Oregon Convention Center Transformed Into Shelter For Wildfire Evacuees
September 14, 2020
Clackamas County, Metro and the Oregon Convention Center are working to set up the center as an evacuee shelter for community members displaced by the Oregon wildfires.
The Red Cross managed shelter will accommodate community members displaced by the fires with sleeping arrangements and other services offered in the temporary space, with COVID-19 physically distanced protocols. The Joint Office of Homeless Services will also be expanding the capacity of the shelter set up earlier this year.
While the convention center has not had any events since March 12, a portion of the facility has provided temporary shelter for community members relocated from shelters in the region without adequate space to physically distance.
“The entire OCC team is proud to support Oregonians who are feeling the effects of multiple crises happening at once. The fires raging throughout our region are impacting families, pets and livestock,” said OCC executive director Craig Stroud. “The Oregon Convention Center is pleased to open our doors to these community members in a time of tremendous need.”
Preparations are underway to accommodate up to 400 people with lodging, shower facilities and parking.