The City of Atlanta is continuing its efforts in providing diversion services following a contractual shake-up with their previous service provider, Partners for Home (PAD). Despite reaching an updated agreement, which included new performance metrics to ensure accountability for taxpayer money, PAD has decided to suspend their collaboration with the city. In a statement obtained by the City of Atlanta's official website, it was announced that the city extended an offer to maintain the previous month-to-month contract in the interim, to prevent any service interruptions, an offer which PAD declined to accept.
In the meantime, Atlanta's Homeless Outreach, Prevention, and Emergency (HOPE) team will provide the critical work PAD once oversaw. The city is in the process of formalizing a contract with a new provider to guarantee the continuity of services for individuals facing mental health or substance abuse crises. The official communication indicated that until this new partnership is solidified, residents in need can reach out to the city's 311 service for assistance.
The abrupt halt of PAD's services appeared unexpected given the recent agreement. The updated contract focused on incorporating precise performance metrics, a move seen as a mechanism for ensuring that taxpayer’s funds were being utilized effectively for the intended services. Nevertheless, PAD has taken a step back from engaging with the city under these newly imposed terms.
