There is now an overnight shelter for people experiencing homelessness in the Woodburn community.
The Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency took over the Woodburn homeless shelter from Ray of Hope in spring 2024. Since then, the agency has been reworking the shelter’s system and schedule.
The shelter is located at 1560 Hardcastle Ave., inside the Church of Christ. When Ray of Hope previously managed it, the shelter was only open three days a week during the daytime.
However, the shelter is now open from 7 p.m. to 8 a.m., seven nights a week, with case management, mail services, dinner and breakfast, laundry and showers available inside the church.
MWVCAA manages the shelter, but the revamp was planned with the city of Woodburn, as city officials saw a need for increased shelter services in the community.
“It’s been an overall positive partnership, they can now provide services and shelter for those in need here, and that’s really the key component for us,” said Jesse Cuomo, Woodburn community services director.