When most Atlantans think of MARTA, they think of movement: trains, buses, the daily flow of a bustling city. But for those without a place to call home, MARTA is often the last place of shelter when every other option has disappeared.
Recognizing this sobering reality, Hope Atlanta and MARTA forged an innovative partnership—MARTA HOPE—to move beyond transportation and into transformation. Launched in 2020, MARTA HOPE proves that public spaces can also be spaces of compassion, dignity, and new beginnings.
Meeting People Where They Are
Unlike traditional outreach models, MARTA HOPE doesn’t wait for people in crisis to find help—it brings help to them. Hope Atlanta case managers and MARTA field protective specialists work side-by-side, meeting individuals at bus shelters, train stations, and aboard buses.
With care and respect, they connect people to critical resources: emergency housing, mental health care, substance use treatment, employment services, and family reunification programs. Each encounter is a doorway to stability, guided by humanity rather than judgment.
“MARTA HOPE embodies a belief that public transit can be more than just a means of getting from point A to point B. It can be a bridge—connecting individuals to stability, community, and hope,” said MARTA Director of Customer Engagement Jon Gordon.
Humanity Over Criminalization
Historically, individuals seeking refuge in public spaces often faced punitive responses. MARTA HOPE flips that narrative. Instead of criminalizing homelessness, it emphasizes compassionate intervention—proving that safety and empathy can coexist.
By reallocating outreach from MARTA Police to trained specialists, MARTA HOPE enhances public safety and human dignity. Disruptive situations are de-escalated not with handcuffs, but with handshakes and help.
Since 2020, MARTA HOPE has engaged over 40,000 individuals. Of these, more than 5,300 accepted services, 1,600 secured temporary shelter, 131 moved into permanent housing, and 206 veterans were connected to the support they earned.
A Journey of Hope: Charles’ Story
Charles S’s’ journey reflects the true power of MARTA HOPE.
After losing his housing in August 2024, Charles found temporary shelter in MARTA stations. Struggling with unresolved mental health issues, his world felt increasingly closed off. That changed when Gloria Woodard, a MARTA HOPE case manager and once homeless herself, found him.
“There were no open beds that day,” Gloria recalled. “But I made a promise to Charles: If he was willing to work as hard as I was, we could change his future.”
Charles took that promise to heart. He threw himself into support activities and staying focused on securing stable housing.
On March 14, 2025, Charles moved into his own apartment. Reflecting on his journey, he shared:
“Ms. Gloria has given me a new zest for life and a new sense of hope and purpose. She has restored my belief that there are good people still left in this world.”
Beyond Housing: Building Stability
For Hope Atlanta and MARTA HOPE, housing isn’t the end goal—it’s the foundation.
Through continued case management, job training, mental health resources, and community integration, clients like Charles aren’t just placed into apartments; they are supported in reclaiming independence and dignity.
This continuum of care creates lasting change, ensuring that moments of hope become movements toward self-sufficiency.
Why It Matters: A Call to Atlanta’s Business Community
The Atlanta business community has a crucial role to play.
MARTA HOPE doesn’t just make transit safer—it makes Atlanta stronger. By creating a cleaner, more welcoming transit system, the program boosts economic activity, improves public trust, and attracts top talent—all while demonstrating leadership in solving one of our city’s greatest humanitarian challenges.
“Investing in transit-based outreach programs like MARTA HOPE is not just a moral imperative; it’s smart business. A connected, compassionate Atlanta is a thriving Atlanta,” added Gordon.
We envision a city where hope isn’t a scarce resource—it’s in motion all around us.
You can be part of this movement. Visit hopeatlanta.org to learn more about how you can help build a stronger, more compassionate Atlanta.
