Millions of people in the US are impacted by the complicated and diverse problem of homelessness. There has been an increase in the number of individuals living on the streets or in shelters in certain places, while others have witnessed improvements in decreasing or eliminating homelessness.
Oregon City, a historic hamlet roughly 15 miles south of Portland, is one such city. In Clackamas County, Oregon City has the largest concentration of homeless people, per a recent Portland State University study.
About Oregon City’s Homelessness Rate
The study indicated that, after rising by 12% from 2022 to 2023, homelessness in Oregon hit all-time highs.A number of things, such as a dearth of reasonably priced housing, domestic abuse, mental health conditions, drug misuse, and a lack of social assistance, are causing Oregon’s homeless problem.
An appropriate supply of shelter and housing choices, addressing the underlying causes of homelessness, and enhancing the quality of life for both homeless and housed individuals are the goals of Oregon City’s 2022–2026 Homelessness Strategy.
Developing a navigation center, boosting access to hygienic facilities, building permanent supportive housing, and extending outreach and case management are just a few of the initiatives suggested by the strategy.
Martin v. Boise Case
Grants Pass, another Oregon city dealing with homelessness, is presently contesting the decision in Martin v. Boise, which held that it was unconstitutional to penalize individuals for sleeping outside in the absence of enough shelter beds.
The issue might have a significant impact on how communities handle homeless encampments and is anticipated to be addressed by the U.S. Supreme Court next month.
State attorneys general, the Department of Justice, and members of Congress have all submitted briefs in favor of overturning the 9th Circuit’s ruling.On the other hand, some proponents of social justice contend that funds for housing and assistance should be increased and that homelessness should not be criminalized.
Some Widespread Misperceptions Regarding Homelessness
Among the widespread myths regarding homelessness are:
- People who are homeless tend to be violent or dangerous: This is untrue because those who are homeless are more likely to be the targets of violent crimes than to be the attackers.
- People who are homeless either want to be so or are lazy: This is untrue as well because a large number of homeless people work but still struggle to pay their rent or face other obstacles like mental illness, drug misuse, domestic abuse, or a lack of social services that prevent them from obtaining and maintaining accommodation.
- The goal of homelessness cannot be achieved: This is a negative and untrue viewpoint because, with the right funding and implementation, there are tried-and-true solutions to homelessness, such permanent supportive housing, which can put an end to homelessness for the majority of people.
You May Also Read:
- This Tennessee City Struggling With the Highest Homelessness Rates
- Sheltering Hope: This Florida City Battles the Silent Epidemic of Homelessness
- This Washington City Named One of America’s ‘Murder Capitals’
- A City in Crisis: This Indiana City Confronts its Highest Homelessness Rates
To Conclude
Although there is a rise in homelessness in Oregon City, tackling this complicated problem calls for a multifaceted strategy.
Their newly put into practice plan is centered on expanding the number of shelter and housing choices that are accessible, addressing the underlying causes of homelessness, and enhancing the community as a whole. Another level of complexity is brought about by the national discussion about making homelessness in the absence of adequate shelter a crime.
It’s critical to see the human side of this problem and get past damaging misconceptions. Communities like Oregon City may work toward a future where homelessness is not merely lessened but eventually eliminated by implementing evidence-based solutions and promoting understanding.
