As temperatures in Multnomah County began to rise, officials announced the closure of severe weather shelters that had provided critical refuge for over 920 individuals during freezing conditions. According to Multnomah County, the decision was based on weather thresholds no longer indicating severe conditions. The shelters played a vital role, especially as the Multnomah County Medical Examiner's Program confirmed one hypothermia death earlier in the month during the emergency activation.
While the extreme weather shelters are closing, nearly 3,000 year-round shelter beds and an additional 200 winter-only overnight shelter beds remain open for those in need. Those seeking shelter or hoping to secure a bed for the evening are urged to promptly contact 211info, accessible both through phone and text. For anyone concerned about the well-being of an individual seemingly ill-prepared for the current weather conditions, the non-emergency response line at 503-823-3333 stands ready to perform welfare checks.
Dating back to Monday, February 10, when Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson first declared a state of emergency, the region has seen a concerted effort to protect its most vulnerable citizens. Shelters operated across 10 locations on Thursday and Friday nights, as part of a collaborative initiative between Multnomah County and the City of Portland, offering these overnight accommodations as respite against the bitter cold and snow.
The ongoing work of the Department of Homeless Services doesn't just stop with the closing of the emergency shelters but continues through their “cold weather alert” system, which spurs enhanced outreach. An impressive display of community commitment has seen the Department distribute substantial necessities since January 10, including thousands of hand warmers, blankets, and bottles of water, as stated in their recent advisory. The full report on the emergency activation, including final tallies of resources distributed and services provided, will be released by Multnomah County as soon as regular operations resume.
