The Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) and the Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH) have recently taken the wraps off seven new affordable housing projects, signaling a progressive step for Oregon's housing stability and mental health improvement initiatives. These projects stem from the fifth installment of the Oregon Supportive Housing Institute (SHI), adding to over 700 units developed or in planning since the Institute's inception, according to OHCS.
Andrea Bell, OHCS Executive Director, emphasized the role of housing and health as fundamental pillars of life, expressing OHCS's commitment to providing stable living conditions for all, especially those who have endured chronic homelessness, in a statement obtained by OHCS, she said, "Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) is a proven strategy to increase housing stability and improve the health of people who have experienced chronic homelessness." The seven new projects are a testament to the state's push towards safeguarding the living standards of its diverse population.
These projects are launching with a backing of intensive training from the Oregon Supportive Housing Institute covering a half-year period, teams are comprised of developers, service providers, and individuals with firsthand experience, they are given the in-depth knowledge required for navigating the construction and maintenance of permanent supportive housing. The hands-on approach from CSH ensures each project is tailored to address specific community needs, offering continuous technical assistance and support to realize each initiative.
According to Rae Trotta, Senior Program Manager at CSH, the success of these projects is contributed to the commitment and innovation exerted by the housing advocates, in a statement reported by OHCS, Trotta said, "We are inspired by their commitment to advancing supportive housing as an evidence-based approach to helping people who face complex barriers to housing in Oregon find stability and thrive." The diverse range of projects serves various demographics, including the LGBTQ+ community, families in homelessness, and individuals challenged by mental illness and addictions.
Particularly noteworthy are projects like Bridges to Change in Portland, providing support for those with substance or mental health disorders, and Home First in Manzanita, a secure housing environment for homeless families. Other initiatives span across the region including New Narrative in Beaverton, as well as Our Just Future and Path Home focusing on diverse and underrepresented groups in Portland. The Housing Authority of Washington County is also engaged, presenting a project in Forest Grove dedicated to individuals facing prolonged homelessness.
CSH President and CEO Deborah De Santis acknowledges the critical partnership with OHCS, crediting their collaboration as key to realizing the Oregon Supportive Housing Institute's objectives and the resulting quality housing and services that have affected the lives of hundreds within the Oregon community. The ongoing teamwork between these two entities aims to perpetuate this endeavor toward enriching the lives of Oregonians by providing stable, supportive, and inclusive housing solutions.
