On July 1, Georgia will officially recognize the Chatham-Savannah Interagency Council on Homelessness (ICH) as a legal entity. This development marks a significant milestone for the region and its collaborative partners in addressing homelessness.
The Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, alongside key community partners, initiated efforts to re-establish the local Continuum of Care (CoC) in 2019. This was in response to requirements set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Over several years, these efforts re-engaged community stakeholders and rebuilt a coordinated system of care. Under City Manager Jay Melder’s leadership, the CoC took an additional step by forming the ICH to lead a data-driven response to homelessness in Savannah.
With this legislation’s enactment, the coordinated approach is now part of Georgia law and can operate countywide. Although the legal framework starts on July 1, the ICH has already published a five-year strategic plan and begun its implementation across the region.
“This milestone reflects the commitment of dozens of organizations and individuals who have worked tirelessly to build a stronger, more responsive, and more humane system to prevent and reduce homelessness in our community and ensure public safety for all,” said representatives from The Chamber. “The Chamber is proud to be part of this historic achievement.”
