Portland Service Providers Say Mayor’s Methods for Ending Homelessness ‘Least Effective’

Homelessness is rising in Portland, Oregon despite campaign promises by Mayor Keith Wilson to end unsheltered homelessness, writes Wesley Vaughan in Shelterforce.

According to Vaughan, “[Wilson’s] plan centered on using existing infrastructure and partnering with current shelter providers to establish emergency low-barrier overnight and day shelters across the city, with a stated goal of creating 1,500 new shelter beds by Dec. 1, 2025.” The city has opened seven new overnight-only shelters and one day shelter.

“The execution of the mayor’s plan has drawn heavy criticism from across Portland’s political spectrum. Many experienced homeless services providers say the mayor’s version of shelter is the least effective at moving people out of survival mode and into stable housing. The plan has also been accused of a lack of transparency, especially considering the large expenditures involved.” Experts say the approach does not help people get into stable, long-term housing or provide supportive services and case management that people need to readjust and remain in housing.

Laura Golino de Lovato, head of Northwest Pilot Project (NWPP), suggests the funding should be used for rental assistance instead, and that the city could take other steps to reduce barriers to accessing housing.