Gwinnett County Takes Bold Steps to Combat Homelessness

Gwinnett County is leading the charge in addressing homelessness through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and community-driven solutions. From affordable housing initiatives to warming stations, these efforts aim to provide stability and hope for those facing housing insecurity. Ways that you can help are listed below this article.

Rainbow Village: A Launchpad for Success

Families once teetering on the brink of despair now find themselves thriving in fully furnished homes, thanks to Rainbow Village in Norcross. Founded with a $25,000 from Christ Church Episcopal, Rainbow Village offers more than shelter—it’s a launchpad for rebuilding lives.

“Just about every family that comes to Rainbow Village wants to buy a house. They have dreams and aspirations but often lack the tools to be prepared,” said Rev. Melanie Conner, Rainbow Village CEO.

Rainbow Village focuses on financial stability, physical and mental well-being, and career development. Residents pay $700 monthly, which covers rent, utilities, and a savings contribution—a model designed to build long-term security.

Warming Stations: Compassion on Cold Nights

When temperatures drop below 35 degrees, Gwinnett County’s warming stations offer a lifeline. Five locations across the county provide safe, warm spaces for those in need:

• Best Friend Park Gym, Norcross
• Buford Senior Center, Buford
• Centerville Senior Center, Snellville
• Lawrenceville Senior Center, Lawrenceville
• Shorty Howell Park Activity Building, Duluth

“When you see someone in distress, a simple conversation can lead to life-saving assistance. These warming stations are critical on the coldest nights,” said Lt. Elbert Gurley of Gwinnett Police.

Motel to Home: A Pathway to Stability

Programs like “Motel to Home” transform temporary fixes into lasting solutions. For families like Chasity Davis and Breanna Knight, the initiative has been a turning point.

“When I got the call about the program, it was a relief. It gave me the chance to keep pushing forward,” said Davis.

Investing in Affordable Housing

Gwinnett County is making significant strides in affordable housing with federal grants and community investments:

“We’ve allocated $80 million to 12 affordable housing projects, creating nearly 1,000 units for residents earning 65% or less of the area median income,” said Matt Elder, Gwinnett’s Housing and Community Development Division Director.

The county’s first shelter for single men is set to open, providing a safe space and support for an underserved population.

Building Hope, One Brick at a Time

With a $4.6 million investment in Rainbow Village’s “Building Homes, Building Hope” campaign, Gwinnett County is closing the housing insecurity gap one step at a time.

A Community United

Gwinnett’s comprehensive approach—combining immediate support and long-term investment—showcases how communities can turn hope into reality. As Knight put it, “What’s next for my family is to prosper and grow.”

To learn more about our warming stations or to volunteer, you may visit our website, or call OneStop4 Help at 770.822.8850. You may also find other ways to help our community through Volunteer Gwinnett. Below is a list of organizations the County either funds directly or works alongside in partnership.

To learn more about our warming stations or to volunteer, you may visit our website, or call OneStop4 Help at 770.822.8850.  You may also find other ways to help our community through Volunteer Gwinnett.

Below is a list of organizations the County either funds directly or works alongside in partnership.

• ARPA: American Rescue Plan Act
• HUD: United States Department of Housing and Urban Development