Our office is working tirelessly to create efficient and lasting solutions to homelessness. The growing gap between housing costs and incomes in our region is increasing the number of those who experience housing insecurity and homelessness in Portland, which has led a rise in visible camping. That’s why the we’re partnering with Multnomah County to implement a new Navigation Team.
The Navigation Team is a vital piece of solving the housing crisis in our city. It focuses on taking a services-first approach to high-impact campsites, connecting campers to shelters, services, housing and health supports before a camp is posted for cleaning and removal. A new Navigation Center at the west end of the Broadway Bridge—offering 120 shelter beds for temporary housing—will facilitate the Navigation Team’s work when it is completed. Along with offering housing opportunities and services to people who are experiencing homelessness, this compassionate, diligent team also addresses the impact of unsanctioned camping. The workers with the Navigation Team tirelessly connect with campers on a near-daily basis. Much like this crisis cannot be solved overnight, the Navigation Team is often in touch with people experiencing homelessness for a few weeks to make sure they are getting the support they need.
So far, the team has accomplished the following:
- 109 individuals engaged total
- 18 people screened and assessed for supportive housing
- 5 couples and 9 singles (19 total) helped into shelter
- 36 people helped to receive IDs
- 20 people helped to receive birth certificates
- 25 signed up for medical insurance under the Oregon Health Plan
- 2 provided with eyeglasses
- 3 helped into substance abuse treatment
- 14 given housing referrals
If you have additional questionsabout the Navigation Team and its work, contact johs@multco.us.
To learn moreabout the City of Portland’s work to reduce camping impacts, go to www.portlandoregon.gov/toolkit/.
To learn moreabout how Portland and Multnomah County’s investments are helping thousands of people end their homelessness, so that they are no longer in encampments or even emergency shelter, go to www.ahomeforeveryone.net.