As we know, persistent homelessness and the lack of affordable housing are among the biggest challenges facing Portland. Throughout the city, people are camping on our streets, and many suffer with substance use disorder and mental health challenges. As campers are being swept out of downtown, we see increased camping in the Multnomah and Hillsdale neighborhoods. The MSRV now hosts approximately 100 people in transitional housing, and there are many still living outside who wish they could find a place there.
As the new Operator, Urban Alchemy is charged with providing case management, amenities, mental and behavioral health services, and a path to housing for those Participants in the MSRV program who are ready. Friends of Multnomah Safe Rest Village is eager to establish a positive working relationship with Urban Alchemy, and we look forward to learning more about how they intend to operate the Multnomah Safe Rest Village, and to working with them to keep making it a success. Urban Alchemy is excited to step in as Operators of the MSRV.
The mission of Friends of Multnomah Safe Rest Village will not change: to support the people—staff and Participants—inside the MSRV, and help them to be good neighbors. If you would like to be a part of this important work, please join us on Facebook to stay up to date and learn how you can help.
City Shelter Services encourages everyone with questions to contact them at shelterservices@portlandoregon.gov or at (503)823-1340. They truly want to hear from neighbors.
We in Multnomah can be proud that our neighborhood has stepped up to do our part to address homelessness in SW Portland. Changes are a challenge for everyone concerned: our neighborhood, the Safe Rest Villages team, the operator of the MSRV, and, most of all, for the staff and participants inside the Multnomah Safe Rest Village. We are determined to provide whatever support we can during this transition.
--Friends of the Multnomah Safe Rest Village