Homelessness during a Pandemic

 

    With our country in a pandemic, this has lead more people to being homeless and living on the streets. Lawmakers are trying to help secure shelter for the increasing amount of homeless people, especially since Winter is coming and temperatures are dropping: "With Winter fast approaching, Representative Pam Marsh along with Representative Alissa Keny-Guyer want to help get secure shelters for those who need it. “The emergency board of the legislature is meeting, and we'll be considering our $65 million request for it to use, uh, general fund dollars,” Rep. Alissa Keny-Guyer said". https://katu.com/news/local/oregon-lawmakers-look-to-buy-hotels-to-house-homeless-during-coronavirus-pandemic

    Even though the government is trying to help those in need during the colder months, I feel like the holidays allow us to especially help those in need if we can't necessarily help during the rest of the year. Myself personally, I like to try and help out some organization during the holidays that helps those in need, wether that's animals or people. This year I am donating supplies for animals in need in shelters. I think it is important for us to help those, especially the growing homeless population, during this time of year if we can fit it into our budget. 

    One organization that I have volunteered for in the past and I feel is reliable and organized, is the Portland Rescue Mission. They help homeless people all throughout the year and have homeless shelters available throughout the Portland Metro area. They also have recovery programs available; they have Shepherd's Door which helps women, especially with children: "Shepherd’s Door is a community of single women and women with children (ages 10 and under) who participate in New Life Ministries at Portland Rescue Mission. At Shepherd’s Door, you’ll find a sanctuary of peace and security as you move into a healthy lifestyle while dealing with the pain of addiction and previous choices". They also have a recovery program for men called The Harbor: "The Harbor is a community of men overcoming homelessness and addiction in the men’s New Life Ministry of Portland Rescue Mission". I feel like these services and this organization is very helpful to the homeless community in Portland and is a good way to help out during the holidays and during the year. https://www.portlandrescuemission.org/