NEWS

Chatham-Savannah’s coordinated response to homelessness continues to show measurable progress, according to the newly released 2026 Point-in-Time Count from the Chatham Savannah Authority for the Homeless, on behalf of the Chatham Savannah County Interagency Council on Homelessness.

The annual HUD-required count identified 582 individuals experiencing homelessness on a single night in January 2026, including 478 sheltered individuals and 104 unsheltered individuals.

Since 2023, Chatham County has seen a 62% reduction in unsheltered homelessness, a 59% reduction in chronic homelessness and an 83% reduction in encampments. The report also showed a 95% housing retention rate, with only 3% of individuals returning to homelessness after stabilization.

Community leaders credited the progress to strong collaboration among local governments, nonprofits, healthcare providers, law enforcement, outreach teams and partners working through the Savannah-Chatham County Five-Year Strategic Plan to End Homelessness.

The report also noted that 76% of individuals experiencing homelessness over the past two years entered the system for the first time, reinforcing the need for continued investment in homelessness prevention, affordable housing and early intervention resources.

While the numbers show encouraging progress, chronic homelessness remains a significant challenge. Leaders emphasized the continued need for expanded supportive housing, behavioral health resources and targeted interventions to help more individuals reach long-term stability.

Read the full 2026 PIT Report HERE