Case Description
The Covid-19 pandemic further exacerbated the challenges for many homeless people, which was also the case in Downtown Atlanta. Many of the homeless turn to public spaces, such as parks, to carry out their daily activities. Woodruff park is one such place where homeless spend much of their time. In 2016, the ‘Project for Public Spaces’ and various local partners, started to provide various amenities and social services through placemaking efforts. They designed and built a multifunctional game cart, “to not only offer users games, but also information, power outlets, and other amenities to be used by all.” This cart, combined with various other social services and important trust agents, played a vital role during the Covid-19 pandemic; many homeless people looked to Woodruff park during the city’s stay-at-home order. Services to the homeless were maintained, and extended services were provided such as Covid-19 screening and providing information about social distancing where to find a safe place to spend the night.
Relation to Resilience
The place-based social services provided in Woodruff park provided an important means for homeless people to adapt and cope with the the Covid-19 pandemic and its implications, such as the city’s stay-at-home order. Important connections and relations were maintained, as important trust agents remained active and approachable in the park.