and analyze comprehensive data on homelessness within Cobb County. This system aids in our planning, ensures accountability, and helps track our progress in real-time.

Biannually, our CoC conducts the Point-in-Time (PIT) count to gather data on the homeless population within our jurisdiction. Additionally, we annually undertake a Housing Inventory Count to catalog available resources and identify gaps in our homelessness assistance framework. These counts are instrumental in informing our strategies, refining our approach, and directing resources where they're most needed.

This vital data provides a snapshot of our community's homelessness landscape, enabling us to dynamically adjust our services, allocate funds, and redirect resources where they're most needed.

By adhering to these program requirements, the Cobb Homeless Alliance ensures a comprehensive, efficient, and effective response to homelessness, driven by data, community collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to positive change.