With sub-zero temperatures and significant snowfall on the horizon, Washington County has activated its severe weather shelters as of 2 p.m. today. The shelters, which will openly warmly welcome anyone in need of refuge, have a variety of options to accommodate different groups, such as families, veterans, and medically fragile individuals, adding to over 400 existing emergency program beds, as per the Washington County's website.
The Beaverton Community Center at 12350 SW 5th St and the Blanton Street Building at 20665 SW Blanton St are among the available locations where the unhoused can seek immediate assistance. Serving these venues are Just Compassion and Project Homeless Connect, which can be easily reached by TriMet routes. There's also an acknowledgment of the coordinated efforts of local authorities in providing access to vital facilities.
These shelters will operate 24 hours a day during the harsh weather spell. They offer hot meals, and in an inclusive approach, no one seeking shelter will be denied, and pets are accepted, albeit with varying policies at each location. In cases where an unsheltered individual may be in critical danger due to the conditions, the county urges a call to 9-1-1. For other concerns, citizens can request welfare checks via the non-emergency line.
