Jackson County Democrats

News Release

 
From press release:  http://www.leg.state.or.us/press_releases/sdo_033109.html

March 31, 2009

CONTACT:    Molly Woon (503) 986-1074

molly.woon@state.or.us

Legislation will set stage and
strategy for ending homelessness

SB
200 emphasizes housing first for people experiencing
homelessness

SALEM – Legislation
that establishes state policies to guide efforts to end homelessness was passed
unanimously by the Senate this morning. SB 200 calls for a comprehensive and
collaborative system of housing plus services as vital for any success in ending
and preventing homelessness.

“Each person experiencing homelessness faces unique
barriers requiring an individualized approach,” said Senator Diane Rosenbaum
(D-Portland), chair of Senate Committee on Commerce and Workforce Development.
“Senate Bill 200 recognizes these circumstances and encourages a process that
stresses finding permanent homes for people using integrated
services.”

Rosenbaum says that this comprehensive approach
includes:

• A focus on permanent
  housing, rather than temporary solutions
• Enhanced
  collaboration between county and state agencies that deliver integrated and
  cost-effective programs in a seamless and timely manner
• Measurable outcomes
  – focused on housing stability – for increased accountability
  

“Given the economic downturn, Oregon’s problem with
homelessness isn’t going to be fixed overnight,” said Senate Majority Leader
Richard Devlin (D-Tualatin). “That
said, this legislation sets the stage for implementation of our statewide
strategy to end homelessness.”

In 2006 the Governor established the Ending Homelessness
Advisory Council. The legislation passed today is part of the council’s plan to
end homelessness by 2016.

The bill will now go to the House for consideration.

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