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Washington Countys Department of Housing Services is hosting a series of virtual meetings in March to share information and seek input from the public to learn about the departments plans to build new year-round shelters for people experiencing homelessness. In a press release, the county said that the goal is to provide 250 year-round shelter beds for those experiencing homelessness in Washington County. Year round shelters are an important part of our communitys response to the housing crisis in Washington County, stated Dr. Vernon Baker, executive director of Just Compassion, a nonprofit coalition working on housing issues in the county. Shelters provide people with safe, clean, and stable temporary housing so they can find jobs, access services, and work toward securing permanent housing and it is important they are available year round. People who experience chronic homelessness benefit from experiencing a healthy, secure community at a shelter, said Emily Roots, Washington County Department of Housing Services Public Affairs Administrator. Shelter teams include counselors, addiction specialists, and workforce specialists who are committed to helping people succeed and find permanent housing. Those who wish to participate are asked to register at wcor.us/ShelterEngagement.The events are as follows:Forest Grove, Cornelius and surrounding areas
Tuesday, March 16 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Beaverton, Tigard, Tualatin and surrounding areas
Thursday, March 36 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Hillsboro, Aloha and surrounding areas
Thursday, March 106 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Countywide
Saturday, March 1211 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.For language interpretation needs or questions about the events, county residents may contact Shelters@co.washington.or.us or call 503-846-3790. Community members who cannot attend their community meeting are invited to share their input via an online survey.
