May 27, 2011

This week, the City Council unanimously adopted a budget for next year which prioritizes funding for key safety-net programs.

 The budget includes $1.9 million for Short-Term Rent Assistance (STRA).

STRA is our most effective tool in both keeping people from falling into homelessness and rapidly getting them off the street.

The Mayor's original proposed budget included $1.4 million for this critical program.

Based on feedback we received from advocates, we secured an additional $500,000 for the STRA program.

Thanks to the team at the Portland Housing Bureau, to the Mayor and Council for their ongoing support, and to the advocates and partner agencies who are dedicated to ending homelessness.