The roots of housing insecurity and homelessness are deep and varied –  requiring systemic, humane and diverse solutions. Many in our community recognize that this is a humanitarian crisis but feel powerless to help when the problem seems so vast. While this is not a new issue for Portland it is one that has intensified during the pandemic, bringing housing, health and wealth inequalities to the forefront of many resident’s minds.

Recently, Mayor Ted Wheeler’s office responded to this pressure with a proposal to create mass shelters and a new homeless service hub. The architect of the Mayor's services hub is Seraphie Allen, a political professional known for building collaborative relationships with business leaders, grassroots organizations and neighborhood constituents. 

A Portland collective of housing advocates, including Kaia Sand of Street Roots, have proposed an alternative option to Wheeler’s plan which focuses on Permanent Supportive Housing and increased services to existing campsites. 

BBPDX is fortunate enough to be able to host both Seraphie and Kaia for an online program that will respectfully explore these proposals and consider ways in which we can all be a part of the solution.