It’s easy to drive through Portland or walk neighborhood streets and, quite frankly, despair.
There. Are. So. Many. Tents.
Portland and regional voters have done their part to pay for building housing and paying for services. What more is there to do?
Maybe it helps to keep in mind it’s somebody’s daughter out there, somebody’s brother. Maybe it would help to try to help, as many do already.
Here are two established nonprofits that lend a hand. The first step for each is registering as a volunteer with each:
Blanchet House, a nonprofit based in Old Town, serves people experiencing homelessness, and asks for help carrying out its mission.
- First step: sign up online as a volunteer, which includes reading a handbook and watching training videos. After that, you can sign up for shifts.
- Volunteer roles: make meals, make your own care kits and sack lunches to donate, plus more opportunities.
- Donations accepted too.
Catholic Charities of Oregon, a nonprofit who serves the most vulnerable people across Oregon, also has a robust volunteer program.
- First step: Enroll as a volunteer by creating a profile, passing a background check ($30-50, though there are fee waivers), and going through an online orientation. Then you can sign up for specific posts.
- Volunteer roles: serve food, help out in a food pantry, buy supplies for a welcome basket for women moving into and out the Kenton Women’s village, among others.
- Donate here instead, or in addition.
