Federal authorities have approved a number of large refugee families for arrival in Portland this month, and Catholic Charities of Oregon has been asked to help them resettle.
Facing Portland’s housing shortage, the agency is asking independent owners of housing to consider renting 3- and 4-bedroom units to the families.
“We’d like to reach more independent renters in general for all types of housing though, folks who understand the barriers our clients face and are willing to rent to them,” said Jesse Crawford, refugee services housing coordinator for Catholic Charities.
Recently, the U.S. has been welcoming refugees from conflict and persecution in countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Afghanistan and Venezuela.
“These families have survived great ordeals and are so happy to find safety in Oregon,” said Ed Langlois, communications director for Catholic Charities. “We have seen how they have enriched neighborhoods and contributed to their communities because of their open hearts and enterprising habits. They are very good renters.”
Catholic Charities and its volunteers provide social services to the families.
Owners interested in renting properties can contact Crawford at jcrawford@ccoregon.org.
Catholic Charities staff pose with a happy refugee family after a move-in party in Portland.