Portland Expands Shelter Beds Amid Freezing Temperatures

In response to freezing temperatures forecasted, Portland is increasing its efforts to provide shelter for the homeless, with a focus on two Salvation Army facilities that will add 200 new overnight winter shelter beds by January 7. These shelters, located at the Female Emergency Shelter on Southwest 2nd Avenue and the Moore Street Corps & Community Center, will offer basic services such as food, sleeping mats, and hygiene supplies. Mayor Keith Wilson and Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson emphasize these shelters as a first step in addressing homelessness, with plans to extend operations to 24 hours during severe weather. This initiative is supported by a joint funding of $750,000 from city and county governments, aiming to expand shelter capacity alongside nearly 3,000 existing permanent beds. The initiative aligns with a broader goal to house or shelter 2,700 people by the end of the year, as more than 11,000 people were reported homeless in Multnomah County in January 2024.