Amidst a national struggle to combat homelessness, Clackamas County has set a benchmark with its Coordinated Housing Access (CHA) program, which has not only facilitated a significant drop in local homelessness rates but has also garnered national recognition. The National Association of Counties (NACo) recently honored CHA with the 2024 Achievement Award, the sole accolade given in the State of Oregon this year, as reported by Clackamas County's official news release.
In an impressive display of efficacy, the CHA program has been instrumental in assisting over 12,000 individuals in the past year and has been a key factor in a 65% decrease in homelessness from 2019 to 2023, as stated by the County. This decrease stands as an unprecedented achievement considering an overall increase in homelessness nationally during the same period. Despite the success, the program's single-door approach has streamlined access to housing resources for those in crises—a contrast to the complex navigation that once was the norm.
Clackamas County Board of Commissioners Chair Tootie Smith expressed immense pride in the recognition, noting, "This is one of the proudest moments I’ve ever had representing Clackamas County." Commissioner Martha Schrader echoed this sentiment in a statement obtained by Clackamas County's news, adding that, "The National Association of Counties doesn’t give awards out easily. We are now a national model of how to do outreach."
CHA's services are easily accessible; individuals facing housing insecurity can receive empathetic guidance by calling a single dedicated number available seven days a week or through in-person assessments. County Commissioner Ben West emphasized the human element in the program's operation, stating that this program “is more than a sandwich or a tent – you’re treating a person like a person, in an interview with Clackamas County's news outlet. He continued, "That is how we should operate as a community. I’m proud of this, it’s the right way to care for people, and it’s the way to get results."
Recognizing the county's innovative and effective approach, NACo President Mary Jo McGuire shared praise for CHA, telling Clackamas County news, “The Achievement Awards recognize excellence in county government and effective public service. This year’s winners have delivered results for our residents and demonstrated innovative efforts to strengthen our communities.” These comments not only underscore the CHA’s accomplishments but also set a standard for other counties to aspire toward.
