What is Coordinated Entry?
Coordinated Entry is a streamlined system that provides access to individuals and families seeking assistance through a coordinated referral and housing placement process. It aims to ensure that people have fair and equal access to housing and services that match their needs and strengths, regardless of where or when they seek help. Households are assessed using a standard and objective tool that identifies their vulnerability and barriers to housing. Those who are accessed as having the highest vulnerability and housing barriers will be prioritized for access to housing.
The coordinated entry process can benefit both the people who need help and the system that provides help. For the people, it can reduce the time and effort they spend on finding and accessing housing and services, improve their satisfaction and outcomes, and promote their dignity and choice. For the system, it can increase the efficiency and effectiveness of resource allocation, reduce duplication and fragmentation, improve data quality and performance measurement, and foster collaboration and coordination among different agencies.
The points of entry for assessment
There are two access points within the Cobb Homeless Alliance where clients can get access for coordinated entry on a first come, first serve basis. Assessments for both access points are conducted over the phone.
The Center for Family Resources
Monday – Friday
8:30am – 4:30pm
770-428-2601
MUST Ministries
Monday – Friday
9am - 2pm
470-334-8481
A coordinated entry process usually involves the following steps
Point of Entry Screening
People who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness are asked some basic questions to determine their eligibility and priority for different types of housing and services.
Assessment and Prioritization
People who are eligible and prioritized are assessed for their strengths, preferences, barriers, and goals using a standardized tool or process.
Referral
People who are assessed are referred to the most appropriate housing and service interventions that are available and suitable for them.
Connection
People who are referred are connected to the housing and service providers that can help them end their homelessness.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Coordinated Entry is NOT the same as the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program. If you have a Housing Voucher, you do not qualify for a permanent housing project through Coordinated Entry.
Two types of permanent housing programs are included: permanent supportive housing for persons with a disabling condition, and Rapid Rehousing. The amount of assistance provided and/or length of participation in the program may be limited. For some programs, you must be able to obtain a lease in your name.
“Please contact Marietta Housing Authority for more information on the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program”.
