DeKalb County PECS Committee to Host Unhoused Summit on Nov. 14

The DeKalb County Planning, Economic Development, and Community Services (PECS) Committee is pleased to announce the upcoming Unhoused Summit scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 14, from 9 a.m. to noon, at 178 Sams Street, Decatur, in Multipurpose Room A1201.

“We are thrilled to convene a range of partners to address one of the most pressing challenges facing DeKalb County—housing instability,” said District 2 Commissioner and PECS Chair Michelle Long Spears. “This summit will offer a platform to explore innovative solutions, engage community voices, and strengthen the County’s commitment to sustainable, supportive housing for all.”

The Unhoused Summit will gather a diverse group of stakeholders from across DeKalb County and the greater Metro Atlanta area to foster meaningful dialogue on the complex challenges facing the unhoused community and identify actionable solutions. Attendees can expect a morning of informative presentations and solution-focused discussions, led by committee leadership, addressing the impact of homelessness in the county.

Key speakers and presenters will include representatives from DeKalb County’s Community Development Department, Claratel Behavioral Health, the Atlanta Regional Commission, local and state elected officials, and The Melody Project, along with updates on recent housing legislation within the county. “This summit reflects DeKalb County’s commitment to creating viable urban communities that support all residents, especially those citizens that are fragile with the greatest needs,” added Allen Mitchell, director of Community Development. “We are always dedicated to developing strategies and initiatives that principally benefit low to moderate-income residents and help build a more resilient DeKalb County.”

Lee Ann Else, vice president of external relations for Wellroot Family Services, added, “We are excited to have the opportunity to come together with partners at the upcoming PECS Summit to develop a collaborative and comprehensive response to ending homelessness for our unhoused neighbors in DeKalb.”

The PECS Committee invites participants to register by scanning the QR code provided or click here. While registration is not required, it is preferred to help staff accommodate spacing needs and ensure attendees will receive information after the meeting. During registration, participants are welcome to submit comments, suggestions, or questions for consideration prior to the summit.