Bob has been a vendor with Street Roots for only a short while, but his presence is already making an impression. Born and raised in Portland, he’s deeply familiar with the city and its challenges, having faced homelessness and befriending others who also faced similar struggles.
It was a friend — another Street Roots vendor — who introduced Bob to the Vendor Program. That connection was all he needed to give it a try, and since then, he hasn’t looked back.
“Selling newspapers? It’s real good,” Bob said. “It’s fun. It’s really easy to do.”
Though he enjoys his work now, Bob acknowledges life's challenges in Portland. Though he’s no longer homeless, he empathizes with those who are and recognizes their struggles.
“Being homeless in Portland is really hard,” Bob said. “I’m not homeless now, but it’s still hard.”
Despite the difficulties, he notes that Portland isn’t without its bright spots. The library has been a haven for Bob, providing a safe space to spend time, use loaner laptops, and stay connected. Accessible resources such as library loans and computers also provide Bob with options to enjoy his other hobbies, such as listening to music.
“I like Post Malone, Tupac, Tim McGraw, and 50 Cent,” Bob said. “I like all sorts of music.”
Bob has a ton of great music recommendations, and his playlist is as eclectic as his personality. Always willing to share some tunes, Bob’s love for music reflects his openness to others and new sounds. If you need new artists to listen to in the new year, you’ll want to ask Bob!
Bob lives in an apartment, which he’s found offers more stability than shelters. He appreciates privacy and independence, even though it comes with its own set of challenges. He likes living alone, allowing him to be more appreciative of the time that he spends out with friends.
“I have lots of friends who are kind to me,” Bob said.
For Bob, his friends, customers, and the people he meets in Portland make his struggle worthwhile. At his core, Bob values approachability. He wants people to know they can approach him without hesitation, given that they have the same good intentions he does.
“I’m nice. I’m nice looking. You can approach me and not be afraid,” Bob said.
Bob sells papers near the Central Library on 10th Avenue, where he enjoys connecting with locals. You can also support and tip Bob via @StreetRoots Venmo by including his name and badge number (#357) in the memo.
Street Roots is an award-winning weekly investigative publication covering economic, environmental and social inequity. The newspaper is sold in Portland, Oregon, by people experiencing homelessness and/or extreme poverty as means of earning an income with dignity. Street Roots newspaper operates independently of Street Roots advocacy and is a part of the Street Roots organization. Learn more about Street Roots. Support your community newspaper by making a one-time or recurring gift today.
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This article appears in January 1, 2025.