Revolutionizing Care for Atlanta's Homeless
NPower Atlanta/Techbridge provides a robust technology infrastructure to a new Homeless Care Center.
Challenge
Executive Director Vince Smith of of 24/7 Gateway Center knew setting up the new facility would be no easy task, since the Gateway Center needed to integrate its systems with several other organizations' existing infrastructures. In addition, the Center wanted to find technology systems that would allow them to grow in the future.
Solution
Acting under a grant from the United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta, NPower Atlanta/ TechBridge provided complete technology planning and implementation for the Gateway Center, including building a local area network; installing PC hardware and software; setting up specialized homeless shelter management software; implementing security and back up systems; and conducting technical training for Center staff.
Impact
The robust technology infrastructure - and the staff's ability to use it to its fullest potential - enables the Center to efficiently manage the well-being of their clients, provide access to resources, and track the progress of clients as they work toward becoming self sufficient. "Having the right technology in place and operational when we opened our doors was critical to Gateway's immediate and long-term success," said Mr. Smith. "NPower Atlanta brought essential technical knowledge and expertise to the table and helped us build a solid technology infrastructure that will serve us for years to come."
About the Nonprofit
The 24/7 Gateway Center provides an estimated 500 people a day with shelter, medical attention and services that help overcome homelessness. Established in 2005 as the centerpiece of an effort by a regional commission to end chronic homelessness, the Gateway Center is a unique collaboration between the United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta and the Atlanta Union Mission. The 110,000-square foot facility offers a welcome center and human services (beds, showers, food, etc.), and connections to the community's continuum of services including drug treatment and housing assistance, medical and mental health services, and job readiness programs.


