Portland's independent, alternative weekly news source

Up against polarization and COVID-19, McMinnville homeless-service providers find a way

In a town where residents are often contentious with the homeless population, resources for unhoused residents are scarce during the pandemic

Tom Henderson

April 15, 2020

The entry to the House of Representatives chambers

Housing-insecure Oregonians left in the lurch, eager for Legislature to convene

The governor’s decision not to call a special session leaves housing policy recommendations in the balance

Tom Henderson

April 7, 2020

Illustration of the sea filled with bottles containing houses

Renters push for support as uncertainty looms during pandemic

An extension of Oregon’s evictions moratorium and a freeze on rent increases are floated at a Community Alliance of Tenants town hall

Tom Henderson

April 7, 2020

2 houseless people test positive for COVID-19 in Multnomah County

Among the homeless population, severe vulnerability is a bigger concern than the virus’ spread, a health official says, but safety measures are called into question

Emily Green

April 7, 2020

Person on the sidewalk with their possessions

For people on the streets, relief from elements is scarce under stay-home order

For Portland residents who live in public spaces, closures make life particularly challenging — and for some, terrifying

Emily Green

April 4, 2020

Miracle Messages reunites families with long-lost relatives on the streets

‘We can find people like nobody’s business,’ says the founder of the nonprofit, which has celebrated more than 300 reunions across the United States

Helen Hill

March 30, 2020

Portland meal program for homeless running short on supplies

Blanchet House grapples with growing demand during the coronavirus emergency

Emily Green

March 25, 2020

Portable sink on the corner of the sidewalk

Hygiene needs increase as homeless resources shrink with COVID-19 closures

Portland’s unhoused population complains of little access to showers and clean clothes

Emily Green

March 25, 2020

Raven Drake opens a drawer full of supplies

Fear, rumors permeate Portland homeless camps and shelters

Anxiety runs high among people on the streets after a stay-home order is issued in the wake of coronavirus

Emily Green

March 24, 2020

Bottle redemption site closures shortchange houseless

People living on Portland streets struggle to find ways to earn money amid COVID-19 measures

Emily Green

March 21, 2020