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1,600 DeKalb Kids Face Housing Instability in Hotels

1/9/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Nearly 1,600 children and their families live in DeKalb County hotels, more than school data indicate.
A Georgia State University survey found families in extended-stay hotels pay $350 to $450 weekly without lease protections.
This instability forces children to study in cramped conditions and limits access to kitchens.
Local advocates call for affordable housing and greater rental assistance to prevent more families from entering this cycle.

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Story summary

Nearly 1,600 children and their families live in DeKalb County hotels, more than school data indicate.
A Georgia State University survey found families in extended-stay hotels pay $350 to $450 weekly without lease protections.
This instability forces children to study in cramped conditions and limits access to kitchens.
Local advocates call for affordable housing and greater rental assistance to prevent more families from entering this cycle.