Albany resident asks Dougherty Commission to help homeless

ALBANY – One Albany resident wants to get rid of homelessness, and has put his money where his mouth is by offering up a $1,000 check to go toward that effort during a Dougherty County Commission meeting this week.

J.D. Armstrong addressed commissioners on Monday, bringing his signed check to the podium when he addressed commissioners.

“If we come together, we can eliminate homelessness in Dougherty County,” he said.

The 90-year-old church deacon said he thinks that the community should work to identify and assist unhoused individuals and help provide them a way off the streets.

“It’s a sad indictment on all of us,” he said. “Jesus told us about the importance of helping the needy. I think all of us who know Jesus are dedicated to eliminating homelessness. I believe if everybody comes together, we can eliminate homelessness.” 

Assistant County Administrator Barry Brooks told commissioners that county officials have been working with the Albany-Dougherty Homeless Coalition, as has the city of Albany.

“(County) Administrator (Derron) King and I have been discussing the homeless issue that has been permeating Albany and Dougherty County,” Brooks said. “We’re looking at some of his (King’s) ideas and resources.

“Dougherty County, along with our nonprofits, along with our city partners, along with people … want to make Albany and Dougherty County a good place for all our citizens. Homelessness covers a whole gamut of things.”

The assistant administrator also suggested that the appropriate entity to which Armstrong can donate the check is the Homeless Coalition.

“I just want to compliment you for coming forward and wanting to be a part of fixing this very serious problem,” Commissioner Gloria Gaines said. “We appreciate you so much.”