Homelessness has been increasing in Portland and a resource from 2022 found that 6,000 people in the area have experienced homelessness. This number was found through the Metro’s Point-in-Time Homelessness Count on Jan. 26, 2022. This number has increased since then as the population has increased within the city. Since this is such a common issue in Oregon it is important that the residents of Oregon keep their humanity in mind and aid others who may be struggling. There are so many resources available, but these are some popular ones.
The first resource being Blanchet House. It is one nonprofit organization located in Old Town. Its mission is to, “Offer food, shelter, and aid to all those in need of a safe place to be nourished and restored. Assist the transformation of each life we touch with compassion and dignity” (Pettigrew, 2022). Blanchet House offers two residential programs for men. One is a 7-to-9-month program in downtown Portland for men struggling with addiction, unemployment, housing, etc. The other is located on the Blanchet Farm in Yamhill County. This program is more targeted for men battling substance addiction. Additionally, Blanchet House has a partnership with the Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon. Through their Pathway Home, MHAAO provides some peer services such as case management and access to housing. Anyone who wants to refer someone to the program can do so here (Pettigrew, 2022). One of their well known and popular programs is the free meal program. “Three times a day, six days a week, no questions asked,” Jon Seibert, Blanchet House’s Director of Programs, said about the free meals that they offer.
A line of people wraps around the Blanchet House in Northwest Portland during the COVID-19 pandemic, March 24, 2020. (KOIN)
Additional Resources:
Street Roots - provides resources for reduced or free services within Multnomah County
Hygiene 4 All - public health and sanitation-related services such as foot and wound care, shower trailers and first aid packages
Affordable Rents for College Students program - subsidizes monthly rent payments
Homelessness could happen to anyone, it is our job as Oregonians to know of resources available and spread the word on them to those in need. Provide the resources for those in need and treat others with care.
Work Cited
Pettigrew, J. (2022, September 21). Need food or shelter in Portland? Try these resources. KOIN.com; KOIN.com. https://www.koin.com/news/portland-oregon-homeless-housing-insecurity-resources/
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