The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office Code Enforcement Division responded Thursday to a complaint of a homeless encampment on private property just outside the city limits of Cornelia.
Three identical tents found
According to a press release from the sheriff’s office, three individuals were found staying in tents on the property. Code Enforcement officers issued Criminal Trespass Warnings, notifying the individuals that they must vacate the area. All three complied and had left the property before officers returned to check the site Friday morning.
“No charges were filed or are anticipated,” the release stated, noting that the individuals were cooperative and understanding during their interaction with law enforcement.
The site consisted of three identical green and white tents.
Cornelia Police Chief Jonathan Roberts did not give names of any suspects involved with the campsite. “Respectfully, we are hoping to keep names quiet for a while as we build our case,” he said.
This marks the latest development in a growing concern for law enforcement and residents alike, as complaints mount over unauthorized homeless camps appearing on private and commercial properties.
Officials continue to urge the public not to relocate individuals without property owners’ consent and to direct those in need to available community resources.
Resources for unhoused individuals
Families and individuals experiencing homelessness in Habersham County can find support through Family Promise of White & Habersham, a local nonprofit that offers a variety of comprehensive services.
These include emergency shelter and housing through rotational stays with partnering congregations, which are designed to keep families together while providing stable living arrangements. The organization also offers prevention and diversion programs aimed at stopping homelessness before it begins or resolving it quickly when it does occur.
Those seeking assistance can contact Family Promise by calling (706) 865‑7725 or visiting their office at 403 West Kytle Street, Cleveland. Individuals without children may also be referred to appropriate resources through the national 211 helpline or by reaching out to Family Promise for guidance.
In addition to Family Promise of White and Habersham, another vital community resource is Street Exit, a program operated by Ninth District Opportunity. While not an emergency shelter, Street Exit offers a range of support services for those experiencing homelessness, including connections to providers, supplies, and help navigating available aid.
The organization holds weekly outreach events every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sharing & Caring, located at 195 Stovall Street in Cornelia. These events provide food boxes, basic supplies, and referrals for unsheltered individuals.
Cornelia Police recently spotlighted Street Exit on social media as a “local, legitimate resource for our homeless population,” encouraging residents to contact the program if they need assistance or wish to volunteer or donate. More information can be found at streetexit.org, by calling 770-778-0075, or by visiting Street Exit’s official Facebook page.
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