Multnomah County reports housing success helping over 2200 leave homelessness

Homelessness remains a pressing issue in Multnomah County, with officials emphasizing the need for solutions that make homelessness "rare and brief." During a recent board briefing, it was revealed that the Supportive Housing Services (SHS) funds played a crucial role in helping a record 2,230 individuals transition from homelessness to stable housing in the past year. This achievement represents nearly half of the total 5,500 people rehoused by the Joint Office of Homeless Services across all funding streams.

County leaders highlighted the collaborative effort behind these successes, noting that while SHS dollars are fully utilized, significant contributions from the county's general fund, state resources, and city funds have allowed for a doubling of housing placements. This multifaceted approach underscores the importance of community investment in tackling homelessness.

In addition to addressing housing challenges, the meeting also touched on the importance of Tri-County representation in statewide discussions. Multnomah County Commissioner Moyer's new role on the Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) Board was acknowledged, alongside the participation of representatives from Washington and Clackamas counties. This collaboration is seen as vital for ensuring that local perspectives are included in broader legislative conversations affecting the region.

As the board prepares for its next meeting on February 6, the commitment to addressing homelessness and enhancing regional cooperation remains a top priority.