In a significant move that has stirred concern among the community, Multnomah County is set to close two prominent homeless shelters by the end of March. This decision raises pressing questions about the future for many individuals who have found stability and safety within these facilities.
The Market Street and Wy'East shelters, which have received funding from Multnomah County, were initially slated for closure during last spring's budgeting discussions. However, an amendment proposed by Commissioner Shannon Singleton allowed both shelters to continue operating until March, after which the financial resources will be redirected towards supportive housing initiatives. The board unanimously supported this proposal, reflecting a collective acknowledgment of the urgent need for transitional solutions.
As the closures approach, residents at the Market Street shelter, located in Portland's Central Eastside, have expressed deep concerns about losing not just their place to sleep, but also a vital sense of community. With winter's chill setting in, the urgency of their plight becomes even more pronounced.
"I’m Jesse, and I’ve been homeless for about five years now," shared one resident. "This shelter has opened a door for me and has been a true blessing because it gives me a place to rest, especially as I’ve previously had to sleep in a wheelchair."
Another resident, Crystal, reflected on her situation after losing her home to a fire five months ago. "This shelter has been crucial for me right now. My husband is hospitalized, and without this place, we would be completely lost." Crystal's voice captures the emotional weight of impending closures: "Shutting down this shelter isn't the solution we need at this moment."
Alicia Hovanas, the COO of Sunstone Way—an organization that operates the 120-bed Market Street shelter—echoed these sentiments, stating, "This represents a significant loss for our community. However, we have always understood that we couldn’t remain in this building indefinitely." With the county's lease on the shelter expiring in March and no possibility for extension, officials are reallocating those funds towards permanent supportive housing instead.
Hovanas pointed out a grim reality: "Given the current lack of financial resources at both the city and county levels, it’s likely that many individuals will find themselves back on the streets." This sentiment resonates with Jesse, who fears what returning to homelessness might bring: "Going back out there, having nowhere to go... it’s hard to predict what could happen."
In response to the impending closures, Market Street staff are actively working to connect residents like Jesse with alternative shelter options. Simultaneously, the city of Portland is expediting the establishment of additional emergency overnight beds to accommodate those affected.
Lea Morrisey, another Market Street guest, voiced her perspective, saying, "I wish they would invest in extending the time this shelter remains open rather than creating new ones."
The Wy'East shelter, which primarily serves veterans, will also close its doors at the end of March for similar reasons. County officials are collaborating with both shelters as they prepare for this transition.
While the exact number of individuals who may end up back on the streets remains uncertain, Sunstone Way has been tasked with managing a new overnight shelter option being launched by Mayor Keith Wilson at a church in East Portland. "We’re really excited to open another shelter and help more people off the streets," Hovanas noted. However, she emphasized the advantages of having a 24/7 shelter, like Market Street, where individuals can stay and securely store their belongings throughout the day.
Although the city of Portland has not yet announced the opening date for the new East Portland shelter, it is anticipated to be operational before the end of March. As these developments unfold, the larger conversation about homelessness and community support continues, prompting us to consider: What are the most effective strategies to assist those experiencing homelessness in our communities?
