Rapid Rise in Homeless Latinos

According to UnidosUS, there has been a rapid rise in homeless Latinos, with a reported 114% increase between 2023 and 2025.

But what does this mean?
Well, for many Latinos, there has been avoidance of traditional shelters due to fear, stigma, and a preference for staying with extended family.
So, what is Portland doing to support the Latino community?
One really great program that has been taking steps to support the community is the Latino Network, a Latine-led education organization. Their focus is “grounded in culturally specific practices and services that lift up youth and families to reach their full potential.”
Latino Network was founded in 1996 by community leaders who saw the gap in adequate resources that meet the needs of the growing Latino community.
That being said, they also have a mobile housing team (MHT), which is a housing placement program for families who have youth under the age of 18. The program is funded through the Joint Office of Homeless Services (JOHS).
For that program, eligible clients must be unhoused, reside in Multnomah County, and have a referral through a JOHS Coordinated Access System following an assessment through 211.
This is an important program, especially because of the effects it has on the whole family unit, including youth.
Like many, Latinos are also being affected by the cost of living, lack of affordable family-sized units, and fear of undocumented status, putting them at great risk when using services. 

But with the rapid increase in homeless Latinos continuing, it is important to recognize what we as a community of this city can do to help support.

For Latino Network resources or learning about their organization: https://www.latnet.org/

Along with that organization, there is also El Programa Hispano Catolico https://elprograma.org/. They support the Latine communities by providing services that span economic sustainability, community wellness, educational equity, and domestic violence intervention through their UNICA program.

A statewide advocacy organization based in Portland that shapes health policy, drives preventative outreach, and fights for optimal health and systemic wellness outcomes for Latinos. https://orlhc.org/

Operates extensively across the Southwest and beyond to address all housing needs, ranging from emergency housing for those experiencing homelessness to long-term homeownership support. https://cplc.org/

https://www.latnet.org/