In a notable step toward supporting its homeless population, Portland's Joint Office of Homeless Services is joining forces with Do Good Multnomah to launch a day center in St. Johns. This initiative is part of a bigger plan to pump Supportive Housing Services funds into various projects that aim to boost day services for those without a roof over their heads in Multnomah County.
The soon-to-materialize St. Johns Day Center will take up residence at 9000 N. Lombard St., nested in a currently empty retail space within the North Portland Health Center. This development, heralded last autumn by the Multnomah County Board of Commissioners, falls within a broader investment canvas that seeks to either kick off or beef up similar day service centers. Alongside this venue others in the works include major contributions at Rose Haven, Blanchet House, New Avenues for Youth, the Marie Equi Institute, and more, according to an announcement on the Multnomah County website.
Despite the city battling an ongoing homelessness crisis, efforts like these signal a commitment to providing relief and resources for the county's vulnerable populations. The specific services the St. Johns Day Center will offer include necessities, like access to showers and laundry facilities, as well as connections to housing and health services. Do Good Multnomah, which specializes in aiding homeless veterans, is slated to manage the center, which is expected to open its doors toward the end of 2024.
In tandem with the day center, contracting and planning strides are forging ahead with nonprofit allies such as Operation Nightwatch, Transition Projects, Trash for Peace, and Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon. There is a concerted push across these organizations to address, the immediate daily needs of homeless individuals while facilitating a longer-term path to stability and housing security. The county's plan clearly indicates a multifaceted approach to ameliorate a complex and growing social challenge.
While the St. Johns Day Center holds promise for many local residents struggling with homelessness, only time will determine the full impact of these strategic investments, and the Joint Office's expanded focus on day services in the comprehensive fight against homelessness within the Multnomah community.
