Photo Courtesy of Multnomah County

Since Thursday, September 10, Cascadia’s Street Outreach Team has been working to reach people experiencing houselessness, passing out KN95 masks and other supplies, and helping direct people to shelters to get out of the smoke.

The Joint Office of Homeless Services is also working with partners to support additional shelter capacity and respite space for a fourth day while continuing to help distribute KN95 masks, water, and other supplies.

Just like during cold and severe weather, anyone seeking shelter should call 211 first to see where space is available and to arrange transportation. Because of high demand, there may be a wait time for callers. You can call 211 on behalf of someone seeking shelter if they’re not able to call on their own, to arrange a ride.

Shelter will be offered 24 hours for the duration of this smoke event, and include amenities such as meals. All sites will comply with COVID-19 protocols, including distancing.

How you can help: Donate supplies

As of Sunday, Sept. 13, for those who’d like to support this work, supplies are needed more than volunteers at this point. The following supplies will help support smoke relief work as well as the COVID-19 response work that will continue once the air is clear:

• Blankets
• Tarps
• Water and Gatorade/sports drinks (gallons and 20 oz. bottles)
• Sleeping bags
• Tents
• Hygiene products
• Socks
• Hydration/electrolyte packets
• Baby wipes
• Feminine hygiene products
• Depends/adult incontinence products
• First aid kits
• Cloth masks

To learn more about how to donate these supplies, contact Celeste Duvall, outreach coordinator for the Joint Office, at celeste.duvall@multco.us or 971-940-5582.