MILWAUKIE, Ore. — Clackamas County has officially opened a new 24-hour mental health stabilization center in Milwaukie, marking a major step forward in local efforts to support individuals facing mental health crises and housing instability.
A Safe Space for Crisis Support
Located on Southeast McBrod Avenue, the new facility is designed to provide immediate, around-the-clock assistance for people experiencing severe mental health challenges such as panic attacks, hallucinations, or emotional distress.
County officials say the center will offer a calm and supportive environment where individuals can receive professional help without needing to visit an emergency room or be taken into police custody. Staffed by mental health professionals, nurses, and peer support specialists, the center aims to stabilize clients and connect them with ongoing treatment and community resources.
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Transitional Housing Expansion
In addition to the stabilization center, the site includes transitional housing units for individuals facing homelessness. The program expands Clackamas County’s efforts to bridge the gap between mental health services and housing stability.
Officials emphasized that many residents experiencing mental health crises also struggle with housing insecurity, and providing both services in one location will help prevent people from returning to crisis situations. The housing component will offer residents temporary shelter while they work toward permanent housing and long-term support.
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony and Leadership Remarks
The center’s grand opening on Monday was attended by Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, Clackamas County Chair Craig Roberts, and other local and state leaders.
During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Governor Kotek praised the county’s initiative as an example of how local governments can lead in addressing Oregon’s intertwined mental health and homelessness crises.
“This facility shows what’s possible when we bring together compassion, collaboration, and action,” Kotek said. “People in crisis deserve care, not punishment — and this center will make that possible.”
Chair Roberts added that the project reflects years of planning and community partnership.
“We are building a stronger, safer Clackamas County by meeting people where they are,” Roberts said. “This center gives people hope, stability, and a path forward.”
Part of a Broader Statewide Effort
The Milwaukie stabilization center is part of a statewide push to expand behavioral health infrastructure across Oregon. The facility is expected to reduce pressure on hospital emergency rooms and law enforcement agencies by offering a specialized, community-based alternative.
County leaders hope the center will serve as a model for similar programs across the region — combining mental health care, housing, and social services under one roof.
