At its 7/9/20 meeting the Mid-Willamette Valley Homeless Alliance (MWVHA) Board of Directors reviewed a recent analysis of homeless resources in Marion and Polk counties. The July 2020 Gap Analysis includes comparisons to a 2018 Resource Inventory that had determined four primary needs for the Coordinated Entry System, sheltering services outside the Salem-Keizer area, expanded shelter options, and housing.
Progress is noted in the further development of the Coordinated Entry System, expansion of seasonal warming shelters, and the addition of Taylor’s House youth emergency shelter, each of which is championed by Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency.
While affordable housing continues to be limited, the number of supportive housing units is expanding, primarily through the work of Salem Housing Authority (SHA). Veteran housing resources have also grown, thanks to the efforts of SHA, WestCare, Veteran Affairs, West Valley Housing Authority, Marion County Housing Authority, and Dallas United Methodist Church’s addition of Gale’s Lodge. In addition, the YMCA’s Veteran housing project is in the works.
Rapid rehousing services for survivors of domestic violence are also expanding, through the Center for Hope and Safety.
However great the progress, we are not close to meeting the need. Thousands of our neighbors remain unsheltered and homeless.