As Atlanta prepares to host the 2026 World Cup, city leaders are moving forward with an ambitious goal: reaching a zero homeless population in downtown Atlanta.
The plan, called “Downtown Rising,” is part of a longer-term citywide effort addressing homelessness in Atlanta and is being led by Partners for HOME, a nonprofit that manages much of the city’s homelessness programs.
Annie Hyrila, chief programs officer at Partners for HOME, said the plan includes 500 rapid-build units for permanent supportive housing and to secure housing for an estimated 400 unsheltered people living in downtown Atlanta.
“Our part is really to canvas that geographic area, create a by-name list of each individual experiencing homelessness, assess what their needs are and then work with them to get into safe, affordable, permanent housing,” Hyrila said.
Hyrila gave an overview of the plan on Thursday’s “Closer Look” and shared why she believes ending homelessness in downtown Atlanta is achievable.
