When most people think about refugee resettlement, they imagine the moment a family arrives in the United States. But rebuilding a life doesn’t end after the welcome. It continues for months — and often years — as families navigate medical challenges, employment, housing, language barriers and an unfamiliar system. At Catholic Charities of Oregon, that’s where our work continues, too.
Archive
✂️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.
Charging up and untangling knots
A woman weathered by years on the streets of Portland drops off an armful of dead phones and other devices, along with a cable clump that resembles colorful spaghetti. Catholic Charities staffer Reva Mauck patiently untangles the mess and gets everything plugged in. It’s a fitting metaphor for what happens during drop-in at the Catholic…
Stability fueled her art
A resident of Catholic Charities housing uses her painting to heal and bring peace to the community.
Staff visit homeless campers
Staff from Catholic Charities of Oregon visit encampments of people who are homeless throughout the week, no matter the weather.
My Christmas Is Brighter at The Village
I love Christmas time. The days are getting shorter, and the candlelight is getting brighter.