The Real Cost of Ignoring Sustainable Housing Solutions

 

Photo by LinkedIn

As homelessness becomes increasingly visible in cities across the world, the need for affordable and safe housing solutions has never been more pressing. However, many cities are opting for quick fixes like temporary shelters and hostile architecture rather than addressing the root of the problem. This blog post explores why sustainable building materials offer a better solution for creating long-term, affordable housing and why this approach matters more than ever.

The Problem with Temporary Solutions

Many cities have turned to temporary measures like shelters or defensive architecture to manage the visibility of homelessness. While these measures may temporarily reduce the presence of homeless individuals in certain areas, they fail to address the underlying issue of homelessness. For example, in Portland, Oregon, millions of dollars have been spent on installing boulders and benches designed to keep homeless individuals from setting up camps in public spaces (Wandalowski, 2021). While this may make some public spaces appear more orderly, it does nothing to help those who need a permanent place to live.

These temporary solutions are not only ineffective but also costly in the long run. Shelters, for instance, require constant funding and upkeep, yet they don’t provide the stability and security that permanent housing offers. Moreover, these short-term fixes often come with environmental costs. Temporary shelters and hostile architecture are usually constructed from non-sustainable materials, contributing to environmental degradation and waste.

Why Sustainable Building Materials Matter

Sustainable building materials offer a more viable solution to the housing crisis. Materials like recycled steel, bamboo, and hempcrete are not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective. For instance, recycled steel can be sourced from old appliances or vehicles, reducing the need for new raw materials. Bamboo is a fast-growing plant that can be harvested sustainably, while hempcrete is a natural, carbon-negative material that provides excellent insulation.

In addition to their environmental benefits, these materials can significantly reduce construction costs. The National Institute of Building Sciences found that using sustainable materials can cut costs by up to 30% compared to traditional building methods (National Institute of Building Sciences, 2018). This means that cities could potentially build more housing units for the same amount of money, helping to alleviate the housing crisis more effectively.

The Long-Term Benefits of Sustainable Housing

Building with sustainable materials not only addresses the immediate need for affordable housing but also offers long-term benefits. Sustainable homes are often more energy-efficient, which reduces utility costs for residents—an important consideration for individuals who are already struggling financially. By lowering energy costs, sustainable homes help make housing more affordable over time.

Moreover, sustainable housing contributes to environmental preservation. As climate change continues to threaten our planet, reducing our carbon footprint is crucial. By using materials that are renewable, recyclable, or carbon-negative, we can build homes that are not only affordable but also environmentally responsible.

Conclusion

Ignoring sustainable building solutions in the fight against homelessness is a costly mistake. Sustainable housing offers a practical, cost-effective solution that can help address both the immediate and long-term needs of homeless individuals while also protecting our environment. By investing in sustainable materials, we can build a future where everyone has access to safe, affordable housing, and where our planet’s resources are used responsibly.

Why should you care? Because the choices we make today will shape the world for future generations. Supporting sustainable housing initiatives helps create a future that is both equitable and environmentally sustainable.

Click one of the links below to learn more or contribute to the cause.

References

National Institute of Building Sciences. (2018). Whole Building Design Guide. Retrieved from NIBS

Wandalowski, Z. (2021). Hiding homelessness through hostile architecture only hurts the community. The Diamondback. Retrieved from The Diamondback

            

Building a Better Future: The Case for Sustainable Housing Materials

 

Photo by Autodesk

The affordable housing crisis is one of the most pressing issues facing communities worldwide. The problem is particularly acute in efforts to provide safe and cost-effective housing for homeless populations. Traditional construction methods are becoming increasingly unsustainable due to rising material costs, making it harder to build affordable homes. This has prompted a growing interest in alternative, sustainable building materials that offer a practical and economical solution.

One of the most promising approaches involves using low-cost, environmentally friendly materials that can still provide durable and comfortable living spaces. The term project we’ve been working on focuses on identifying the cheapest building materials for minimal safe housing units equipped with power and HVAC systems. This goes beyond simply finding the least expensive option; it’s about finding materials that are affordable without compromising on safety or practicality. The significance of this topic is evident, especially when we consider its potential to impact not just the environment, but also the lives of those most in need.

The Rising Costs of Traditional Construction

Over the past few years, the cost of traditional construction materials such as wood, steel, and concrete has seen a sharp increase. Factors like supply chain disruptions, inflation, and heightened demand have driven prices to unprecedented levels. For instance, lumber prices have tripled since 2020, significantly raising the cost of new home construction (National Association of Home Builders, 2021). This makes it increasingly difficult for cities and non-profits to build affordable housing, leaving homeless populations with even fewer options for safe shelter.

Exploring Sustainable Alternatives

Given the challenges of rising material costs, it’s essential to explore sustainable alternatives that could offer a more viable solution. Materials like recycled plastic, rammed earth, and straw bales are emerging as promising options due to their affordability, durability, and environmental benefits.

Recycled Plastic: Recycled plastic is one of the most innovative materials currently being explored for affordable housing. Companies like Conceptos Plásticos have developed techniques to convert plastic waste into building blocks that can be used to construct homes. This not only helps reduce the amount of plastic waste but also provides a low-cost, durable material that is lightweight and easy to work with (Conceptos Plásticos, 2021).

Rammed Earth: Rammed earth has been used for centuries in various parts of the world and is now being reconsidered for modern construction. It involves compacting a mixture of earth, sand, and a small amount of cement into a mold to create solid walls. Rammed earth structures are not only thermally efficient but also significantly reduce heating and cooling costs over time.

Straw Bales: Another cost-effective material is straw bales, which are used as building blocks within a wooden frame and covered with plaster. This method offers excellent insulation properties, reducing the need for extensive HVAC systems, and is made from a renewable resource, making it environmentally friendly.

Why This Matters

The exploration of sustainable building materials is crucial not just for the present, but for the future as well. By lowering the cost of construction, we can build more homes for those in need, making a tangible impact on the homelessness crisis. Additionally, using sustainable materials reduces the environmental impact of construction, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change. Traditional materials like steel and concrete have high carbon footprints, while alternatives like rammed earth and straw bales offer a much greener solution.

Supporting sustainable construction practices also aligns with broader societal goals of promoting equity and responsible resource management. As awareness of environmental issues continues to grow, the construction industry must adapt by embracing these innovative materials. Doing so will allow us to create not just more affordable housing, but a more sustainable and equitable society.

Conclusion

Addressing the affordable housing crisis requires rethinking how we build homes. The search for cost-effective, sustainable materials for minimal safe housing units is about much more than just economics. It’s about creating a future where everyone has access to safe, affordable housing, and where the environment is protected for generations to come.

Why should you care? The choices we make today in how we build our homes will have lasting effects on our communities and our planet. By supporting sustainable building practices, we can ensure a better future for everyone.

Click one of the links below to learn more or contribute to the cause.

References

Conceptos Plásticos. (2021). Retrieved from Conceptos Plásticos.

National Association of Home Builders. (2021). Lumber Prices Soar to Unprecedented Levels. Retrieved from NAHB

What material is best! Orion & Anna Vlog #2

 Now that Orion and Anna talked to some of the different materials being used now we get to hear what they think! from the previous options which do you think would be the best options for Portland Oregon?

Want to hear what they have to say click here: Orion & Anna Vlog #2

What could be the best building material for Houlessness in Portland Oregon? Vlog#1

 Portland has had an issue recently with Houseless people having a issue with finding a good solution for living. One of the solutions the city of Portland has is constructing small sheltered living spaces to help foster a new living environment for those folks!

Which begs the question what is the best building material for those home?

Learn More with Orion & Anna here: Orion & Anna Volg # 1

The Invisibility of Hostility: How Public Space Architecture Disguises War on the Homeless

Photo by National Coalition for the Homeless

In urban environments around the world, the battle over public space has taken on a new and insidious form. Cities are increasingly turning to hostile architecture—design elements intentionally crafted to make certain behaviors uncomfortable or impossible—to manage, or more accurately, to marginalize the homeless population, and Portland, Oregon is no exception. These design choices are often subtle, blending into the urban landscape under the guise of aesthetics or functionality, but their true purpose is exclusionary.

So, What Is Hostile Architecture? 

Hostile architecture, also known as defensive architecture or exclusionary design, refers to the intentional use of design elements in public spaces that aim to restrict certain behaviors—particularly those associated with homelessness. Examples include: benches with dividers or spikes, spiked ledges and window sills, as well as sloped or uneven horizontal surfaces. Most design choices opt to block access to covered walkways, alcoves, or other areas where homeless individuals might seek shelter from the elements. These measures are often justified as ways to maintain cleanliness, deter vandalism, or enhance the aesthetic appeal of urban spaces. However, the primary function of hostile architecture is to control and exclude vulnerable populations, particularly the homeless. 

As Portland’s homelessness crisis has grown increasingly visible, with a 65% rise in the number of people living on the streets, so too has the investment in defensive architecture across the city’s public spaces. In February, the Portland City Council allocated $500,000 to install benches and other structures specifically designed to prevent individuals from lingering near Laurelhurst Park and other areas. Back in 2019, the Oregon Department of Transportation spent over $800,000 placing boulders at five former campsite locations that had previously housed many of Portland’s homeless residents.

The primary goal of these installations was clear: to displace campers from these areas and prevent them from returning. However, this approach is not only devoid of empathy but also merely a deterrent, not a solution. Hostile architecture exacerbates and perpetuates the stigma and prejudice faced by the homeless, all while their numbers continue to climb.

The use of hostile architecture and urban design has become an increasingly common strategy to push encampments away from busy public areas that could pose safety risks. Yet, this tactic has only deepened the displacement of the homeless community.

Meanwhile, as the housing crisis worsens and calls for action grow louder—from both the homeless community and the neighborhoods where they seek refuge—Portland is struggling to meet the mounting needs. Despite having spent $1.7 billion on humanitarian services and affordable housing, many people in need of aid, temporary shelter, and affordable housing find themselves on waitlists that stretch up to five years.

Public spaces in Portland, as in any city, are meant to be accessible to all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Yet, the rise of hostile architecture challenges this principle, creating environments that are selectively hostile—designed to be unwelcoming to homeless individuals while remaining inviting to others. This form of exclusion reflects deeper societal values, where the comfort and convenience of certain groups are prioritized over the basic needs of those experiencing homelessness.

In Portland, the ethical implications of hostile architecture are profound.

By designing public spaces that make it impossible for homeless individuals to rest, sleep, or seek shelter, Portland effectively criminalizes the basic human behaviors necessary for survival. This approach fails to address the root causes of homelessness, instead punishing those already struggling with extreme poverty. Likewise, the normalization of hostile architecture in Portland erodes the city’s reputation for empathy and social justice as these exclusionary designs become more widespread, they contribute to a growing apathy towards the plight of the homeless, making it easier for residents and policymakers to ignore the crisis. Most notable of all, hostile architecture in Portland is by design meant to be subtle, blending into the urban landscape in ways that make its exclusionary purpose less visible to the general public. This invisibility allows these practices to continue with minimal public scrutiny, despite their harmful effects on the homeless population.

Photo by Alberto Alonso Pujazon Bogani/PSU Vanguard

However, these attempts at camouflage present the city with an uglier truth:

In Portland, hostile architecture not only reflects a deep-seated disregard for the unhoused population but also stands in stark contrast to the city’s commitment to sustainability and vibrant urban life. Portland is renowned for its green spaces and close connection to nature, yet the introduction of such architecture undermines these very values.

While the concrete-secured boulders may displace those seeking refuge, they also suffocate the soil, stifle the growth of grass and plants, and contribute nothing to the preservation or enhancement of urban life. This approach harms the environment while addressing none of the underlying issues.

Join the fight against NIMBYism!

Get off our lawn: Portland’s hostile architecture betrays our city’s houseless attitudes

A perspective on hostile architecture

A Band-Aid on a Bullet Wound: Hostile Architecture Is Not the Solution

Empowering the Vulnerable: 3 Social Work Strategies That Make a Difference

Photo by Street Roots PDX

Homelessness is more than a lack of shelter; it's a complex crisis that requires a holistic approach to truly make a difference. Social workers stand on the front lines, not just handing out temporary solutions, but implementing powerful strategies that transform lives. By addressing the root causes of homelessness, building deep, trusting relationships, and advocating for systemic change, social workers empower the most vulnerable among us to reclaim their dignity and secure a future of stability and self-sufficiency. These three strategies form the cornerstone of lasting change in the fight against homelessness: 

1. Addressing Root Causes

Social workers understand that homelessness is often a symptom of deeper issues, such as mental health challenges, substance abuse, and systemic poverty. By addressing these root causes, they help individuals break free from the cycle of homelessness. A social worker's role is to include providing access to mental health services, addiction treatments, and job training. In a way, it mimics a one-stop shop where individuals can get access to all of the resources they need to rebuild their lives.

2. Building Trust Through Relationships 

One of the most powerful tools social workers use is relationship-building. Trust is the foundation upon which all other services are built. Social workers meet people where they are—physically and emotionally—offering consistent support and a non-judgmental ear. This trust opens the door to meaningful interventions, allowing social workers to connect individuals with the resources they need.

3.  Advocating for Policy Change 

Empowerment doesn't stop at the individual level. Social workers can also advocate for systemic changes that address the broader issues contributing to homelessness. This includes pushing for affordable housing, fair wages, and accessible healthcare. By influencing policy, social workers help create an environment where fewer people are at risk of becoming homeless in the first place.

The Ripple Effect of Empowerment

When social workers empower an individual, the impact extends far beyond that one person. Families are reunited, communities are strengthened, and society as a whole benefits from reduced crime rates and lower healthcare costs. This ripple effect underscores the importance of supporting social work initiatives as a key strategy in ending homelessness.

Local Resources to Get Involved

Central City Concern – Provides housing, healthcare, and employment services, with a strong focus on the role of social workers.

• Central City Concern

JOIN PDX - An organization that works closely with social workers to help individuals transition from homelessness to stable housing.

• JOIN PDX

Transition Projects - Provides pathways to housing for individuals experiencing homelessness in Portland, highlighting the critical work of social workers.

• Transition Projects

Street Roots - A nonprofit that supports social workers through advocacy and services for the homeless community, including producing a weekly newspaper sold by homeless vendors.

• Street Roots

It’s not just about providing a roof over someone's head; it's about giving them the tools, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. Social workers play an indispensable role in this process, employing strategies that make a real difference in the lives of those they serve. It's time to recognize and support their efforts as they work to create lasting change in our communities!

Reduced Faires for Low Income Transit Riders

     As Portland has a lower fare for low income riders, Trimet and  Portland State University worked to determine the impact on those communities’ public transportation use and general quality of life. Covid impacted the results of the survey. Surveys were advertised and administered online with a gift card for participating in the first two surveys. For the third random survey respondents were interviewed to gain more insight with a gift card for participating. Statistical analysis was used to analyze the data comparing the two surveys and low income riders and non low income riders. This allows for both change over time to be seen along with differences in response from low income riders and non low income riders. Here are the income thresholds for the reduced fare program:

One finding of the study is that during Covid low income riders became more reliant on carpooling and ridesharing likely due to Trimet service reductions associated with the operator shortage. As such riders suggested improving accessibility, increasing frequency, and increasing hours of operation. Non low income riders saw a decrease in Trimet ridership during the time of the second survey. Whereas low income riders saw no change in Trimet use. This is consistent with other research done on this topic nationwide. Riders use Trimet to get to many different places, from social activities to work to the gym. Low income riders were more likely to report psychological ill-being compared to non low income riders. The reduced fares were reported to help encourage transit use with less worry. As such the program has been useful for those that qualify. Here is a graph of Transit use for commuting between low income riders (LIR) and non low income riders (non-LIR): 

The study can be found here:

Do Travel Costs Matter For Persons With Lower Incomes? (pdx.edu)

More information on the reduced fare program can be found here:

Reduced Fare for Riders Who Qualify Based on Income (trimet.org)

Breaking the Cycle: How Community Networks Can Prevent Homelessness

Impact Reduction Program Staff at Cleanup Site

Homelessness is not an isolated issue; it is a reflection of a community's ability to care for its most vulnerable members. To combat this crisis, we need to move beyond band-aid solutions and embrace a collaborative, community-based approach. As frontline advocates, social workers have the power to unite local organizations, government agencies, and everyday citizens in a collective effort to prevent homelessness.

The Urgent Need for Community Collaboration

Why should you care about community-based social work? Because it works. When social workers engage with the community, they build networks that address the root causes of homelessness—mental health issues, unemployment, substance abuse, and family instability. These networks offer temporary relief and lasting solutions that keep people off the streets.

Portland's Impact Reduction Program leads community-based efforts including, partnerships with social workers, who have expanded access to safe, affordable housing while addressing the immediate needs of those at risk of homelessness. This program shows how community collaboration can create a more sustainable impact on homelessness prevention. The result? A significant reduction in new cases of homelessness. This success wasn't just luck; it was the direct result of a community coming together to tackle a problem head-on.

Overcoming Challenges Together

Building and maintaining community networks to prevent homelessness is not without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is the coordination of multiple stakeholders, each with their own priorities, resources, and areas of expertise. Nonprofits, local businesses, government agencies, faith-based organizations, and community members all bring valuable perspectives, but aligning these efforts can be overwhelming.

Resource allocation is another critical challenge. Sustainable funding is essential to keep these networks functioning effectively. This situation makes it even more difficult for social workers to advocate for increased funding and support. They must engage with local governments, secure grants, and build partnerships that bring in additional resources.

Communication within these networks can be challenging. Miscommunication or lack of coordination can lead to duplicated efforts or gaps in service, which can severely undermine the effectiveness of the network. Regular meetings, clear communication channels, and transparent decision-making processes are important ways to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working cohesively toward the same objectives. Yes, building these networks is challenging. It requires ongoing communication, resources, and a willingness to work through differences. But the rewards are immense. 

The message is clear: homelessness can be prevented, but only if we all work together.

Take Action Now

Feeling inspired? Here's how you can get involved:

• Learn more about community-based social work: The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) provides resources and training for those interested in making a difference. https://www.socialworkers.org/ 

• Support local initiatives: Volunteer with or donate to organizations like Coalition for the Homeless or National Alliance to End Homelessness

• Advocate for change: Contact your local representatives and urge them to support policies that address the root causes of homelessness.

Preventing homelessness is not just a possibility—it's a responsibility. By building and strengthening community networks, we can create a future where everyone has a place to call home. Let's make it happen, together!

Making a Difference: Why Volunteering with Portland’s Homeless Population Matters

 Portland, Oregon, a city celebrated for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and progressive values, faces a significant challenge that many urban areas encounter: homelessness. Have you ever wanted to find your fit in the community to help make the difference but didnt know how? While the issue is complex, one of the most impactful ways to contribute to the solution is through volunteering. I created a list here of some nonprofit volunteer organizations in Portland who are making changes everyday in the lives of others. Read about them and see if any of these positions fit you, and feel free to reach out to them via the links that are posted. By offering your time and skills, you can make a profound difference in the lives of individuals experiencing homelessness and, by extension, contribute to the overall health and well-being of the community.

Here’s why volunteering matters and how you can get involved:

1. Addressing Immediate Needs Homeless individuals often struggle with accessing basic necessities like food, shelter, and medical care. By assisting in shelters, food banks, or community kitchens, you directly address these urgent needs.

2. Creating Lasting Impact Beyond providing immediate relief, volunteering helps build the infrastructure that supports long-term solutions. Whether you’re helping with job training programs, educational workshops, or advocacy efforts, you are addressing the root causes of homelessness and promoting sustainable change.

3. Personal Growth Volunteering can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Many volunteers say they find purpose and fulfillment in volunteering.

Now for the list of established and reputable nonprofit organizations where you can get involved in the community and be a changemaker. All of the programs listed offer different services with an array of approaches so you can find something based on your time commitment along with your comfortability. There are individual and group volunteer opportunities in all the options listed. So grab your friends and sign up for a shift.

1. Portland Rescue Mission

The Portland Rescue Mission is a well-known organization dedicated to helping individuals experiencing homelessness and addiction in the Portland, Oregon area. They provide emergency shelter, food, and recovery programs, aiming to offer support and resources that help people rebuild their lives. Their services include medical and mental health care and job training with a focus on addressing both immediate needs and long-term solutions for overcoming homelessness and addiction. The most common volunteer position here is cooking or serving food. They also have other shelters throughout Portland where they serve families and have other volunteer opportunities.

Volunteer - Portland Rescue Mission

2. Path Home

Path Homes is an organization focused on providing supportive housing solutions for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. They work to create affordable, stable housing options and offer supportive services that help residents achieve long-term stability and self-sufficiency. Their approach includes housing assistance, case management, and connections to community resources, all aimed at helping people secure and maintain permanent housing. They are currently expanding their residence and have been very successful at addressing the underlying issues that cause homelessness. They also have an outreach program where they seek out families with children living in tents to find them immediate resources and assistance.

The volunteer opportunities here are vast. You can really find something that suits you such as working in the childcare center, becoming a groundskeeper, making and packing lunches for families, providing assistance at their holiday community kids parties, and so many more options. I really recommend signing up for one of their info sessions to see where you can use your expertise.

Become a Volunteer — Path Home (path-home.org)

3. Operation Nightwatch

This organization is a type of outreach that has a unique vision to provide a hot meal, a cup of coffee and a listening ear along with mental health services to people experiencing homelessness and other barriers. They focus on addressing immediate needs while fostering connections to longer-term resources. This organization operates when other organizations are generally closed. Operation Nightwatch began as a street ministry but anyone is welcome to join. You can come serve coffee and distribute essential supplies while offering hospitality and interaction with the people in search of services. It is important to Operation Nightwatch to build community and social connections so you will often find people chatting or playing board games.

Get Involved — Operation Nightwatch

4. Join PDX

Join PDX provides programs and services that are equitable regardless of a person's context. The programs offered here range within outreach, case management, emergency and permanent housing, and what is called Day Space that offers things like showers, a usable mailing address, internet access, bus tickets, and storage lockers!

Volunteer - JOIN PDX

5. Personal outreach

If you choose, you can also reach out to people on your own. Have you ever been approached by a man or woman facing homelessness and wanted to help, didn't feel comfortable giving them money, but still wanted to help? That's okay! Watch this video that shows you how to pack care kits to hand out.

How to Help Someone Homeless | How to Pack A Care Kit | Portland Rescue Mission (youtube.com)

You can make a difference

Volunteering has a rippling effect where your efforts go far beyond the individual lives you touch. You help build a community that values and supports all its members, fostering a city where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. If you’re inspired to get started, reach out to local organizations, explore their volunteer opportunities, and find a way that aligns with your interests and abilities. Every effort counts, and together, we can create a Portland that stands as a beacon of hope and support for all.

All of these organizations have the opportunity to donate cash options as well, some collect food and clothing donations too.

From Crisis to Community: Success Stories in Oregon's Fight Against Homelessness

Tents set up along Southwest 13th Avenue in Portland, April 2022

Homelessness is not merely numbers on a page; it is a crisis impacting our friends, neighbors, and communities. In Oregon, rows of tents and improvised shelters lining the streets of cities like Portland make the severity of the situation easy to see. Seeing so many Oregonians forced to live without basic shelter is disheartening and overwhelming. Yet each temporary residence shelters an individual with a story of struggles and hardships, and most important of all, a hope for a brighter future.

Each day, thousands across Oregon confront the unforgiving reality of having no home to call their own, a crisis that has taken root statewide, affecting not only those without shelter but every member of our interconnected communities. However, within this immense challenge exists a profound truth: change starts from within, and together our small acts of kindness can make a world of difference.

Oregon has been aggressively addressing homelessness proactively in ways that are not only creating shelter for the night but building the solutions for the future. For anyone who takes time to listen to these stories, it is even more than the act of removing people off the streets; they get an opportunity to live again with dignity and stability.

A 70-Year-Old Woman’s Journey to Stability

Imagine being 70 years old, on the brink of securing permanent housing after months of waiting, only to face the prospect of losing it all because you have to move your makeshift camp. This was the reality for one Portland woman. When her temporary camp was set to be removed, she feared losing the opportunity for a stable home because her outreach worker might not find her again. Furthermore, moving all her belongings at her age was an impossible task.

But this story took a turn for the better, thanks to the coordinated efforts of the Streets Services Coordination Center (SSCC). In the next few hours, a team secured a hotel voucher for her, ensuring she had a safe place to stay while waiting for her permanent housing. The team also spent a lot of time packing her property and they made sure none of the items were left behind. This is more than a story of a woman getting a hotel room; it is the story of what happens when a group of people loves and mobilizes.

Home at Last: A New Beginning for a 48-Year-Old Woman

A woman in her late forties, childless and without a job, had been living on the streets for six years because of untreated mental disorders that kept her from holding a job or paying rent. After finally receiving help and stabilizing her life, she had one simple wish: a place to call home. But when she applied for a housing benefit she was rejected and it appeared her small dream may also disappear.

Here comes the Navigation Team who not only assisted her to appeal the denial but also supported her to fight for her rights. The team did not give up, and at last, she was able to be placed in her own home. The young woman now has full-time employment and pays rent: she is finally experiencing the stability that was out of her reach for a long time. This isn’t just about a roof over her head; it’s about restoring a life.

Candi Silvis gazes out at the park from her new apartment in Beaverton, Oregon, September 2023. She moved in just three weeks earlier, ending several years of homelessness.

The Human Face of Homelessness

Candi Silvis, a 51-year-old woman, spent three years homeless in Washington County after fleeing an abusive relationship, living in her car, shelters, or sometimes returning to her abuser because she had nowhere else to go. Her life was consumed by the constant struggle to meet basic needs while battling anxiety and despair. Her story, like that of many Oregonians, highlights the harsh realities of homelessness, where individuals face overwhelming obstacles after losing stability due to circumstances beyond their control. Candi’s path to recovery only began after receiving a rental assistance voucher, allowing her to finally find stability and hope.

A Path Forward: The Power of Action

You might be asking, “Why should I care about homelessness? What does it have to do with me?” The answer is straightforward: these stories reflect the strength and resiliency of our community. Collectively, we can actually get together and decide to care and plant these seeds and make a concrete difference. Individuals like Candi Silvis, who spent years living in her car after fleeing abuse, represent the countless Oregonians who face unimaginable struggles. Homelessness is not only a problem of the homeless, but of the entire society since it affects the latter’s security, well-being and economic development.

The way we address homelessness is an indication of what sort of nation we are. It’s about more than just addressing immediate needs; it’s about fostering a community that supports one another and upholds the dignity of every person. This is why a more coordinated approach as exemplified by the SSCC program actually works in bringing the kind of change that is desirable. But change is not made in pieces, it’s systemic and therefore is not as simple as having occasional good examples. One’s readiness to invest in affordable homes, fondness for important services, and commitment to fighting for change ensures a more stable society. 

You don’t have to solve the entire crisis on your own, but your support could be the turning point in someone’s life. It could be the difference between despair and hope, between life on the streets and a place to call home. Don’t wait—click the link and take action today.

You may also donate to the following:

Portland Rescue Mission

Harbor of Hope

Different Types of Shelters

     Alternatives to the “traditional” shelter style have been built in Portland and other cities over the pas
t few years. Originally a response to Covid pressure during the pandemic they have continued as a quick way to add additional space. The research on these shelters show that they can be built faster, less expensive, are more desirable and better at moving people out of homelessness than congregate shelters. Interviews with people in the program providing these shelters were conducted and information on outcomes were collected from the existing data collecting system.

    Due to various complex needs of different populations the cost of serving these populations will vary. The ability of these shelters to take advantage of various sites allows for low or no cost site lease. Motel shelters begin operations quickly. Villages have a per-unit cost lower than other shelters if on free land without maintenance of the pods included. Over the lifetime of the project costs are similar to other shelters or higher. Despite different levels of staffing it is not the main reason for cost differences. Rent subsidies and shelter space cost roughly the same depending on the circumstances. Rent subsidies help move people out of homelessness whereas those in shelters are still homeless. Here is a chart of capital and operating costs per unit for different shelter types.

In the interviews it was stated that alternative shelters “offered greater privacy, autonomy, safety, and connection to peers and staff than congregate shelters, due in part to their smaller size and private units.” This is backed up by other studies that showed a preference for motel shelters over congregate shelters. Though location and feelings of safety and belonging played an important role too. Congregate shelters had the least success in placing people or keeping them sheltered. Likely due to the short stays allowing less time for building trust and making referrals. Alternative shelters serviced more BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) clients placing more BIPOC clients into housing than white clients, but also exited more BIPOC clients into unsheltered homelessness than white clients. Villages had both a higher rate of transition to transitional or permanent housing and of returning clients to unsheltered homelessness than other alternative types. Here is a chart of the outcomes for people at each type of shelter.

Depending on the situation and clients each type of shelter can be useful in helping those in homelessness, as such taking into consideration the needs of those being served as well as the wider community is important. Like other regions Oregon has elevated levels of homelessness due to high prices and limited vacancies. Here is a chart showing how people arrive at shelters (left), the shelter they are placed in (middle), and how they leave the shelter (right).

More information on this topic can be found here:

Alternative Shelter Evaluation Report (pdx.edu)