Sherry’s Story
Living on the streets of Portland is tough — mentally, physically, and emotionally. Which is why our mission — helping people transition from homelessness to housing — is more urgent than ever. Our most vulnerable citizens deserve a safe place to sleep and despite the uncertainty we face at the federal level, our 360 team members remain as committed as ever. We are calling on you, our community, to join us in this critical work — as we continue to meet our community’s needs head on.
Each day, we provide on the street outreach; a robust resource center; eight shelter programs for more than 700 people; a tenant education program; health and wellness support, and housing services – helping over 800 people each year move into apartments across the metro area. Our programs are often the first step for individuals, couples, and families to begin anew in their apartments — reclaiming the warmth, health, employment, community, and so much more — creating the normalcy that they deserve. That is Sherry’s story.
Sherry, and her then husband, experienced homelessness off and on over the years. Eventually, she gathered the courage to leave this abusive relationship and found herself alone — starting a new life in Portland. After years of stable housing, Sherry became homeless again in 2024. She returned to Transition Projects accessing the Resource Center where she had previously gotten support, receiving her mail and getting her ID. Immediately, Sherry was able to get placed in a shelter. Due to being immunocompromised, a congregate shelter posed significant risks for her. One of our dedicated shelter Residential Advocates urged for Sherry to be moved to our Banfield Shelter Motel specializing in supporting medically vulnerable adults aged 55 and older. At Banfield, Sherry was able to feel secure, continue to concentrate on her health, and focus on working with her case manager to find her own apartment.
Sherry has now been in her apartment for a year and can focus on things that bring her joy including her two cats Sissy and Wibby and nurturing her artistic nature with painting.
We are proud of Sherry’s success, yet we know the work is not done. As we see essential resources diminish across our community, the need continues to increase. Sherry’s story illustrates the power of compassion, community, and the difference we can make when we look out for one another. Now is your time to join with us in this critical work! Consider making a gift today to ensure that resources remain available for people like Sherry.