PORTLAND, Ore. (KPTV) — Mayor Keith Wilson is asking Portlanders to rally around the city’s new homeless shelters by donating time, money, and supplies. In a mass email sent to thousands of residents, Wilson framed the appeal as urgent—implying that failure to act could invite federal intervention similar to recent actions in Washington, D.C.
Early Response: Dozens of Donations in Day One
Within 24 hours of the message going out, Portland’s senior homelessness response program manager, Bryan Aptekar, reported nearly 50 donations received. City staff will route contributions to shelters with the greatest need, aiming to balance supply across facilities as the system scales up.
What the City Is Asking For
Officials outlined a broad list of requested items—from phone chargers, tables, and chairs to clothing, blankets, and food.
“We are asking for something that someone could benefit from, but you aren’t really using in your house anymore,” said Jeffers Dickey, operations director at Urban Alchemy, which helps run shelter operations.
The push goes beyond physical goods. Shelter teams are also seeking volunteers to donate time and skills in areas such as basic cooking, hygiene, financial planning, and life skills training. “Those kinds of life skills are really essential for [residents] to be successful when they move out,” Dickey added.
The Mayor’s Message—and a Controversial Comparison
The mayor’s email reads in part:
“As Portlanders, we face a stark choice. Recent events in Washington, D.C. show us what will happen to Portland if we don’t move with speed, purpose, and compassion to address the humanitarian crisis on our streets.”
Wilson was referencing President Trump’s deployment of the National Guard and federalization of policing in Washington, D.C. The email suggested Portland could face similar measures if homelessness remains unaddressed.
Clarification from City Hall
A mayoral spokesperson later clarified that there are no known direct threats from the Trump administration to send the National Guard to Portland. Officials described the “Support Shelters” campaign as a preventive, community-driven effort, informed by what has happened in other U.S. cities rather than by any specific federal warning.
“I think his call to action is really essential for the whole city to come together and address this crisis,” Dickey said.
How Donations Will Be Used
City staff said contributions will be distributed across the shelter network according to need. The current focus is on stand-up capacity for overnight sites and transitional programs. The mayor’s email included a nine-page PowerPoint detailing suggested donations and contact information to coordinate drop-offs or pickups.
Context: Growing Shelter Network and Community Debate
The donation drive accompanies the launch of several newly opened or soon-to-open shelters designed to provide overnight beds and stabilization services. Supporters argue that mobilizing residents can accelerate exits from the street by pairing shelter stays with coaching and essential supplies. Critics counter that public appeals risk papering over structural challenges and contend the city must show clearer results from significant prior spending.
How to Help
Residents interested in contributing can provide new or gently used essentials, organize drives through workplaces or neighborhood groups, or volunteer to lead short workshops on life skills. City officials say even small, practical items—like charging cables or warm socks—move quickly and make an immediate difference for shelter residents.
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