As Lane County continues to re-open, temporary COVID-19 shelters for the unhoused are closing down. In response, the City of Eugene collaborated with the Eugene Mission and Community Supported Shelters to create a second microsite located in the Whiteaker neighborhood.
Eugene Mission provided the land at no cost while CSS and the City are sharing infrastructure and staffing costs.
In contrast to other options, the microsite has individual housing for a limited number of people. Executive Director Sheryl Balthrop explained why the mission joined this collaboration.
:14 “Some folks cannot live in a congregate living environment, so we are delighted to try to support other community partners when they are trying to serve in other ways. And so this is just six more people who have a dry and safe place to stay.”
According to the City, sites like this reduce the need for people to move around. They also address COVID-19 health concerns by providing a sanitary cooking area and personal hygiene facilities.
For more information visit www.eugene-or.gov/homelessness. Here is a video highlighting the positive impact of the designated temporary shelter sites.
Neighborhoods, organizations, or businesses interested in hosting or sponsoring a microsite can contact City of Eugene Homeless Services Staff at 541-682-8442.
