April 15

From the Field

This new feature focuses on the outreach efforts of our response teams to help people living outdoors and in unmanaged camps to escape homelessness.

Recently, the Salem Police Homelessness Services Team (HST) encountered a mother living in her car with three children:  two teens and her adult son who had developmental disabilities. They had been experiencing homelessness for about a month, and their vehicle had recently broken down. The woman also shared with officers that she was swindled out of cash by someone who claimed they could fix her car. The HST officers were able to assist by arranging lodging for the family at a local motel. With help from the Salem Police Community Action Unit, the officers helped transport the family and their belongings to the motel. They also connected the family with social services to find housing alternatives for the long-term, as well as found help to fix the woman’s only mode of transportation.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Program

The SoS Team focused attention around Wallace Marine Park and Commercial Street SE near Walmart. This week, residents should see a focused response to conditions in the following areas:

• Wallace Marine Park
• Private property near Indian School Road
• Commercial Street SE near Walmart
• Kuebler Boulevard

The SoS Team provides direct outreach to those living unsheltered, to share resources and alternative options to assist property owners with those who may be trespassing on private property, and to pick up trash where it can be easily accessed. Each month, the SoS Team removes on average 23 tons of trash around the community.

Expanding housing and shelter

• COMING SOON: Salem Housing Authority will be accepting applications for multiple waiting lists. Lists open on April 27, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. and close on May 19, 2024, at 11:59 p.m.
  
  
• Salem Housing Authority’s Sequoia Crossings leasing efforts continue. Referrals for the property come from the local Coordinated Entry system.
  
  

• The Safe Parking Network partners with local communities to provide legal parking spaces on their property for those who are unsheltered to stay in their vehicle overnight. C@P’s goal is to help transition those in our Safe Parking program to permanent housing as quickly as possible. Call 971-375-7491 or email safeparking@church-at-the-park.org .

Day center services

• ARCHES day center is open Wednesday through Sunday at 615 Commercial Street NE
• HOAP (Homeless Outreach & Advocacy Project) at 694 Church Street NE is open during the day Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Closed 1:00-2:00 p.m. Window Services 2:00-4:00 p.m. (mail, hygiene items, bathrooms, and other services).  Brunch: 10:30 a.m.-noon. On Mondays, brunch is only available to women and nonbinary folks. Mondays are women and nonbinary days from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• The ROCC (Recovery Outreach Community Center) offers peer support, resource navigation, Oregon Health Plan assistance, group activities, soup, coffee, computers, transportation to and from showers on Wednesday, and outreach. ROCC is open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Tuesday, noon to 5:00 p.m., at 1190 Broadway St. NE.  http://www.roccsalem.org/calendar
• Kindness Closet is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each Tuesday and offers ARCHES’ shower truck, a hot meal, coffee, cold drinks, desserts, and a bag lunch to go. They are hosted by the Grace Community Church at 4105 Lancaster Dr. NE.
• The Oak Park Church of God hosts a wellness table each Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The table includes a meal, a partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for a shower truck visit and other community partners. The location is 2990 Lancaster Dr. NE.

April 8

From the Field

This new feature focuses on the outreach efforts of our response teams to help people living outdoors and in unmanaged camps to escape homelessness.

Recently, the Salem Police Homelessness Services Team (HST) and Community Action Unit (CAU) helped a woman who was living in an unmanaged camp. She told the team she lost her job, resulting in the loss of her dwelling. She had limited English speaking skills and was unaware of Salem’s outreach resources. HST and CAU collaborated with ARCHES and were able to provide a spot in the Navigation Center.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Program

The SoS Team focused significant attention around Wallace Marine Park and McKay Park last week. This week, residents should see a focused response to conditions in the following areas:

• Wallace Marine Park
• Hawthorne & Market SE
• Commercial Street SE near Walmart
• Kuebler Boulevard

The SoS Team provides direct outreach to those living unsheltered, to share resources and alternative options to assist property owners with those who may be trespassing on private property, and to pick up trash where it can be easily accessed. Each month, the SoS Team removes on average 23 tons of trash around the community.

Expanding housing and shelter

• COMING SOON: Salem Housing Authority will be accepting applications for multiple waiting lists. Lists open on April 27, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. and close on May 19, 2024, at 11:59 p.m.
  
  
• Salem Housing Authority’s Sequoia Crossings leasing efforts continue. Referrals for the property come from the local Coordinated Entry system.
  
  

• The Safe Parking Network partners with local communities to provide legal parking spaces on their property for those who are unsheltered to stay in their vehicle overnight. C@P’s goal is to help transition those in our Safe Parking program to permanent housing as quickly as possible. Call 971-375-7491 or email safeparking@church-at-the-park.org .

Day center services

• ARCHES day center is open Wednesday through Sunday at 615 Commercial Street NE
• HOAP (Homeless Outreach & Advocacy Project) at 694 Church Street NE is open during the day Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Closed 1:00-2:00 p.m. Window Services 2:00-4:00 p.m. (mail, hygiene items, bathrooms and other services).  Brunch: 10:30 a.m.-noon. On Mondays, brunch is only available to women and nonbinary folks. Mondays are women and nonbinary days from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• The ROCC (Recovery Outreach Community Center) offers activities and allows access to a microwave for snacks to eat there. ROCC is open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Tuesday, noon to 5:00 p.m., at 1190 Broadway St. NE, and offers transportation to a church with showers on Tuesdays. http://www.roccsalem.org/calendar
• Kindness Closet is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each Tuesday and offers ARCHES’ shower truck, a hot meal, coffee, cold drinks, desserts, and a bag lunch to go. They are hosted by the Grace Community Church at 4105 Lancaster Dr. NE.
• The Oak Park Church of God hosts a wellness table each Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The table includes a meal, a partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for a shower truck visit and other community partners. The location is 2990 Lancaster Dr. NE.

April 1

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Program

The SoS Team focused significant attention around Sunnyview Street NE and Hawthorne Street NE, and near the underpass there last week. This week, residents should see a focused response to conditions in the following area:

• Wallace Marine Park
• McKay Park

The SoS Team provides direct outreach to those living unsheltered, to share resources and alternative options to assist property owners with those who may be trespassing on private property, and to pick up trash where it can be easily accessed. Each month, the SoS Team removes on average 23 tons of trash around the community.

Expanding housing and shelter

• COMING SOON: Salem Housing Authority will be accepting applications for multiple waiting lists. Lists open on April 27, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. and close on May 19, 2024, at 11:59 p.m.
• Salem Housing Authority’s Sequoia Crossings leasing efforts continue. Referrals for the property come from the local Coordinated Entry system.
• Salem Navigation Center continues its work to phase in more reduced-barrier shelter beds.
  
  
• Salem Housing Authority was recognized by the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance as the first agency statewide to use resources from the Governor’s Emergency Order to assist people with rapid rehousing. Their work continues to access housing for those who qualify.

• The Safe Parking Network partners with local communities to provide legal parking spaces on their property for those who are unsheltered to stay in their vehicle overnight. C@P’s goal is to help transition those in our Safe Parking program to permanent housing as quickly as possible. Call 971-375-7491 or email safeparking@church-at-the-park.org .

Day center services

• ARCHES day center is open Wednesday through Sunday at 615 Commercial Street NE
• HOAP (Homeless Outreach & Advocacy Project) at 694 Church Street NE is open during the day Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Closed 1:00-2:00 p.m. Window Services 2:00-4:00 p.m. (mail, hygiene items, bathrooms and other services).  Brunch: 10:30 a.m.-noon. On Mondays, brunch is only available to women and nonbinary folks. Mondays are women and nonbinary days from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• The ROCC (Recovery Outreach Community Center) offers activities and allows access to a microwave for snacks to eat there. ROCC is open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Tuesday, noon to 5:00 p.m., at 1190 Broadway St. NE, and offers transportation to a church with showers on Tuesdays. http://www.roccsalem.org/calendar
• Kindness Closet is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each Tuesday and offers ARCHES’ shower truck, a hot meal, coffee, cold drinks, desserts, and a bag lunch to go. They are hosted by the Grace Community Church at 4105 Lancaster Dr. NE.
• The Oak Park Church of God hosts a wellness table each Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The table includes a meal, a partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for a shower truck visit and other community partners. The location is 2990 Lancaster Dr. NE

 

March 25

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Program

The SoS Team and Salem Police Homelessness Services Team (HST) completed a three-pronged effort at the shopping area on South Lancaster adjacent to Highway 22 last week. The first step was to work with property owners and provide outreach to the people camping in the parking lot. Some people were relocated into a shelter or other suitable locations. A move-out day occurred last week after outreach measures were exhausted. HST will continue to coordinate with a private security contractor for the location to support the effort.

The SOS Team continues direct outreach to those living unsheltered, to share resources and alternative options to assist property owners with those who may be trespassing on private property, and to pick up trash where it can be easily accessed. Residents should see a focused response to conditions in the following areas:

• Pringle Creek near Commercial
• Fisher Road NE and Stortz Road NE
• Transit Center
• Lansing Park
• Private property next to Red Cross

Salem Housing Authority Outreach Navigators distributed orange garbage bags at Wallace Marine Park to promote cleanliness. The effort is a collaboration with the SoS Team, who will collect and remove the waste. Collaborative partnerships are the basis of our efforts in response to homelessness.

Expanding housing and shelter

• Salem Housing Authority’s Sequoia Crossings has leased 34 of its 60 housing units so far as the leasing effort continues. Referrals for the property come from the local Coordinated Entry system.

• Salem Navigation Center continues its work to phase in more reduced-barrier shelter beds. The Salem Police Homeless Services Team is scheduled to be trained on how to use the 15 diversion beds set aside for police use.
• Salem Housing Authority was recognized by the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance as the first agency statewide to use resources from the Governor’s Emergency Order to assist people with rapid rehousing. Their work continues to access housing for those who qualify.

• The Safe Parking Network partners with local communities to provide legal parking spaces on their property for those who are unsheltered to stay in their vehicle overnight. C@P’s goal is to help transition those in our Safe Parking program to permanent housing as quickly as possible. Call 971-375-7491 or email safeparking@church-at-the-park.org .

Day center services

• ARCHES day center is open Wednesday through Sunday at 615 Commercial Street NE
• HOAP (Homeless Outreach & Advocacy Project) at 694 Church Street NE is open during the day from Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Closed 1:00-2:00 p.m. Window Services 2:00-4:00 p.m. (mail, hygiene items, bathrooms and other services).  Brunch: 10:30 a.m.-noon. On Mondays, brunch is only available to women and nonbinary folks. Mondays are women and nonbinary days from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• The ROCC (Recovery Outreach Community Center) offers activities and allows access to a microwave for snacks to eat there. ROCC is open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Tuesday, noon to 5:00 p.m., at 1190 Broadway St. NE, and offers transportation to a church with showers on Tuesdays. http://www.roccsalem.org/calendar
• Kindness Closet is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each Tuesday and offers ARCHES’ shower truck, a hot meal, coffee, cold drinks, desserts, and a bag lunch to go. They are hosted by the Grace Community Church at 4105 Lancaster Dr. NE.
• The Oak Park Church of God hosts a wellness table each Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The table includes a meal, a partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for a shower truck visit and other community partners. The location is 2990 Lancaster Dr. NE

March 18

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Program

The SOS Team continues direct outreach to those living unsheltered, to share resources and alternative options to assist property owners with those who may be trespassing on private property, and to pick up trash where it can be easily accessed. Working alongside outreach, specialized law enforcement teams, and other partners, residents should see a focused response to conditions in the following areas:

• Fisher Road NE, north of Silverton Road
• Kuebler Boulevard, north of Barnes Avenue SE
• Under the Liberty Street SE bridge
• Working with private property owners on Lancaster adjacent to Highway 22

Expanding housing and shelter

• Salem Navigation Center continues its work to phase in more reduced-barrier shelter beds. The Salem Police Homeless Services Team is scheduled to be trained on how to use the 15 diversion beds set aside for police use.
• Salem Housing Authority was recognized by the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance as the first agency statewide to use resources from the Governor’s Emergency Order to assist people with rapid rehousing. Their work continues to access housing for those who qualify.
• Salem Housing Authority’s Sequoia Crossings has opened, and residents are moving into its 60 new units. Referrals for the program are coming from temporary emergency shelters.
• The Safe Parking Network partners with local communities to provide legal parking spaces on their property for those who are unsheltered to stay in their vehicle overnight. C@P’s goal is to help transition those in our Safe Parking program to permanent housing as quickly as possible. Call 971-375-7491 or email safeparking@church-at-the-park.org .

Day center resources for day services

• ARCHES day center is open Wednesday through Sunday at 615 Commercial Street NE
• HOAP (Homeless Advocacy Outreach) at 694 Church Street NE is open during the day from Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Closed 1:00-2:00 p.m. Window Services 2:00-4:00 p.m. (mail, hygiene items, bathrooms and other services).  Brunch: 10:30 a.m.-noon. On Mondays, brunch is only available to women and nonbinary folks. Mondays are women and nonbinary days from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• The ROCC (Recovery Outreach Community Center) offers activities and allows access to a microwave for snacks to eat there. ROCC is open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Tuesday, noon to 5:00 p.m., at 1190 Broadway St. NE, and offers transportation to a church with showers on Tuesdays. http://www.roccsalem.org/calendar
• Kindness Closet is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each Tuesday and offers ARCHES’ shower truck, a hot meal, coffee, cold drinks, desserts, and a bag lunch to go. They are hosted by the Grace Community Church at 4105 Lancaster Dr. NE.
• The Oak Park Church of God hosts a wellness table each Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The table includes a meal, a partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for a shower truck visit and other community partners. The location is 2990 Lancaster Dr. NE

March 11, 2024

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Program

The SOS Team continues direct outreach to those living unsheltered, to share resources and alternative options to assist property owners with those who may be trespassing on private property, and to pick up trash where it can be easily accessed. Working alongside outreach, specialized law enforcement teams, and other partners, residents should see a focused response to conditions in the following areas:

• Wallace Marine Park
• Hawthorne between Market and Sunnyview NE
• Under the Liberty St. SE bridge
• Parking lot property off of Lancaster Dr. SE near multiple locations

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Salem Housing Authority was recognized by the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance as the first agency statewide to use resources from the Governor’s Emergency Order to assist people with rapid rehousing. Their work continues to access housing for those who qualify.
• Salem Housing Authority’s Sequoia Crossings has opened, and residents are moving into its 60 new units. Referrals for the program are coming from temporary emergency shelters.
• The Safe Parking Network partners with local communities to provide legal parking spaces on their property for those who are unsheltered to stay in their vehicle overnight. C@P’s goal is to help transition those in our Safe Parking program to permanent housing as quickly as possible. Call 971-375-7491 or email safeparking@church-at-the-park.org .

Day center resources for day services

• ARCHES day center is open Wednesday through Sunday at 615 Commercial Street NE
• HOAP (Homeless Advocacy Outreach) at 694 Church Street NE is open during the day from Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Closed 1:00-2:00 p.m. Window Services 2:00-4:00 p.m. (mail, hygiene items, bathrooms and other services).  Brunch: 10:30 a.m.-noon. On Mondays, brunch is only available to women and nonbinary folks. Mondays are women and nonbinary days from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• The ROCC (Recovery Outreach Community Center) offers activities and allows access to a microwave for snacks to eat there. ROCC is open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Tuesday, noon to 5:00 p.m., at 1190 Broadway St. NE, and offers transportation to a church with showers on Tuesdays. http://www.roccsalem.org/calendar
• Kindness Closet is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each Tuesday and offers ARCHES’ shower truck, a hot meal, coffee, cold drinks, desserts, and a bag lunch to go. They are hosted by the Grace Community Church at 4105 Lancaster Dr. NE.
• The Oak Park Church of God hosts a wellness table each Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The table includes a meal, a partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for a shower truck visit and other community partners. The location is 2990 Lancaster Dr. NE

March 4, 2024

Warming Resources

The Salem Warming Network will announce activation of overnight warming services if temperatures drop to 32 degrees or below. Watch the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency website on Emergency Services for information and to volunteer.  Announcements occur closer to the time of activation, such as the night before or day of activation. 

Seed of Faith Ministries recently joined the Salem Warming Network with a warming shelter at 1248 Winter Street NE through CRAWL, Community Recovery and Wellness Living, https://crawl-oregon.org/.

Warming resources are also available in Marion and Polk Counties.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Program

The SOS Team continues direct outreach to those living unsheltered, to share resources and alternative options to assist property owners with those who may be trespassing on private property, and to pick up trash where it can be easily accessed. Working alongside outreach, specialized law enforcement teams, and other partners, residents should see a focused response to conditions in the following areas:

• Wallace Marine Park and Marion Square Park
• 45th and Market
• Along Fisher road
• Private property near intersection of Lancaster and Macleay Road SE

 Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Salem Housing Authority was recognized by the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance as the first agency statewide to use resources from the Governor’s Emergency Order to assist people with rapid rehousing. Their work continues to access housing for those who qualify.
• Salem Housing Authority’s Sequoia Crossings has opened, and residents are moving into its 60 new units. Referrals for the program are coming from temporary emergency shelters.
• The Safe Parking Network partners with local communities to provide legal parking spaces on their property for those who are unsheltered to stay in their vehicle overnight. C@P's goal is to help transition those in our Safe Parking program to permanent housing as quickly as possible. Call 971-375-7491 or email safeparking@church-at-the-park.org .

Day center resources for day services

• ARCHES day center is open Wednesday through Sunday at 615 Commercial Street NE
• HOAP (Homeless Advocacy Outreach) at 694 Church Street NE is open during the day from Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Closed 1:00-2:00 p.m. Window Services 2:00-4:00 p.m. Brunch: 10:30 a.m.-noon. On Mondays, brunch is only available to women and nonbinary folks. Mondays are women and nonbinary days from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• The ROCC (Recovery Outreach Community Center) offers activities and allows access to a microwave for snacks to eat there. ROCC is open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Tuesday, noon to 5:00 p.m., at 2555 Silverton Road NE, and offers transportation to a church with showers on Tuesdays. http://www.roccsalem.org/calendar
• Kindness Closet is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each Tuesday and offers ARCHES’ shower truck, a hot meal, coffee, cold drinks, desserts, and a bag lunch to go. They are hosted by the Grace Community Church at 4105 Lancaster Dr. NE.
• The Oak Park Church of God hosts a wellness table each Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The table includes a meal, a partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for a shower truck visit and other community partners. The location is 2990 Lancaster Dr. NE

February 26, 2024

Warming Resources

The Salem Warming Network will announce activation of overnight warming services if temperatures drop to 32 degrees or below. Watch the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency website on Emergency Services for information and to volunteer.  Announcements occur closer to the time of activation, such as the night before or day of activation. 

Seed of Faith Ministries recently joined the Salem Warming Network with a warming shelter at 1248 Winter Street NE through CRAWL, Community Recovery and Wellness Living, https://crawl-oregon.org/.

Warming resources are also available in Marion and Polk Counties.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Program

The SOS Team continues direct outreach to those living unsheltered, to share resources and alternative options to assist property owners with those who may be trespassing on private property, and to pick up trash where it can be easily accessed. Working alongside outreach, specialized law enforcement teams, and other partners, residents should see a focused response to conditions in the following areas:

• Airway Drive SE
• Market/Hawthorne NE
• Wallace Marine Park and Marion Square Park,
• In and Around Downtown, and
• private property adjacent to Indian School Road.

 Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Salem Housing Authority was recognized by the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance as the first agency statewide to use resources from the Governor’s Emergency Order to assist people with rapid rehousing. Their work continues to access housing for those who qualify.
• Salem Housing Authority’s Sequoia Crossings has opened, and residents are moving into its 60 new units. Referrals for the program are coming from temporary emergency shelters.
• The Safe Parking Network partners with local communities to provide legal parking spaces on their property for those who are unsheltered to stay in their vehicle overnight. C@P's goal is to help transition those in our Safe Parking program to permanent housing as quickly as possible. Call 971-375-7491 or email safeparking@church-at-the-park.org .

Day center resources for day services

• ARCHES day center is open Wednesday through Sunday at 615 Commercial Street NE
• HOAP (Homeless Advocacy Outreach) at 694 Church Street NE is open during the day from Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m
• The ROCC (Recovery Outreach Community Center) offers activities and allows access to a microwave for snacks to eat there. ROCC is open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Tuesday, noon to 5:00 p.m., at 2555 Silverton Road NE, and offers transportation to a church with showers on Tuesdays. http://www.roccsalem.org/calendar
• Kindness Closet is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each Tuesday and offers ARCHES’ shower truck, a hot meal, coffee, cold drinks, desserts, and a bag lunch to go. They are hosted by the Grace Community Church at 4105 Lancaster Dr. NE.
• The Oak Park Church of God hosts a wellness table each Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The table includes a meal, a partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for a shower truck visit and other community partners. The location is 2990 Lancaster Dr. NE

 

February 12, 2024

Warming Resources

The Salem Warming Network will announce activation of overnight warming services if temperatures drop to 32 degrees or below. Watch the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency website on Emergency Services for information and to volunteer.  Announcements occur closer to the time of activation, such as the night before or day of activation. 

Seed of Faith Ministries recently joined the Salem Warming Network with a warming shelter at 1248 Winter Street NE through CRAWL, Community Recovery and Wellness Living, https://crawl-oregon.org/.

Warming resources are also available in Marion and Polk Counties.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Program

The SOS Team continues direct outreach to those living unsheltered, to share resources and alternative options to assist property owners with those who may be trespassing on private property, and to pick up trash where it can be easily accessed. Working alongside outreach, specialized law enforcement teams, and other partners, residents should see a focused response to conditions in the following areas:

• Wallace Marine Park and Marion Square Park,
• River Road, near the Minto Brown Park entrance,
• Area adjacent to Walling Pond, and
• private property adjacent to Indian School Road.

Connecting people to housing and shelter.  February 13 from 11 am to 2 pm: Salem Housing Authority Share the Love event at Wallace Marine Park.  Salem Housing Authority Compassion Action Response Team will be on-site among other partners to offer refreshments, coordinated entry assessments, and other resources, etc.

Sheltering and homelessness in Salem: Partnerships and Progress will be the subject of a City Council Work Session February 20, beginning at 6 pm.  These sessions may be live-streamed or available for playback anytime.  

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Salem Housing Authority was recognized by the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance as the first agency statewide to use resources from the Governor’s Emergency Order to assist people with rapid rehousing. Their work continues to access housing for those who qualify.
• Salem Housing Authority’s Sequoia Crossings  has opened and residents are moving into its 60 new units. Referrals for the program are coming from temporary emergency shelters.
• The Safe Parking Network partners with local communities to provide legal parking spaces on their property for those who are unsheltered to stay in their vehicle overnight. C@P's goal is to help transition those in our Safe Parking program to permanent housing as quickly as possible. Call 971-375-7491 or email safeparking@church-at-the-park.org .

Day center resources for day services

• ARCHES day center is open Wednesday through Sunday at 615 Commercial Street NE
• HOAP (Homeless Advocacy Outreach) at 694 Church Street NE is open during the day from Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m
• The ROCC (Recovery Outreach Community Center) offers activities and allows access to a microwave for snacks to eat there. ROCC is open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Tuesday, noon to 5:00 p.m., at 2555 Silverton Road NE, and offers transportation to a church with showers on Tuesdays. http://www.roccsalem.org/calendar
• Kindness Closet is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each Tuesday and offers ARCHES’ shower truck, a hot meal, coffee, cold drinks, desserts, and a bag lunch to go. They are hosted by the Grace Community Church at 4105 Lancaster Dr. NE.
• The Oak Park Church of God hosts a wellness table each Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The table includes a meal, a partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for a shower truck visit and other community partners. The location is 2990 Lancaster Dr. NE

February 5, 2024

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• The Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance reported this week on the one year anniversary of Governor Kotek declaring a state of emergency due to unsheltered homelessness. Our region received $12.8 million to meet state-set goals for homelessness prevention, emergency shelter and rehousing. Here’s what partners accomplished together:

 

 

• The Safe Parking Network partners with local communities to provide legal parking spaces on their property for those who are unsheltered to stay in their vehicle overnight. C@P's goal is to help transition those in our Safe Parking program to permanent housing as quickly as possible. Call 971-375-7491 or email safeparking@church-at-the-park.org .

Warming Resources

The Salem Warming Network will announce activation of overnight warming services if temperatures drop to 32 degrees or below. Watch the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency website on Emergency Services for information and to volunteer.  Announcements occur closer to the time of activation, such as the night before or day of activation. 

Seed of Faith Ministries recently joined the Salem Warming Network with a warming shelter at 1248 Winter Street NE through CRAWL, Community Recovery and Wellness Living, https://crawl-oregon.org/.

Warming resources are also available in Marion and Polk Counties.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Program

The SOS Team continues direct outreach to those living unsheltered, to share resources and alternative options to assist property owners with those who may be trespassing on private property, and to pick up trash where it can be easily accessed. Working alongside outreach, specialized law enforcement teams, and other partners, residents should see a focused response to conditions in the following areas:

• Wallace Marine Park, Lansing Park, and near Bush Park and Pringle Park
• Railroad Trestle bridge space near Willamette River
•  

Connecting people to housing and shelter.  February 13 from 11 am to 2 pm: Salem Housing Authority Share the Love event at Wallace Marine Park.  Salem Housing Authority Compassion Action Response Team will be on-site among other partners to offer refreshments, coordinated entry assessments, and other resources, etc.

Sheltering and homelessness in Salem: Partnerships and Progress will be the subject of a City Council Work Session February 20, beginning at 6 pm.  These sessions may be live-streamed or available for play back anytime.  

Day center resources for day services

• ARCHES day center is open Wednesday through Sunday at 615 Commercial Street NE
• HOAP (Homeless Advocacy Outreach) at 694 Church Street NE is open during the day from Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m
• The ROCC (Recovery Outreach Community Center) offers activities and allows access to a microwave for snacks to eat there. ROCC is open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Tuesday, noon to 5:00 p.m., at 2555 Silverton Road NE, and offers transportation to a church with showers on Tuesdays. http://www.roccsalem.org/calendar
• Kindness Closet is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each Tuesday and offers ARCHES’ shower truck, a hot meal, coffee, cold drinks, desserts, and a bag lunch to go. They are hosted by the Grace Community Church at 4105 Lancaster Dr. NE.
• The Oak Park Church of God hosts a wellness table each Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The table includes a meal, a partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for a shower truck visit and other community partners. The location is 2990 Lancaster Dr. NE

January 29, 2024

Warming Resources

The Salem Warming Network will announce activation of overnight warming services if temperatures drop to 32 degrees or below. Watch the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency website on Emergency Services for information and to volunteer.  Announcements occur closer to the time of activation, such as the night before or day of activation. 

Seed of Faith Ministries recently joined the Salem Warming Network with a warming shelter at 1248 Winter Street NE through CRAWL, Community Recovery and Wellness Living, https://crawl-oregon.org/.

Warming resources are also available in Marion and Polk Counties.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Program

The SOS Team continues direct outreach to those living unsheltered, to share resources and alternative options to assist property owners with those who may be trespassing on private property, and to pick up trash where it can be easily accessed. Working alongside outreach, specialized law enforcement teams, and other partners, residents should see a focused response to conditions in the following areas:

• Pedestrian pathway between Wallace Road and Wallace Marine Park
• Trestle bridge space near Willamette River
• Church and High St. near Pringle Park

Connecting people to housing and shelter.  February 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Salem Housing Authority Share the Love event at Wallace Marine Park.  Salem Housing Authority Compassion Action Response Team will be on-site among other partners to offer refreshments, coordinated entry assessments, and other resources, etc.

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Salem Housing Authority was recognized by the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance as the first agency statewide to use resources from the Governor’s Emergency Order to assist people with rapid rehousing. Their work continues to access housing for those who qualify.
• Salem Housing Authority’s Sequoia Crossings opens this week with 60 new units. Referrals for the program are coming from temporary emergency shelters.
• The Safe Parking Network partners with local communities to provide legal parking spaces on their property for those who are unsheltered to stay in their vehicle overnight. C@P's goal is to help transition those in our Safe Parking program to permanent housing as quickly as possible. Call 971-375-7491 or email safeparking@church-at-the-park.org .

Day center resources for day services

• ARCHES day center is open Wednesday through Sunday at 615 Commercial Street NE
• HOAP (Homeless Advocacy Outreach) at 694 Church Street NE is open during the day from Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m
• The ROCC (Recovery Outreach Community Center) offers activities and allows access to a microwave for snacks to eat there. ROCC is open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Tuesday, noon to 5:00 p.m., at 2555 Silverton Road NE, and offers transportation to a church with showers on Tuesdays. http://www.roccsalem.org/calendar
• Kindness Closet is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each Tuesday and offers ARCHES’ shower truck, a hot meal, coffee, cold drinks, desserts, and a bag lunch to go. They are hosted by the Grace Community Church at 4105 Lancaster Dr. NE.
• The Oak Park Church of God hosts a wellness table each Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The table includes a meal, a partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for a shower truck visit and other community partners. The location is 2990 Lancaster Dr. NE

 

January 22, 2024

Warming Resources

The Salem Warming Network will announce activation of overnight warming services if temperatures drop to 32 degrees or below. Watch the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency website on Emergency Services for information and to volunteer.  Announcements occur closer to the time of activation, such as the night before or day of activation. 

Seed of Faith Ministries recently joined the Salem Warming Network with a warming shelter at 1248 Winter Street NE through CRAWL, Community Recovery and Wellness Living, https://crawl-oregon.org/.

Warming resources are also available in Marion and Polk Counties.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Program

The SOS Team continues direct outreach to those living unsheltered, to share resources and alternative options to assist property owners with those who may be trespassing on private property, and to pick up trash where it can be easily accessed. Working alongside outreach, specialized law enforcement teams, and other partners, residents should see a focused response to conditions in the following areas:

• Bill Frey Drive near Portland Road,
• Fir and Kearney near the railroad tracks,
• Front Street near Willamette River,
• around Wallace Marine Park, Marion Square Park, and Lansing Park, and
• In and around Downtown.

Connecting people to housing and shelter.  February 13 from 11 am to 2 pm: Salem Housing Authority Share the Love event at Wallace Marine Park. Salem Housing Authority Compassion Action Response Team will be on-site among other partners to offer refreshments, coordinated entry assessments, and other resources, etc.

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Salem Housing Authority was recognized by the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance as the first agency statewide to use resources from the Governor’s Emergency Order to assist people with rapid rehousing. Their work continues to access housing for those who qualify. So far, 82 households have been rehomed thanks to the rapid rehousing program. Work will continue through June 30, 2024, with remaining funding.
• Salem Housing Authority’s Sequoia Crossings opens in early 2024 with 60 new units.
• The Safe Parking Network partners with local communities to provide legal parking spaces on their property for those who are unsheltered to stay in their vehicle overnight. C@P's goal is to help transition those in our Safe Parking program to permanent housing as quickly as possible. Call 971-375-7491 or email safeparking@church-at-the-park.org .

Day center resources for day services

• ARCHES day center is open Wednesday through Sunday at 615 Commercial Street NE
• HOAP (Homeless Advocacy Outreach) at 694 Church Street NE is open during the day from Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m
• The ROCC (Recovery Outreach Community Center) offers activities and allows access to a microwave for snacks to eat there. ROCC is open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Tuesday, noon to 5:00 p.m., at 2555 Silverton Road NE, and offers transportation to a church with showers on Tuesdays. http://www.roccsalem.org/calendar
• Kindness Closet is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each Tuesday and offers ARCHES’ shower truck, a hot meal, coffee, cold drinks, desserts, and a bag lunch to go. They are hosted by the Grace Community Church at 4105 Lancaster Dr. NE.
• The Oak Park Church of God hosts a wellness table each Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The table includes a meal, a partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for a shower truck visit and other community partners. The location is 2990 Lancaster Dr. NE.

January 8, 2024

Warming Resources

The Salem Warming Network will announce activation of overnight warming services if temperatures drop to 32 degrees or below. Watch the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency website on Emergency Services for information and to volunteer.  Announcements occur closer to the time of activation, such as the night before or day of activation. 

Seed of Faith Ministries recently joined the Salem Warming Network with a warming shelter at 1248 Winter Street NE through CRAWL, Community Recovery and Wellness Living, https://crawl-oregon.org/.

Warming resources are also available in Marion and Polk Counties.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Program

The SOS Team continues direct outreach to those living unsheltered, to share resources and alternative options to assist property owners with those who may be trespassing on private property, and to pick up garbage where it can be easily accessed. Working alongside outreach, specialized law enforcement teams, and other partners, residents should see a focused response to conditions in the following areas:

• Macleay and Cordon Road
• around Wallace Marine Park, and
• In and around Downtown.

This week, Oregon Department of Transportation is also active around the Market Street exit from Interstate 5.

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Salem Housing Authority was recognized by the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance as the first agency statewide to use resources from the Governor’s Emergency Order to assist people with rapid rehousing. Their work continues to access housing for those who qualify.
• Salem Housing Authority’s Sequoia Crossings opens in early 2024 with 60 new units.
• The Safe Parking Network partners with local communities to provide legal parking spaces on their property for those who are unsheltered to stay in their vehicle overnight. C@P's goal is to help transition those in our Safe Parking program to permanent housing as quickly as possible. Call 971-375-7491 or email safeparking@church-at-the-park.org .

Day center resources for day services

• ARCHES day center is open Wednesday through Sunday at 615 Commercial Street NE
• HOAP (Homeless Advocacy Outreach) at 694 Church Street NE is open during the day from Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m
• The ROCC (Recovery Outreach Community Center) offers activities and allows access to a microwave for snacks to eat there. ROCC is open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Tuesday, noon to 5:00 p.m., at 2555 Silverton Road NE, and offers transportation to a church with showers on Tuesdays. http://www.roccsalem.org/calendar
• Kindness Closet is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each Tuesday and offers ARCHES’ shower truck, a hot meal, coffee, cold drinks, desserts, and a bag lunch to go. They are hosted by the Grace Community Church at 4105 Lancaster Dr. NE.
• The Oak Park Church of God hosts a wellness table each Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The table includes a meal, a partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for a shower truck visit and other community partners. The location is 2990 Lancaster Dr. NE

December 18, 2023

Warming Resources

The Salem Warming Network will announce activation of overnight warming services if predicted temperatures drop to 32 degrees or below. Watch the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency website on Emergency Services for information and to volunteer.  Announcements occur closer to the time of activation, such as the night before or day of activation. 

Seed of Faith Ministries announces activation at 1248 Winter Street NE, through CRAWL: Community Recovery and Wellness Living. For more information, reach 503-881-3939.

Warming resources are also available in Marion and Polk Counties.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Program

The SOS Team continues direct outreach to those living unsheltered, to share resources and alternative options to assist property owners with those who may be trespassing on private property, and to pick up garbage where it can be easily accessed. Working alongside outreach, specialized law enforcement teams, and other partners, residents should see a focused response to conditions in the following areas:

• Market and Hawthorne NE
• Marion Square Park and Woodmansee Park
• Front Street
• Macleay and Cordon Road, and
• around Weathers Park
• In and around Downtown.

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Salem Housing Authority was recognized by the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance as the first agency statewide to use resources from the Governor’s Emergency Order to assist people with rapid rehousing. Their work continues to access housing for those who qualify.
• Salem Housing Authority’s Sequoia Crossings opens in early 2024 with 60 new units.
• The Safe Parking Network partners with local communities to provide legal parking spaces on their property for those who are unsheltered to stay in their vehicle overnight. C@P's goal is to help transition those in our Safe Parking program to permanent housing as quickly as possible. Call 971-375-7491 or email safeparking@church-at-the-park.org .

Day center resources for day services

• ARCHES day center is open Wednesday through Sunday at 615 Commercial Street NE
• HOAP (Homeless Advocacy Outreach) at 694 Church Street NE is open during the day from Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m
• The ROCC (Recovery Outreach Community Center) offers activities and allows access to a microwave for snacks to eat there. ROCC is open Wednesday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Tuesday, noon to 5:00 p.m., at 2555 Silverton Road NE, and offers transportation to a church with showers on Tuesdays. http://www.roccsalem.org/calendar
• Kindness Closet is open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each Tuesday and offers ARCHES’ shower truck, a hot meal, coffee, cold drinks, desserts, and a bag lunch to go. They are hosted by the Grace Community Church at 4105 Lancaster Dr. NE.
• The Oak Park Church of God hosts a wellness table each Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The table includes a meal, a partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for a shower truck visit and other community partners. The location is 2990 Lancaster Dr. NE

Week of December 19, 2022

Point in Time Count

Salem City Council voted to redirect $10,000 to the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance for coordination of the annual Point in Time Count of homeless people. Learn more and sign up for the Point in Time Count.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Team Update

The team continues daily outreach to known locations where people are living out of doors to try to facilitate their connection to shelter.  We know relationship building through regular communication increases the chances individuals will connect with available services.  These contacts also help us keep conditions cleaner and healthier, removing as much accumulated garbage as possible, on a regular basis.

• Last week, the SOS Team continued to respond to areas of concern, help connect people to resources, and support removal of accumulated garbage. The Team was also at Woodmansee Park and at the 45^th and Market area.
• This week, the team is busy working at Marion Parkade, Claggett/Hyacinth areas, Lancaster/Sunnyview, North Lancaster and assisting private property owners.
• For the next two weeks, work continues to connect people to resources and response to areas of concern. Volunteers and donations are still needed.

Volunteers and Donations Needed

• Warming/ Inclement Weather Network. The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency is looking for volunteers to support their winter weather emergency services for people experiencing homelessness. This year, the City contributed another $150,000 for ARCHES’ operation of the network.
• Donations Needed: Gloves, Socks, Handwarmers, and Backpacks. Salem Housing Authority is accepting donations of new gloves, new socks, packaged handwarmers, and new backpacks. Thank you for bringing these warming essentials to Salem Housing Authority’s administrative offices, 360 Church Street SE, between 8 am and 4:30 p.m.

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Additional 400 Units of Affordable Housing Under Construction.  Salem Housing Authority will be a general partner for two affordable housing projects with about 400 units at two locations in South Salem: (1) off 27^th Avenue and (2) off Battlecreek.
• New Salem Housing Authority Properties: Yaquina Hall and Sequoia Crossings. We continue to build more permanent supportive housing.  In 2023, through our Salem Housing Authority, we will open Sequoia Crossings (60 units) and Yaquina Hall (52 units) properties. 
• Turner Road Micro-Shelter Village Community.  Opening in February, the Church of the Park micro-shelter village will house up to 40 guests, 18-24 years old, in 20 micro-shelters. 
• Salem’s Navigation Center.  Construction is underway at the new low-barrier Navigation Center.  Working in partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency to provide intensive case management, the Navigation Center will provide 50 low-barrier shelter beds, when it opens Winter 2023.  

Week of December 12, 2022

Volunteers and Donations Needed

• Point in Time Count: January 24, 25, and 26.The Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance is seeking volunteers to conduct face-to-face interviews with people experiencing homelessness in our community. In preparation for the Point in Time Count, you can volunteer or contribute funds or other support to the event. Learn more and sign up for the Point in Time Count.
• Warming/Inclement Weather Network. The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency is looking for volunteers to support their winter weather emergency services for people experiencing homelessness. This year, the City contributed another $150,000 for ARCHES’ operation of the network.
• Donations Needed: Gloves, Socks, Handwarmers, and Backpacks. Salem Housing Authority is accepting donations of new gloves, new socks, packaged handwarmers, and new backpacks. Thank you for bringing these warming essentials to Salem Housing Authority’s administrative offices, 360 Church Street SE, between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Team Update

The team continues daily outreach to known locations where people are living out of doors to try to facilitate their connection to shelter.  We know relationship-building through regular communication increases the chances individuals will connect with available services. These contacts also help us keep conditions cleaner and healthier, removing as much accumulated garbage as possible, on a regular basis.

• Last week, the SOS Team worked in the Claggett Creek Natural Area, Cascades Gateway Park, Sunnyview and Lancaster area, Court Street pedestrian bridge at Mill Creek, and Commercial and Madras area. The Team also responded to areas of concern throughout our community to help connect people to resources and support removal of accumulated garbage.
• This week, the SOS Team continues to respond to areas of concern, help connect people to resources, and support removal of accumulated garbage. The Team will also be at Woodmansee Park and at the 45^th and Market area.
• For the next two weeks, work continues to connect people to resources and response to areas of concern. Volunteers and donations are still needed.

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Additional 400 Units of Affordable Housing Under Construction.  Salem Housing Authority will be a general partner for two affordable housing projects with about 400 units at two locations in South Salem: (1) off 27^th Avenue and (2) off Battlecreek.
• New Salem Housing Authority Properties: Yaquina Hall and Sequoia Crossings. We continue to build more permanent supportive housing.  In 2023, through our Salem Housing Authority, we will open Sequoia Crossings (60 units) and Yaquina Hall (52 units) properties. 
• Turner Road Micro-Shelter Village Community.  Opening in February, the Church of the Park micro-shelter village will house up to 40 guests, 18-24 years old, in 20 micro-shelters. 
• Salem’s Navigation Center.  Construction is underway at the new low-barrier Navigation Center.  Working in partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency to provide intensive case management, the Navigation Center will provide 50 low-barrier shelter beds, when it opens Winter 2023.  

Week of December 5, 2022

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Team Update

This week, the SOS Team will continue responding to areas of concern, help connect people to resources, and support removal of accumulated garbage at Claggett Creek Natural Area, Cascades Gateway Park in the area behind Lowe's, and the Marion Parkade. The team is also continuing daily outreach to known locations where people are living out of doors to try to facilitate their connection to shelter.  We know relationship-building through regular communication increases the chances individuals will connect with available services.  These contacts also help us keep conditions cleaner and healthier, removing as much accumulated garbage as possible, on a regular basis. 

Watch for new job openings.  We are recruiting additional outreach support, through our Salem Housing Authority, to help us continue to try to meet individual needs of those we encounter.

Volunteers and Donations Needed

• Point in Time Count: January 24, 25, and 26.  The Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance is seeking volunteers to conduct face-to-face interviews with people experiencing homelessness in our community.  In preparation for the Point in Time Count, you can volunteer, contribute funds, or other support to the event.  Learn more and sign up for the Point in Time Count.
• Warming/Inclement Weather Network. The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency is looking for volunteers to support their winter weather emergency services for people experiencing homelessness. This year, the City contributed another $150,000 for ARCHES’ operation of the network.
• Donations Needed: Gloves, Socks, Handwarmers, and Backpacks. Salem Housing Authority is accepting donations of new gloves, new socks, packaged handwarmers, and new backpacks.Thank you for bringing these warming essentials to Salem Housing Authority’s administrative offices, 360 Church Street SE, between 8 am and 4:30 pm.

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Additional 400 Units of Affordable Housing Under Construction.  Salem Housing Authority will be a general partner for two affordable housing projects with about 400 units at two locations in South Salem: (1) off 27^th Avenue and (2) off Battlecreek.
• Turner Road Micro-Shelter Village Community.  Opening in February, the Church of the Park micro-shelter village will house up to 40 guests, 18-24 years old, in 20 micro-shelters. 
• Salem’s Navigation Center.  Construction is underway at the new low-barrier Navigation Center.  Working in partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency to provide intensive case management, the Navigation Center will provide 50 low-barrier shelter beds, when it opens Winter 2023.  

Week of November 28, 2022

Point in Time Count: January 24, 25, and 28

The Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance is seeking volunteers to conduct face-to-face interviews with people experiencing homelessness in our community.  In preparation for the Point in Time Count, you can volunteer, contribute funds, or other support to the event.  Learn more and sign up for the Point in Time Count.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Team Update

This week, the SOS Team will continue responding to areas of concern, help connect people to resources, and support removal of accumulated garbage at Cascades Gateway Park and the Claggett Creek Natural Area. The team is also continuing daily outreach to known locations where people are living out of doors to try to facilitate their connection to shelter.  We know relationship-building through regular communication increases the chances individuals will connect with available services.  These contacts also help us keep conditions cleaner and healthier, removing as much accumulated garbage as possible, on a regular basis. 

Watch for new job openings.  We are recruiting additional outreach support, through our Salem Housing Authority, to help us continue to try to meet individual needs of those we encounter.

Volunteers and Donations Needed

• Warming/ Inclement Weather Network. The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency is looking for volunteers to support their winter weather emergency services for people experiencing homelessness. This year, the City contributed another $150,000 for ARCHES’ operation of the network.
• Donations Needed: Gloves, Socks, Handwarmers, and Backpacks. Salem Housing Authority is accepting donations of new gloves, new socks, packaged handwarmers, and new backpacks.Thank you for bringing these warming essentials to Salem Housing Authority’s administrative offices, 360 Church Street SE, between 8 am and 4:30 pm.

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Additional 400 Units of Affordable Housing Under Construction.  Salem Housing Authority will be a general partner for two affordable housing projects with about 400 units at two locations in South Salem: (1) off 27th Avenue and (2) off Battlecreek.
• Turner Road Micro-Shelter Village Community.  Opening in February, the Church of the Park micro-shelter village will house up to 40 guests, 18-24 years old, in 20 micro-shelters. 
• Salem’s Navigation Center.  Construction is underway at the new low-barrier Navigation Center.  Working in partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency to provide intensive case management, the Navigation Center will provide 50 low-barrier shelter beds, when it opens Winter 2023.  

Week of November 21, 2022

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Team Update

 This week, the SOS Team will continue responding to areas of concern, help connect people to resources, and support removal of accumulated garbage at Cascades Gateway Park. The team is also continuing daily outreach to known locations where people are living out of doors to try to facilitate their connection to shelter.  We know relationship building through regular communication increases the chances individuals will connect with available services.  These contacts also help us keep conditions cleaner and healthier, removing as much accumulated garbage as possible, on a regular basis.  

Watch for new job openings.  We are recruiting additional outreach support, through our Salem Housing Authority, to help us continue to try to meet individual needs of those we encounter.

Volunteers and Donations Needed

• Warming/ Inclement Weather Network Calling all volunteers! The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency is looking for volunteers to support their winter weather emergency services for people experiencing homelessness. This year, the City contributed another $150,000 for ARCHES’ operation of the network.
• Donations Needed: Gloves, Socks, Handwarmers, and Backpacks. Salem Housing Authority is accepting donations of new gloves, new socks, packaged handwarmers, and new backpacks. Thank you for bringing these warming essentials to Salem Housing Authority’s administrative offices, 360 Church Street SE, between 8 am and 4:30 p.m.

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Additional 400 Units of Affordable Housing Under Construction.  Salem Housing Authority will be a general partner for two affordable housing projects with about 400 units at two locations in South Salem: (1) off 27th Avenue SE and (2) off Battlecreek Road SE.
• Turner Road Micro-Shelter Village Community.  Opening in February, the Church of the Park micro-shelter village will house up to 40 guests, 18-24 years old, in 20 micro-shelters. 
• Salem’s Navigation Center.  Construction is underway at the new low-barrier Navigation Center.  Working in partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency to provide intensive case management, the Navigation Center will provide 50 low-barrier shelter beds, when it opens Winter 2023.  

Week of November 14, 2022

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Team Update.  This week, the team is continuing daily outreach to known locations where people are living out of doors to try to facilitate their connection to shelter.  We know relationship-building through regular communication increases the chances individuals will connect with available services.  These contacts also help us keep conditions cleaner and healthier, removing as much accumulated garbage as possible, on a regular basis.

Watch for new job openings.  We are recruiting additional outreach support, through our Salem Housing Authority, to help us continue to try to meet individual needs of those we encounter.

Volunteers and Donations Needed

• Warming/ Inclement Weather Network Calling all volunteers! The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency is looking for volunteers to support their winter weather emergency services for people experiencing homelessness. This year, the City contributed another $150,000 for ARCHES’ operation of the network. Learn more about the network. Interested in volunteering?Submit an ARCHES volunteer request form and learn more at an upcoming ARCHES’ in-person town hall.RSVP with interest for training on Monday November 7, 2022, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
• Donations Needed: Gloves, Socks, Handwarmers, and Backpacks. Salem Housing Authority is accepting donations of new gloves, new socks, packaged handwarmers, and new backpacks.Thank you for bringing these warming essentials to Salem Housing Authority’s administrative offices, 360 Church Street SE, between 8 am and 4:30 p.m.

 Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Redwood Crossings Graduates.  Another three people recently moved from Redwood Crossings to stable, permanent supportive housing.
• Turner Road Micro-Shelter Village Community.  Opening in February, the Church of the Park micro-shelter village will house up to 40 guests, 18-24 years old, in 20 micro-shelters. 
• Sequoia Crossings Construction to Start.  This latest Salem Housing Authority permanent supportive housing project is fully funded and construction started November 1.  When complete, Sequoia Crossings will add another 60 units of permanent supportive housing.
• Salem’s Navigation Center.  Construction is underway at the new low-barrier Navigation Center.  Working in partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency to provide intensive case management, the Navigation Center will provide 50 low-barrier shelter beds, when it opens no later than February 2023.

Week of November 7, 2022

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Team Update

The seven-person outreach team continues to assist individuals in need by providing referrals, responding to criminal complaints, collecting garbage, and removing waste.  We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City. Sanitation and hygiene efforts in public areas are vital to ensuring the health and livability of our outdoor spaces.

• Week of November 7, work continues at Claggett Creek Natural Area and at other areas adjacent to creeks.  SOS Team anticipates moving toward Cascades Gateway Park this week.
• Week of November 14, the SOS Team will help support removal of accumulated garbage at Cascades Gateway Park.

For the month of October, SOS Team members removed 39 tons of accumulated garbage from public properties.  That’s about 12 heavy dump trucks.

Volunteers and Donations Needed

• Warming/ Inclement Weather Network Calling all volunteers! The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency is looking for volunteers to support their winter weather emergency services for people experiencing homelessness. This year, the City contributed another $150,000 for ARCHES’ operation of the network.Learn more about the network Interested in volunteering?Submit an ARCHES volunteer request form and learn more at an upcoming ARCHES’ in-person town hall.RSVP with interest for training on Monday November 7, 2022, 5:30pm-6:30pm.
• Donations Needed: Gloves, Socks, Handwarmers, and Backpacks. Salem Housing Authority is accepting donations of new gloves, new socks, packaged handwarmers, and new backpacks. Thank you for bringing these warming essentials to Salem Housing Authority’s administrative offices, 360 Church Street SE, between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Redwood Crossings Graduates.  Another three people recently moved from Redwood Crossings to stable, permanent supportive housing.
• Turner Road Micro-Shelter Village Community.  Opening in February, the Church of the Park micro-shelter village will house up to 40 guests, 18-24 years old, in 20 micro-shelters. 
• Sequoia Crossings Construction to Start.  This latest Salem Housing Authority permanent supportive housing project is fully funded and construction started November 1.  When complete, Sequoia Crossings will add another 60 units of permanent supportive housing.
• Salem’s Navigation Center.  Construction is underway at the new low-barrier Navigation Center.  Working in partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency to provide intensive case management, the Navigation Center will provide 50 low-barrier shelter beds, when it opens no later than February 2023.  

Week of October 31, 2022

Warming/ Inclement Weather Network. Calling all volunteers! The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency is looking for volunteers to support their winter weather emergency services for people experiencing homelessness. This year, the City contributed another $150,000 for ARCHES’ operation of the network.  Learn more about the network Interested in volunteering?  Submit an ARCHES volunteer request form and learn more at an upcoming ARCHES’ in-person town hall.  RSVP for either date. 

• Tuesday November 1, 2022, 5:30pm-6:30pm
• Monday November 7, 2022, 5:30pm-6:30pm

Donations Needed: Gloves, Socks, Handwarmers, and Backpacks.  Salem Housing Authority is accepting donations of new gloves, new socks, packaged handwarmers, and new backpacks.  Thank you for bringing these warming essentials to Salem Housing Authority’s administrative offices, 360 Church Street SE, between 8 am and 4:30 pm.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Team Update.  Launched in August 2022, the SOS Response Team continues to respond to public health and safety concerns in areas of concern by being active in the community.  The seven-person outreach team continues to assist individuals in need by providing referrals, responding to criminal complaints, collecting garbage, and removing waste.  We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City. Sanitation and hygiene efforts in public areas are vital to ensuring the health and livability of our outdoor spaces.

• Week of October 31: the SOS Team will return to Claggett Creek Natural Area, with a focus on the north end of the property adjacent to Salem Industrial Drive.
• Week of November 7: the SOS Team will help support removal of accumulated garbage at Wallace Marine Park. 

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Redwood Crossings Graduates.  Another three people recently moved from Redwood Crossings to stable, permanent supportive housing. 
• Turner Road Micro-Shelter Village Community.  Opening in February, the Church of the Park micro-shelter village will house up to 40 guests, 18-24 years old, in 20 micro-shelters.  
• Sequoia Crossings Construction to Start.  This latest Salem Housing Authority permanent supportive housing project is fully funded and set to begin construction November 1.  When complete, Sequoia Crossings will add another 60 units of permanent supportive housing.
• Salem’s Navigation Center.  Construction is underway at the new low-barrier Navigation Center.  Working in partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency to provide intensive case management, the Navigation Center will provide 50 low-barrier shelter beds, when it opens no later than February 2023.  

Week of October 24, 2022 

Donations Needed: Gloves, Socks, Handwarmers, and Backpacks.   Salem Housing Authority is accepting donations of new gloves, new socks, packaged handwarmers, and new backpacks.  Thank you for bringing these warming essentials to Salem Housing Authority’s administrative offices, 360 Church Street SE, between 8 am and 4:30 pm.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Team Update.  Launched in August 2022, the SOS Response Team continues to respond to public health and safety concerns in areas of concern by being active in the community.  The seven-person outreach team continues to assist individuals in need by providing referrals, responding to criminal complaints, collecting garbage, and removing waste.  We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City. Sanitation and hygiene efforts in public areas are vital to ensuring the health and livability of our outdoor spaces.

• Week of October 24, the SOS Team will focus on Airway Drive property adjacent to Salem Municipal Airport.
• Week of October 31, the SOS Team will return to Claggett Creek Natural Area, with a focus on the north end of the property adjacent to Salem Industrial Drive.

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Sequoia Crossings Construction to Start.  This latest Salem Housing Authority permanent supportive housing project is fully funded and set to begin construction November 1.  When complete, Sequoia Crossings will add another 60 units of permanent supportive housing.
• Warming/Inclement Weather Network Funding in Place.  As the weather changes, investments in Salem’s Inclement Weather Network are being made to ensure more space is available for cold weather emergencies.  This year, the City contributed another $150,000 for ARCHES’ operation of the network.  Learn more about the network.
• Salem’s Navigation Center.  Construction is underway at the new low-barrier Navigation Center.  Working in partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency to provide intensive case management, the Navigation Center will provide 50 low-barrier shelter beds, when it opens this winter.  

Week of October 17, 2022 

Housing Vouchers Subsidize Rents. Through Salem Housing Authority, eligible residents can use housing vouchers to subsidize rent at public and privately-owned properties. For example, as of September 26: 

• Section 8 Housing Choice vouchers were in use by 2,589 households.
• Family Unification vouchers were in use in 100 households.  These vouchers are for eligible families with children experiencing barriers to stable housing.
• Veterans Assistance Supportive Housing Vouchers are housing 73 veterans at risk of homelessness in our community.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Team Update.   Launched in August 2022, the SOS Response Team continues to respond to public health and safety concerns by being active in the community. The seven-person outreach team continues to assist individuals in need by providing referrals, responding to criminal complaints, collecting garbage, and removing waste.  We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City. Sanitation and hygiene efforts in public areas are vital to ensuring the health and livability of our outdoor spaces. 

• Week of October 17, the SOS Team will focus on Airway Drive property adjacent to Salem Municipal Airport.
• Week of October 24, the SOS Team will return to Claggett Creek Natural Area, with a focus on the north end of the property adjacent to Salem Industrial Drive.

Expanding Housing and Shelter 

Micro-shelter village communities.   As the Center Street site opens, plans are underway for a micro-shelter village at Turner Road serving 18-24 year olds in need of temporary housing.  Micro-shelter villages provide managed, temporary housing opportunities for people who are unsheltered, with case management and outreach services.  These micro-shelter villages provide up to 40 small living spaces to be used as temporary housing. At each location, with our community partners, we are providing 24-hour security, on-site staff, restrooms, meals, peer support, and connections to local service providers and programs.

Warming/ Inclement Weather Network Funding in Place.   As the weather changes, investments in Salem’s Inclement Weather Network are being made to ensure more space is available for cold weather emergencies.  This year, the City contributed another $150,000 for ARCHES’ operation of the network.  Learn more about the network. 

Salem’s Navigation Center.   Construction is underway at the new low-barrier Navigation Center.  Working in partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency to provide intensive case management, the Navigation Center will provide 50 low-barrier shelter beds, when it opens this winter.  

Week of October 10, 2022

City Council to Consider Adding Housing Status to Salem’s Protected Classes.  Tonight, October 10, Salem City Council will consider adding housing status as a protected class to its more than 50-year-old anti-discrimination code. The move to add a section on housing status alongside other identities known as “protected classes,” including race, religion, and sexual orientation would, in effect, prohibit discrimination based on housing status in Salem.  The protection is not currently envisioned in Oregon’s Revised Statute.

In addition to adding housing status as a protected class under Salem’s City Code, amendments considered Monday night would also revise City Code references to gender identity and sexual orientation. 

If you, or someone you know, has experienced discrimination in Salem, the Salem Human Rights Commission may be able to help. Email:  humanrights@cityofsalem.net or call Gretchen Bennett at 503-540-2371.

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Team Update.  Launched in August 2022, the SOS Response Team continues to respond to public health and safety concerns by being active in the community.  The seven-person outreach team continues to assist individuals in need by providing referrals, responding to criminal complaints, collecting garbage, and removing waste.  We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City. Sanitation and hygiene efforts in public areas are vital to ensuring the health and livability of our outdoor spaces.

• Week of October 10, the SOS Team will focus on wetland Claggett Creek Natural Area.
• Week of October 17, the SOS Team will focus on Airway Drive property adjacent to Salem Municipal Airport.
• Week of October 24, the SOS Team will return to Claggett Creek Natural Area, with a focus on the north end of the property adjacent to Salem Industrial Drive.

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Salem Housing Authority (SHA) builds and preserves affordable housing.  Since 2014, Salem Housing Authority has constructed or preserved 485 affordable housing units at 11 different complexes throughout Salem.  SHA has also partnered, as a general manager, with privately developed affordable housing to keep another 682 units affordable throughout our community.
• Salem’s Navigation Center.  Construction is under way at the new low-barrier Navigation Center.  Working in partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency to provide intensive case management, the Navigation Center will provide 50 low-barrier shelter beds, when it opens this winter.  

Week of October 3, 2022

Salem Housing Authority is Moving to Work!  Moving to Work is a federal Housing and Urban Development (HUD) program that gives housing authorities flexibility around certain federal rules and regulations and allows the agency to implement local solutions. “We are thrilled to welcome the Salem Housing Authority and Housing Authority of Clackamas County to the asset-building cohort,” said Northwest Regional Administrator Margaret Salazar. “Through this program, they will have increased flexibility with HUD resources to meet the needs of the community they serve. This will increase the self-sufficiency of their residents and strengthen the community overall.

For this cohort, the Salem Housing Authority and the Housing Authority of Clackamas County were two of only 18 selected nationwide for this special status in late September 2022. According to HUD, the Move to Work program “is a demonstration program for public housing authorities that provides them the opportunity to design and test innovative, locally designed strategies that use federal dollars more efficiently, help residents find employment and become self-sufficient, and increase housing choices for low-income families.”

Salem Outreach and Livability Services (SOS) Team Update.  Launched in August 2022, the SOS Response Team continues to respond to public health and safety concerns by being active in the community.  The seven-person outreach team continues to assist individuals in need by providing referrals, responding to criminal complaints, collecting garbage, and removing waste.  We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City. Sanitation and hygiene efforts in public areas are vital to ensuring the health and livability of our outdoor spaces.

• Week of October 3, focusing attention at Cascades Gateway Park.
• Week of October 10 will focus on Claggett Creek Natural Area. 

Expanding Housing and Shelter

Micro-shelter community at Center Street NE.  The micro-shelters from the Portland Road location have been moved to 1280 Center Street NE and should be open this week. 

Salem’s Navigation Center.  Construction is under way at the new low-barrier Navigation Center.  Working in partnership with the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency to provide intensive case management, the Navigation Center will provide 50 low-barrier shelter beds, when it opens this winter.  

Yaquina Hall to Open in 2023 with 52 Affordable Housing Units.  The Salem Housing Authority leads the effort to convert Yaquina Hall, the former nurse’s quarters on the north campus of the State Hospital to a 52-unit apartment affordable housing community.  In 2022, the project broke ground.  When complete, Yaquina Hall will provide housing for those experiencing homelessness, as well as those with serious and persistent mental illness.  Of the 52 units, 21 will be permanent supportive housing with intensive case management. The remaining 32 units will be reserved for people on the Salem Housing Authority. Cost to complete the project is $18.6 million. 

Federal Funds Support Council Vision.  On an annual basis, the City of Salem receives HOME Investment Partnerships and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program funds from the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development. The City allocates another $400,000 from its General Fund on an annual basis.  Together, Salem and its local partners use these resources to implement a wide range of projects and activities to address homelessness, expand affordable housing, and provide supportive services.

In 2022, the following projects received HOME, CDBG, or General Fund funding for:

• Tenant-based rental assistance from ARCHES and St. Francis Shelter 
• Housing from Community Development Partners (184 rental units); for veterans to Applegate Terrace (48 rental units); from DevNW (24 for-sale single family homes); from Center for Hope and Safety (20 rental units, $50,000); from Seed of Faith Ministries (transitional housing, food pantry, warming/cooling center/community services, $450,000); and from Integrated Services for Living (rehab of 11 rental units, $300,000)
• Homeless prevention services for seniors, bulk emergency food purchase, and Youth Farm development from Marion Polk Foodshare
• Early learning center acquisition and rehabilitation from Community Action Agency
• Crisis and information hotline/emergency financial services from Northwest Human Services
• Encampment outreach services from Salem Housing Authority

Week of Sept 26, 2022

Outreach teams continue to assist individuals in need. No two people have the same needs, and city staff continues to work with various agencies and non-profits to help determine what services may be required or available.

Salem Outreach & Livability Services (SOS team)

• The SOS Team will be focusing attention on the Claggett Creek area with plans to post the area for maintenance in the coming days.
• River Road Park updates: Park looks good.
• Cascades Gateway continues to be a work-in-progress

Working with Partner agencies/Organizations

• Salem Navigation Center is tentatively on-track to open this winter.
• ODOT conducted maintenance in areas along I-5 near Cascades Gateway

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Salem’s plan to relocate 40 micro-shelters to 1280 Center Street continues to move forward. The microshelters are in place and the new location plans to open by the first week of October.

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule (short-range)

We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the city. The following locations are being discussed for upcoming clean-up/sanitization or follow-up outreach:

• Cascades Gateway Park
• Claggett Creek
• Geer Park (vehicles)

Regular monitoring (long-range)

Staff are aware and monitoring conditions of encampment activity regularly at and around:

• Northgate,
• Fisher Road Park,
• Wolverine St NE,
• Wallace Marine Park,
• Cascades Gateway Park

The west side of Cascades Gateway Park has reopened to the public. This includes lake access and the disc golf course; however, the picnic areas, playground, and restrooms remain closed.  

Working with property owners

Staff continues to work with various agencies (State, county, and private landowners) to identify landowners and assist with ongoing issues:

• Working with local business and partner agencies to address camping and waste.
• Marion Square Park (surrounding area)

Week of Aug 29, 2022

• Outreach teams continue to assist individuals in need. No two people have the same needs, and city staff continues to work with various agencies and non-profits to help determine what services may be required or available.
• Building cooling resources: ARCHES’ Emergency Services Program continues to look for assistance and donations as temperatures rise, with donations of: Coolers, reusable ice packs, insulated bags and more. Visit ARCHES or email for more information.

• Getting cooling resources to the people that need it: ARCHES’ outreach workers and other service providers, volunteers, and advocates are sharing information about the cooling resources and bringing them out to people who need them.

Working with Partner agencies/Organizations

• Salem Navigation Center is tentatively on-track to open this winter.

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Salem’s plan to relocate 40 micro-shelters to 1280 Center continues to move forward as development of the land area (addition of power) and additional preparations are underway.
  • A grand opening for the Center St. micro-shelter with an opportunity for neighbors, supporters, and other interested parties to come and see the new site and to hear from staff about how the site will operate will be held Sept. 11, from 1:00pm to 3:00pm and 5:00pm to 7:00pm. Contact Church@thePark for more information.
• On Aug 22, Salem City Council voted to re-allocate funds from the Front St. Safe Parking Project to the Turner Rd micro-shelter site. This site will hold 20 micro-shelters and house up to 40 individuals, ages 18-14.

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule (short-range)

We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the city. The following locations are being discussed for upcoming clean-up/sanitization or follow-up outreach:

• Cascades Gateway Park
• Claggett Creek/Hyacinth St NE (pond area)
• River Road Park NE (riverbank)
• Geer Park (vehicles)

Regular monitoring (long-range)

Staff are aware and monitoring conditions of encampment activity regularly at and around:

• Northgate,
• Fisher Road Park,
• Wolverine St NE,
• Wallace Marine Park,
• Cascades Gateway Park*

*The west side of Cascades Gateway Park has reopened to the public. This includes lake access and the disc golf course; however, the picnic areas, playground, and restrooms remain closed.  

Working with property owners

Staff continues to work with various agencies (State, county, and private landowners) to identify landowners and assist with ongoing issues:

• Working with local business and partner agencies to address camping and waste.
• Marion Square Park (surrounding area)
• Pringle Creek/12th St Bridge

Response team (Salem Outreach & Livability Services team)

The newly formed 7- person response team continues to move forward. The SOS team now consists of a supervisor (to respond to community issues, lead/supervise the team), a public works coordinator, three sanitization crew members and two Salem police officers. The team is actively conducting clean-up operations, attending community meetings, and working with those in the unsheltered community to help find additional resources.

More information regarding the team is available by calling 503-588-6178.

Week of Aug 22, 2022

• Outreach teams continue to assist individuals in need. No two people have the same needs, and city staff continues to work with various agencies and non-profits to help determine what services may be required or available.
• Building cooling resources: ARCHES’ Emergency Services Program continues to look for assistance and donations as temperatures rise, with donations of: Coolers, reusable ice packs, insulated bags and more. Visit ARCHES or email for more information.

• Getting cooling resources to the people that need it: ARCHES’ outreach workers and other service providers, volunteers, and advocates are sharing information about the cooling resources and bringing them out to people who need them.

Working with Partner agencies/Organizations

• In addition to existing laundry facilities at ARCHES, a mobile laundry facility will be coming online soon to be located at CCS (Catholic Community Services) micro shelter, 3737 Portland Rd NE. The City of Salem joined Marion County, Covanta Marion, and the Garbage Haulers Association in contributing to this facility.
• Salem Navigation Center is tentatively on-track to open this winter.

Expanding Housing and Shelter

• Salem’s plan to relocate 40 micro-shelters to 1280 Center continues to move forward as development of the land area (addition of power) and additional preparations are underway.

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule (short-range)

We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the city. The following locations are being discussed for upcoming clean-up/sanitization or follow-up outreach:

• Cascades Gateway Park
• Claggett Creek/Hyacinth St NE (pond area)
• Front St (south of Union St-landscaping strip)
• Union/Commercial (landscaping strip)
• River Road Park (riverbank)
• Geer Park (vehicles)

Regular monitoring (long-range)

Staff are aware and monitoring conditions of encampment activity regularly at and around:

• Northgate,
• Fisher Road Park,
• Wolverine St NE,
• Wallace Marine Park,
• Cascades Gateway Park

The west side of Cascades Gateway Park has reopened to the public. This includes lake access and the disc golf course; however, the picnic areas, playground, and restrooms remain closed.  

Working with property owners

Staff continues to work with various agencies (State, county, and private landowners) to identify landowners and assist with ongoing issues:

• Working with local business and partner agencies to address camping and waste.
• Marion Square Park (surrounding area)

Response team (Salem Outreach & Livability Services team)

The newly formed 7- person response team continues to move forward. The team now consists of a supervisor (to respond to community issues, lead/supervise the team), a public works coordinator, three sanitization crew members and two Salem police officers. The team is actively conducting clean-up operations, attending community meetings, and working with those in the unsheltered community to help find resources they may qualify for.

More information regarding the team is available by calling 503-588-6178.

Week of Aug 8, 2022

• Outreach teams continue to assist individuals in need. No two people have the same needs, and city staff continues to work with various agencies and non-profits to help determine what services may be required or available.
• Building cooling resources: ARCHES’ Emergency Services Program continues to look for assistance and donations as temperatures rise, with donations of: Coolers, reusable ice packs, insulated bags and more. Visit ARCHES or email for more information.

• Getting cooling resources to the people that need it: ARCHES’ outreach workers and other service providers, volunteers, and advocates are sharing information about the cooling resources and bringing them out to people who need them.

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule (short-range)

We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the city. The following locations are being discussed for upcoming clean-up/sanitization:

• Claggett Creek/Hyacinth St NE (pond area)
• Front St (south of Union St-landscaping strip)
• Union/Commercial (landscaping strip)
• River Road Park (riverbank)

Additional outreach has been focused on Sunnyview Road NE

Regular monitoring (long-range)

Staff are aware and monitoring conditions of encampment activity regularly at and around:

• Northgate,
• Fisher Road Park,
• Wolverine St NE,
• Wallace Marine Park,
• Cascades Gateway Park

The west side of Cascades Gateway Park has reopened to the public. This includes lake access and the disc golf course; however, the picnic areas, playground, and restrooms remain closed.  

Working with property owners

Staff continues to work with various agencies (State, county, and private landowners) to identify landowners and assist with ongoing issues:

• Working with local business and partner agencies to address camping and waste.
• Marion Square Park (surrounding area)

Expanding Housing and Shelter

Salem’s plan to relocate 40 micro-shelters to 1280 Center continues to move forward as development of the land area (addition of power) and additional preparations are underway.

Response team

The newly formed response team continues to move forward. The 7-person team consists of a supervisor position (to respond to community issues, lead/supervise team), a public works coordinator, three sanitization crew members and two Salem police officers. The two members of Salem Police Department, who are dedicated to the team, as well as the supervisor, are already actively working in the community, attending community meetings, and working with individuals to help find resources they may qualify for. More information regarding the name of the team will be available soon.

More information regarding the team is available by calling 503-588-6178.

 

Week of July 18, 2022

Assistance Needed

ARCHES’ Emergency Services Program continues to look for assistance and donations as temperatures rise, with donations of: coolers, reusable ice packs, insulated bags and more. Visit or email ARCHES for more information.

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule 

We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City.  Work continues at Claggett Creek Natural Area where accumulated garbage is regularly removed. 

The City is also aware of additional waste in the Willamette Slough.  High water levels have delayed a clean-up, but focus will return to waterways.

Regular Monitoring 

In addition to locations throughout the community, staff are aware and monitoring conditions of encampment activity regularly at and around Coral Avenue area properties and within Salem parks (Northgate, River Road, Lansing, Hoover, Wallace Marine, and Cascades Gateway). 

Tentative plans to reopen Cascades Gateway Park to the public are underway, with the goal of August 1.  When Cascades Gateway re-opens, repairs will still be needed to park facilities.  For example, the restroom will be replaced at a future date. 

Working with Property Owners

Staff continues to work with various agencies (State, county, and private landowners) to identify landowners and assist with ongoing issues.  Discussions are underway regarding the landscape strip (right-of-way) areas around ARCHES.

Expanding Housing and Shelters

Work is underway to prepare the vacant 1280 Center Street site for a 40 micro-shelter community, from its current location on Portland Road.  Tours of the property will be available on Sunday, August 21 from 1 pm to 3 pm, an again, from 5 pm to 7 pm. More information can be found on the City website.

Response Team 

Work continues in hiring and training the new 7-person team to actively work in our community helping people connect to available resources. 

Week of July 11, 2022

Encouraging use of available resources

• ARCHES’ Emergency Services Program continues to look for assistance and donations as temperatures rise, with donations of: Coolers, reusable ice packs, insulated bags and more. Visit ARCHES or email for more information.

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule (short-range)

We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the city. The following locations are being discussed for upcoming clean-up/sanitization:

• Claggett Creek – Future vegetation maintenance requires removal of garbage; looking at options to perform cleanup.

Regular monitoring (long-range)

Staff are aware and monitoring conditions of encampment activity regularly at and around:

• Northgate,
• Fisher Road Park,
• Wolverine St NE,
• Wallace Marine Park,
• Cascades Gateway Park

Discussions continue for ways to mitigate long-term parking in city parks parking areas. Tentative plans to reopen Cascades Gateway Park are underway pending clean-up and sanitization of park.

Working with property owners

Staff continues to work with various agencies (State, county, and private landowners) to identify landowners and assist with ongoing issues:

• City Works is aware of additional waste in the Willamette Slough. High water levels have delayed a clean-up, but focus will return to waterways.
• Discussion regarding the landscape strip (right-of-way) areas around ARCHES.

Expanding Housing and Shelters

Salem’s plan to relocate 40 micro-shelters to 1210 Center St. from its current location on Portland Rd., will move forward after the Marion County Circuit Court signed a judgment of dismissal in the Writ of Review. This means the City can continue to prepare the vacant lot for the transitional housing development. More information can be found on the City website.

Discussions regarding the new location will be held via a virtual discussion on July 14 at Noon (https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88920799581) and at 6:00 p.m. (https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82746507755)

Homelessness Services Team (HST)

The newly formed Homelessness Services Team (previously referred to as the Community Sanitation Response Team) continues to move forward. The 7-person team will consist of a supervisor position (respond to community issues, lead/supervise team), a public works coordinator, three sanitization crew members and two Salem police officers. The two members of Salem Police Department, who were selected for the team, are actively working in the community, attending community meetings, and are working with individuals to help find resources they may qualify for. The supervisor’s position has been selected and is awaiting acceptance of an offer. Additionally, interviews for the crew leader position will begin this week.  

More information regarding the Homelessness Services Team is available online or by calling 503-588-6178.

Week of June 27, 2022

Encouraging use of available resources

• Outreach teams continue to assist individuals in need. No two people have the same needs, and city staff continues to work with various agencies and non-profits to help determine what services may be required or available.
• ARCHES’ Emergency Services Program is looking for assistance and donations as we go into the summer months with donations of: Coolers, reusable ice packs, insulated bags and more. Visit ARCHES or email for more information.

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule (short-range)

We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the city. The following locations are being discussed for upcoming clean-up/sanitization:

• Rise in river levels have led to pause in clean-ups for past two weeks
• Clean-up this week will focus on north area of Cascades Gateway Park with hopes of an anticipated reopening of the park this summer.

Regular monitoring (long-range)

Staff are aware and monitoring conditions of encampment activity regularly at and around:

• Northgate,
• Fisher Road Park,
• Wolverine St NE,
• Wallace Marine Park,
• Cascades Gateway Park

Discussions continue for ways to mitigate long-term parking in city parks parking areas.

Working with property owners

Staff continues to work with various agencies (State, county, and private landowners) to identify landowners and assist with ongoing issues:

• City Public Works is aware of additional waste in the Willamette Slough. High water levels have delayed a clean-up via the waterway.
• Additional meetings with Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) occurring regularly.
• Coordination with railroad required for clean-ups along active railways.

Homelessness Services Team (HST)

The newly formed Homelessness Services Team (previously referred to as the Community Sanitation Response Team) continues to move forward. The 7-person team will consist of a supervisor position (respond to community issues, lead/supervise team), a public works coordinator, three sanitization members and two Salem police officers. The two members of Salem Police Department, who were selected for the team, are actively working in the community, attending community meetings, and are working with individuals to help find resources they may qualify for. The supervisor’s position is in its third round of interviews and staff hope to have the position filled in the coming weeks.  

More information regarding the Homelessness Services Team is available online or by calling 503-588-6178.

Week of June 7, 2022

Encouraging use of available resources

• Outreach teams continue to assist individuals in need. No two people have the same needs, and city staff continues to work with various agencies and non-profits to help determine what services may be required or available. 
• Staff are concerned with limitations in medical/Insurance/treatment options for several members of the community that may fall outside of standard methods of care and/or treatment (Medicare/Medicaid).

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule (short-range)

We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the city. The following locations are being discussed for upcoming clean-up/sanitization:

• Cascades Gateway Park south end, this week
• Wallace Marine (follow up cleanups in coming weeks),
• Fisher Rd (pending jurisdiction check),
• Willamette Slough 
• Regular monitoring (long-range)
• Staff are aware and monitoring conditions of encampment activity regularly at and around:
• Fisher Road Park,
• Wolverine St NE, 
• Wallace Marine Park, 
• Cascades Gateway Park 

Discussions and planning for micro-sheltering by elected officials, city staff and partner organizations continue. Navigation center, hotel repurposing, and other solutions continued to be worked.

Working with property owners

Staff continues to work with various agencies (State, county, and private landowners) to identify landowners and assist with ongoing issues:

• City Public Works is aware of additional (waste) in the Willamette Slough and is planning to perform a clean-up via the waterway.
• Additional meetings with Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) occurring regularly.
• Coordination with railroad required for clean-ups along active railways.

Ongoing efforts 

Regular monitoring 

Staff are aware and monitoring conditions of encampment activity regularly at:

• Fischer Rd NE 
• Hagers Grove Rd SE
• Geer Community park
• Bridges over Pringle Creek at Church Street SE and High Street SE
• Wallace Marine Park 
• Cascade Gateway Park 

Addressing housing and other needs

Outreach teams continue to assist individuals in need. No two people have the same needs, and city staff continues to work with various agencies and non-profits to help determine what services may be required or available. 

• Staff are concerned with limitations in medical/Insurance/treatment options people that may fall outside of standard methods of care and/or treatment (private insurance, Medicare/Medicaid, etc.)
• We have more people than available shelter beds or housing units – and we receive reports that some struggle with physical or behavioral disabilities and with personal care needs beyond what the current shelter programs can accommodate.  

Encouraging use of available resources, yet service gaps remain

• Street outreach partners, Salem Housing Authority navigators, non-profits, and community-based organizations regularly engage those who are living in public spaces to help encourage people to access limited available resources.  
• People access services such as receiving mail, taking showers, doing laundry, having meals, and signing up for housing waiting lists. Connecting to services is a necessary start, yet people can still be homeless for years awaiting the type of housing or shelter needed for their situation. 

Week of May 23, 2022

Community Sanitation Response Team Coordinator selection

The hiring process is under way for a new coordinator to lead the soon-to-be-established Community Sanitation Response Team (comprised of various city staff members).  The team will consist of a supervisor position (respond to community issues, lead/supervise the team), two Salem Police officers, a Public Works coordinator and three sanitation members. More information regarding the Community Sanitation Response Team is available online (See attachment in link) or by calling 503-588-6178.

Community sanitation nonprofit request for assistance

We are seeking assistance from a nonprofit partner to increase livability and decrease garbage throughout the City. A Request for Proposals has been issued. More information regarding the request is available by calling 503-588-6136.

Tentative clean-up schedule

We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City. Proposed health and sanitization clean-ups are scheduled as follows:  •Wallace Marine: Two sections near the north end of the park will be the focus of clean-up efforts over the next week or two. •Cascade Gateway:  Clean-ups and a plan to work in this area and reopen the park is underway with reopening dates to be determined.

Working with property owners

Staff continues to work with various agencies (State, county, and private landowners) to identify landowners.
•City Public Works is aware of additional (waste) in the Willamette Slough and is planning to perform a clean-up via the waterway once high waters have subsided.
•Monthly meeting with Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) this week

Week of May 9, 2022

Addressing housing and other needs

We are at work to address the limited availability of some types of shelters, supportive housing programs such as Redwood Crossings, and affordable housing. 

We have more people than available shelter beds or housing units – and we receive reports that some struggle with physical or behavioral disabilities with personal care needs beyond what the current shelter programs can accommodate.  

Encouraging use of available resources

At the same time, street outreach partners, Salem Housing Authority navigators, non-profits, and community-based organizations regularly engage those who are living in public spaces to help encourage people to access limited available resources.  

People access services such as receiving mail, taking showers, doing laundry, having meals and signing up for housing waiting lists. Connecting to services is a necessary start, yet people can still be homeless for years awaiting the type of housing or shelter needed for their situation. 

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule

We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City.  

Between now and May 16, the Oregon Department of Transportation has plans to clean areas under bridges and bio swales at Front, Marion, and Center streets.

We are concerned and watching high water areas along Salem's waterways.  As conditions improve, cleaning activity will continue.  The City will clean areas at River Road Park (May 19) and Wallace Marine Park (May 26).  

Regular monitoring

On a daily basis, staff are aware and monitoring conditions at encampments on:
•Fisher Road, 
•Wolverine, 
•Hagers Grove,
•behind Shopko, 
•bridges over Pringle Creek at Church Street SE and High Street SE, 
•Wallace Marine, and 
•Cascade Gateway parks.  

Working with property owners

In late April, the City and private property owners worked with campers at Home Depot, Rite Aid and Nordstrom's block at Salem Center Mall.  Clean ups have also occurred at the south half of Cascades Gateway Park, Marion Square Park, Mission Street area bridges and Shelton Ditch, Lancaster, Geer Park, Claggett Creek Natural Area, Wallace Marine Park, and under the Church Street SE Bridge over Pringle Creek at Pringle Park. 

Local Projects Selected to Receive Funding

On April 26, Salem City Council awarded more than $2 million dollars in America Rescue Plan (ARPA) HOME funding to assist local for-profit and non-profit businesses that met the federal program's funding priorities: crisis referral, crisis intervention, services to homeless youth, safety net services (domestic violence), new construction of affordable housing, and case management.

Local projects selected to receive Salem funding:
•Center for Hope and Safety, HOPE Plaza Project and Services for Victims of Domestic Violence – Hotline and Case Management: $250,000 for construction and $100,000 for case management
•Salem Housing Authority, Sequoia Crossing Project: $1.5M and $4,000 in project delivery costs
•Women at the Well, Case Management: $47,000
•Northwest Human Services, HOST Youth Case Management: $35,965
•St. Francis Shelter, Case Management: $60,000
More information regarding Salem's HOME-ARP Allocation Plan or Federal Funding programs is available online or by calling 503-588-6178.

Week of May 2, 2022

Addressing housing and other needs

We are at work to address the limited availability of some types of shelters, supportive housing programs such as Redwood Crossings, and affordable housing. 

We have more people than available shelter beds or housing units – and we receive reports that some struggle with physical or behavioral disabilities with personal care needs beyond what the current shelter programs can accommodate.  At last report this week, Union Gospel Mission has space available for men and, as a result of two residents transitioning to longer-term housing, SafeSleep United may have capacity for additional women.  

Encouraging use of available resources

At the same time, street outreach partners, Salem Housing Authority navigators, non-profits, and community-based organizations regularly engage those who are living in public spaces to help encourage people to access limited available resources.  

People access services such as receiving mail, taking showers, doing laundry, having meals and signing up for housing waiting lists. Connecting to services is a necessary start, yet people can still be homeless for years awaiting the type of housing or shelter needed for their situation. 

Tentative clean-Up schedule

We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City.  

For this week, the City continues to work with campers at:
•Home Depot to move recreational vehicles illegally camping at the location,
•Clay Street to clean up remaining garbage and debris,
•Van Kleek and Wallace to clean up garbage along the waterway.

Between May 5 and May 16, the Oregon Department of Transportation has plans to clean areas under bridges and bio swales at Front, Marion, and Center streets.

Next week, the City will clean areas at River Road Park.

Regular monitoring

On a daily basis, staff are aware and monitoring conditions at encampments on:
•Fisher Road, 
•Wolverine, 
•behind Shopko, 
•bridges over Pringle Creek at Church Street SE and High Street SE, 
•Wallace Marine, and 
•Cascade Gateway parks.  

Working with property owners

Last week, the City and private property owners worked with campers at Home Depot, Rite Aid and Nordstrom's block at Salem Center Mall.  Clean ups have also occurred at the south half of Cascades Gateway Park, Marion Square Park, Mission Street area bridges and Shelton Ditch, Lancaster, Geer Park, Claggett Creek Natural Area, Wallace Marine Park, and under the Church Street SE Bridge over Pringle Creek at Pringle Park. 

Local Projects Selected to Receive Funding

The City of Salem received over $2 million dollars in America Rescue Plan (ARPA) HOME funding to assist local for-profit and non-profit businesses that met the federal program's funding priorities: crisis referral, crisis intervention, services to homeless youth, safety net services (domestic violence), new construction of affordable housing, and case management.

Local projects selected to receive Salem funding:
•Center for Hope and Safety, HOPE Plaza Project and Services for Victims of Domestic Violence – Hotline and Case Management: $250,000 for construction and $100,000 for case management
•Salem Housing Authority, Sequoia Crossing Project: $1.5M and $4,000 in project delivery costs
•Women at the Well, Case Management: $47,000
•Northwest Human Services, HOST Youth Case Management: $35,965
•St. Francis Shelter, Case Management: $60,000

More information regarding Salem's HOME-ARP Allocation Plan or Federal Funding programs is available online or by calling 503-588-6178.

Week of April 25

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule. We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City.  We are at work to address the limited availability of shelters, supportive housing programs such as Redwood Crossings, and affordable housing. 

Street outreach partners, Salem Housing Authority navigators, non-profits, and community-based organizations regularly engage those who are living in public spaces to help encourage people to access limited available resources.  Still, we have more people than available shelter beds or housing units. 

People access services such as receiving mail, taking showers, doing laundry, having meals and signing up for housing waiting lists. Connecting to services is a necessary start, yet people can still be homeless for years awaiting the type of housing or shelter needed for their situation. 

For this week, the City and private property owners are working with campers at:
•Home Depot to move more than ten recreational vehicles illegally camping at the location
•Rite Aid and Nordstrom's block at Salem Center Mall 

On a daily basis, staff are aware and monitoring conditions at encampments on Fisher Road, Clay, Wolverine, behind Shopko, bridges over Pringle Creek at Church Street SE and High Street SE, River Road Park, and Cascade Gateway Park.  

Clean ups have occurred at the south half of Cascades Gateway Park, Marion Square Park, Mission Street area bridges and Shelton Ditch, Lancaster, Geer Park, Claggett Creek Natural Area, Wallace Marine Park, and under the Church Street SE Bridge over Pringle Creek at Pringle Park. 

Housing Needs in Salem. On April 18, the Salem City Council hosted a work session on Salem's housing needs with governing boards of Marion County, Polk County, Salem Keizer Transit, and Salem Keizer School District.  Panelists presented information on Salem's housing needs.  The panel of local experts spoke to housing development and represented experience in developing subsidized, affordable, and market-rate housing in Salem.  You can play back the conversation anytime.  The panel included local developers, Home Builders Association of Marion and Polk Counties, and Salem Housing Authority.

Week of April 18

City Council hosts work session on Salem Housing Needs April 18 at 6:00 p.m.
On April 18, beginning at 6:00 p.m., the Salem City Council is hosting a work session on Salem’s housing needs with governing boards of Marion County, Polk County, Salem Keizer Transit, and Salem Keizer School District.   You are invited to listen in and livestream the discussion in English on YouTube or in Spanish on YouTube or view it later at your convenience on CC:Media.

Addressing Shelter Availability/Connecting to Services. We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City.  We are at work to address the limited availability of shelters, supportive housing programs such as Redwood Crossings, and affordable housing. Street outreach partners, Salem Housing Authority navigators, non-profits, and community-based organizations regularly engage those who are living in public spaces to help encourage people to access limited available resources.  Still, we have more people than available shelter beds or housing units. People access services such as receiving mail, taking showers, doing laundry, having meals and signing up for housing waiting lists. Connecting to services is a necessary start, yet people can still be homeless for years awaiting the type of housing or shelter needed for their situation. 

Clean-ups. Clean ups have occurred at the south half of Cascades Gateway Park, Marion Square Park, Mission Street area bridges and Shelton Ditch, Lancaster, Geer Park, Claggett Creek Natural Area, Wallace Marine Park, and under the Church Street SE Bridge over Pringle Creek at Pringle Park.  Last week, staff worked in the following areas: Fisher Road, private property area; Clay Street; Wolverine Street; and Front Street, in landscaping strip near roadway.  

Update for other areas of concern: 
• Mission and 13th/14th St:  The State of Oregon, which owns the land, has provided cleaning services at several times this year and is aware of the current concerns.
• Salem Center Mall.  Salem Police are working with property owner to address areas around the mall.
• Portland Road between Wayside Terrace NE and Hawthorne Ave NE.  Salem Police are working with private property owner in the area.
• Further work and park restoration is needed at Cascades Gateway Park; a date is not certain at this time.

Week of April 11

Why Not Use the Old Costco? A frequently asked question here at the City is, "Why not use the former location of Costco on Mission St. SE for sheltering services?" 

Large properties like these are often intriguing, given the big need for more sheltering services. The cost for a large property of this size would far outpace available resources:  costs would include the building and land purchase, renovations to meet life safety requirements for sheltering people, and the significant utility and other operating costs for such a large property. This specific property has been privately purchased. Instead, with the help of the State of Oregon, the city purchased property at 1185 22nd Avenue SE to become the City's first Navigation Center. With help from Marion County, property renovations are beginning soon with the anticipated Fall 2022 opening under the management of the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency. 

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule. We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City.  We are at work to address the limited availability of shelters, supportive housing programs such as Redwood Crossings, and affordable housing. Street outreach partners, Salem Housing Authority navigators, non-profits, and community-based organizations regularly engage those who are living in public spaces to help encourage people to access limited available resources.  Still, we have more people than available shelter beds or housing units. People access services such as receiving mail, taking showers, doing laundry, having meals and signing up for housing waiting lists. Connecting to services is a necessary start, yet people can still be homeless for years awaiting the type of housing or shelter needed for their situation. 

Clean ups have occurred at the south half of Cascades Gateway Park, Marion Square Park, Mission Street area bridges and Shelton Ditch, Lancaster, Geer Park, Claggett Creek Natural Area, Wallace Marine Park, and under the Church Street SE Bridge over Pringle Creek at Pringle Park. Upcoming work includes:
•Fisher Road, private property area, Wednesday, April 13
•Clay Street, Thursday, April 14
•Wolverine Street, Thursday, April 14
•Front Street, in the landscaping strip near the roadway, Thursday, April 14
•Mission and 13th/14th St:  The area is owned by the State of Oregon, who has provided notifications and cleaning services several times this year and is aware of the current concerns.
•Further work and park restoration is needed at Cascades Gateway Park; a date is not certain at this time.

Week of April 4

Using Former Hotels to Shelter. City Council invested funds to provide kitchenettes in shelter units to assist people staying at the Mosaic, a new program which transforms a former hotel to enable community nonprofit Center for Hope and Safety to provide expanded shelter opportunities, wrap-around services and case management. The Center for Hope and Safety serves victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and human trafficking.
 
Wallace Road Park and Ride. A number of recreational vehicles began to stay at the Wallace Road Park and Ride in West Salem. City staff worked with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), which owns the facility. ODOT and the City provided required notifications that this is not an authorized safe park location, and plan to return to remove any remaining garbage that may be left behind.
 
Safe Park. The City provides grant funding to support multiple safe park locations through a partnership with the nonprofit organization, Church @ the Park. The need for these services far outpaces the number of available safe parking spots. More information is available at the Salem Safe Parking Network web page.
 
Tentative Clean-Up Schedule. We remain concerned for the health and safety of people living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City.  Street outreach partners, Salem Housing Authority navigators, non-profits, and community-based organizations regularly engage people living in public spaces to help encourage them to access available resources.  
 
Clean-ups have occurred at the south half of Cascades Gateway Park, Marion Square Park, Mission Street area bridges and Shelton Ditch, Lancaster, Geer Park, Claggett Creek Natural Area, Wallace Marine Park, and under the Church Street SE Bridge over Pringle Creek at Pringle Park. Upcoming work includes: 
•Wallace Marine Park:  April 7  


How you can help. We are often asked how to help a person or the overall situation. People can: 
•Refer people directly to The ARCHES Project, a program of the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency. ARCHES helps people navigate to stable housing with referrals, housing placements, and basic services. Reach staff there or refer people directly by calling 503-399-9080.   
•Another option is to fill out an online Outreach Request Form to NW Human Services HOAP project. 
•Learn more ways to help.

Week of March 21

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule. We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City.  Street outreach partners, Salem Housing Authority navigators, non-profits, and community-based organizations regularly engage those who are living in public spaces to help encourage people to access available resources.  

Clean ups have occurred at the south half of Cascades Gateway Park, Marion Square Park, Mission Street area bridges and Shelton Ditch, Lancaster, Geer Park, Claggett Creek Natural Area, and under the Church Street SE Bridge over Pringle Creek at Pringle Park. Upcoming work includes:
•Cascades Gateway Park: March 24, clean-up continues on the west and north portions of the park. 
•Wallace Marine Park: March 31, pending availability of towing companies to remove vehicles, we hope to return to Wallace Marine Park.  We are working now to encourage those staying in RVs to leave the park, and plan to be cleaning the area and removing vehicles, if needed, March 24 and again March 31.  

Volunteer or support local organizations

We are often asked how to help a person or the overall situation. People can:
•Refer people directly to The ARCHES Project, a program of the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency.  ARCHES helps people navigate to stable housing with referrals, housing placements, and basic services. Reach staff there or refer people directly by calling 503-399-9080.   
•Another option is to fill out an online Outreach Request Form to NW Human Services HOAP project. 
•Learn more ways to help.

Week of March 14

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule. We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in, and the neighbors of, scattered sites throughout the City.  Street outreach partners, Salem Housing Authority navigators, non-profits, and community-based organizations regularly engage those who are living in public spaces to help encourage people to access available resources.  

Clean ups have occurred at the south half of Cascades Gateway Park, Marion Square Park, Mission Street area bridges and Shelton Ditch, Lancaster, Geer Park, Claggett Creek Natural Area, and under the Church Street SE Bridge over Pringle Creek at Pringle Park. Upcoming work includes:
•Cascades Gateway Park: March 17, the west and north portions of the park. 
•Wallace Marine Park: March 24 and 31, pending availability of towing companies to remove vehicles, we hope to return to Wallace Marine Park.  We are working now to encourage those staying in RVs to leave the park, and plan to be cleaning the area and removing vehicles, if needed, March 24 and again March 31.  

Volunteer or support local organizations

We are often asked how to help a person or the overall situation. People can:
•Refer people directly to The ARCHES Project, a program of the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency.  ARCHES helps people navigate to stable housing with referrals, housing placements, and basic services. Reach staff there or refer people directly by calling 503-399-9080.   
•Another option is to fill out an online Outreach Request Form to NW Human Services HOAP project. 
•Learn more ways to help.

Week of March 7

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule. We remain concerned for the health and safety of individuals living in - and the neighbors of - scattered sites throughout the City.  Street outreach partners, Salem Housing Authority navigators, non-profits, and community-based organizations regularly engage those who are living in public spaces to help encourage people to access the available, but limited resources. 

Clean-ups have occurred at Lancaster, Geer Park, Claggett Creek Natural Area, and under the Church Street SE Bridge over Pringle Creek at Pringle Park. 
•Marion Square Park: March 3 and March 7.  This clean-up is continuing through Monday, March 7, with a focus on the areas near the park, like sidewalks and areas under bridges. 
•Mission Street area bridges and Shelton Ditch: March 7.  In coordination with Oregon Department of Transportation, Oregon State Police, and Salem staff, the area around Lee Street and bridges over Mission Street, and Shelton Ditch will be cleaned up. 
•Cascades Gateway Park: March 10, area adjacent to Church of Park, Paradise Island and Elks – the south half of the park. 
•March 17, 24, and 31: pending availability of towing companies to remove vehicles as may be necessary, we'll return to Wallace Marine Park or to river-adjacent areas of Cascades Gateway Park.

Volunteer or support local organizations

We are often asked how to help a person or the overall situation. People can:
•Refer people directly to The ARCHES Project, a program of the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency.  ARCHES helps people navigate to stable housing with referrals, housing placements, and basic services. Reach staff there or refer people directly by calling 503-399-9080.   
•Another option is to fill out an online Outreach Request Form to NW Human Services HOAP project. 
•Visit our City's web page to learn more ways to help.

Week of February 28

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule. We are concerned for a number of scattered camping sites throughout the City. Street outreach partners, Salem Housing Authority navigators, non-profits, and community-based organizations regularly engage those who are living in public spaces.  

Clean-ups have recently occurred at Lancaster, Geer Park, Claggett Creek Natural Area, and under the Church Street SE Bridge over Pringle Creek at Pringle Park. 
•Marion Square Park: March 3.  We plan on concluding camping at Marion Square Park with cleaning to occur on March 3. The point in time count and cold weather have delayed the City's posting, clearing, and cleaning of camping sites. 
•Cascades Gateway Park: March 10, area adjacent to Church of Park, Paradise Island and Elks
•March 17: pending availability of towing companies to remove vehicles, we'll return to Wallace Marine Park or river-adjacent areas of Cascades Gateway Park.

Enforcing Camping Prohibitions and Restrictions.  Questions continue to come in regarding why the City won't enforce camping prohibitions and restrictions. In addition to more alternative housing, shelter and treatment options, effective behavioral change and enforcement solutions are needed. In Oregon, we cannot legally compel a person to access much-needed services. The act of living or camping on a sidewalk or a park is not a jailable offense.  Limited jail beds are used for housing people who are a threat to public safety based upon behaviors. The City response to camping in an area involves:
•Resource navigators, to connect people to services
•Police, to ensure the safety of all present
•Cleaning teams, to remove abandoned property and garbage

Some ask us if we can require people to access available shelters, and we cannot. Further, available shelter and housing may not meet the individual's needs, and depending upon the circumstances, there is often not available emergency shelter or housing.

Volunteer or Support local organizations

We are often asked how to help a person or the overall situation. People can:
•Refer people directly to The ARCHES Project, a program of the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency.  ARCHES helps people navigate to stable housing with referrals, housing placements, and basic services. Reach staff there or refer people directly by calling 503-399-9080.   

•Another option is to fill out an online Outreach Request Form to NW Human Services HOAP project. 

•Visit our City's web page to learn more ways to help.

February 18 update

Delay to Park Response

The City adjusted its posting and cleaning work at Marion Square Park. Notice to conclude camping at Marion Square Park will be posted on or about Monday, February 28 with services to clean the park returning on Thursday, March 3.  Beginning the week of March 7, we will transition to the areas at Cascades Gateway and Wallace Marine Parks. We deeply regret the delay to our progress at these areas. 

The delay in our park response is a direct result of anticipated cold temperatures next week.  Together with our partners, our priority next week is to assist as many people as possible to access more suitable, indoor locations. 

Warming Network volunteer opportunities

The Salem Warming Network depends upon volunteers for this life-saving effort. Please consider volunteering in this critical time.  Visit https://salemwarming.weebly.com/ for information and to help.

Volunteer or Support local organizations

We are often asked how to help a person or the overall situation. People can:
•Refer people directly to ARCHES , a program of the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency.  ARCHES helps people navigate to stable housing with referrals, housing placements, and basic services. Reach staff there or refer people directly by calling 503-399-9080.   
•Another option is to fill out an online Outreach Request Form to NW Human Services HOAP project. This link is available at midvalleyresources.org/outreachrequest.
•Visit our City's web page to learn more ways to help.

Week of February 14

Regional Updates:

Legislative Update. During this short Legislative Session, staff continue to work to advance the City Council's priorities of securing funding and additional support for our sheltering crisis.  Priorities include funding for temporary and emergency sheltering, and additional support to local governments for additional mental health, sobering, addiction and recovery services for those experiencing homelessness. Salem is also seeking more flexible disposition of State-owned property for services and sheltering use on a temporary or permanent basis.

Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance.  Salem is a proud member of the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance and is committed to its mission.  On February 10, the Alliance held its annual summit to end and prevent homelessness with agencies, neighborhoods, churches, governments, schools and businesses from across Marion and Polk counties. Learn more about the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance.

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule and COVID-19 Related Delays

Thank you to the non-profit organization, Be Bold Street Ministries, which removed over 400 pounds of garbage last week from an area along Lancaster Dr. This significant contribution toward our livability is much appreciated.

We are concerned about  a number of scattered camping sites throughout the City. Street outreach partners, Salem Housing Authority navigators, non-profits, and community-based organizations regularly engage those who are at these sites. We are sometimes asked if we can require people to access available shelters, and we cannot. Further, available shelter and housing may not meet the individual's needs. Depending upon the circumstances, there is often not available emergency shelter or housing.

We provide required notice to conclude camping at locations as resources allow. This always begins with outreach teams who connect people to available resources in our community. Then we come to help clean areas, dispose of accumulated garbage, and move people from the site. 

Like other people-serving areas of our community, our staff have been impacted by COVID-19. Thank you for your patience, as our response to cleaning needs in public spaces is sometimes delayed. Outreach continues daily. If we have the staffing needed to support clean-ups, our tentative schedule is:
•February 10: Claggett Creek Natural Area
•February 17: Geer Park, Pringle Park with Church Street bridge
•February 21:  support to 3271 Lancaster Dr. NE
•February 24: Marion Square Park and surrounding areas
•March 3: Cascades Gateway Park
•TBD March: Wallace Marine Parks

Cascades Gateway Park remains closed with plans to re-open this summer. 

Week of February 7

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule and COVID-19 Related Delays

We are concerned about a number of scattered camping sites throughout the City. Street outreach partners, Salem Housing Authority navigators, non-profits, and community-based organizations regularly engage those who are at these sites. We are sometimes asked if we can require people to access available shelters, and we cannot. Further, available shelter and housing may not meet the individual's needs. Depending upon the circumstances, there is often not available emergency shelter or housing.

We provide required notice to conclude camping at locations as resources allow. This always begins with outreach teams who connect people to available resources in our community. Then we come to help clean areas, dispose of accumulated garbage, and move people from the site. 

Like other people-serving areas of our community, our staff has been impacted by COVID-19. Thank you for your patience, as our response to cleaning needs in public spaces is sometimes delayed. Outreach continues daily. If we have staffing needed to support clean-ups, our tentative schedule is:
•February 10: Claggett Creek Natural Area
•February 17: Geer Park, Pringle Park with Church Street bridge
•February 24: Marion Square Park and surrounding areas
•February (date to be determined): support to 3271 Lancaster Dr. NE
•March: Cascades Gateway and Wallace Marine Parks

Cascades Gateway Park remains closed with plans to re-open this summer. 

Other Updates

•Micro-shelter siting.  On January 24, 2022, Salem's City Council approved the use of three locations for future micro-sheltering services: 1280 Center St. NE, the NW corner of Front St. and Hood St. NE, and 2410 Turner Rd. SE.  Funding was approved to open one of these sites in time for us to move the micro-shelter village at 2640 Portland Rd. NE, the "Village of Hope," when its current lease expires.  The 1280 Center St. NE location is being prepared for this purpose. Funding for micro-sheltering services at the other two sites has not yet been secured. 
•Yaquina Hall groundbreaking. Salem Housing Authority and partners launched an $18,634,000 project that will bring another 52 units of affordable housing with on-site services to our region. These units will be available in March 2023. 
•Navigation Center. Marion County announced support for our region's first Navigation Center through commitment of up to $3 million for capital construction costs. Thank you, Marion County, for this significant investment! Open as a temporary warming shelter this season, the site should be open as a Navigation Center in September 2022, barring unforeseen supply chain issues.

Week of January 31, 2022

Tentative Clean-Up Schedule and COVID-19 Related Delays
Like other people-serving areas of our community, our staff have been impacted by COVID-19. Thank you for your patience as we move into February, as our response to cleaning needs in public spaces may be delayed. Outreach continues daily.  If we have staffing needed to support clean-ups, our tentative schedule is:
•February 10: Claggett Creek Natural Area
•February 17: Geer Park
•February 24: Marion Square Park
•March: Cascades Gateway and Wallace Marine Parks

Micro-shelter Siting

On January 24, Salem’s City Council approved the use of three locations for future micro-sheltering services: 1280 Center St. NE, the NW corner of Front St. and Hood St. NE, and 2410 Turner Rd. SE.  One of these three locations was funded to open in time for us to transfer the micro-shelter village at 2640 Portland Rd. NE, the “Village of Hope,” when the lease at the Portland Road site expires.  Funding for micro-sheltering services at the other two sites has not yet been secured. 

Yaquina Hall Groundbreaking

Salem Housing Authority’s $18,634,000 project will bring another 52 units of affordable housing with on-site services to our region.  These units will be available in March 2023. 

Navigation Center

Marion County announced support for our region’s first Navigation Center, through commitment of up to a $3 million investment in capital construction costs. Thank you, Marion County, for this significant investment! Open as a temporary warming shelter this season, the Navigation Center should be open on or about September 2022, barring unforeseen supply chain issues.

Week of January 24

Like other people-serving areas of our community, our staff have been impacted by COVID-19. Thank you for your patience into February, as our response to cleaning needs in public spaces may be delayed. 

Annual Point-in-Time Count

Our area is in the midst of this annual “count.” The Point-in-Time Count is a count required by the federal government of sheltered and unsheltered people experiencing homelessness.  The count helps contribute toward receiving  vital resources to reduce hardships that lead to homelessness, provide services to those living unsheltered in our community, and increase access to affordable housing for our residents and families with children who are unsheltered or at-risk of becoming homeless.

Micro-Shelter Siting

City Council approved use of three locations for micro-sheltering services:  1280 Center St. NE, the NW corner of Front St. and Hood St. NE, and 2410 Turner Rd. SE.  One of the three sites also received funding support from the City to remain open.  One of the other locations will open in time for us to transfer the micro-shelter village at 2640 Portland Rd. NE, the “Village of Hope,” to a new location when the lease runs out. 

Thank you Marion County

Marion County announced support for our region’s first Navigation Center, through commitment in up to $3,000,000 investment in capital construction costs. Thank you Marion County for this significant investment! 

Week of January 10, 2022

Upcoming Point-in-Time Count

For the last two weeks of January, Salem will be taking part in the Point-in-Time Count. The Point-in-Time Count is a count required by the federal government of sheltered and unsheltered people experiencing homelessness.  The count results in vital resources to reduce hardships that lead to homelessness, provide services to those living unsheltered in our community, and increase access to affordable housing for our residents and families with children who are unsheltered or at-risk of becoming homeless.

During this time, we will continue to direct outreach to those living unsheltered, to assist property owners with those who may be trespassing on private property, and to pick up garbage where it can be easily accessed.  We will not be posting and clearing scattered camping sites located on public property throughout our community. Your reports of concerns continue to be helpful during this time.

Micro Shelter Village information

As alternative, safe options to streets and sidewalks are sought, one option in Salem is to access micro-shelter villages. Conversations are underway this month reviewing site options. 

 

Week of December 13, 2021

• Claggett Creek Natural Area. On Thursday, December 16, service providers will return with clean-up crews to remove accumulated garbage which threatens public health and the environmentally sensitive area. Last week, service providers worked to connect people to services through an organized resource fair, building upon consistent visits by outreach staff in previous weeks. Fuel cards and service information were provided. Notice was provided to those in vehicles. Vehicles that were reached were towed out of the wetland area.
• Marion Square Park. On December 9, clean-up of garbage in the area occurred. Crews focused on the park, ramp areas, adjacent alleys and sidewalks. ODOT provided notice of clean-up under the bridge areas for the week of December 20.
• Wallace Marine Park. Clean-up work will continue in January. On December 2, crews removed an estimated 130 cubic yards of garbage and debris from northern portions of Wallace Marine Park.
• Cascades Gateway Park. This park remains closed. The City has received reports of individual camp sites returning to the edges of the park areas, near freeway access.
• Expanding Safe Sleep Shelter for women. On December 6, City Council approved a $300,000 one-time grant to United Way's Safe Sleep shelters to expand from 19 to 45-50 shelter beds for women in need.
• ARCHES Hotel property opened December 7. The City provided $500,000 to the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for Project Turnkey to convert a motel into 80 rooms. Renamed the ARCHES Inn, the space is an emergency shelter with 24/7 onsite supports like case management, resource navigation, medical and mental services, behavioral health supports, and basic needs. The site will prioritize households impacted by the Beachie Creek wildfires of 2020, as well as medically fragile, chronically homeless.
• Micro-shelter Villages. The City expanded the information on our page related to micro-shelters. Our community, inspired by the leadership of community member Hazel Patton, donated funds to purchase 115 micro shelters. Micro-shelter doors are being painted by volunteer professional artists and a few are on display at the Venti's downtown restaurant!
• Salem Warming Network. City grant funding provides for site stipends, staff coordination and other costs to address the life-saving work of providing warmth during cold nights in our community. The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency leads the Salem Warming Shelter Network. Volunteers are needed to ensure this program can provide this crucial service.
• What you can do. There are many organizations that accept monetary and tangible donations to support those in need in our community. The City supports these acts of kindness but cautions against dropping off tangible goods at unauthorized locations, as these types of donations may delay engagement with helping organizations, and contribute to the accumulation of waste in our public spaces.

December 6, 2021

• Cleaning Up:
  • Claggett Creek Natural Area. On Monday, December 6, service providers worked to connect people to services through an organized resource fair, building upon consistent visits by outreach staff in previous weeks. Fuel cards and service information were provided. Notice has been provided to those in vehicles and, later this week, vehicles that can be reached will be towed out of the wetland area. Next week, service providers will return with clean-up crews to remove accumulated garbage which threatens public health and the environmentally sensitive area.
  • Marion Square Park. Clean up of garbage in the area is being scheduled and may occur this week.
  • Wallace Marine Park. On December 2, crews removed an estimated 130 cubic yards of garbage and debris from northern portions of Wallace Marine Park. Work will continue in January.
  • Cascades Gateway Park. This park remains closed. The City has received reports of individual camp sites returning to the edges of the park areas, near freeway access.
• Expanding Safe Sleep Shelter for Women. On December 6, City Council considered a $300,000 one-time grant to United Way's Safe Sleep shelters to expand from 19 to 45-50 shelter beds for women in need.
• ARCHES Hotel property opens December 7. The City provided $500,000 to the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency for Project Turnkey that converted a motel into 80 rooms. Renamed the ARCHES Inn, the space is an emergency shelter converted from a hotel. This 80-room facility is designed to not only increase regional shelter bed capacity, but also provide 24/7 on-site supports. These include case management, resource navigation, medical and mental services, behavioral health supports, as well as basic needs. Upon opening the propriety population to residents, there will be households impacted by the Beach Creek wildfires of 2020, as well as medically fragile, chronically homeless people.
• Salem Warming Network. City grant funding provides for site stipends, staff coordination and other costs to address the life-saving work of providing warmth during cold nights in our community. The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency leads the Salem Warming Shelter Network. Volunteers are needed to ensure this program can provide this crucial service.
• What you can do. There are many organizations that accept monetary and tangible donations to support those in need in our community. The City supports these acts of kindness but cautions against dropping off tangible goods at unauthorized locations, as these types of donations may contribute to the accumulation of waste in our public spaces.

Week of November 29

• Connecting to Services. With our outreach partners, we are focusing on three primary areas of concern in the coming weeks: Claggett Creek Natural Area, Wallace Marion Park, and Marion Square Park.
  
  • As more spaces are made unavailable for camping in our community, people living unsheltered are moving to other, less accessible areas. Our street outreach team and Salem Housing Authority navigators regularly work to engage and connect people living in the Claggett Creek Natural Area to services and temporary emergency shelter.
  • Space is available in some area shelters. However, our ability to require movement from public property is limited and at this time the space is not adequate to meet all demand, particularly for women or people needing lower-barrier temporary shelter services. After providing required notice, we will be able to help tow out abandoned vehicles at the edge of the natural areas and waterways.
• Cleaning Up:
  
  • Wallace Marine Park. Additional areas within Wallace Marine Park were posted for clean up on November 29. These areas are slated for clean up December 2.
  • Recent Clean Up: On November 18, despite the rough terrain and very muddy conditions, crews cleaned eight campsites along the river from the pedestrian bridge north to the southern edge of the softball complex. In all, about 80 cubic yards of garbage and debris were hauled out. Crews expect to return to Wallace Marine Park in early December, after spending some time cleaning Claggett Creek Natural Area.
  • Claggett Creek Natural Area. Accompanied by outreach staff, crews will return to this area for additional clean up on December 9 and 16.
  • Recent Clean Up: On November 17, crews removed all the garbage from the entrance to Claggett Creek Natural Area. We're posting notices to vehicle and camp areas, and communicating with those there that it isn't an appropriate location, working toward having the ability to do deeper, more complete cleanings of the area on December 9 and 16. Given the terrain, this will take several weeks.
  • Mill Creek area, behind Interstate 5 sound wall. November 29, ODOT with Oregon State Police cleaned the area.
  • 1990 Front Street. On November 22, crews removed more than five filled dump trucks of garbage from within the public street right-of-way.
  • Mission Street (adjacent to freeway, Costco area). November 22 and 23, ODOT with Oregon State Police cleaned the area
  • Downtown: Rite Aid block. The area was cleaned the week of November 15
  • Indian School Road. On November 15, ODOT with Police and City crews, cleaned the area including trash from illegal dumping in the area.
• Salem Warming Network: City grant funding provides for site stipends, staff coordination and other costs to address the life-saving work of providing warmth during cold nights. The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency leads the Salem Warming Network. Volunteers are needed to sustain this important service.
• What you can do: There are many organizations in the City of Salem that accept monetary and tangible donations to support our local homeless population. The City supports this act of kindness but cautions against dropping off tangible goods at unauthorized donation locations, as these types of donations may contribute to the accrual of waste in our public spaces. We suggest reaching out or visiting the FAQ webpage before you head down with your donation items.

Week of November 22

• Connecting People to Services – and Cleaning Up. As more spaces are made unavailable for camping in our community, people living unsheltered are moving to other, less accessible areas. Our street outreach team and Salem Housing Authority navigators regularly work to engage and connect people living in the Claggett Creek Natural Area to services and temporary emergency shelter. Space is available in some area shelters. However, our ability to require movement from public property is limited and at this time the space is not adequate to meet all demand, particularly for women or people needing lower-barrier temporary shelter services. After providing required notice, we will be able to help tow out abandoned vehicles at the edge of the natural areas and waterways.
• Indian School Road. On November 15, ODOT with Police and City crews, cleaned the area including trash from illegal dumping in the area.
• Downtown: Rite Aid block. The property owner cleaned the area last week.
• Claggett Creek Natural Area. On November 17, crews removed all the garbage from the entrance to Claggett Creek Natural Area. We're posting notices to vehicle and camp areas, and communicating with those there that it isn't an appropriate location, working toward having the ability to do deeper, more complete cleanings of the area on December 9 and 16. Given the terrain, this will take several weeks.
• Wallace Marine Park. On November 18, despite the rough terrain and very muddy conditions, crews cleaned eight campsites along the river from the pedestrian bridge north to the southern edge of the softball complex. In all, about 80 cubic yards of garbage and debris were hauled out. Crews expect to return to Wallace Marine Park in early December, after spending some time cleaning Claggett Creek Natural Area.
• 1990 Front Street. On November 22, crews will remove garbage within the public street right-of-way.
• Salem Warming Network: City grant funding provides for site stipends, staff coordination and other costs to address the life-saving work of providing warmth during cold nights. The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency leads the Salem Warming Network. Two temperature-activated partners are standing by. Additionally,
  25 beds at the City-funded indoor warming duration shelter at 2640 Portland Road NE opened last month; about 60 beds at the City-funded indoor warming shelter at 3737 Portland Road NE open this month, both operated by Church @ the Park. The Navigation Center property at 2285 22nd Ave. SE is also planned for use with the Salem Warming Network.
• Stay up to date and track progress on efforts to address homelessness in our community.
• What you can do: There are many organizations in the City of Salem that accept monetary and tangible donations to support emergency needs. The City supports this act of kindness but cautions against dropping off tangible goods at unauthorized donation locations, as these types of donations may contribute to the accrual of waste in our public spaces. We suggest reaching out or visiting the FAQ webpage before you head down with your donation items.

Week of November 15

• Connecting Unsheltered Neighbors to Services – and Cleaning Up. As more spaces are made unavailable for camping in our community, people living unsheltered are moving to other, less accessible areas. Our nonprofit partners and Salem Housing Authority navigators regularly work to engage and connect people living in the Claggett Creek Natural Area to services and temporary emergency shelter when available. However, our ability to require movement from public property is limited and at this time the space is not adequate to meet all demand, particularly for women or people needing lower-barrier temporary shelter services.
  • Indian School Road. November 15, ODOT with Police and City crews, are cleaning the area. There have been some observations of illegal dumping in the area.
  • Downtown: Rite Aid block. The property owner plans to clean the area this week.
  • Claggett Creek Natural Area. Staff plan to remove accumulated trash Tuesday, November 16, or Wednesday, November 17.
  • Wallace Marine Park. On Thursday, November 18, staff plan to remove accumulated trash that can be accessed.
• Salem Warming Network: City grant funding provides for site stipends, staff coordination and other costs to address the life-saving work of providing warmth during cold nights. The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency leads the Salem Warming Network in Salem and are at work to recruit volunteers to keep this vital service going. Two locations will activate based upon temperature, one at Salem First Presbyterian and one at South Salem Friends Church. Twenty-five beds at the City-funded indoor warming duration shelter at 2640 Portland Road NE opened last month. About 60 beds at the City-funded indoor warming shelter at 3737 Portland Road NE open this month. Both are operated by Church @ the Park.

Week of November 8

• One Hundred Micro-shelter Contributions: Community members, led by Salem resident Hazel Patton, adopted one hundred micro shelters through gifts of $5,000 apiece. This significant community contribution covers the cost of the 50 shelters in operation today and provides for 50 more at sites to be determined. Thank you!
• Salem Warming Network: City grant funding provides for site stipends, staff coordination and other costs to address the life-saving work of providing warmth during cold nights. The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency leads the Salem Warming Network in Salem. Twenty-five beds at the City-funded indoor warming duration shelter at 2640 Portland Road NE opened last month; about 60 beds at the City-funded indoor warming shelter at 3737 Portland Road NE open this month, both are operated by Church @ the Park. The Navigation Center property at 2285 22nd Ave. SE is also planned for use with the Salem Warming Network.
• Claggett Creek Natural Area: Staff will remove accumulated trash as soon as resources can be scheduled to do so. As more spaces are made unavailable for camping in our community, people living unsheltered are moving to other, less accessible areas. Our street outreach team and Salem Housing Authority navigators regularly work to engage and connect people living in the Claggett Creek Natural Area to services and temporary emergency shelter. Space is available in some area shelters. However, our ability to require movement from public property is limited and at this time the space is not adequate to meet all demand, particularly for women or people needing lower-barrier temporary shelter services. After providing required notice, we will be able to help tow out abandoned vehicles at the edge of the natural area. We are at work to address the issues at this location. Stay tuned for updates.
• Cleaning Up Accumulated Trash: Last week, staff and contracted support moved the accumulated garbage at Marion Square Park, Rite Aid block, and Marion Parkade area.

Week of November 1

• Safe Park Sites Sought.Do you own a parking lot in the City of Salem and want to help? The wait lists for safe park services far exceed current program capacity. There are currently 130 people on the waiting list, and only a dozen sites partnered with the program. Nonprofit staff support, a Parking Host, porta potties, liability insurance provision, and compensation for garbage disposal will be provided. Each spot can have up to 8 parkers, but 4-6 parkers is ideal per location. For more information, contact Jared Garson, Intern to Council President Chris Hoy, atjqgarson@willamette.edu
• Wallace Marine Park Update.Last Thursday, staff engaged with everyone in vehicles appearing to be residing at Wallace Marine Park. Most individuals in the park during day hours confirmed they were aware and connected to available resources or, were using the park during the day, but parked at night at a Safe Park location. Several vehicles were provided notice and will be removed this week, if they are still there and can't be moved on their own.
• Cleaning Up Accumulated Trash.This Thursday, staff and contracted support willtake care of accumulated garbage at Marion Square Park, Rite Aid block, and Marion Parkade area.
• Shelter Siting:
  • Catholic Community Services site now has 30 micro shelters with intent of opening indoor sheltering for warming purposes in early November for up to 60 persons.
  • Windows to the West. A new temporary shelter has come on the market that may work on the slope at the Windows to the West site (500 Commercial Street SE block). We are ssessing feasibility of the site for a micro-shelter community.
  • Wallace Road Site. The site is not feasible for micro shelter housing to serve those living without shelter in our community. The City initiated a wetland delineation study on the grassland portion of the site and found the grassland area has substantial wetlands. The City does not own enough space on the paved portion of the property to move forward with a micro shelter community at the site.
• Cascades Gateway Park. Restoration is needed to the restroom building, shelters, parking lot, trees, and greenspaces before the park can be re-opened to visitors. Re-opening may occur by Memorial Day or Fourth of July.

Week of October 25, 2021

• Cascades Gateway Park Clean Up. Work continued last week at Cascades Gateway. Remaining garbage is on the island in Worth Lake. Restoration is needed to the restroom building, shelters, parking lot, and trees and greenspaces before the park can be re-opened to visitors. Re-opening may occur by Memorial Day or Fourth of July.
• Outreach continues. With weather changing and Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) plans for cleaning properties adjacent to downtown, staff and partners are focusing outreach activities to those areas. Next week, after notice and outreach, cleaning will transition to Wallace Marine Park.
• ODOT has provided notice to campers in several Salem area sites with the intent to clean up the following areas:
  • ODOT plans to be in the vicinity of the Marion Street and Center Street bridges starting Tuesday, October 26, for two to three days to clean the areas and the bioswales along Front Street area.
  • Beginning November 1 for two days, ODOT plans to be cleaning up on Salem Parkway, north of Hyacinth, and at several areas along Interstate 5 to include:
    • I-5 at Hawthorne, near Hyacinth
    • I-5 at Portland Road
    • I-5 at Fisher Road
    • I-5 at Ridge Drive (Keizer)
  • We know ODOT is aware of other sites and is planning to conduct additional clean ups in November, notably behind the Interstate 5 sound wall at Mill Creek and at Shelton Ditch along 12th Street.
  • Camping or Garbage Concern Portal. We received 17 complaints this past week. We've been able to refer our service partners to several new sites. The majority of complaints are associated with activity occurring on private property or State-owned property adjacent to freeways. Several concerns were addressed last week by ODOT, such as the Court Street area.
• Shelter Siting
  • Windows to the West. A new temporary shelter has come on the market that may work on the slope at the Windows to the West site (500 Commercial Street SE block). We are assessing feasibility of the site for micro shelter community.
  • Wallace Road Site. Initial wetland delineation report suggests grassed area may not work for sheltering. Assessing feasibility.
  • 13th and Rural is not a viable site for the City to purchase for this use.
  • Catholic Community Services site now has 30 micro shelters with intent of opening indoor sheltering for warming purposes as early as November 1 for up to 60 persons.
  • Many ideas for other sites are coming in from community members and the City is pursuing leads.

Week of October 18, 2021

• Cascades Gateway Park Clean-up Continues. 250 Cubic Yards of debris was removed last week from the forested areas east and west of Mill Creek. This work continues this Thursday.
• Reports Portal. We received 37 complaints this past week. We've been able to refer our service partners to several sites that were new. The majority of complaints are associated with activity occurring on private property or adjacent to freeways, which is owned by the State of Oregon.
  • Private Property. We are providing information to private property owners regarding resources.
  • State of Oregon Property. Our coordination with Oregon Department of Transportation is ongoing. We are helping to share information with nonprofit and public sector service providers prior to ODOT-led clean ups – anticipated upcoming clean ups include this coming Monday at the Marion Street/Center Street bridges and Front Street Bypass – another location anticipated but without a set date asyet is at Indian School Road and Chemawa, where ODOT is coordinating notice and clean-up with Oregon State Patrol. Other sites are planned for posting in late October, with clean-up scheduled for November.
  • Other areas. For some of the other areas, where the City could be the lead responder, cleaning resources may not be available until the Cascades Gateway clean up is complete.
• Site Search. We appreciate the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce and the Salem Leadership Foundation for hosting conversation about microshelter sites and are grateful for the number of people coming forward with location selections. We seek ¾ of an acre (or more) of flat non-wet land to consider for the placement of managed microshelter communities. If it is not currently in use, it is likely we are studying the possibility of its use to help meet our sheltering crisis.
• Wallace. We are continuing conversations with area residents about site possibilities in West Salem and are awaiting further information regarding the grassland portion of this parcel. A wetland delineation study was ordered and we anticipate data by the end of the month.

Week of October 11, 2021

• Portland and Kale Encampment. Last week, navigators and street outreach partners were on site at the Portland/Kale Road area camp to help encourage campers to connect with other temporary shelter. Clean up occurred Thursday morning and the site was returned to the private property owner for future development.
• Cascades Gateway Park Clean Up Continues. Work continues in the forested areas east and west of Mill Creek through October. When complete, staff will turn to the more remote, forested areas of Wallace Marine Park.
• Tracking and Responding to Camping Complaints. Staff are building a method to respond directly to individual complaints of camping within our community. Currently, complaints are coming into a multiple places, making it difficult to respond consistently, track the volume for a particular location, and share information about ongoing efforts in a particular area.
• Updates on Shelter Sites:
  • The Windows to the West site at 500 Commercial Street SE block will revert to City use. The site’s size and slope make is unsuitable for sheltering use.
  • The Wallace site is in feasibility review, with no firm timeline for its use as sheltering with a preference for older women at the site.
  • At the Catholic Community Services site, safe park is up and running. Pallet shelters are added as they become available. The plan is to open indoor sheltering location for warming.
  • At the Hawthorne Avenue NE hotel program, Community Action Agency targets completing renovations and open the first floor November 1.
  • At 2640 Portland Road, the indoor shelter site for 20-25 individuals opened October 1.

The Yaquina Hall property transfer to Salem Housing Authority is scheduled to close on November 18. This property will add 52 one-bedroom affordable housing units, with 20% to those with serious or persistent mental illness provided wraparound services.

Week of October 4, 2021

• Portland and Kale Encampment. Last week, navigators and street outreach partners were on site at the Portland/Kale Road area camp to help encourage campers to connect with other temporary shelter. Clean up occurred Thursday morning and the site was returned to the private property owner for future development.
• Cascades Gateway Park Clean Up Continues. Work continues in the forested areas east and west of Mill Creek through October. When complete, staff will turn to the more remote, forested areas of Wallace Marine Park.
• Tracking and Responding to Camping Complaints. Staff are building a method to respond directly to individual complaints of camping within our community. Currently, complaints are coming into a multiple places, making it difficult to respond consistently, track the volume for a particular location, and share information about ongoing efforts in a particular area.
• Updates on Shelter Sites:
  • Windows to West site at 500 Commercial St SE block will revert to City use. The site's size and slope make is unsuitable for sheltering use.
  • Wallace site is in feasibility review, with no firm timeline for its use as sheltering with a preference for older women at the site.
  • At the Catholic Community Services site, safe park is up and running. Pallet shelters are added as they become available. The plan is to open indoor sheltering location for warming.
  • At the Hawthorne Ave. NE hotel program, Community Action Agency targets completing renovations and open the first floor November 1.
  • At 2640 Portland Road, the indoor shelter site for 20-25 individuals opened October 1.
  • The Yaquina Hall property transfer to Salem Housing Authority is scheduled to close on 11/18. This property will add 52 one bedroom affordable housing units, with 20% to those with serious or persistent mental illness provided wraparound services.

Week of September 27, 2021

• Portland and Kale Encampment. This week, navigators will be on site at the Portland/Kale Road area camp. Along with our street outreach partners, Salem Housing Authority will be encouraging campers to connect with other temporary shelter in advance of clean-up crews' arrival on Thursday morning. Resource and referral continues to be provided. There are about 84 vehicles in the area.
• Cascades Gateway Park Clean Up Continues. Staff expect to continue clean up through October, on the once-a-week pace within available resources. Staff made significant progress on the east side of Mill Creek. Work will continue in the forested areas east and west of Mill Creek throughout next month. When complete, staff will turn to the more remote, forested areas of Wallace Marine Park.
• Bicycle Repair Kits. Staff are working with local bicycle shops to provide free bike repair kids to those living unsheltered in our community, particularly youth. In some cases, bicycles may be the only available form of transportation to unsheltered youth.
• Tracking and Responding to Camping Complaints. Staff are building a method to respond directly to individual complaints of camping within our community. Currently, complaints are coming into a multiple places, making it difficult to respond consistently, track the volume for a particular area, and share information about ongoing efforts in a particular area.

Week of September 20, 2021

• At their September 27 meeting, the City Council will be asked to consider a new micro shelter site at a city-owned portion near the Wallace Park-n-Ride, a part of 2700 Wallace Road NW.
• Conversations continue with property owners regarding potential siting for additional sheltering.
• Clean up at Cascades Gateway Park continues.
• Other sheltering updates:
  • Throughout Salem, there are several scattered sites of smaller encampments with smaller amounts of trash.
  • Portland Road/Kale property manager posted "no trespass" at site. Further action at the site is pending property owner request to enforce trespass. Navigators continue to encourage people to find alternate locations for shelter. The property owner has not authorized camping in the area.
  • For our new site under the management of Church @ the Park, 3749 Portland Road, 30 micro shelters are being constructed; safe park services opened.
  • Construction is underway and first floor at ARCHES hotel site targets opening November 1.

Week of September 14, 2021

• Lancaster/Sunnyview. We see an increase in camping at this location. Street outreach and navigator teams are connecting with those there to refer to alternative locations as this is not an approved location for sheltering.
• Portland Road/Kale. Friday, site manager at property posted "no trespass" at site. Further action at the site is pending property owner request to enforce trespass. Navigators continue to encourage people to find alternate locations for shelter. The property owner has not authorizing camping in the area.
• Clean up work is ongoing at Cascades Gateway Park and Wallace Marine Park.
• Other sheltering updates:
  • For our new site under the management of Church @ the Park, 3749 Portland Road, 30 micro shelters are being constructed; safe park services opened.
  • Construction is underway and first floor at ARCHES hotel site targets opening November 1.
  • Union Gospel Mission is open and has shelter space available.
  • Weather changes may change people movements.
• You can adopt a micro-shelter!
  • Learn more about micro-shelters at an event at the Riverfront Park Pavilion on Friday, September 17, from 2 – 7 pm, Saturday, September 18, from 10 am to 7 pm, and Sunday, September 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event will feature samples of micro-shelters as part of an effort to encourage people to "adopt a shelter." The event is about showing the shelters and answering questions from passersby.
  • Learn more about micro-shelters in Salem

Week of September 7, 2021

• Downtown sidewalks
  • Liberty Rd. NE sidewalks retained cleanliness after having underwent sanitation and graffiti abatement earlier in the month
  • Marion Parkade sidewalks, adjacent to the parking garage, receive ongoing cleaning and sanitation
• Garbage removal from Cascades Gateway Park
  • Last Thursday September 2nd, a total of 180 cubic yards of garbage and debris (2 40 yard drop boxes, 2 garbage truck loads, 5 yards of metal) was removed from the park– that is equal to 15 heavy dump truck loads of garbage and debris
  • Cleaning at Cascades Gateway Park resumes this Thursday, September 9, working western and along the western side of Mill Creek.
• Working toward solutions at other locations
  • Tents and improvised camp sites at the corner of Portland Road and Kale Road are not authorized by the property owner. We appreciate the efforts of community partners working with those who are there to find alternative solutions.
  • We are at work to identify solutions to successfully conclude shelter activity at this location.