The Mid-Willamette Homeless Initiative is a collaborative effort among the cities of Salem and Keizer and Marion and Polk counties. The initiative’s purpose is to identify and launch proven strategies that will reduce homelessness in the Marion-Polk county region, encompassing the cities of Keizer and Salem. A task force and eight subcommittees worked diligently during 2016-17 on a strategic plan. Task force members included business and community leaders with expertise in social services, housing, public safety, and business.
The initiative’s strategic plan addresses issues in cities and counties; lack of affordable housing; best practices for reducing chronic homelessness; specialized service for veterans, seniors, victims of domestic violence, and runaway and homeless youth; and coordination of available support and education services. Contributing factors such as mental illness, addiction, lack of education and the need for transportation are also addressed.
The Mid-Willamette Homeless Initiative’s strategic plan elements will be implemented by a team that is in the process of being organized. For additional information, contact Hitesh Parekh,
hparekh@co.marion.or.us
Strategic Plan
