As we step into 2026, Catholic Charities of Oregon is grounded in both reflection and resolve. In this message, our CEO Kaleen Deatherage shares how the work of the past year has translated into real stability for the people we serve and how we are strengthening our programs, funding, and systems to meet the growing needs ahead.
Archive
Moving Beyond Shelter, Toward Stability
Stability doesn’t happen over night. Moving beyond shelter takes time, trust and consistent support. For many, it’s the difference between surviving and truly rebuilding a life.
Gratitude and Community Mark the Holidays at Kenton Women’s Village
During the holiday season, Kenton Women’s Village came alive with generosity, collaboration, and moments of connection thanks to donors, volunteers, staff, and the participants who helped make the celebration their own.
Happy Birthday HTP! For 19 Years, it's Provided Safety, Dignity and Hope
For 19 years, our Housing Transitions Program has been a steady place of safety and care for women experiencing homelessness. This reflection looks at why HTP matters, especially now, and the quiet, life-changing work that happens there every day.
Voices of Hope
We’re so excited for you to meet Allison Pantano-Rumsey. With almost 20 years in healthcare, Allison discovered that what truly energized her wasn’t the clinical work. She says it was connecting, listening, validating and walking alongside others. Her Portland State University social work degree and internship affirmed that calling, and today she brings that same…
The Gift of Experience
Our Immigration Legal Services (ILS) team is strengthened by volunteers who bring decades of wisdom, compassion and legal expertise to our clients. We’re thrilled to highlight two retired attorneys whose pro bono service is helping Catholic Charities meet growing needs with dignity and care.
✂️A Fresh Cut, A Renewed Sense of Self
A simple haircut can mean so much more. Thanks to a new partnership with Saint Hair in Portland’s Kenton neighborhood, women at Catholic Charities Kenton Women’s Village are receiving free salon services that help restore dignity, confidence and connection.
A Simple Meal, A Powerful Gesture
Join us in making a difference. Volunteer to prepare and drop off meals for women experiencing homelessness at Catholic Charities Housing Transitions Program. Your home-cooked dish provides not only nourishment, but also comfort, dignity and a reminder that our community cares.
A Scoop of Kindness: Cup & Cone Brings Joy to Homeless Women, Staff
Cup & Cone’s Project (N)icecream brought frozen joy and community connection to women in Catholic Charities’ Housing Transitions Program.
Finding Strength: Kenton Women's Village Hosts First Self-Defense Class
Women at Kenton Women’s Village took part in their first trauma-informed self-defense class, gaining practical tools and renewed confidence thanks to Instinct Defense Academy.
Emergency Appeal Update: More than $680,000 raised. $320,000 to Go!
Generous donors have helped Catholic Charities raise over $680,000 toward our $1 million Emergency Appeal. About $320,000 is still needed by the end of September to help sustain vital services.
Homelessness among elders
The University of Portland Garaventa Center this spring hosted a short film and discussion about homelessness among elders.
Council president addresses faith-based group on homelessness
Once the Portland City Council handles current urgencies, it will begin the work of designing more equitable systems for the city overall, says Elana Pirtle-Guiney, president of the new 12-member body.