Summer on the Streets: Outreach & Shelter News
July stats reveal how hot weather changes needs and where the new shelter stands.
An Update from Chase McPherson, Executive Director
July Stats
Our July 2025 numbers for Humanitarian Outreach tell a story about how the summer heat shapes life on the streets. Last month, we handed out over 400 bottles of water, a big jump from 179 in June. We also had 300 contacts where individuals declined services, up from 224 in June.
What we’re seeing on the ground: Fewer people are choosing shelter in the summer — just 3 in July compared to 13 in June. Many tell us they feel more comfortable staying outdoors during the warm months, even though they know a bed is available for them.
If you see someone who looks like they could use help, NWCC members, please don’t hesitate to reach out through our Members Portal. A simple act of care — like handing someone water — can truly be life-changing during these hot months.
📊 July Stats at a Glance
🚰 Water Distributed: 400+ bottles (up from 179 in June)
🙅 Service Refusals: 300 people declined services (up from 224)
🛏 Shelter Connections: 3 (down from 13 in June)
Summer heat means more people choose to stay outside, even with beds available.
Shelter Update
As of last week, the keys to the shelter space have not yet been handed over to the operator. Once received, the transition will be quick—mostly removing desks and cubicles to make room for floor bedding.
The operator is also exploring the option of having the queue line indoors before opening, which could provide comfort and safety. However, this would require extra staffing to allow early entry, so it’s still under consideration.
Questions? Contact Chase McPherson, Executive Director NWCC, at chase@nwccpdx.org.
What You Can Do
Reach out to local leaders who are actively involved in this conversation:
Bruce Studer, President, Pearl District Neighborhood Association (PDNA),
Todd Zarnitz, President, Northwest District Association (NWDA)
Take Action:
Read more on our blog Shelter Proposals in the Pearl: What You Need to Know
Keep speaking up. Your emails and outreach are working.
Share this newsletter with neighbors who want to stay informed.
Stay informed by following our blogs,newsletters and social media.
Learn more about the city’s Portland Solutions initiative:
https://www.portland.gov/portland-solutionsCheck out the Mayor’s community meeting on the PDNA Townhall Recap + Video.
Discover the impact of NWCC’s work on Stories from the Streets.
