Local Opportunities to Help the PDX Homeless: "Because People Matter"

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We have seen many challenges in this season for our country- environmental disasters, a pandemic, and heartbreakingly so- great division in our city. We've lost the ability to see, respect, and communicate with one another despite our differences leading to an even lower engagement with those in our neighborhoods who are hurting and homeless. Amidst all of these hardships exists a wonderful organization called Because People Matter that focuses on helping at-risk families and homeless populations in the local Portland area (specifically near the Burnside bridge). This organization hosts a weekly evening (Thursday nights from 7:30-9:30) of outreach into the homeless community to provide them with the opportunity to get a meal, receive basic necessities, as well as get a haircut/shave/feet washing and have their shoes replaced. It's called Nightstrike. With all of the distractions we are faced with in our daily lives, it’s always easier to turn the other cheek and ignore the suffering humans you come across while walking or driving to a destination. Simply looking at someone and acknowledging their existence can encourage them in their lives and keep them in good spirits as they deal with their harsh circumstances. It’s a hard and uncomfortable conversation to be had because from the outside looking in you can feel so helpless and lost in how to approach the issue all together. However, it's never too late to start trying to be better. Anything can help- such as giving a kind word, a snack or meal, donating your time to volunteer, any financial support, and giving unneeded clothing articles (gloves, blankets, socks, sweaters, coats, etc.), especially in times of such severe weather, can really help those individuals and families who are struggling. As BPM puts it: “Through Night Strike, we have seen our guests receive needed resources, gain housing, recovery services, and dignity through compassion and human interaction. Volunteers in turn, may get out of their comfort zone, and gain a new perspective. Whether a guest or a volunteer, we desire to see those who come through Night Strike know that they are loved, they matter, and that they are known” (Because People Matter, 2021). 


That's the beauty of vulnerability; it goes both ways we can all learn together.





If you are interested in donating or supporting Because People Matter, please click on the link here. They also have an Amazon wishlist where you can help support their mission as well linked here. 








Because People Matter. (2021). Nightstrike covid plan. https://bpmpdx.org/night-strike/


Published by: Julie Pogarchenko

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