In the face of chilly forecasts, Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson and Portland Mayor Keith Wilson have taken definitive action to provide the city’s unsheltered population with increased overnight shelter options. According to a recent announcement, 200 extra beds will be furnished and managed by The Salvation Army, anticipated to welcome occupants starting January 7.
Utilizing two Salvation Army venues – the SAFES on Southwest 2nd Avenue and the Moore Street Corps & Community Center on North Williams Avenue – this intervention comes as part of the larger Homelessness Response System partnership between the City and County. Eager to open by next Saturday, the selection of The Salvation Army as the operator of the shelters coincides with a combined investment of $750,000 from both government bodies. "I appreciate The Salvation Army, the Homelessness Response System team and the City for their quick partnership in making these critical resources available to our community,” said Chair Vega Pederson. Mayor Keith Wilson echoed this sentiment stating, “Emergency shelters provide a first step for those ready to move off the streets and a safety net for those who have experienced setbacks on their journey home,” as reported by Portland.gov.
These provisions will shore up Portland’s defense against the inclement winter season, offering not just a warm place to spend the night but also access to basic amenities like light food, sleeping mats, and hygiene supplies. Notably, the shelters will be operative for 10 hours during nighttime, but can remain open around-the-clock should severe weather necessitate extended hours.
Major Jonathan Harvey of The Salvation Army leaned into the initiative with resolute support for city officials, as shown by their commitment to not only render immediate refuge but also pave the way for long-term stability for the community’s homeless individuals. “Together, we will provide compassionate, kind and conviction-driven care, ensuring that everyone who enters our doors not only finds a place of refuge but also access to the services and support they need to move toward stability and hope," Major Harvey told Portland.gov. The announcement also arrives amidst ongoing efforts to expand Portland’s daily shelter capacity, which currently approaches 3,000 beds.
The effort to establish these additional winter shelter beds was led by Mayor Wilson and Chair Vega Pederson, who drew support from former Mayor Ted Wheeler. Through the concerted efforts of the Homelessness Response System, which merges the experience of the Joint Office of Homeless Services with the City's Portland Solutions team, the goal stands not only to open these shelter sites promptly but also maintain them throughout the coldest months.
