October 4, 2011

Story by David Nguyen

Nick was proud to join his friends from Human Solutions to celebrate the grand opening ceremony for the Rockwood Building this morning.

Located in the heart of East Multnomah County, the Rockwood neighborhood has one of the Portland area's highest rates of poverty, and a low level of services for people living in poverty. In this economy, when families are struggling, it's clearer than ever before that human need knows no boundaries.

The Rockwood will bring eight social service agencies together in under one roof - together, they'll offer a vast array of services to families and individuals in need, helping more than 80,000 people each year. 

The 3-story building also includes 47 apartments that are affordable for low-income renters; 15 are reserved for families experiencing homelessness.

The Portland Housing Bureau was proud to partner on the project. PHB invested more than half a million dollars in pre-development for the project, and an additional $1.1 million in federal dollars allocated to Portland.

Home Forward (previously the Housing Authority of Portland) contributed 15 housing choice vouchers, which will support chronically homeless people who are transitioning into permanent homes.

The Rockwood is a shining example of what can happen when partners come together to find a solution to the challenges our community faces.

Congratulations to Executive Director Jean DeMaster, Board Chair Carla Piluso, Housing Director Sarah Zahn, and the rest of the talented team at Human Solutions.

"Rockwood gets affordable housing and services for low-income residents" - Jim Mayer in The Oregonian

Photo: Human Solutions Housing Director Sarah Zahn, Commissioner Fish, and Gresham City Council President David Widmark