The city of Portland is taking a major step towards helping its homeless population with the recent completion of the Sunderland RV Safe Park. This park, located on Northeast Sunderland Avenue, is the first outdoor shelter of its kind in Portland and is designed to provide safe and legal parking for those living in RVs. With a capacity to hold 55 vehicles, this park is sure to make a huge difference in the lives of many.
The Portland Bureau of Transportation owns the property and has partnered with The Salvation Army to manage the park. The Salvation Army will provide case managers and on-site mental and behavioral health services to those living in the RVs. Commissioner Dan Ryan is excited to have The Salvation Army join the program, stating “We are fortunate to have such an experienced partner join our team of shelter operators supporting the Safe Rest Village program.”
Although the site is finished, the official opening day has yet to be announced. The Salvation Army still needs to finalize details with Multnomah County’s Joint Office of Homeless Services before people can move in. Major Bob Lloyd, The Salvation Army’s Portland metro coordinator, is looking forward to providing a safe and orderly community that focuses on transitioning residents towards long-term housing.
The county’s Joint Office of Homeless Services is also working to develop additional Safe Park sites. This is an incredible step towards helping the homeless population of Portland and it will be exciting to see all the good that comes from the Sunderland RV Safe Park.
Source: www.kgw.com