As part of Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler's efforts to convert vacant or underutilized properties into massive tent camping sites for the homeless, the city is considering using the old skate church, now the volunteers of America building into a city-sanctioned houseless camp.

Not only is this location directly across from a Christian school, but it also is smack dab in the middle of a bunch of residential buildings. This property has already caused issues for locals while being vacant. In the last 6 months the brush behind the property was set ablaze and almost burned down the apartment community behind it, as well as increased drug activity, car thefts, and other crimes. 

This location also does not have direct access to resources houseless individuals could access. It is a good walking distance to any max lines, food banks, shelters, etc. This location simply does not make sense to anyone involved and would be detrimental to both communities. 

This project is not finalized yet. We still have a chance to act and try to get this camp put in another location. We also urge you to call Ted Wheeler's office at 503-823-4120