Housing
Sen. Wyden says housing is a human right
If a person is battling hunger, the logical solution is to provide food. Newly re-elected Sen. Ron Wyden, D-OR, applies the same logic to housing: the solution to homelessness is to provide accessible, affordable housing. Wyden is among a growing coalition of lawmakers and homeless advocates defining housing as a right in the wake of…
Opinion
Kaia Sand | Multnomah County offers constructive contrast to mayor’s plans for mass camps
It’s easy to spot the new Behavioral Health Resource Center downtown at Southwest Park Avenue and Oak Street because it’s adorned with a three-story mural by artist Damon Smyth that follows a person through dreamy escapades with nature. On Wednesday, Nov. 16, Multnomah County opened the first two floors of the Behavioral Health Resource Center…
Opinion | TriMet Should eliminate fares, not increase them
The TriMet Board voted for a fare increase, while 100 cities worldwide charge nothing to ride public transit. The benefits can be huge in terms of economic, racial and gender equity, climate action and air quality. Ending fare enforcement stops making criminals of people who can’t afford bus fare, shrinking the school-to-prison pipeline. Transportation is…
Culture
The Driftwood Castle at Kelley Point Park
Much like its architect, Driftwood Castle will disappear soon with the rising river. Within a few months, the swelling tributary will undo the architecture and sweep away its remnants — if Portland Parks and Recreation doesn’t get to it first. In late summer, people walking on the beach in Kelley Point Park along the Willamette…
Vendor Profiles
Street Roots vendor profile | Good deeds come back around
Rick Davis, a longtime Street Roots vendor, likes to keep himself busy. About a year ago, he started working at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, where he helps serve meals to people experiencing houselessness most days of the week. He also helps take care of the church grounds at 147 NW 19th Avenue. It’s the best job…
