A Hot Shower and a Safe Place to Rest: Day Centers as Anchors for Stability

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The simple and invigorating dignity of being able to take a nice, hot shower is something many take for granted, not realizing having access to clean running water for a shower can be both a boon and a godsend. For Portland’s unhoused community, access to a hot shower can mean the difference between being able to interview with a potential employer or not, which further separates our unhoused neighbors from the ability to obtain stability and security with a consistent income. Research shows that limited hygiene access is one of the biggest barriers to both employment as well as housing opportunities. It also reduces a person’s confidence and dignity, as others in the community can look down upon someone who appears dirty or might smell unwashed, which creates a bigger uphill climb against potential bias.

In Multnomah County, many of the shelters and day centers are often at capacity and place those seeking better hygiene and shelter on a long waitlist. Studies have also been conducted to discover the basic needs of the homeless, with access to hygiene opportunities like a hot shower being a key unmet need (Joint Office of Homeless Services reports in 2024 - 2025). However, Portland has answered the call through the opening of day centers around the city that offer a resolution for this key unmet need. These day centers offer anything from a place to shower, somewhere to rest, and connections to public services that can help provide hope and stability. 

Rose Haven Day Center, 1740 NW Glisan St, Portland, OR 97209

Portland has several of these day centers available for our unhoused neighbors to utilize:

¹ Rose Haven Day Center: Provides services focused on women, children, and marginalized genders. Showering times are open Monday - Friday from 9AM to noon, as well as both Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. This day center also provides benefits such as meals, clothing, and other types of advocacy. (1740 NW Glisan St, Portland, OR 97209 )

  ² 13 Salmon Shower Project: A location that offers free showers in a safe and non-judgmental space, and they have expanded to two days a week in 2025. (First Unitarian Portland, 1211 SW Salmon St.) 

³ NW Glisan Oasis Day Center: Open from 6AM - 10PM daily, this day center provides showers, bathrooms, charging stations, WiFi, snacks, and quiet places to rest. Operated through Urban Alchemy. (599 NW 6th Ave, Portland, OR 97209) 


Want to learn more?

¹ Rose Haven. (2025). Showers. https://rosehaven.org/services/showers/

² First Unitarian Portland. (2025). Shower Project. https://www.firstunitarianportland.org/13-salmon-shower-project/

³ City of Portland. (n.d.). NW Glisan Oasis Day Center. https://www.portland.gov/shelter-services/city-day-centers/nw-glisan-oasis-day-center-nw-6th-ave-nw-glisan

 


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