Two publications describing the key findings from agency representatives and individuals experiencing houselessness were developed separately. This report integrates the high-level findings from both analyses to identify shared and differing perspectives on the homeless-serving system and to provide additional insights to inform the Center’s strategic directions in research, evaluation, and technical assistance.

Key findings from service providers and individuals with lived experience indicate that Atlanta’s homeless-serving system offered a wide variety of housing-related and supportive services, though individuals experiencing houselessness reported varied experiences accessing and utilizing services. Specifically, across interviews with 12 individuals experiencing houselessness and 21 service providers, six key themes emerged. Together, these themes illustrated both strengths and limitations within the system and highlighted areas where additional research, evaluation, and technical assistance could support system improvement.

Individuals experiencing houselessness highlighted the resilience and resourcefulness needed to navigate housing instability, investing significant time and energy identifying resources, maintaining connections with service providers, and seeking assistance despite numerous systemic barriers. Similarly, service providers were working diligently to address the complex challenges faced by individuals within systems that were often constrained by limited resources and administrative requirements.